MOUNT DORA BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Florida Christmas on the Water: Mount Dora’s 35th Lighted Boat Parade
Everything you need to apply, decorate and line up for the 35th Annual Mount Dora Lighted Boat Parade on December 6, 2025—dates, entry fee, judging procedure and the parade flow.
Florida Christmas on the Water: Mount Dora’s 35th Lighted Boat Parade.
Adventure brief
Florida Christmas on the Water: Mount Dora’s 35th Lighted Boat Parade
Each December Mount Dora turns its lakes into a glittering waterfront pageant. Join local boat owners and visitors for the 35th Annual Mount Dora Lighted Boat Parade, a themed night of decorated boats—this year “Florida Christmas”—as vessels glitter across Lake Beauclair and Lake Dora in a community parade organized by Rusty Anchor Mount Dora.
Mount Dora, nestled in the heart of Central Florida, transforms into a luminous spectacle each December during the annual Boat Parade on Lake Beauclair and Lake Dora. The 35th edition, themed “Florida Christmas,” invites boaters and spectators alike to immerse themselves in a captivating holiday tradition that’s become a local icon. This event is not just a parade—it's a celebration of creativity, community spirit, and the magic of holiday lights illuminating the water. Participants deck out their vessels with elaborate decorations, synchronized lighting, and festive flair, vying for awards across various categories. As night falls, the lakes shimmer with a kaleidoscope of colors, casting reflections that dance on the water’s surface, creating a scene straight out of a holiday card. The parade’s route weaves through the calm lakes, offering viewers an intimate view of each decorated boat from lakeside parks and waterfront restaurants. Beyond the visual feast, the event exudes a jovial, inclusive atmosphere that captures the essence of Mount Dora’s welcoming charm. Specially crafted for boat lovers, families, and holiday enthusiasts, this parade transforms the lakeside into a vibrant carnival of lights. The Rusty Anchor in Mount Dora serves as a hub for participants and spectators, enhancing the community vibe with food, music, and waterfront hospitality. This annual event stands out in Florida’s outdoor scene because it balances competitive creativity with heartfelt camaraderie, turning Lake Dora into a sparkling tableau of holiday cheer. Whether you’re participating or simply watching from afar, the Mount Dora Boat Parade offers a unique vantage point to enjoy Florida’s winter magic, making it a must-attend event for anyone seeking a memorable water-based holiday experience.
Route Schematic
Route & Key Stops
The parade centers on two lakes with specific stop points for judging and the shoreline procession.
Lake Beauclair — Judging
Awards judging takes place in Lake Beauclair at 5:30 PM.
Circle the Committee Boat
To be considered for awards, boats must fall in line and circle the Committee Boat (Rusty Anchor’s Tiki) clockwise.
Transit into Lake Dora
Once the line-up is complete (approximately 6:00 PM) participants follow the Committee Boat into Lake Dora.
Lake Dora — Shoreline Parade
The flotilla proceeds along Lake Dora’s shoreline for the public parade procession.
Times given are approximate (judging at 5:30 PM, follow-through about 6:00 PM). Follow the Committee Boat and event organizers’ instructions to remain eligible for awards.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
“Florida Christmas” — decorate however you like
The parade’s 2025 theme is “Florida Christmas.” Builders and owners are encouraged to decorate boats in the theme—anything from a few lights to elaborate displays is welcomed.
Awards, judging and how to be considered
Awards are presented for First, Second, Third place and Most Creative. Judging takes place in Lake Beauclair at 5:30 PM; to be considered for awards participants must fall in line and circle the Committee Boat (Rusty Anchor’s Tiki) clockwise.
A two-lake parade along the shoreline
After judging and circling the Committee Boat, participants will follow that boat into Lake Dora and proceed along the shoreline for the parade, creating a continuous display across Lake Beauclair and Lake Dora.
What the day feels like
What it feels like to run the parade
The sequence is straightforward: gather around the Committee Boat in Lake Beauclair for judging and line-up, circle that vessel clockwise for award consideration, then fall in behind the Committee Boat as it leads the flotilla into Lake Dora and along the shoreline for the parade.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this event suits—and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Decorations and lighting for your boat; entry fee of $25 per boat is required to enter the parade.
The parade is organized by Rusty Anchor Mount Dora; follow their directions on the water for lineup and award consideration.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
When is the 35th Annual Mount Dora Lighted Boat Parade?
The 35th Annual Mount Dora Lighted Boat Parade takes place on Saturday, December 6, 2025.
What is the theme for the 2025 parade?
The 2025 parade theme is “Florida Christmas.”
How much does it cost to enter a boat?
The entry fee to enter a boat in the parade is $25.
When and where does judging take place?
Judging takes place in Lake Beauclair at 5:30 PM.
How do I make sure my boat is considered for an award?
To be considered for awards you must fall in line and circle the Committee Boat (Rusty Anchor’s Tiki) clockwise during the judging in Lake Beauclair.
How are winners announced?
Award winners will be announced via the parade’s social media pages.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-16T04:30:55.794Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.