Courtesy photo.
VENTURA — Ventura Harbor is delighted to announce the 48th Annual Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights & Fireworks, a holiday tradition filled with color and dazzling displays, on Friday, December 13th and Saturday, December 14th at 6:30 pm, followed by a spectacular fireworks display at 8:00 pm. This year’s theme, “Candy Land,” will transform the waterfront into a sugary spectacle, with vibrant boats and holiday cheer lighting up the night sky. Join us for this sweets-inspired event featuring live entertainment, delectable treats, and a spectacular fireworks finale (weather permitting). Boater applications are now open, and it is free to participate in the boat parade, which includes prizes and awards for boaters – captains can sign up on venturaharborvillage.com/pol-boaters/
The parade will begin at 6:30 pm, as beautifully decorated boats embark on their journey through the Harbor. Many vessels will match their décor to the whimsical world of Candy Land, making two laps through Ventura Harbor, enchanting viewers with their colorful lights and candy-inspired decorations. The parade is followed by a stunning fireworks display at 8:00 pm (weather permitting). The best viewing spots are along the perimeter of the Harbor and areas of the Ventura Harbor Village promenade, with the best views facing northwest.
In addition to fun family carnival rides and games (starting at 4:00 pm on the Ventura Harbor Village Main Lawn), LED light performers, and the popular faux snowfall starting at 5:30 pm, new entertainment this year includes professional bubble shows by SB Bubble Guy. The shows will take place at Ventura Harbor Village on Friday, December 13th from 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm and Saturday, December 14th from 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm (weather permitting).
Plan to dine, sip, and savor at one of the many seaside Ventura Harbor Village restaurants. Some reservations may be required, while others offer walk-up service. In addition to the carnival rides and games, guests can also find vendors offering sweet treats inspired by this year’s “Candy Land” theme, such as kettle corn, candy apples, and funnel cakes. Be sure to pop into Top This Chocolate for custom gourmet chocolates, enjoy whimsical creations at Coastal Cone Ice Cream, and savor delectable French pastries at Le Petit Café & Bakery in the Harbor Village.
Arrive early for holiday gift shopping at one of the many coastal boutiques and shops, sip on a glass of wine at Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room, try your hand at the Ultimate Escape Rooms, play games at the new The Loose Cannon restaurant, take an electric boat ride around the harbor with Ventura Boat Rentals, and enjoy live holiday tunes on Saturday, December 14th on the Promenade Stage from 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm.
Event attendees can find prime viewing spots along the Ventura Harbor Village promenade to watch the parade. Announcers, live entertainment, dining, and treats will be centered in Ventura Harbor Village. Visitors can also enjoy the parade from the water with special holiday parade tours by Island Packers or lit pedal boat rentals with Ventura Boat Rentals, providing a unique and memorable viewing experience. Parade of Lights Island Packers public boat excursions are on Friday, December 13th at 6:15 pm & 6:30 pm, and Saturday, December 14th at 6:15 pm & 6:30 pm. Ticket prices are $44 for adults, $40 for seniors, and $31 for children under 12. Rent a private charter with Ventura Boat Rentals, with pricing starting at $1,350, or rent a lit pedal boat to view the parade on the water starting at $120. For more information, ticket purchases, and details, visit venturaharborvillage.com.
The 48th Annual Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights & Fireworks is sponsored in part by Four Points by Sheraton Ventura Harbor, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ventura Harbor, Portside Ventura Harbor, Andria’s Seafood Restaurant & Market, Safe Harbor Ventura Isle, and Ventura West Marina, along with many other sponsors, supporters, and community collaborators who make this annual event possible. A complimentary shuttle will be available on both evenings for additional parking, providing transportation to and from Ventura Harbor Village at the parking shuttle lot on Schooner and Harbor Blvd in Ventura Harbor.
From colorful candy-themed boats and sparkling lights to mouthwatering treats and thrilling carnival rides, the 48th Annual Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights & Fireworks is sure to create sweet holiday memories for all. Please visit venturaharborvillage.com for more information.