The Wharf hosts its 34th annual Holiday Boat Parade and Party on Saturday, December 5, 2026, sending more than 65 decorated boats down the Washington Channel before a fireworks finale over the Southwest waterfront. We think this is DC’s most festive free night by the water, and it’s worth the layers.
How the Night Unfolds Along the Washington Channel
Holiday activities kick off at 5 p.m. across The Wharf. Around 7 p.m., the boats glide into the channel dressed in lights and creative holiday theme. At 8 p.m., fireworks launch from a barge on the water.
Snap photos with Santa at The Grove, decorate ornaments at M Street Landing, and toast s’mores at the Camp Wharf fire pit. The Jack Daniel’s Barrel Tree at Blair Circle adds games and cocktail samples, and live music and DJs fill every stage. Oh, and make sure you walk down to the 45-foot nautical Christmas tree on District Pier and a lap around The Wharf Ice Rink.
Who Should Go and the One Catch
Families, date-night duos, and anyone chasing holiday photos will love it. Far warning: the crowd. Wharf garages fill quickly, chairs and coolers are not allowed, and it gets cold. Take Metro to Waterfront station, about a five-minute walk, or grab the free Wharf Shuttle from L’Enfant Plaza. Then warm up at Fish Shop at The Wharf.
The Wharf sits at 760 Maine Avenue SW. The event is free with no tickets required, and restaurant pricing varies. Activities start at 5 p.m., boats arrive around 7 p.m., and fireworks begin at 8 p.m. Weather updates will post on the event page and on The Wharf Instagram. Dining reservations are a smart move that evening.
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