The holiday season on the Treasure Coast heralds a time of enchanting parades, both on land and water, bringing a festive spirit to Stuart, Hobe Sound, Indiantown, Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, Vero Beach, and Sebastian. Each town, with its own distinctive charm, is ready to unfurl the magic of the season through traditional street parades and spectacular boat parades. These events, steeped in community tradition, are a canvas of twinkling lights, festive music, and a showcase of local culture and cheer.
On the streets, expect to see a tapestry of colorful floats, marching bands, and joyful crowds, while the waterways transform into a glittering spectacle of boats adorned in holiday lights. These parades are more than just a display of holiday spirit; they’re a celebration of community resilience and joy. Whether you’re wrapped up in the excitement of a street parade or mesmerized by the floating lights on the water, the Treasure Coast’s lineup of holiday events promises memorable experiences and an opportunity to bask in the true essence of the holiday season.
Key Parade Dates and Details:
- Sebastian Christmas Parade:
- When: Dec. 2, 6:30 p.m.
- Route: Indian River Drive from Main Street to Riverview Park.
- More info: cityofsebastian.org
- Vero Beach Christmas Parade:
- When: Dec. 2, 6 p.m.
- Route: Ocean Drive and Silver Palm Drive from Flamevine Lane to Live Oak Road.
- More info: verobeachchristmasparade.org
- Fort Pierce Christmas Parade – Sights & Sounds on Second Street:
- When: Dec. 3, 4 p.m.
- Route: Second Street from Tickle Tummy Hill to Orange Avenue, then east to Indian River Drive, and north to River Walk Center.
- More info: mainstreetfortpierce.org
Boat Parades Not to Miss:
- St. Lucie County Christmas Boat Parade:
- When: Dec. 9, 6 p.m. (assembles at 5:30 p.m.)
- Route: Fort Pierce Inlet, from south of South Causeway Bridge to north of the bridge, turning around at Square Grouper Tiki Bar.
- Best Views: Causeway Park, Summerlin Dock, River Walk.
- Indian River County Christmas Boat Parade:
- When: Dec. 16, 6 p.m. (assembles at 5:30 p.m.)
- Route: Indian River Lagoon, from north of Barber Bridge to Vero Beach City Marina, turning south to MacWilliams Park, under the bridge to Quail Valley River Club, then north to Youngs Park in The Fingers neighborhood, ending at Royal Palm Pointe.
- Best Views: Vero Beach City Marina, Royal Palm Pointe, Barber Bridge.
- Martin County Christmas Boat Parade:
- When: Dec. 16, 6:30 p.m. (assembles at 6 p.m.)
- Route: St. Lucie River from downtown Stuart public docks to Manatee Pocket.
- Best Views: Stuart Riverwalk, Sandsprit Park, Stuart Causeway.
Other Notable Parades:
- Stuart Christmas Parade:
- When: Dec. 1, 7 p.m.
- Route: Ocean Boulevard from Monterey Road to Georgia Avenue.
- More info: stuartchristmasparade.com
- Hobe Sound Christmas Parade:
- When: Dec. 2, 1 p.m.
- Route: Dixie Highway from Venus Street to Bridge Road, turning on Hercules Avenue to end at J.V. Reed Park.
- More info: hobesound.org/christmas-parade
So, mark your calendars and get ready to indulge in the holiday spirit with these joyful parades. Whether on land or water, these events are sure to bring the community together for some festive fun!
