Celebrate the Holiday Season Along the St. Johns River
The holidays are shining brighter along the St. Johns River! Join us on Saturday, November 28, 2026, for Holiday River Fest presented by Bank of America, bringing some of Jacksonville’s favorite holiday traditions together for one festive evening in Downtown Jacksonville.
Gather your family and friends and experience the magic of the season along the riverfront with holiday activities, the lighting of the City of Jacksonville’s Christmas Tree, illuminated boats cruising the St. Johns River and a spectacular fireworks finale.
Holiday River Fest Schedule
5:00 p.m. – Holiday River Fest begins
6:25 p.m. – Christmas Tree Lighting at Riverfront Plaza, sponsored by Community First Credit Union
6:30 p.m. – Jacksonville Light Boat Parade begins
8:15 p.m. – Light Boat Parade winners announced at Riverfront Plaza on the Holiday Stage presented by Publix
Approximately 8:30 p.m. – After-Parade Fireworks, sponsored by Community First Credit Union
Make plans to celebrate the start of the holiday season with us as Downtown Jacksonville and the St. Johns River come alive for the holidays!
Check back for additional 2026 event details!
Jacksonville Light Boat Parade
- 🗓️ Saturday, November 28, 2026
- 📍 St. Johns River
- 🛥️ Light Boat Parade begins at 6:30 PM
- 🥳 Light Boat Parade winners announced at Riverfront Plaza on the Holiday Stage presented by Publix at 8:15 PM
For more than 30 years, the Jacksonville Light Boat Parade has brought holiday magic to the St. Johns River and Downtown Jacksonville. Each year, boats of all shapes and sizes transform into dazzling displays of lights and festive décor as they cruise along the North and Southbanks. Spectators can gather along the Downtown Riverwalks to enjoy the illuminated procession before the evening concludes with a spectacular fireworks finale, including the signature waterfall fireworks cascading from the Main Street and Acosta Bridges.
Participating vessels will be judged based on their overall appearance, creativity and composition of decorations.
Judging Categories: Vessels Under 30'; Vessels 30' and Over; Sailboat; and Corporate.
Boater registration for vessels wishing to participate in the judged competition will close Monday, November 16, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR FREE
Tree Lighting and Fireworks at Riverfront Plaza
Sponsored by Community First Credit Union
- 🗓️ Saturday, November 28, 2026
- 📍 Riverfront Plaza = 2 W. Independent Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32202
- 🎶 Holiday River Fest begin at 5:00 PM
- 🎄 Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6:25 PM
Kick off the holiday season as we light up Downtown Jacksonville! The City of Jacksonville’s Christmas Tree returns to Riverfront Plaza for its second year, transforming the riverfront into a festive celebration filled with music, holiday magic and plenty of cheer.
Join Mayor Donna Deegan and special guests for the official tree lighting as the River City shines bright for the holidays.
Bring your family and friends and enjoy an evening of seasonal fun, including hot cocoa, festive treats, food trucks and family-friendly activities throughout Riverfront Plaza.
Come celebrate the season and make new holiday memories in the heart of Downtown Jacksonville!
Is your business interested in becoming a
Holiday River Fest sponsor?
Contact our Sponsorship Manager to learn about available opportunities. We’d love to explore a partnership with you!