Lake Norman Lighted Christmas Boat Parade 2026

The 8th Lake Norman Lighted Christmas Boat Parade is set for Saturday, December 19, 2026, about 5 to 7:30 PM, with the same route and charity as last year (event listing). In 2025 the boats left Blythe Landing around 5:30 PM, passed Ramsey Creek Park around 6, the Peninsula Yacht Club around 6:45 and finished at the Duke Energy Explorium around 7:15, with food trucks, carols and Santa after. It is free, and volunteers collect new unwrapped toys at every stop for Little Smiles (Cornelius Today).

See golf carts for sale | Lithium conversions | Call (704) 302-1200

Entering your boat

Boats must register. In 2025, new entries were accepted until noon on parade day. Follow the Lake Norman Lighted Christmas Boat Parade page for 2026 sign up.

Getting there by golf cart

Cornelius does not allow unregistered golf carts on town streets, sidewalks or greenways, but a golf cart registered with the NCDMV as an LSV, inspected and insured can drive streets posted 35 mph or less (Lake Norman Publications). Lakefront neighbors in private communities along the route may be able to ride community roads to their own dock or a friend’s. Check your HOA rules. For December nights, an LSV with real headlights, a windshield and an enclosure keeps everyone warm.

Visit Queen City Carts

Our Mount Holly store is at 107 Henderson St, Mount Holly, NC. We also have stores in Denver, Lake Wylie and on Wilkinson Blvd in Charlotte. Main line (704) 302-1200.

Mount Holly hours: Monday to Friday 9 to 5:30, Saturday 10 to 5, Sunday by appointment only.

Ready for the season

See more in our guide to the best golf cart communities around Charlotte. Thank you for celebrating with us. It is our pleasure to serve you.

FAQ

When is the 2026 Lake Norman Christmas Boat Parade?
Saturday, December 19, 2026, about 5 to 7:30 PM, from Blythe Landing to the Duke Energy Explorium.

Where can I watch it?
In 2025 all four stops offered public viewing: Blythe Landing, Ramsey Creek Park, the Peninsula Yacht Club and the Duke Energy Explorium.

Can I drive a golf cart in Cornelius to watch?
Only if it is a registered, inspected and insured LSV on streets posted 35 mph or less. We do LSV conversions.