With six months to go before the holiday crush, Santa himself will be vacationing in Ocean City and will join the 2026 Night in Venice boat parade at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 25, 2026. He’ll be decked out in his patriotic finest to help celebrate this year’s theme, “Stars, Stripes & Christmas Lights.”
Night in Venice features beautifully decorated boats, themed bayfront homes and a spectacular fireworks display. This year’s “Stars, Stripes & Christmas Lights” theme promises a memorable celebration honoring the nation’s 250th anniversary while embracing the fun and nostalgia of Christmas in July.
Philadelphia Phillies all-star John Kruk and “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” actor Randy Quaid will be grand marshals for the parade.
Entries are currently being accepted from all those who want to participate in the annual bayfront celebration. The boat parade and decorated bayfront home contests provide a chance to be part of the highlight of the summer season in Ocean City. Thousands of spectators line the bayfront, and thousands more attend private parties at homes along the route from the Ocean City-Longport Bridge to Tennessee Avenue. The theme is always optional, and entries for boats and homes are currently being accepted online at www.ocnj.us/NIV or by calling 609-399-6111.
Spectacular fireworks over the bayfront will be launched after the boat parade. This year’s Night in Venice presenting sponsors include ACME and OCNJ Watersports.
