Holidays in the Harbor ~ Lighted Boat Parade, Tree Lighting & Holiday Events in Gig Harbor

Celebrate the Season in Gig Harbor

The holidays are a special time in Gig Harbor, when the waterfront sparkles with lights, community events fill the calendar, and neighbors gather to celebrate the season together. From festive markets to time-honored parades, there’s no better place to experience small-town charm wrapped in twinkle lights.

To see these events come to life, check out our short video,
🎥 “Holidays in the Harbor | The Lighted Boat and Car Parades, Tree-Lighting, Festivals, and MORE!”
Filmed right here in the heart of Gig Harbor, it highlights many of the holiday traditions featured in this guide.

🎅 The Tree-Lighting Ceremony

Each December, Gig Harbor officially welcomes the holiday season with the Tree-Lighting Ceremony at Skansie Brothers Park.

Crowds gather downtown for live music, festive treats, and the countdown to light up the town tree overlooking the harbor. Santa often makes a grand entrance, and local vendors set up booths serving cocoa, snacks, and handmade gifts.

It’s one of Gig Harbor’s most beloved traditions and such a perfect way to start the holiday season.

📸 Holiday Village at Donkey Creek Park

For family fun and festive photos, visit the Holiday Village at Donkey Creek Park.

This free experience features six themed photo booths, whimsical décor, and occasional Santa sightings. It’s a favorite stop for locals and visitors alike... especially for capturing that perfect holiday card photo.

⚓ The Lighted Boat Parade

A true Gig Harbor classic, the Lighted Boat Parade has been a holiday tradition for more than 50 years. Hosted by the Gig Harbor Yacht Club, it features a stunning procession of boats covered in holiday lights cruising through the harbor.

The reflections dancing on the water, laughter echoing from decks AND surrounding homes, plus the glow of the harbor make this event a must-see.

Best viewing spots include:

• Skansie Brothers Park

• Jerisich Dock

• Ancich Waterfront Park

• Bogue Viewing Platform 

Bring a blanket, grab a warm drink, and enjoy one of Gig Harbor’s most magical nights.

🚗 Lighted Car Parade

The celebration doesn’t end on the water! The Lighted Car Parade brings festive fun to Gig Harbor’s streets, featuring vehicles of all kinds, from vintage cars to family SUVs, decked out in colorful lights.

The parade winds through downtown and surrounding neighborhoods, spreading cheer along the way. It’s a bright and joyful tradition that keeps the holiday spirit alive all season long.

🧑‍🚒 Santa’s Firetruck Route

Each December, Gig Harbor Fire & Medic One teams up with Santa to visit neighborhoods across town.

Families rush outside to wave as Santa passes by aboard a firetruck decked out in lights and sirens. It’s a cherished small-town moment that brings smiles to all ages. You can get the Santa Route here (once announced) to catch him in your area.

🛍️ TideFest & WinterFest

For local shopping and artisan gifts, don’t miss WinterFest at Peninsula High School or TideFest at Gig Harbor High School.

These long-running holiday markets showcase local artists, crafters, and makers who offer everything from handmade jewelry and home décor to gourmet food and art. Supporting these fairs is a wonderful way to shop small and give back to the community.

💡 Harbor Holiday Lights Contest

If you love seeing how creative Gig Harbor neighbors can be, check out the Harbor Holiday Lights Contest, hosted by our very own Infinity Real Estate Broker, Sarah Husby through her local community group "What’s Good? Gig Harbor".

Nearly 20 homes across town go all out with spectacular light displays and visitors can vote for their favorites. Download the interactive map, plan your drive, and enjoy a dazzling evening of neighborhood holiday spirit at gigharborcontests.com.

❤️ A Community That Shines

The holidays in Gig Harbor are about more than lights and events...they’re about connection. These celebrations bring families, friends, and neighbors together and showcase what makes Gig Harbor so special: a welcoming community with a love for tradition.

To stay connected with local happenings all year long, visit the "What’s Good? Gig Harbor" Facebook Group  our community hub for events, activities, and insider tips.

🌟 Plan Your Holiday Adventure

Here’s your seasonal checklist for the holidays in Gig Harbor:
✅ Attend the Tree Lighting Ceremony
✅ Watch the Lighted Boat Parade
✅ Visit the Holiday Village
✅ Track Santa’s Firetruck Route
✅ Shop local at TideFest & WinterFest
✅ Tour the Harbor Holiday Lights Contest

And if you’d like more inspiration for things to do year-round, download the Gig Harbor Fall Activity Guide filled with seasonal events, local hikes, and insider recommendations.

Download the Guide Here

Infinity Real Estate
Your local experts for community, connection, and home.
www.infinitypnw.com