Venice Canals Boat Parade

The 41st annual Venice Canals Holiday Boat Parade punts its way down the windy canals of Venice, between homes that challenge the boats for best lights. Pick a bridge, any bridge, to enjoy a close-up view of the festive floating display.
This parade is more low-key than some of the grander ones; the boats are mostly small row boats or even SUP boards that drift along at a neighborly pace. It is an excellent excuse, though, to rediscover the Venice Canals with a late afternoon stroll. The event takes place rain or shine.
For ideal vantage points, check the Canals Association's map (note that the map is a few years old, but the course stays pretty much the same every year).
Love holiday boat parades? Check out these other LA & OC Christmas Boat Parades.