Holiday Boat Parade in Marina del Rey, California

The McNichol Bernach Group

Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade: A Sparkling Tradition by the Sea


Each December, the Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade lights up the waters of Southern California with a festive display that has become a beloved tradition. Held on the second Saturday of December, this annual event features beautifully decorated boats, yachts, and other vessels sailing through the marina, creating a spectacular holiday scene that draws thousands of spectators to the waterfront.


A Dazzling Display of Lights and Creativity


The Holiday Boat Parade showcases boats of all sizes, from small sailboats to grand yachts, each decked out in sparkling lights, holiday-themed decorations, and sometimes even elaborate, whimsical displays. Some vessels synchronize their decorations to music, creating a mesmerizing light show on the water. With awards for categories like “Best Overall” and “Most Creative,” there’s a sense of friendly competition among participants to make their boats shine the brightest.


Spectators can watch the parade from a variety of prime locations along the marina. Popular viewing spots include Burton Chace Park, Fisherman’s Village, and Mother’s Beach. Many local restaurants also offer special seating and dining packages for those who want to enjoy the parade with a meal or a drink. For a more immersive experience, boat rentals are available for those who wish to cruise the marina and enjoy the parade from the water.


Family-Friendly Fun


The Holiday Boat Parade is a family-friendly event, offering something for everyone. Families can enjoy a fun-filled evening with holiday music, photo opportunities with Santa, and plenty of festive activities for kids. Burton Chace Park often hosts additional entertainment, including live music, arts and crafts, and other community activities. The parade’s early evening start makes it a perfect outing for kids, who can watch the boats sail by while sipping hot cocoa or enjoying seasonal treats.


A Way to Get Involved


For boat owners, the parade offers a chance to get creative and showcase their decorating talents. Participating boats compete for top honors, and many owners go all out with elaborate themes, synchronized lights, and holiday music. If you don’t own a boat but still want to be part of the action, boat rentals are available from local marinas, allowing you to enjoy the parade up close.


A Magical Holiday Experience


Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, the Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade offers a unique way to experience the holiday season. The parade’s stunning light displays, festive atmosphere, and coastal charm make it a perfect way to celebrate the season. Watching the boats sail by, with twinkling lights reflecting off the water, creates a magical setting that captures the joy and beauty of the holidays.


Event Details:


  • Date: Second Saturday of December (exact date varies each year)
  • Time: Parade starts at 5:55 PM
  • Location: Marina del Rey, California
  • Admission: Free for spectators; VIP seating and dining options available


Whether you choose to watch from shore, dine at one of the waterfront restaurants, or cruise the marina on your own boat, the Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade is a must-see event for anyone looking to experience a truly festive celebration by the sea.

Top Concert Venues in Los Angeles

By The McNichol Bernbach Group • March 24, 2025
Los Angeles is known for its thriving music scene, drawing some of the biggest names in the industry to perform at iconic venues across the city. Whether you’re into rock, pop, jazz, or indie, LA has a concert spot for every music lover. Here are some of the top concert venues in Los Angeles: 1. Hollywood Bowl One of the most famous outdoor venues in the world, the Hollywood Bowl has been a staple of LA’s music scene since 1922. With its stunning backdrop of the Hollywood Hills and stellar acoustics, the Bowl hosts performances ranging from classical orchestras to top-tier rock and pop acts. 2. The Greek Theatre Nestled in Griffith Park, the Greek Theatre is an intimate yet spacious outdoor venue with a seating capacity of around 5,900. It’s known for its incredible sound quality and has hosted artists like Elton John, Norah Jones, and The Lumineers. 3. The Wiltern Located in Koreatown, The Wiltern is a historic art deco-style theater that provides a more intimate concert experience. It features both standing and seated options and regularly hosts performances from rock, alternative, and indie musicians. 4. The Forum A legendary venue in Inglewood, The Forum was once home to the Lakers before being transformed into a premier concert destination. It boasts excellent acoustics and has hosted acts like The Rolling Stones, Beyoncé, and Drake. 5. Walt Disney Concert Hall For fans of classical music and orchestral performances, the Walt Disney Concert Hall is a must-visit. Home to the LA Philharmonic, this Frank Gehry-designed masterpiece offers an unparalleled auditory experience. 6. The Roxy Theatre A Sunset Strip landmark, The Roxy Theatre is a small but iconic venue that has seen performances by legendary acts like Bruce Springsteen and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. It remains a hotspot for emerging and established artists alike. 7. The Troubadour This intimate West Hollywood venue has a rich history, famously serving as the launching pad for artists like Elton John, Joni Mitchell, and Metallica. It’s the perfect place to catch up-and-coming bands in a historic setting. 8. The Fonda Theatre Located in Hollywood, The Fonda Theatre is known for its intimate yet vibrant atmosphere. With a mix of standing-room and balcony seating, it provides a great space for rock, indie, and electronic music performances. 9. El Rey Theatre A former art deco movie theater, El Rey is now one of the best mid-sized concert venues in LA. Its stunning design and close-up feel make it a great spot for fans who want a personal concert experience. 10. YouTube Theater One of the newest venues in LA, YouTube Theater is a state-of-the-art, 6,000-seat venue located at SoFi Stadium. With cutting-edge sound and visuals, it’s quickly becoming a go-to spot for high-profile performances. From massive stadiums to cozy clubs, Los Angeles offers a diverse range of concert venues for music lovers. No matter your genre of choice, you’re bound to find an unforgettable live music experience in the City of Angels. 

The Best Seafood in Los Angeles: A Local's Guide

By The McNichol Bernbach Group • March 14, 2025
Los Angeles offers a vibrant seafood scene, from upscale dining experiences to casual fish shacks. Whether you're craving oysters, sushi, or a classic fish taco, the city has something for every seafood lover. Here are some must-visit spots for fresh and flavorful seafood in LA: 1. Providence Location: 5955 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038 Vibe: Upscale, fine dining Must-Try Dish: Tasting menu featuring Santa Barbara spot prawns For a luxurious seafood experience, Providence is a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative preparations and sustainable sourcing. Expect impeccable service and creative seafood dishes prepared with precision. 2. Broad Street Oyster Company Location: 23359 CA-1 #3874A, Malibu, CA 90265 Vibe: Laid-back, beachy Must-Try Dish: Lobster roll with warm butter Located in Malibu, this casual seafood shack serves fresh oysters, lobster rolls, and craft beer. Perfect for enjoying coastal views while digging into fresh seafood. 3. Connie & Ted's Location: 8171 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90046 Vibe: New England-inspired seafood house Must-Try Dish: Clam chowder trio (New England, Manhattan, and Rhode Island) Connie & Ted's offers classic East Coast seafood dishes with a West Coast twist. The fresh oysters and perfectly grilled fish are must-tries. 4. The Jolly Oyster Location: 911 San Pedro St, Los Angeles, CA 90015 (Inside Grand Central Market) Vibe: Casual, food hall-style Must-Try Dish: Fresh-shucked oysters If you're a true oyster enthusiast, The Jolly Oyster offers some of the freshest shellfish in town. Their sustainable sourcing ensures top-notch quality. 5. Fishing with Dynamite Location: 1148 Manhattan Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Vibe: Cozy yet lively Must-Try Dish: Peruvian scallops with yuzu kosho This vibrant seafood spot blends East Coast traditions with West Coast flavors. It's a local favorite for both seafood towers and creative raw bar offerings. 6. Mariscos Jalisco Location: 3040 E Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90023 Vibe: Food truck, authentic Mexican Must-Try Dish: Tacos de camarón (shrimp tacos) For one of LA's most famous seafood tacos, this legendary food truck delivers crispy, golden-brown shrimp tacos packed with bold flavors. 7. Son of a Gun Location: 8370 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048 Vibe: Hip, intimate Must-Try Dish: Lobster roll with spicy mayo Son of a Gun combines creative seafood dishes with a relaxed yet trendy atmosphere. The smoked mahi dip and fried chicken sandwich are also popular picks. 8. Neptune's Net Location: 42505 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265 Vibe: Classic seaside dive Must-Try Dish: Fried seafood platter A classic coastal stop since the 1950s, Neptune's Net offers fresh catches and fried favorites, perfect after a day of cruising the PCH. Los Angeles' diverse seafood scene offers everything from upscale dining to casual beachside eats. Whether you're looking for refined plates or down-to-earth tacos, these seafood spots deliver fresh, memorable flavors. Enjoy exploring the city's rich ocean-to-table dining landscape!

Top Places to Visit in Los Angeles During Spring

By The McNichol Bernbach Group • March 10, 2025
Spring in Los Angeles is one of the best times to explore the city. With mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds than summer, it’s the perfect season for outdoor adventures, scenic views, and cultural experiences. Whether you're a local looking for a weekend getaway or a visitor planning a trip, here are some must-visit spots in LA during spring. 1. Descanso Gardens Located in La Cañada Flintridge, Descanso Gardens is a paradise in spring. Cherry blossoms, tulips, and camellias burst into bloom, creating a picture-perfect setting. Take a peaceful stroll through the Japanese Garden , enjoy the fragrant Rose Garden , and don’t miss the seasonal displays at the Lilac Garden . 2. The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens Spring is the perfect time to visit The Huntington’s expansive gardens in San Marino. The Rose Garden bursts into color, while the Chinese and Japanese Gardens offer tranquil beauty. The Desert Garden , home to one of the world’s largest collections of succulents, is also stunning during this season. 3. Griffith Park and Griffith Observatory Spring’s warm yet comfortable temperatures make it ideal for hiking in Griffith Park . The trails are lush and green, offering breathtaking views of the city. End your hike at Griffith Observatory to catch a stunning sunset or enjoy a night of stargazing. 4. Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve For a true springtime spectacle, head to the Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve in Lancaster. From mid-March to April, the fields come alive with vibrant orange California poppies , creating a breathtaking natural wonder—perfect for photographers and nature lovers. 5. Santa Monica Pier and Beach Spring is a great time to visit Santa Monica before the summer crowds arrive. Ride a bike along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail , relax on the beach, or take in ocean views from the iconic Santa Monica Pier . Nearby, Palisades Park offers a perfect spot for a scenic spring picnic. 6. The Getty Center Surrounded by lush gardens and offering panoramic city views, The Getty Center is a must-visit in spring. The Central Garden, designed by artist Robert Irwin, is particularly stunning as vibrant flowers bloom. Inside, explore world-class art exhibitions and stunning architecture. 7. Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden This 127-acre botanical garden in Arcadia is a springtime paradise. Peacocks roam freely, and cherry blossoms, wisteria, and azaleas create a dreamy atmosphere. Take a relaxing walk around Baldwin Lake and visit the historic Queen Anne Cottage . 8. Runyon Canyon Spring is one of the best times to hike Runyon Canyon , when the trails are lush and dotted with wildflowers. The popular hike rewards you with spectacular views of downtown LA, the Hollywood Sign, and even the ocean on a clear day. 9. Venice Canals The Venice Canals are beautiful year-round, but spring adds an extra charm with blooming flowers and lush greenery along the walkways. It’s a great place for a peaceful stroll or a quiet afternoon admiring the unique bridges and charming homes. 10. Carlsbad Flower Fields (Day Trip) Although not in LA, the Flower Fields in Carlsbad are worth a day trip. From March to early May, 50 acres of vibrant ranunculus flowers create a breathtaking display of color. It’s a perfect spring getaway just a short drive from Los Angeles.
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