Yorktown’s Lighted Boat Parade Brings Holiday Magic to the River

Some holiday events are cute. Some are cozy. And then there’s the Yorktown Lighted Boat Parade, which feels like Christmas decided to take a sunset cruise down the York River. If you’ve never been, put it at the top of your December list. It happens Saturday December sixth and it’s one of those Historic Triangle traditions that makes you remember why living near the water is such a perk.

The fun starts at six p.m. down at the Yorktown Waterfront. Families, locals, military folks stationed at Cheatham Annex or Coast Guard Training Center Yorktown, and visitors from Williamsburg VA and Newport News all show up early to get a good spot. Carolers gather around the big glowing braziers, which are basically giant open fire pits that feel like the unofficial heaters of Yorktown. The Fifes and Drums of York Town play, creating that classic mix of history and festivity that only this area pulls off. Complimentary hot cider rounds out the pre show and honestly, it hits extra good when the wind blows off the river.

Then, right at seven, the boats start rolling in. Or floating in. You get the idea. A full parade of decked out vessels cruises along the York River glittering with lights, inflatables, garland, glowing reindeer, and every Christmas theme you can imagine. They compete for best in show, which makes the creativity go wild. You’ll see everything from elegant white lights to full blown “Santa on vacation” setups. And when those reflections hit the water, it feels like the entire river is twinkling.

This event has been going strong for more than twenty years, and it truly brings the whole community together. It’s the kind of night where you bump into neighbors, coworkers, or that friend you only see at Water Street Grille. It’s also one of my favorite things to recommend to families who are new to the area because it gives them the perfect taste of Yorktown VA life. Waterfront views. Holiday spirit. And that small town charm that makes the Historic Triangle such a special pocket of Virginia.

A quick tip. Bring a flashlight. Navigating the waterfront after dark gets tricky, and York County recommends it for safety. Also, keep an eye on the weather. If things look rough, call the York County event hotline before heading out.

Whether you’re scoping out Williamsburg real estate, spending the weekend in Yorktown, or living your best holiday life in Hampton or Poquoson, this parade is worth the drive. It’s festive, it’s free, and it’s one of those events that reminds you that winter on the water isn’t just cold. It’s beautiful.

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Jackie Berberabe, a Williamsburg real estate agent, Military Relocation Professional, and proud military spouse
P.S. I work with military members and their families buy and sell homes in:
⭐ Williamsburg ⭐ Yorktown ⭐ Newport News ⭐ Toano ⭐ Hampton ⭐ Poquoson
Military Installations:
🇺🇸 Joint Base Langley Eustis
🇺🇸 Naval Weapons Station Yorktown / Cheatham Annex
🇺🇸 Coast Guard Training Center Yorktown
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