Registration Now Open for Palm Coast Holiday Boat Parade

Calling all captains! Registration is now open for the 43rd Annual Holiday Boat Parade, taking place on Saturday, December 5, at 6pm along the Intracoastal Waterway with the route from the North Cut Canal to the Grand Haven gazebo.

Popular public viewing areas include Waterfront Park, which now offers an additional 100 parking spaces and improved waterfront access, and the St. Joe Walkway Trailhead beneath the Hammock Beach Bridge, across from European Village.

All boats, regardless of size, and decorated or not, are encouraged to participate. This community event is meant to be open to all in celebrating holiday spirit together. City staff have been working diligently with a focus group comprised of boaters from the community, many of which have participated in the boat parade before. Their feedback and support have been instrumental to making the 2026 event a success.

“For over 40 years, the Palm Coast Boat Parade has been a staple of our community, and we are proud to continue this tradition with the support of our boaters,” said Parks and Recreation Deputy Director Brittany McDermott. “We would like to formally invite all boat captains, of boats big and small, to join us in helping to spread the holiday cheer this season by being a part of this event.”

Leading up to the event, all captains will attend a pre-parade meeting to review logistics and address any questions or concerns. Additional details regarding participant giveaways and award prizes will be shared as plans are finalized.

Captains may also choose to compete for awards in the following categories:

• Best of Parade
• Most Creative
• Most Spirited Crew
• Best Theme

Participation in the award competition is completely optional. Captains who would prefer not to compete may select “Not Interested” when completing the registration form. This option was added based on focus group feedback to ensure the awards remain a fun and friendly part of the event without creating additional pressure or expense for participants.

To sign up now for the 2026 Holiday Boat Parade, visit https://form.typeform.com/to/A8Kx24Xo

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