for a spectacular display of lights and holiday spirit! Every year, the Clover Island Yacht Club hosts the Christmas Lighted Boat Parade, a beloved holiday tradition that lights up the Columbia River. Join us for a magical evening as boats of all sizes decked out in festive lights, sail down the river to spread joy and celebrate the season.
Catch the Parade from Shore or Onboard!
The parade begins each night at 6 pm under the Cable Bridge at Clover Island. Boats will cruise upriver along the Kennewick side, passing Columbia Park, with a turnaround at Howard Amon Park in Richland around 7:30 pm. On the way back, the boats will detour along the Pasco side between Chiawana Park and Road 78, making one final loop around Clover Island before docking back at the marina at 9 pm.
Best Viewing Spots:
• Columbia Park (Kennewick Side)
• Howard Amon Park (Richland Side)
• Chiawana Park (Pasco Side)
• Clover Island for a close-up loop of the boats
Join the Fun and Show Off Your Holiday Spirit!
We love having new boaters join the parade! Whether you’re an experienced boater or just looking to have some fun, you’re invited to participate in the Christmas Lighted Boat Parade. There’s no fee to enter the parade, but you’ll need to provide your own decorations and fuel. Whether your boat is themed or simply covered in twinkling lights, the more, the merrier!
• No Fee to Enter
• Decorate as You Wish – Go simple or get creative!
• Awards & Prizes – After the parade on Saturday night, join us at the Awards Party at CIYC where 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place boats receive prizes and all participants get gifts.
All boaters are welcome to join the parade, but for the safety of everyone, participants must meet the following entry requirements:
• Proper Vessel Registration: Your boat must be a registered, motor-driven vessel. Capable of safe travel in cold temperatures during dark hours.
• Boater Safety Card: Ensure the operator has a valid State Boater Safety Card if required.
• Safety Equipment: Your boat must meet all safety equipment requirements, including an operational VHF marine radio and a Carbon Monoxide detector if a generator is in use. One (1) operational Carbon Monoxide detector on-board if a generator is in use during the parade.
• Skipper’s Meeting: The vessel operator must attend the Skipper’s Meeting for a safety briefing. Details will be emailed to participants.
Please sign up at the Clover Island Yacht Club, located on Clover Island in Kennewick, WA, or call 509-554-6763 and leave a message.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Benton County Sheriff’s Office for their dedication to keeping everyone safe on the water during the Christmas Lighted Boat Parade.
A huge thank you to the following businesses and organizations whose generous sponsorships help make the Christmas Lighted Boat Parade a reality. Their contributions allow us to create a memorable, festive event for our community each year. From dazzling lights to fun prizes, none of this would be possible without their support!
Ready to become a member, secure moorage, or just learn more about our club? We’d love to hear from you! Reach out to us today and start your journey with the Clover Island Yacht Club.