One of my favorite places in Southern Cali has to be Newport Beach and Balboa Island. I absolutely love hanging out when I can sneak it in. Newport Beach and Balboa Island are home to my favorite parade of all- The Christmas Boat Parade. It has become a family tradition and we look forward to it every year.

I just recently learned that there is a boat parade for the 4th also!! I can’t wait!! The American Legion 4th of July parade has over 100+boats participating and is sure to be a pretty cool treat for the family. The theme of course is All American and from what I’ve read it is a real treat for the eyes. The Newport Harbor fills up with of boats adorned in red-white-&-blue celebrating the time-honored Old Glory Boat Parade. It is tradition for boats try to outshine each other waiting for the loudest ovations from onlookers.

It sounds like a lot of fun. You can observe the fun from 1pm to 5pm and watch from various locations from the harbor. My favorite location to watch would be the same as the Christmas parade- From Balboa Island or the Fun Zone. I would also maybe try to catch a fun lunch from one of the restaurants around the harbor. I would suggest heading there early and walking or biking over to Balboa or the Peninsula. If you want to splurge, you can also head over and take a cruise on the Hornblower yacht and have a champagne brunch with parade viewing. It looks very tempting and a real treat- but a little on the pricey side- $54.95 for adults and $27.48 for kids 4-12. Kids 3 and under are free.

To learn more about the parade and route head over here

The parade will be from 1-5pm. Enjoy!!