Panama City, FL: July 13, 2026 — Destination Panama City is now accepting captain registrations for the 40th Annual Boat Parade of Lights, inviting boaters from across the region to take part in one of the area’s most beloved holiday traditions. Scheduled for Saturday, December 12, 2026, the parade transforms the waters of St. Andrews Bay into a festive display of illuminated vessels, celebrating the season along Panama City’s waterfront.

Captains of all vessel types are encouraged to register and showcase their creativity by decorating their boats with festive lights, holiday displays, and imaginative themes. Whether participating for the first time or returning as a longtime favorite, captains play a central role in creating an unforgettable experience for thousands of spectators who gather along the bay each December.

The parade begins at the St. Andrews Bay Yacht Club and travels west across St. Andrews Bay to the Hathaway Bridge, passing several popular waterfront viewing locations, including the Panama City Marina, Hotel Indigo, St. Andrews Marina, Uncle Ernie’s, Papa Joe’s Bayside, and Sun Harbor Marina. At the Panama City Marina, spectators can enjoy the event’s main festival, featuring a family-friendly Christmas Village, visits with Santa, holiday entertainment, local vendors, free giveaways, and festive activities while watching the illuminated fleet pass by.

“The Boat Parade of Lights has become one of Panama City’s signature holiday traditions, bringing participants and spectators from across the Southeast to experience our waterfront community,” said Nirav Banker, hotel owner of the Rodeway Inn Panama City. “It’s a celebration that showcases the beauty of St. Andrews Bay while inviting visitors to explore our historic neighborhoods, local businesses, and everything that makes Panama City a special place to spend the holidays.”

Participating captains will compete for a variety of awards recognizing outstanding creativity and craftsmanship, including Judges’ Choice, People’s Choice, and Destination Panama City Choice. Winners will be announced following the parade.

Captains interested in participating can register now by visiting DestinationPanamaCity.com/boat-parade-of-lights. Registration information, parade rules, and event updates are available online.

The Boat Parade of Lights has become a treasured holiday tradition for both residents and visitors, celebrating Panama City’s waterfront, boating community, and coastal holiday spirit. Destination Panama City looks forward to welcoming captains back to the bay for this milestone 40th anniversary celebration.

For more information or to register your vessel, visit DestinationPanamaCity.com/boat-parade-of-lights.