You are personally invited to this special private gathering!

Wednesday, December 10, 2025
6 to 8pm

A longtime supporter and friend of FCCO is generously hosting us at her beautiful S. Waterfront private residence. Enjoy light fare and drinks while we watch the Christmas Ships pass by on the Willamette River. We'll toast to FCCO's record year caring for 8,681 cats, and share our exciting plans for the coming year!

Space is limited. Please RSVP above to let us know if you can come.
If you have any questions, please email Devon.

The Portland Christmas Ships is the longest continuously operating illuminated boat parade in the United States, with around 80 boats participating throughout the season, lighting up the Columbia and Willamette Rivers.

Each December, for 15 magical nights, our flotilla of festively lit vessels glides through the waterways, spreading cheer to thousands along the shore. The parade is 100% volunteer-powered.

On Wednesday, December 10, 2025

The fleet assembles in front of Riverplace Marina at 7pm. We will be able to see the ships shortly after. The fleet will make their way upriver, past the Old Spaghetti Factory, to the Johns Landing area. The fleet then turns and we’ll see them again about 20 minutes later as they travel downriver to the Fremont Bridge area. The fleet goes under the bridge, past the waterfront condos, before returning to Riverplace Marina.


Fun Facts About the Christmas Ships Parade

  • The Christmas Ships Parade started in 1954 and is the longest continuously operating illuminated boat parade in the US!

  • During a typical year, the Parade travels approximately 345 nautical miles.

  • The Parade passes over 80 miles of shoreline each season.

  • Boats in the Parade range between 14 and 65 feet and include motor and sail boats.

  • All Christmas Shippers are volunteer and receive no reimbursement, paying for all their own expenses.

  • Most of the Shippers return to the parade year after year after year. In fact, several have been parading for over 40 years!

  • Each Christmas Shipper designs their own display, many also fabricating these unique lighted displays using a variety of materials.

  • The Parade is a designated Oregon Heritage Tradition, one of only 28 in the state!