Residents and visitors who plan to attend the Harbor’s 58^th Annual Parade of Lights on December 14, 2024 have a variety of indoor, outdoor, and on-the-water options to catch a glimpse of this magical event.

This year’s parade theme is “Sleigh Bells & Spurs” and viewers will be dazzled by the sights and sounds the procession, which can be viewed from almost anywhere in the Harbor.

Outdoor Viewing

Longtime parade watchers have surely staked out their special spots. We’ve put together a downloadable map to help those first-timers watch the parade. DOWNLOAD THE MAP HERE.

Please note: these are the “prime” spots to watch the Parade of Lights, so consider bringing your comfy chairs, warm blankets, cooler, and family early.

Watch Aboard the Mystic Whaler

Perhaps one of the most unique ways to watch the Parade of Lights is aboard the Mystic Whaler, a New England tall ship located behind the Channel Islands Maritime Museum. Join the crew of the Mystic Whaler for a unique viewing opportunity. Learn more here: https://centralcoastoceanadventures.org/events/

Indoor Viewing

The Harbor has a variety of restaurants that offer breathtaking views of the Parade. If you want to get in to one of these, you better book early! Here they are:

Toppers Pizza Place

Sea Fresh Channel Islands

The Lookout Bar and Grill

Moqueca Brazilian Cuisine

The Waterside Restaurant and Wine Bar

Parade of Lights Viewing Party at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum

If you don’t want to watch from a restaurant, the Channel Islands Maritime Museum is hosting a viewing party from its 2nd floor. This will probably be one of the best places to watch the Parade of Lights. Tickets for the event cost $150 and includes appetizers, desserts, complimentary champagne, beer, wine and sparking juices. Purchase tickets here: https://www.cimmvc.org/events-activities