PARADE OF LIGHTS WEATHER UPDATE: We have been monitoring the weather forecast and it appears as if the strong winds will diminish in the late afternoon and will not be significant enough to cancel the 7 p.m. event. We will continue to monitor the winds and keep you updated. We hope to see you at the Harbor! 

‘Tis the season to be jolly, and what better way to kick off the holiday festivities than by attending the 57^th Annual Parade of Lights at the Channel Islands Harbor? This year, theme is none other than “Santa’s Workshop,” promising a fun experience for the whole family. If you’re still on the fence about joining the seaside celebration, here are five merry reasons why you shouldn’t miss out!

Dazzling Displays on the Water

Prepare to be mesmerized as the Harbor comes to life with a spectacular display of lights adorning boats of all shapes and sizes. Imagine Santa’s elves went wild with glitter and holiday cheer. The creativity and effort put into each boat’s decorations will leave you and your family in awe, making it a magical sight that’s sure to kick your festive spirt up a notch. The parade starts at 7 p.m. sharp.

Be sure to download a Parade of Lights map to figure out when and where the boats will be.

Parade of Lights Holiday Market (Canceled)

UPDATE: The Parade of Lights Holiday Market has been canceled today due to the strong winds. The market was scheduled from Noon to 6 p.m. While the winds are forecast to diminish, the organizers of the marketplace did not want to put their vendors or market attendees at risk. 

Festivities at the Harbor begin at noon at Harbor View Park just south Marine Emporium Landing (3600 Harbor Boulevard Oxnard, CA 93035). Take your family and enjoy a variety of food options, a holiday artists’ market, live music, and children’s activities. Santa will be there to take pictures, free of charge, with your children from noon to 4 p.m.

Holiday Village at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum

After being at the Holiday Marketplace, Santa is heading to his Harbor home at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum. After all, what’s a holiday event without a visit with Santa? Head over to the Channel Islands Maritime Museum from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., where the magic of the Holiday Workshop comes to life. Your children can meet the man in red himself, share their wish lists, and even take home a keepsake photo to remember the day. It’s the perfect chance for your little ones to let Santa know what’s on their minds this holiday season.

4^th Annual Channel Islands Harbor Food and Toy Drive

‘Tis the season of giving, and the Parade of Lights is not just about receiving the joy of the holidays – it’s also about spreading it. Participate in the 4^th Annual Channel Islands Harbor Food & Toy Drive by bringing non-perishable food items and new, unwrapped toys. Help make the holidays brighter for those in need and teach your family the true spirit of generosity. The food and toy drive is scheduled to take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Harbor View Park parking lot.

Treat & Eats Galore

Relish the opportunity to dine and shop in your favorite establishments in the Harbor prior to the parade. From pizza to fine dining, there’s a lot to choose from. Plus, if you can’t make it out to the parade in time while dining, there’s a great chance you can see the parade from the restaurant of your choice!

So, gather your loved ones, bundle up in your coziest holiday sweaters, and set sail for a day of festive family fun at the 57^th Annual Parade of Lights at the Channel Islands Harbor. The glittering boats, Santa’s Workshop, and the spirit of giving await you for a holiday celebration you won’t soon forget.