Registration for the 2026 Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce Boat Parade is now open. The cost is $40 for non-commercial boats and $75 for a sponsored boat. REGISTER HERE.
Decorate your boat with dazzling lights and festive decorations, and join the procession of beautifully adorned vessels. Show off your creativity and holiday spirit as you sail through the bay, spreading joy and cheer to all who watch. It’s a wonderful opportunity to be a part of a cherished community tradition and make lasting memories.
The festivities begin at 5:30 PM, when participating vessels begin gathering in front of Salty Sam’s Marina. The parade officially sets sail at 6:00 PM, traveling northwest along the shrimp docks, under the Matanzas Pass Bridge, past the Coast Guard station, through Estero Pass, and then turns back south, gliding alongside Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina, looping back toward Matanzas Pass bridge and through the Harbor.
This year, spectators will enjoy holiday magic as the boats make TWO loops through the back bay, offering additional opportunities to take in the spectacular display of holiday lights.
Leading the illuminated procession will be Santa and Mrs. Claus, spreading Christmas cheer from the Ft. Myers Beach Chamber Lead Boat.
Adding to the festivities, Bayside Veterans Park, located at the base of Old San Carlos Boulevard, along with local restaurants, will feature live music and holiday entertainment, providing a festive gathering spot for families and friends to enjoy the celebration.
Sponsorships are available by reaching out to Liz Perkins at events@fmbchamber.com.
For those unable to attend in person, Beach Talk Radio will livestream the entire parade on Facebook and YouTube, allowing viewers near and far to experience the holiday excitement from wherever they are.
The community is invited to participate in the excitement by voting for their favorite decorated vessel in the annual People’s Choice Award. Spectators can help select this year’s winning boat and recognize the creativity and holiday spirit of parade participants.
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