Portland's illuminated boat fleet hits the Columbia River

  • 2026-10-20
A fleet of illuminated boats will take to the Columbia River this November for a preview of Portland's annual Christmas Ships Parade.

Beginning in 1954, this Christmas ship parade kicks off with people decorating their own boats. Run by volunteers, it has been going on for 72 years. Numerous boats participate by decorating with lights, and each boat in the fleet has its own theme.

For the preview, the fleet will escort Santa and Mrs. Claus, who arrive aboard a tugboat, to the Vancouver City Dock for the Vancouver Rotary tree lighting ceremony at Esther Short Park.

Targeted at people planning to follow the boats, parade nights start on December 3 and end December 20 on the Willamette and Columbia rivers, with ships typically sailing by between 7 pm and 9 pm. The first night begins at the M. James Gleason Boat Ramp in Northeast Portland, where attendees can park for $5 and get a good view of the boats departing. On the final night, there will be a finale at Cathedral Park. Spectators can observe from shore free of admission.

Community groups that promote holiday events similar to this can find poster printing a practical way to spread the word.

The preview run for the Christmas Ships parade will take place on Friday, November 27, at 4 pm, setting off towards Portland at the Grant Street Pier in Vancouver, Washington.