Friday, November 28, 2025 | 5pm to 8pm
Join us at dusk in Swansboro the day after Thanksgiving, on Friday, November 28th, 2025 from 5 pm to 8 pm for one of our most enchanting evenings of the year. (More details to follow!)
Experience the magic of the holiday season at Swansboro's Annual Christmas Flotilla, where a dazzling parade of boats adorned with shimmering lights will illuminate the waterfront in the heart of the historic downtown district.
Enjoy the Spectacular Views!
Food & Family Fun with Santa
Come hungry and enjoy delicious bites from local food vendors! Let the festive music set the mood as you savor sweet treats, warm cider, and hot cocoa. Keep an eye out for Santa Claus, who will make a special arrival by boat before heading to Pug Pavilion to greet the children right after the flotilla!
Bring Your Own Boat!
⚓ Don't miss your chance to join the fun and the possibility of winning a cash prize. Sign up at Swansboro Festivals Boat Sign Up.
Free Parking Shuttle & Tractor Hayride
For the first time ever, the Town of Swansboro is offering a FREE Parking Shuttle and 🚜 Tractor Hayride! Add a touch of magic to your evening—park at the Swansboro Recreation Center and catch a fun ride to downtown Swansboro to enjoy the festive boat parade. Service runs from 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM.
♿ Accessible parking will also be available at Swansboro Town Hall with golf cart shuttles to take you downtown for your convenience.
Stay for the Weekend!
Plan a long Thanksgiving weekend getaway to Swansboro! Bring your holiday shopping list and enjoy Shop Small Saturday! Check out our unique accommodations with Airbnb and VRBO, as well as our Trip Advisor top-rated Hampton Inn & Suites, conveniently located within a short distance from Historic Downtown Swansboro.
Gobble up some coastal Swansboro goodness for Thanksgiving Dinner on Thursday, November 28th at local eateries, Saltwater Grill or Preston's Corner Bar & Grill. Give them a call and make your reservations!
Enjoy nature and hike the trails at Hammocks Beach State Park! Learn about the flora, fauna, and our history. The park's Visitor Center and hours of operation are from 8 am to 6 pm daily, except for Christmas Day.
What Not To Bring for the Safety of our Patrons
Flotilla Parade Route
Enjoy the Spectacular Views!
Street closures will be at 2 pm and will re-open at 9 pm, immediately after the event. This allows time for our vendors to set up and we appreciate your cooperation to have the streets cleared of all vehicles by 2 pm.
Streets affected by the closures include:
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All of Church Street
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All of Front Street
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Water Street from Elm Street to the water
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Elm Street will be open for southbound traffic
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Walnut Street will be open to northbound traffic
Download Merchants & Restaurants Guide & Map
We look forward to seeing you in Swansboro!
