Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade

Waves meet wonder this holiday season

As the “Yachting Capital of the World,” Greater Fort Lauderdale is keeping its favorite holiday tradition sailing. Celebrating “Sawgrass to Seagrass: Waves of Holiday Cheer,” the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade is back for its 53rd annual event, happening Saturday, December 14, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. 

Gather with friends and family along the 12-mile parade route to see Greater Fort Lauderdale’s shipmates deck their hulls with nods to the beauty of South Florida and a sprinkle of holiday spirit.

Introducing the Boat Parade’s Co-Grand Marshals

Leading this year’s parade are beloved Hallmark actor Jack Wagner and the lovable mascots of the 2024 Stanley Cup-winning Florida Panthers, Stanley C. Panther and Viktor E. Rat. As this year’s co-grand marshals, they show that when entertainment, sports and philanthropy team up, they can help create a community that’s as vibrant and uplifting as it is unforgettable.

Jack Wagner has been lighting up screens and hearts for years. When he’s not in front of the camera, he lends his voice to causes that matter. He’ll be joined by Stanley C. Panther and Viktor E. Rat, the dynamic mascots of the Florida Panthers. Known for their energy and community spirit, these two always bring the fun—especially to a holiday party.

Together, they’ll lead the fleet of more than 100 brilliantly decorated boats down the New River and Intracoastal Waterway.

Celebrating Sandy Shores and Holiday Spirit

The theme for the 53rd year of the Winterfest Boat Parade is “From Sawgrass to Seagrass: Waves of Holiday Cheer.” Floridians have always taken pride in enjoying their sandy beaches over snowy hills, and that’s the energy Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Winterfest hope to see from this year’s participants.

Boaters are encouraged to light things up with a touch of the tropical beauty that makes South Florida unique. Whether paying homage to the grandeur of the Everglades or illustrating the sunny beauty of the state’s palm tree-lined beaches and waterways, this year’s “floats” are sure to capture the essence of Florida’s sun, sand and holiday spirit.

Where to Join in on the Festivities

As South Florida’s ultimate holiday season kickoff, the Winterfest Boat Parade runs a 12-mile route down the Intracoastal Waterway. The procession begins at the New River, near the Historic Stranahan House Museum, and cruises up the Intracoastal, ending in the waters of Lake Santa Barbara in Pompano Beach.

For prime seating to enjoy this merry spectacle, check out Winterfest’s Parade Viewing Area. Located across from Fort Lauderdale beach at Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade Park, it’s situated at the southeast corner of Las Olas Boulevard and the Intracoastal Waterway. Admission is $40 for adults and $35 for children 10 and under. Tickets can be purchased here.

Due to limited parking accommodations, rideshare is strongly recommended for easy access. However, several parking areas are available within a short walk of the event. Your ticket includes an evening packed with holiday-themed fun: access to the Stella Artois Culinary Courtyard, live entertainment, vendors, and photo opportunities with Santa Claus, Stanley C. Panther, and other fun mascots—all leading up to the grand finale, the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade.

Doors to the Parade Viewing Area open at 4 p.m., and arriving early is recommended to make the most of the festivities. The parade will kick off at 6:30 p.m. along the New River in downtown Fort Lauderdale, with the action reaching the Parade Viewing Area around 7 p.m. Pets are not allowed in the Parade Viewing Area, so please plan accordingly.

If you don’t grab tickets to the Parade Viewing Area, no worries—just bring a lawn chair and enjoy the festivities along the Intracoastal.

Where to Stay

Make the most of your visit to Greater Fort Lauderdale by booking a hotel with prime views of the Winterfest Boat Parade. The Riverside Hotel, a historic gem in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, is located along Las Olas Boulevard, steps from downtown’s vibrant shopping and dining scene. For a more modern stay, the Hyatt Centric Las Olas, Fort Lauderdale offers unbeatable views of the Intracoastal Waterway, putting you right in the action. After the parade, unwind with craft cocktails at the hotel’s speakeasy, Rm. 901.

Find out more information about available hotels here.

Welcoming Everyone Under the Sun

From cozy private boats to giant showboats and flashy superyachts, this parade is a holiday dream come true. Experience dazzling lights, live music, celebrity sightings, musical performances, beauty queens and more at the Winterfest Boat Parade. With more than a million spectators each year, this is one South Florida holiday event you won’t want to miss. So come out—everyone under the sun in Greater Fort Lauderdale is welcome to experience the magic.

For more details, visit WINTERFESTPARADE.COM