Portland, OR. — The Christmas Ships Parade—a signature Pacific Northwest holiday tradition since 1954—will set sail for its 71st season this December, with more than 70 decorated and illuminated boats parading along the Columbia and Willamette Rivers across 15 nights.
Event organizers say the volunteer-powered parade continues to thrive because of the joy it brings to communities along the waterfront.
“The Christmas Ships Parade provides the perfect opportunity to celebrate the season,” said Kelly Marks, a representative for the parade. “This one-of-a-kind event offers a unique experience and creates cherished memories while bringing joy and building community.”
Christmas Ships President Kat Pettersen said boat captains look forward to the event as much as viewers do. “It fills our hearts to see the spirit of the Parade reflected in the faces of the spectators,” she said.
The parade season begins December 4 on the Columbia River and December 9 on the Willamette River, with routes reaching communities from North Portland Harbor to Camas, St. Helens, Columbia City, Woodland, the Multnomah Channel, Lake Oswego, and more. Weeknight launches will depart from Riverplace Marina on the Willamette and the M. James Gleason Boat Ramp on the Columbia.
Special Events and Community Support
Two Meet & Greet open houses will be held at the Riverplace Public Docks:
- Friday, December 20, 8:00–10:00 PM
- Saturday, December 21, 2:00–4:30 PM
Attendees are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys for the annual toy drive benefiting children in need, in partnership with Columbia River Fire & Rescue and Portland Fire & Rescue Toy & Joy Makers.
A Volunteer Tradition and Oregon Heritage Designation
Run entirely by volunteers, the Christmas Ships Parade is the nation’s oldest continuously operating illuminated boat parade and is officially recognized as an Oregon Heritage Tradition.
Notable characteristics include:
- Approximately 345 nautical miles traveled each season
- More than 80 miles of shoreline passed annually
- Boats ranging from 14 to 65 feet, including motor and sail vessels
- Skippers personally design and fund their own displays
- No government subsidies—the organization operates independently as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
Viewing and Support
Viewing is free and available from dozens of shoreline locations, parks, restaurants, hotels, and waterfront businesses. Organizers note that the parade does not offer public rides on participating vessels.
Donations to support the volunteer-run parade can be made at www.christmasships.org.
Sponsors
Presenting sponsors include Boreas Group, Portland Spirit, and RiverPlace Marina, with additional support from regional businesses, marinas, and restaurants.
For full route maps, nightly schedules, and recommended viewing locations, visit www.christmasships.org/parade-schedule.
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