Join us on December 5, 2026 for the 34th Annual Holiday Boat Parade & Party at The Wharf. Kick off the holidays with this iconic DC event that features 60+ beautifully decorated boats parading along the Washington Channel.

Do spectators need to register or get a ticket?
The Holiday Boat Parade & Party is FREE for spectators; no tickets are needed to enjoy the festivities on our piers or along Wharf Street.

How do I register my boat in the Holiday Boat Parade & Party?
Stay tuned to hear more about 2026 boater registration.

What activities are there at the event?
Get in the spirit with activities like ornament decorating, ice skating, holiday karaoke, photos with Santa and more. Warm up with winter drinks at the Corona Cheer Gardens or roast s'mores at the Camp Wharf fire pit and take in the sight of our towering 45-foot Christmas Tree. In addition to the parade, the Holiday Boat Parade & Party will offer activities for all ages including:

⭐ Kids can decorate ornaments and play games in M Street Landing.
⭐ Roast s’mores at the Caps Campfire wood-burning fire pit.
⭐ Visit the 45-foot nautical-inspired tree on District Pier.
⭐ Adults can sip on Jack Daniel's holiday cocktails for a cause at participating restaurants.
⭐ Live music and DJs on all of our stages.
⭐ Kids can get their photos taken with Santa in The Grove.
⭐ Snap a photo in front of the life-sized "Joy" sign in District Square.
⭐ “Salute” oversized toy soldiers in District Square.
⭐ Skate with monumental views at The Wharf’s Ice Rink.
⭐ Visit the Jack Daniel’s Barrel Tree in Blair Circle to play games, sample cocktails and learn how to take home a barrel from the tree.
⭐ Watch a dazzling fireworks finale over the Washington Channel.

Is this event pet-friendly?
Pets are allowed in outdoor spaces throughout The Wharf. However, we do expect very large crowds during the event, outdoor areas may be cold and there is a fireworks show at 8pm, so please plan ahead for your pet's comfort and safety. The recommended pet relief area is Benjamin Banneker Park near 9th and Maine Ave SW.

Will there be fireworks? What time?
Fireworks will be shot off from a barge in the Washington Channel around 8pm.

What is the best way to get to The Wharf?
The Wharf has three underground parking garages that are open around the clock, but they do tend to fill up fast on event days. Check the garages' capacity before you arrive or plan to utilize one of the nearby off-site parking garages (view PDF map), including Ace Parking at L’Enfant Plaza (420 10th St SW), L'Enfant East Parking Garage (840 D St SW), or the 1100 4th St SW Garage.

You can also ride the Metro to Waterfront Station and walk 5 minutes to The Wharf, or ride to L’Enfant Plaza and then hop on The Wharf Shuttle, a free service that stops at CVS and 7th Street Park. Or consider taking Bikeshare.

What happens if it snows?
A bit of snow can’t keep us down! However, the safety of our guests is our top priority. If weather conditions affect the ability of participants from safely enjoying the event, we will make any necessary adjustments and updates will be posted on this page and on our social media channels as promptly as possible. 

Where are the public bathrooms at The Wharf?
Public restrooms are located throughout The Wharf at the Fish Market, Transit Pier, 800 Water Street, in the Oculus, and at The Terrace.

Can I bring chairs and coolers?
Chairs and coolers are not permitted at The Wharf at any time. Learn more about The Wharf’s Code of Conduct.

Can I drink alcohol outdoors?
In the District of Columbia, it is against the law to consume alcohol in public, including in the streets, parks, and piers at The Wharf. At The Wharf, you may only consume alcohol inside restaurants, within restaurants' licensed patio areas, or within the licensed event areas. No outside alcohol is permitted.

Can I bring my camera?
Guests are permitted to bring cameras and video equipment to The Wharf, provided that they are for personal use only. Cameras with a lens longer than six (6) inches may not be brought to events at The Wharf, except by credentialed media. While taking photographs, guests are not permitted to stand in the aisles, portals, or walkways, or to obstruct others from viewing the event. Monopods, tripods, and selfie sticks are not permitted at The Wharf. If you’re interested in a photo pass, please contact info@wharfdc.com. Please note that priority is given to established media outlets.