Best Spots to Watch the North Carolina Holiday Flotilla Boat Parade

Every year, the light displays at the North Carolina Holiday Flotilla get even brighter, the floats get even better, and the crowds get even bigger. Wrightsville Beach has hosted this annual boat parade for more than four decades, and this will be one you don’t want to miss!

Guests staying at Seascape Properties vacation rentals on Wrightsville Beach can look forward to attending one of the best local events.

What is the North Carolina Holiday Flotilla Boat Parade?

Get ready to experience a holiday tradition like no other during your Wrightsville Beach vacation this year. The North Carolina Holiday Flotilla Boat Parade transforms the waterfront into a dazzling showcase of the best boats adorned with Christmas lights and other holiday-themed decor.

Every year, dozens of boats compete for more than $15,000 worth of prize money rewards given to the ‘Best in Show,’ ‘People’s Choice (via text votes),’ ‘Best Powerboat,’ ‘Best non-motorized vessel,’ ‘Judges’ Choice,’ and other categories. Participating boats are challenged to develop innovative ideas every year, so there’s always something new to see! There will be floating Christmas trees, dancing Santas, ocean-inspired displays, and more.

There is a lot at stake for these boat captains, and we spectators get the ultimate reward—a night of stunning floating lights displays that instantly puts you in the holiday mood.

Bundle up for a chilly night on the coast and enjoy the show.

Where to Watch the North Carolina Holiday Flotilla Boat Parade

The North Carolina Holiday Flotilla Boat Parade floats through the Intracoastal Waterway, looping around Harbor Island. The event organizers provide recommendations for where to check out the boat parade, which also has excellent views of the post-parade fireworks show. There are also several other locations where you can get amazing views with fewer crowds.

1. Wrightsville Beach Drawbridge (Trask Memorial Bridge)

The Flotilla Boat Parade launches near the Wrightsville Beach Drawbridge, which connected Wrightsville Beach to the mainland. Snag a spot on the bridge to be the first one to catch a glimpse of the floating light displays. Cheer them on as they get up to speed and embark on the parade route.

2. Wrightsville Beach Park

Stick around after the Festival in the Park event at Wrightsville Beach Park to claim one of the best parade vantage points. The daytime event is family-friendly, so there will be tons of kids here enjoying the night boat parade.

3. South Channel Drive Mini-Park

The event organizers recommend this location to see boats navigating the Banks Channel section of the parade. It’s a small park located in the South Harbor Island area. Make sure to get there early for a spot because space is limited.

4. Island Drive Mini-Park

This small grassy area is located right on the waterfront of South Harbor Island and has an excellent view of the parade. It’s one of the best-recommended spots that’s also pet-friendly! Check out these pet-friendly vacation rentals where you can bring your furry friend along for the holiday fun.

5. Banks Channel Bridge

Huddle up on the Banks Channel Bridge to see the parade floating down the Banks Channel. It’s another location recommended by the event organizers, so expect a crowd of spectators. Unlike the Wrightsville Beach Drawbridge location, the boats don’t pass under this bridge. Simple cruising past it and waving hello to everyone in attendance.

6. Atlantic Marine Marina

Pick a spot near this marina to get the same view as the event judges. It’s one of the best locations since boats get within 100 feet as required for judging the displays. Be sure to text your vote for your favorite to win the Viewer Choice award.

7. Waterfront Restaurants

The NC Holiday Flotilla Boat Parade starts at 6pm. Wrightsville Beach’s popular waterfront restaurants will still be open and offer an experience of parade-watching and excellent food. Bluewater Waterfront Grill, Dockside Restaurant, and South Beach Grill will gladly host you for the event. Our guests can take advantage of Southern Magnolia Concierge services to help reserve your water view table just in time for the parade.

8. South End

The Flotilla Boat Parade route ends at the South End of Wrightsville Beach. Claim your spot in this area to welcome in the last of the floating boat displays before the fireworks show starts.

9. Watch from a charter boat

For a unique viewing experience, consider watching the parade from a charter boat. Many local boat owners bring out their vessels for the night, offering a front-row seat to the holiday lights action. Our guests can book a charter from Yacht Source for a more personalized viewing experience. Just remember to keep your distance from the parade and other viewing locations.

Oceanview vacation rentals in Wrightsville Beach

Seascape Properties has several vacation homes with views of the Intracoastal Waterway. Escape the crowds and watch the parade from the comfort of your own home. Here are the best vacation rentals to see the NC Holiday Flotilla Boat Parade.

• The Waterway Lodge
• Summer Sands
• Ocean Mist
• Hawk’s Nest

We look forward to hosting you for this year’s North Carolina Holiday Flotilla Boat Parade.