SeeCalifornia.com

There are several boat parades and events starting today but our favorite among them all is the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. Sure, you love something that’s over 100 years old just because. But there’s more to the parade than you’ll ever know until you go and experience it first hand. You have to ride in the parade on one of the tour boats to understand. The rides cost around $35-40.

Why is Newport Beach’s Boat Parade any different? Wed. December 18 – Sun. December 22, 2013,  christmasboatparade.com

• Located in one of the richest areas of the U.S., thus the decorations and lights are superb.
• Two experiences in one — not only do you ride in the parade and see all the boats, you also see the Ring of Lights which tours the island mansions & homes decorated in splendor. One house for sale is listed for over $20 million–get the picture?
• Fireworks are included the first and last night.
• Balboa Island is walkable with many views of the parade & homes. Unlike most boat parades in California, there’s over a mile of walkways visitors can stroll on to see the elaborately-decorated, ocean & bay-facing homes competing in the Ring of Lights contest. From those public sidewalks guests can watch the parade go by.
• The historic Balboa Pavilion features seating and dining overlooking the harbor, but also is a beautiful landmark for the parade.
• You can ride a ferry or a Ferris wheel during the parade to see the event from different perspectives. What a ride!