Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Christmas Ships on the Columbia River
Experience the magic of the Christmas Ships on the Columbia River, a cherished Northwest tradition since 1954. Witness a fleet of over 75 brightly decorated boats parade nightly along the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, illuminating the waterways with festive lights. Thousands gather along the shores to cheer for this unique maritime holiday spectacle.
What to Expect
Parade of decorated Christmas ships on the Columbia and Willamette Rivers
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $
- Parking: Parking availability varies by viewing location. Many popular viewing spots are near restaurants or public access points which may have associated parking.
- Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Other Christmas Events Near Oregon
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, holiday enthusiasts
Vibe
Festive, magical, community-oriented
Energy Level
Low - viewing from shore
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
High - parades can be cancelled due to weather
Special Events & Promotions
- Parades occur on 15 nights each December
- Routes vary nightly and are published on the event website
- Sponsorships and donations support the 501(c)3 non-profit organization
Location
Event Details
Duration
Approximately 1-2 hours per parade route
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Christmas Ships, Inc.
Food & Drink
Restaurants along the riverbanks often cater to parade viewers; specific food vendors are not listed for the parade itself.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Check the specific night's route on the event website before heading out, as parade paths change daily.
- Book restaurant reservations well in advance, as many establishments along the river fill up quickly during the parade season.
- Dress warmly and in layers, as December evenings by the river can be cold, even with the festive atmosphere.
- Consider using FlashAlert to receive immediate notifications about any last-minute schedule changes or cancellations due to weather.
- Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the riverbanks, especially at popular locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Christmas Ships Parade?
It's a beloved Northwest tradition where a fleet of over 75 decorated boats parades nightly along the Columbia and Willamette Rivers in December, showcasing festive light displays.
How can I watch the Christmas Ships?
You can view the parade from various locations along the riverbanks. Specific routes and recommended viewing spots, including restaurants, are detailed on the event's schedule pages.
Do I need tickets to see the parade?
No, tickets are not required to view the parade from shore. The boats are privately owned, and anyone can enjoy the spectacle from public viewing areas.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Decisions to cancel the parade due to unsafe weather or water conditions are made close to the start time. Updates are posted on their Facebook page and via FlashAlert.
Can I ride on one of the Christmas Ships?
Generally, the public cannot ride on the boats as they are privately owned and operated by captains responsible for their own expenses. Some captains may offer rides for charity auctions.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.