Short answer: book early, plan to be near the Bridgewater Channel well before dark, and treat the parade as one night of a longer December trip. The Boat Parade of Lights is free to watch, but the town fills up fast that weekend, and the folks who have the best time are the ones who sorted out where they're sleeping weeks ahead.
Here's how we'd plan it if a friend called us asking.
What Is the Lake Havasu Boat Parade of Lights?
It's a holiday parade on the water. More than 100 boats get wrapped in lights and cruise the Bridgewater Channel, right under the London Bridge, starting at 6 PM on a Saturday in December. The event runs as the Anderson Auto and Powersports Boat Parade of Lights, and viewing it costs nothing.
Dates shift a little each year, so check the official Go Lake Havasu event page before you lock anything in. Then come back and grab your dates.
When Should You Book Your Stay?
Sooner than feels necessary. Parade weekend is a big deal locally, and a lot of people turn it into a holiday getaway.
We'd look at open dates for Whiskey Blues as soon as the parade date is announced. A Friday arrival works nicely, because the night before the parade usually has its own event (more on that below). Staying through Sunday means nobody has to drive home tired and cold after the boats pass.
How Do You Make a Full Weekend Out of It?
The parade only lasts one evening. The rest of the weekend has plenty going on, though, and most of it's close to the bridge.
Friday: Dock Glow Night
The night before the parade, Dock Glow Night lets you walk the London Bridge Resort docks from 6 to 9 PM and see the decorated boats up close. Santa and Mrs. Claus show up too. Honestly, for families with little kids, this might be the better of the two nights. No crowd jostling for a spot, and you can actually see the details people put into their boats.
Any Night: The Festival of Lights
London Bridge Resort runs a Festival of Lights nightly from 6 to 9 PM through the holiday season, starting in late November and running into early January. On certain weeknights before Christmas there's also a 12 Days of Christmas program in the evening. It's an easy add on a quiet night.
Daytime: The Bridge Itself
If you've never really looked into the London Bridge, it's got a wild backstory. We wrote it all up in our guide to the London Bridge's history. Walking it in daylight makes the parade feel different once you know what you're looking at.
Where Should You Watch the Parade?
Anywhere you can see the Bridgewater Channel near the bridge, around 422 English Village. That's the heart of it.
Lake Havasu State Park also opens free viewing access at 4 PM on parade day. The gate sits across from Paseo Del Sol, by Windsor Beach. The park runs a limited number of fire pits, and those go quick.
A few rules catch people off guard:
- No wood fires on Rotary Park, London Bridge Beach, or the State Park beaches.
- No dogs on the white sand beach.
- Boaters can't moor on the Bridgewater Channel beaches from 4 PM on parade day. Law enforcement sweeps the channel.
How Early Should You Get There?
Earlier than you think. Traffic backs up around the channel, and parking gets tight as the evening goes on. Plan to be settled by late afternoon.
Bring layers. Desert evenings in December get chilly once the sun drops, and you'll be sitting still for a while. Blankets, a thermos, camp chairs. You know the drill. Our post on winter in Lake Havasu covers what the season actually feels like here, which surprises a lot of first timers.
Why Stay at Whiskey Blues for Parade Weekend?
After a long cold evening by the water, it's nice to come back to a real house instead of a cramped room. Whiskey Blues gives you the whole home (minus the RV garage), with a pool, outdoor kitchen, and game room. Optional pool heating is available for a daily fee if you ask ahead, and that's worth it in December.
It's a home for families and small groups who want a calm, comfortable base. It isn't a party house. There's a strict no parties rule, no pets (the hosts have allergies), and the person booking has to be 29 or older. Please book for the exact number of guests who'll be staying. The listing spells out the occupancy limits and extra guest fees, so check it before you reserve.
Curious what other guests thought? Read reviews from past guests.
And if parade weekend is booked up, Lake Havasu has events all year. Our roundup of Lake Havasu festivals and events is a good place to find another reason to visit.
Boat Parade of Lights FAQs
Is the Lake Havasu Boat Parade of Lights free?
Yes. Watching the parade costs nothing. Lake Havasu State Park also opens free viewing access on parade day starting at 4 PM.
What time does the Boat Parade of Lights start?
The parade starts at 6 PM in the Bridgewater Channel under the London Bridge. Traffic gets heavy, so plan to arrive well before then.
Can you bring your dog to watch the parade?
Not onto the white sand beach at Lake Havasu State Park, since dogs aren't allowed there. Check the rules for any other spot you're planning to use.
Can you have a fire while watching the parade?
Wood fires aren't allowed on Rotary Park, London Bridge Beach, or the State Park beaches. The State Park does run a limited number of fire pits, so get there early if you want one.
Book Whiskey Blues for Your Holiday Trip to Lake Havasu
Parade weekend dates go fast, and the good ones go first. Check Whiskey Blues availability, pick your nights, and book your stay with LuxeModBnB before someone else grabs your weekend.