The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights presented by the Port of San Diego takes place Sunday December 11 and Sunday December 18, featuring a display of vessels decked out in festive lights.

The parade starts off at Shelter Island at 5 p.m. both nights. Vessels will proceed to Harbor Island, the North Embarcadero area, Seaport Village and south to the Ferry Landing on Coronado. The entire route takes about two hours.

This year marks the parade’s 45th anniversary and vessels are anticipated to be decorated to fit this year’s theme: “It Began with a Roar – San Diego Zoo Celebrates 100 Years.”

The Port of San Diego will provide free, public viewing areas on Broadway Pier, 1000 North Harbor Drive, and Cesar Chavez Park Pier, located at Cesar Chavez Park, 1449 Cesar E. Chavez Parkway.

“The Port of San Diego is proud to be the presenting sponsor of the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights,” said Marshall Merrifield, chairman of the Board of Port Commissioners. “This event brings so much enjoyment to our residents and visitors and showcases San Diego Bay in a way that is truly magical. The Port thanks all of its tenants and the participating boaters who make this event possible year after year.”