Every year in December, dozens of boats come together on the Columbia and Willamette rivers for the Christmas Ships Parade.

The Christmas Ships Parade will celebrate 71 years of lights on the river, with approximately 80 sailboats and yachts decorating their hulls with lights and holiday displays for 15 nights in December.

Since 1954, the parade has been a cherished tradition in the Pacific Northwest, attracting thousands every year who flock to riverfronts to watch as miles of spectacularly lit boats make their way down the river.

Here's what to know about the Christmas Ships Parade and how to watch.

When is the Christmas Ships Parade?

The Christmas Ships Parade occurs for 15 nights between Dec. 4 and Dec. 21. There will be no parade happening on Dec. 7, 11 and 15.

The parade begins

See Full Page