Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade: 116 Years of Holiday Magic, Lights, and Cheer

The 116th annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade returns, lighting up Newport Harbor from December 18-22 with its festive theme, "Christmas Across the Decades." Acclaimed director and Newport Beach native McG will serve as the Grand Marshal on opening night, bringing his hometown pride and cinematic flair to this beloved OC tradition. Known for works like The O.C., Charlie’s Angels, and Terminator Salvation, McG’s career spans genres and showcases Newport’s unique charm, making him the perfect host for this iconic event.

Kicking off nightly at 6:30 p.m., the parade will showcase over 100 boats adorned in dazzling holiday decor, featuring pyrotechnics, synchronized lights, moving displays, and live performances along the 14-mile route. The parade offers nearly 50 viewing spots, ensuring spectacular views from all around the harbor.

Each night brings a special Grand Marshal:

• Wednesday, Dec. 18: McG - Opening night with Hollywood’s own McG.
• Thursday, Dec. 19: Olive Crest - Honoring Olive Crest’s mission to protect and empower children and families in need.
• Friday, Dec. 20: First Responders - Applauding the bravery and service of our local Fire and Police departments.
• Saturday, Dec. 21: Holiday Classics Night - Celebrate with live holiday music, featuring a Bruno Mars cover band.
• Sunday, Dec. 22: Corona del Mar High School Drum Line - Energizing the evening with festive beats from this celebrated drumline.

Join the celebration on opening night, December 18, at Marina Park (1600 W Balboa Blvd, Newport Beach) – the largest viewing area along the route. The event features an exciting lineup from 4:00 p.m., including an opening ceremony, holiday market with over 35 vendors, entertainment, photo ops, and activities for the whole family. Fireworks will kick off at 6:15 p.m., followed by the parade at 6:45 p.m. Admission is free.

For event details and a parade route map, visit christmasboatparade.com.

Holiday Magic with the LA Master Chorale: Festival of Carols at Musco Center

Celebrate the season on Tuesday, December 17, at 7:30 p.m. at Musco Center for the Arts with the Los Angeles Master Chorale’s Festival of Carols. This festive concert features a stunning array of traditional carols from around the world, along with contemporary holiday classics, all performed with the LA Master Chorale’s signature flair and artistry.

Enjoy sing-along favorites like “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” and “Rudolf the Red-nosed Reindeer” at this family-friendly event, perfect for ages six and up. Join the community in a joyous celebration of the holiday spirit!

Tickets and more information, muscocenter.org.

Musco Center for the Arts is located at 415 North Glassell Orange, CA 92866. 

714-997-6812

muscoaudience@chapman.edu 

Free parking is offered for all ticketed events on campus, subject to availability.

Kick Off the Holidays at VEA Newport Beach’s Festive Celebrations!

VEA Newport Beach invites you to celebrate the season in style! Join the 3rd Annual Holiday Tree Lighting on Thursday, November 21st, at 5:30 p.m. for a heartwarming evening filled with hot cocoa, sweet treats, live entertainment, and magical Santa sightings! Bring the family for a cozy, festive night that’s open to both resort guests and the local community. With no reservations required and complimentary valet parking, it's a holiday event you won’t want to miss.

For those 21 and over, VEA’s Holiday Hideout returns on Friday, November 15th! 

This chic, winter wonderland lounge puts a seasonal twist on a classic speakeasy, featuring festive cocktails and plenty of festive moments. The Holiday Hideout will be open every Friday and Saturday from 6 p.m. - 12 a.m., plus on the night of the tree lighting from 5 p.m. onward.

Where: VEA Newport Beach, 900 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach. 949.640.4000