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THE WHARF'S 34TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE & PARTY, DC

  • The Wharf DC 45 Sutton Square Southwest Washington, DC, 20024 United States (map)

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Deets: Join us on December 5, 2026, for the 34th Annual Holiday Boat Parade & Party at The Wharf. Kickoff the holidays with this iconic DC tradition that features over sixty beautifully decorated boats parading along the Washington Channel.

Hint for the Average Socialite: Party to live music on District Pier while you sip on hot toddies and drinks from the Corona Cheer Garden. Get into the spirit with ornament decorating, holiday karaoke, s’mores at Camp Wharf, and visits with Santa. Don’t forget to bring your camera to take photos in front of the Jack Daniel’s Barrel Tree and 45ft illuminated Christmas tree on District Pier. A spectacular fireworks salute will conclude the boat parade at 8pm.

Event Schedule

  • 5:00–8:00pm — Activities throughout The Wharf (Karaoke, s’mores, ornament decorating, live music, visits with Santa & much more)

  • 5:00pm — Music on Transit Pier and District Pie

  • 7:00pm — Boats arrive in the Washington Channel, Tommy McFly emcees the parade

  • 8:00pm — Fireworks

  • 8:15pm — After Party on District Pier

Earlier Event: December 3
NATIONAL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING, DC