San Diego’s Parade of Lights

The 48th annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights promises to dazzle and entertain bayfront crowds during the evenings of December 8 and 15, 2019. On both days, the procession will start at 5 p.m. and follow the predetermined parade route.

This year, for the fourth time, the parade will proceed to the pier at Cesar Chavez Park before making the turn to Coronado, giving spectators another area to view the parade. The parade starts at Shelter Island and proceeds to Harbor Island, the Embarcadero, Seaport Village, the Pier at Cesar Chavez Park, and ends at the Ferry Landing in Coronado. The parade takes about an hour to pass any given point and there are many comfortable waterfront viewpoints along the route.

For added insight into the participating boats, viewers can watch the parade from near the announcers’ areas. Announcers will be located at the Maritime Museum on the Embarcadero and at Coronado Landing. As each boat passes these viewing points, the announcers offer a brief history and description of the participating vessels.

Presented by the Port of San Diego, the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights brings more than 100,000 San Diego residents and visitors to the shores of San Diego Bay each year. The procession of approximately 80 lavishly decorated boats has become one of the most iconic events in the region.

Due to increased traffic and parking demand, observers are encouraged to plan ahead or take the trolley.

Category: Events, Holidays, Local News