For more than 65 years, local Vancouverites have looked forward to the fleet of Christmas Ships that cruise by on the Columbia River in December. The longtime tradition started in 1954 with a single sailboat adorned with a wreath and now attracts eager visitors to Vancouver WA’s waterfront restaurants and shoreline trails.
When You Can See the Christmas Ships
The two fleets, Columbia and Willamette, now feature nearly 60 boats decorated in dazzling light displays that can be seen from both sides of the river. Ranging from 14 to 65 feet long, some vessels have been part of this tradition for more than 30 years. During a three-week period in December, you can catch the Christmas Ships making their way along the Columbia River, stopping at viewing points like the Vancouver Waterfront, Steamboat Landing Park in Washougal, Camas, and North Portland Harbor. Check the official schedule to find nightly routes and the best viewing locations.
BUNDLE UP
Don’t let the crowds deter you from experiencing the holiday magic that can now be watched from the Vancouver Waterfront. Bundle up for a stroll along the Waterfront Renaissance Trail or snag a spot on the Grant Street Pier for premier viewing. McMenamins on the Columbia typically opens its patio to customers with first-come seating. Dress warmly; they admit their heaters don’t always ward off the wind chill!
WINDOW WATCHERS
If you prefer to stay warm while watching the ships sail by, make it a night out along the Vancouver Waterfront. Twigs Bistro and WildFin American Grill take reservations and both offer great views, although tables fill quickly this time of year. McMenamins on the Columbia is first come, first served, and indoor seating usually fills by 6:30 p.m., so plan to arrive early. Who Song and Larry’s offers limited reservations with plenty of walk-in availability most nights. The Cove overlooks Tidewater Cove Marina and Wintler Park for a quieter viewing experience, while Maryhill Winery and Waterfront Taphouse offer prime upper-level views. Willamette Valley Vineyards also serves seasonal wine flights with a front-row seat to the parade of lights.
Waterfront Stay & View
Turn the Christmas Ships Parade into a full evening by pairing it with a riverfront stay. AC Hotel by Marriott offers panoramic views of the Columbia River, and its newly refreshed restaurant and bar, Ondus (formerly AC Lounge), features a cozy patio and seasonal menu. Just below, the Vancouver Landing amphitheater is a popular spot to bundle up with blankets and watch the fleet glide by from the public docks.
Next door, Hotel Indigo offers stylish rooms overlooking the river in the heart of the waterfront district. Inside the building, you will find destination dining like El Gaucho, 13 Coins, Evoke Wine Bar, and the elegant Witness Tree Lounge with a view from above.
For more information about the Christmas Ships, visit their website.
Where to see the Christmas lights in Vancouver
Experience the magic of the holiday season in Vancouver with festive light displays and community celebrations all season long. The season officially begins with the Vancouver Rotary Community Tree Lighting and Santa Escort on Friday, November 28. The event starts at the Vancouver Waterfront as Santa sails down the Columbia River with a flotilla of Christmas Ships before arriving at Terminal 1. From there, a parade of lighted vehicles escorts Santa to Esther Short Park, where the community gathers for live music, entertainment, and refreshments. The evening culminates with the lighting of the Vancouver Community Tree, followed by carriage rides and family photo opportunities with Santa and favorite holiday characters. Visitors can check the official Rotary Community Tree Lighting website for the full schedule of activities.
Holiday lights continue to shine throughout Clark County, from neighborhood displays to charming downtown celebrations in Ridgefield, Camas, and Washougal. Each community brings its own seasonal spirit, making Southwest Washington a festive place to explore all winter long.