Christmas parades aren’t limited to the land! Every year there are several lighted boat parades in the Charlotte area. Read on for tips about where you can view each parade from. They are free to watch, but if you’re watching from a lakeside restaurant or bar, you’d be expected to purchase food or drink.
At the time of this update (Nov. 5, 2025) one of the lighted boat parades has been announced. Read on for details about the Lake Norman Christmas Lighted Boat Parade.
Check out our huge day-by-day list of holiday events in the Charlotte area! We update it every day!
Lake Norman Christmas Lighted Boat Parade

Lake Norman Christmas Lighted Boat Parade
Saturday, December 20, 2025
5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Of all the lighted boat parades, this is the ones that’s most available to the public for viewing. The parade starts at Blythe Landing, then goes to Ramsey Creek Park, then to Peninsula Yacht Club, and then to the Duke Energy Explorium. Each of the parks will be open until 30 minutes after the parade has passed each location.
Typically, at the final viewing point, Duke Energy Explorium, there are food trucks and a visit from Santa!
Please bring unwrapped toys as a donation to Little Smiles.

Lake Wylie Boat Parade
Annual Lake Wylie Boat Parade
Check back soon.
Lake Norman Yacht Club Christmas Flotilla and Parade
Lake Norman Yacht Club Christmas Flotilla and Lights Parade
Saturday, December 6, 2025
Check back soon for details.
Northern Lights of Lake Norman Lighted Boat Parade
The Northern Lights of Lake Norman Boat Parade
This one is not taking place in 2025.
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We make every effort to make sure that everything on Charlotte on the Cheap is 100% accurate.
However, sometimes things change without notice, and we are not always notified. It’s also possible that we can make a mistake.
Please verify all deals and events with the venue or organizer before you go.
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More Holiday Events
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