Press Release Suncoast Charities For Children

Sarasota Bay To Sparkle – 39th Annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights This Saturday

SARASOTA, FL – December 10, 2025 – Sarasota Bay will come alive with festive lights and holiday cheer this Saturday, Dec. 13, at 7 p.m., as the 39th Annual Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade of Lights, presented by Lake Michigan Credit Union, sets sail. 30 brightly decorated boats will glide past Marina Jack and Bayfront Park, creating a dazzling display for families and visitors of all ages.

This annual event is organized by Suncoast Charities for Children, in partnership with Marina Jack  and City of Sarasota. The entire community is encouraged to spread holiday joy by making a cash donation, which will be matched up to $10,000.00 thanks to the generosity of The Reinhart Foundation, or by donating new, unwrapped books and toys, for children up to age 12. Cash donations can be made online at [suncoastcharitiesforchildren.org]suncoastcharitiesforchildren.org and donation boxes are located at Marina Jack RestaurantO’Leary’s Tiki Bar & GrillLake Michigan Credit Union, and Starbucks (5329 Fruitville Road).

Suncoast Charities for Children provides funding support towards critical programs and services offered by Children First, The Haven, The Florida Center for Early Childhood, Loveland Center, Special Olympics, and Venice Challenger Baseball.

“This holiday tradition is about more than lights and boats. It is about bringing joy to local children, teens, and adults with special needs and their families,” said Lucy Nicandri, Executive Director of Suncoast Charities for Children. “We’re grateful to Nick and Jourdan Reinhart, of The Reinhart Foundation, for helping us maximize every donation, ensuring the holidays are brighter for so many in our community.”

The event is co-chaired by Lana Jackson and Lisa Baer, with support from sponsors including Shelly’s Christmas Boutique, FPL, ABC7, 92.1 CTQ, Budweiser/Gold Coast Eagle Distributing, Republic National Distributing, Crown Trophy of Sarasota, United Rentals, Suntex Marinas, Marina Jack, and the Herald-Tribune -Local IQ.

Event details:

  • When: Saturday, Dec. 13, 7:00 p.m.
  • Where: Sarasota Bay (Best Viewing – Bayfront Park)
  • Admission: Free

For more information visit: suncoastcharitiesforchildren.org