Ventura, CA – Think iconic California – Golden Gate Bridge, surf spots, Hollywood, palm trees, Disneyland, redwoods, celebrities, poppies! Catch the authentic California “Vibe” at the 35th Annual Ventura Harbor Boat Parade of Lights and Fireworks, Friday & Saturday, December 16 & 17, at 7 pm. Decorated boats and holiday décor throughout the Harbor kick off this year’s “California Dreamin’” theme!

The two-day celebration features a Parade of Lights Carnival on the Ventura Harbor Village Main Lawn, visits by Santa & Mrs. Claus for last minutes gift requests at the Carousel Stage and delicious harbor-front dining. A fireworks display lights up the night following the Parade of Lights each evening with Santa and his sleigh crossing the sky on Saturday evening courtesy of Aspen Helicopters. Parade of Lights public cruises offered by Ventura Harbor Boat Rentals and Islands Packers.

Arrive mid-day on Saturday for Winter Wonderland & Holiday Sidewalk Sale on Saturday, December 17 from 1- 5 PM. Live Reindeer, Victorian Carolers, Toy Soldier Band, faux snowfall, craft station by Lakeshore Learning Store, holiday characters, and boutique shopping make Winter Wonderland an all ages family holiday experience. Relax seaside at this free event and explore the dozen local boutiques for holiday finds. Harbor restaurants are overflowing with good cheer for lunch and dinner.

At the Parade of Lights stop by the Ventura Harbor Village booth near Coast Cone Ice Cream to get a pair of 3D glasses to watch the fireworks display. Wander the Village promenade and soak in the beauty of California sunsets in a classic California Harbor atmosphere.

Admission to the Parade of Lights on Friday, December 16 and Saturday, December 17 along with Winter Wonderland & Holiday Sidewalk Sale on December 17 is free. Parking is free in Ventura Harbor Village and along Spinnaker Drive. Arrive early for best parking and shopping throughout the Harbor Village.

The 2011 Parade of Lights lead sponsors include Four Points by Sheraton and Holiday Inn Express & Suites at Ventura Harbor and Andria’s Seafood Restaurant & Market. Additional sponsors: Ventura West Marina, Ventura Keys Association, Ventura Harbor Marine Fuel, Ventura Harbor Boat Yard, Dave’s Fuel Dock, Ventura Harbor Marina & Yacht Yard, Ventura Yacht Club, Greystar, Costco, AAA Automobile Club of Southern California, Ventura Marina Mobile Home Park, The Greek at the Harbor, Cumulus Broadcasting, Ventura County Star, Gold Coast Broadcasting, VC Reporter, Aspen Helicopter, The Ventura Breeze, Vessel Assist, RP Barricade, and Quinn Rental Services.

Boater Applications are available by calling (805) 477-0470. No charge to enter a decorated watercraft and includes an 8 x10 keepsake photo, awards, prizes, and Boaters Brunch at The Greek at the Harbor Restaurant!

Visit www.VenturaHarborVillage.com or call (805) 477-0470 for more information or get updates on Facebook Ventura Harbor or watch past Parade of Lights videos on YouTube Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights.