Christmas Ships Parade

Every year, Portland and Vancouver residents line the Columbia and Willamette rivers to watch a fleet of 55 to 60 festively decorated sailboats and yachts parade down the waterfront. These privately owned boats range from 14 to 65 feet (4 to 20 m) long and gather at different locations along the river featuring light displays and inflatable decor.

Find the schedule here: https://www.christmasships.org/schedule/download-schedules

Where to Watch the Christmas Ships

The privately owned vessels come from the Portland, Vancouver, McMinnville, Salem and Hood River areas and can be seen at various locations along the Columbia and Willamette riverbanks. There’s no shortage of outdoor and indoor options for viewing the parade, from parks and bridges to restaurants and bars.

All or most of the fleet will gather every night of the parade with a different planned route — the Christmas Ships website provides maps of the specific routes the Columbia Fleet and Willamette Fleet will follow on a given night. On Dec. 21 and 22, visitors can even enjoy a meet and greet with the entire fleet of boats and their skippers on the public dock near Riverplace Marina.

Looking for some specific spots to get in on the fun? Grab a couple of hot chocolate thermoses and bundle up to view the parade from South Waterfront Park 

Credit: Mahsha Ahanchian

South Waterfront Park

From the Marquam to Ross Island bridges this greenway collection of parks and paths features public art and lush, seasonal gardens along the west side of the Willamette River.

Downtown

Address:

2001 S River Dr, Portland, OR 97201
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