Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — After the sun goes down in Gulf Shores, the magic is set to begin on the Intracoastal Waterway. LuLu’s will once again host the Annual Lighted Christmas Boat Parade, sending a dazzling fleet of decorated boats into the night on the Intracoastal Waterway. Organizers describe the view of twinkling lights reflecting on the water as “magical.” Families, friends, and boat owners are invited to take part in one of Coastal Alabama’s favorite waterfront traditions.

The 2025 Annual Lighted Christmas Boat Parade is scheduled for Saturday, December 13, 2025, starting at dark, around 5 p.m. The parade is part of the long‑running Gulf Shores Lighted Boat Parade, which is considered one of Coastal Alabama’s oldest Christmas traditions. 

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The parade route begins at LuLu’s and Homeport Marina on the Intracoastal Waterway. Organizers expect a strong attendance along viewing areas of the canal, all culminating at The Wharf in Orange Beach. Spectators can watch the lighted boats from LuLu’s and Tacky Jacks or along Canal Road from Gulf Shores to Orange Beach and at The Wharf. For those who cannot attend in person, the action will be streamed live on the LuLu’s Facebook page.

Event organizers say there is “something magical about the twinkling lights of the decorated boats reflecting off our waters.” They invite locals and visitors to “feel like a kid again and enjoy a bit of Christmas cheer”. LuLu’s, located at 200 East 25th Ave in Gulf Shores, will serve as a central gathering spot for families and boaters.

Boat owners are strongly encouraged to be part of the show, not just watch from shore. To register a boat for the Lighted Boat Parade, captains are asked to call Captain Craig or Ken at Homeport Marina at 251‑968‑4528. You can find additional information on the Facebook Event page. Organizers say they want boats of every shape and size to join, from small fishing boats to larger cruisers, as long as they are safely decorated and lit.

As an extra incentive for early sign‑ups, the first twenty registered boats will receive a package of local prizes. Each of those captains will get a $25 LuLu’s gift card, a $25 Tacky Jacks gift card, a $25 Acme Oyster House gift card, and goodies from Big Beach Brewery and The Sloop. LuLu’s extends “a huge thank you” to all Waterway Village participants and Homeport Marina for helping support the event.

The evening parade is part of a full day of holiday fun at LuLu’s. Earlier that day, Billy Claus, Santa’s warm‑weather‑loving brother, will visit LuLu’s Gulf Shores to collect letters to Santa and meet local children. Billy Claus arrives in style with the LuLuBelles, his playful version of elves, bringing crafts, laughter, and festive cheer to the restaurant.

Billy Claus’s event includes live Christmas music by local musicians, games, prizes, and a special lunch seating. Lunch seating runs from noon to 1 p.m., and Billy Claus typically arrives around 1:30 p.m. Families can enjoy keepsake crafts such as letters to Santa, cookie decorating, and ornament making, along with a hot chocolate station and free professional photos with Billy Claus and the LuLuBelles.

Seating for Billy Claus is limited, and an RSVP is required to reserve a table, though there is no charge to RSVP. Entertainment is free, and guests may attend without dining, but organizers recommend reserving early. More information and reservations for the Gulf Shores Billy Claus event are available through LuLu’s online link.

After the Billy Claus program, families are encouraged to stay in the Waterway Village area for the Annual Lighted Christmas Boat Parade at dark. Organizers note that “the lighted boats will leave LuLu’s Gulf Shores and Homeport Marina at dark and head east to the Wharf in Orange Beach.” Spectators can also park along the canal for a clear view of the glowing procession.

The parade showcases Gulf Coast holiday style, with brightly decorated boats lighting up the night instead of snow‑covered streets. Residents and visitors can bundle up, grab hot chocolate, and watch as the boats pass by in a steady line of color. The combination of music from nearby venues and reflections on the water creates a festive waterfront scene.

For more information about the Annual Lighted Christmas Boat Parade or other holiday events, including Billy Claus, residents can contact LuLu’s at 251‑967‑5858 or by email at info@lulubuffett.com. Whether watching from the dock or steering a decorated boat, community members are invited to share in the holiday spirit in and along the Intracoastal Waterway.