Newport Beach, United States - December 17, 2025 A video captures the moment the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade opened with a drone show lighting up the sky, followed by fireworks above the harbor as the annual event returned for its 117th year. The footage shows illuminated boats moving through the water while coordinated drone displays and bursts of fireworks fill the night sky over the California coastal town. The parade began Wednesday night, featuring around 100 decorated boats traveling the 14-mile route along the shores of Newport Beach. The annual holiday event includes entertainment, drone shows, and festively decorated homes lining the coast. Organizers say the free parade runs nightly at 6:30 p.m. through Dec. 21 and can be viewed from nearly 50 locations around the harbor. According to organizers, “Parade-goers can look forward to pyrotechnics, synchronized light shows, moving displays, singers, dancers, and much more, all viewable from nearly 50 locations.” The parade website adds, “This year promises to be the biggest and brightest celebration yet, featuring jaw-dropping boat decor, immersive activations, and exciting new elements designed to thrill spectators of all ages!” This year’s theme is “Magical Nights of Lights.” Previous themes have included “Christmas Across the Decades,” “Jingle on the Waves,” and “A Winter Waterland.” Actor and Newport Beach native Ted McGinley served as grand marshal on opening night. “I’m extremely honored to be here tonight, to be part of the Newport Beach Boat Parade,” McGinley said. “Having grown up here and lived here my whole life, it is a very special event.”