Annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights Dinner at Maritime Museum of San Diego
2024 Parade Theme: Peace on Earth
December 8th & 15th
The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is a beloved holiday tradition hosted by the local boating community. This year’s event, held on December 8 and December 15, 2024, continues its long-standing tradition of lighting up the bay with a dazzling display of festively decorated boats. Participating vessels will be adorned to match this year’s exciting theme, making for a memorable holiday spectacle.
For an unforgettable viewing experience, the Maritime Museum of San Diego is the best place to watch the Parade of Lights. Guests can enjoy the event from the historic 1898 steam ferry boat, Berkeley, docked along the Star of India Wharf, offering prime views of the illuminated boats as they pass by.
In addition to the parade, guests will be treated to a delightful holiday dinner from an attended buffet. The menu features smoked ham, roast turkey with giblet gravy, mashed potatoes, French green beans, winter blend salad, cranberry relish, rolls with butter, and holiday cake. Beverages include coffee, hot tea, hot chocolate, and hot cider. A vegetarian option of grilled tofu and vegetables is also available.
Parade of Lights Dinner tickets offer great value, as they include dinner, premium boat parade viewing, and general museum admission (valid before dinner).
Tickets:
Adults $70.00 – Member Adult $65.00
Child 12-3 $35.00 – Member Child 12-3 $30.00
Private Table $560.00 – Member Private Table $520.00
Child 2 & under Free with adult ticket, doesn’t include dinner.
Check-in begins at 4:30 p.m., with dinner served from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. A no-host bar will open at 5:00 p.m. and remain available until shortly after the parade concludes.
Dec 15, 2024 – Book online now!
- If you would like the vegetarian meal option, note when you place your order.
- If you would like to be seated with other parties, note when you place your order, or CLICK HERE
- Just a note, multiple parties that all want to sit together, it would be best if you placed one order.
Private table for up to 8, CLICK HERE if you have a larger group, or for other questions.
- Does my dinner price include admission to the museum? Yes it does, visit before dinner only.
- Can I arrive early and visit the museum? Yes.
- Are there high chairs for babies? No, we do not have high chairs.
- Can I bring in my own food or beverages? No, dinner, water and coffee are included with your holiday dinner ticket price.
- What beverages are included with the dinner? Water and coffee are complimentary. There is a cash bar for sodas or alcohol.
- Can I visit the holiday attended buffet more than once? No, your ticket allows you one trip to the attended buffet.
- Is there alcohol available? Yes, alcohol is available for purchase.
- Can I bring my food or drinks from the dinner outside to watch the parade? No, all food and beverages must remain in the dining area.
- Can I reserve a table for my family? Yes, however tables hold 8 guests so you may be sharing a table with other families if your party is less than 8.
- Can I see the parade from the dining room? From window seats yes, we recommend you go outside on the Berkeley decks, for the best viewing.
- Can I bring my own chairs to sit and watch the parade? No, we do not allow any outside chairs to be brought in.
- Can I visit the museum after the parade? No, the museum closes after the parade.
- Are there any accommodations made for people with disabilities? We have a “lift” for guests who have difficulties with stairs.
- I do not have a printer for my email confirmation. No problem, we can confirm your reservation from your smart phone or picture ID.
Seating:
- Tables seat 8, smaller parties share a table.
- Table asssigned by zone purchased.
- Larger Groups, Questions: CLICK HERE
The Parade of Lights dinner check-in starts at 4:30pm. Check-in table is located inside the Berkeley. Plenty of food, no need to rush.
Dinner available 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. only
The Parade of ships arrives at approximately 6:20 p.m.
Parade typically lasts 55 minutes
Warm casual attire suggested.
Glassware, alcohol, and your own chairs are not permitted.
*Note: the Berkeley doesn’t leave the dock.
General admission to Maritime Museum of San Diego included, explore ships and exhibits before dinner! Museum opens 10am & closes at 4pm today.
Advance reservations only.