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.
Lake Norman Christmas Lighted Boat Parade
Lake Norman Lighted Christmas Boat Parade
Saturday, December 19, 2026
5 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 typically 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.
At the final viewing point, Duke Energy Explorium, there will be 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
Saturday, December 12, 2026
6 p.m.
Papa Doc’s Shore Club
3990 Charlotte Hwy, Lake Wylie, SC
Free
The parade starts and ends at Papa Doc’s.
Double-Check Before You Head Out!
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.
More Holiday Events
Check out our comprehensive day-by-day list of holiday events in the Charlotte area.
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