GRAND MARSHALS

The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is a historic and beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike, which is why each night boasts its own grand marshals. From sports all-stars and television celebrities, to local heroes,  these marshals have been bestowed the honors as the represent the best of their fields and community spirit.

2023 Grand Marshals

Andrew Walker
Andrew Walker
Nikki Deloach
Nikki Deloach

Wednesday, December 13

HALLMARK CHANNEL’S
ANDREW WALKER AND NIKKI DELOACH

Beloved Hallmark Channel stars

The iconic Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is setting sail on its 115th year in star-studded style with none other than beloved Hallmark Channel stars Andrew Walker and Nikki Deloach leading the way as Grand Marshals on opening night. Known for their heartwarming and enchanting roles in a variety of Hallmark Channel classics and new favorites, Walker and Deloach are set to add an extra layer of magic to Newport Beach’s festive season.

Andrew Walker’s charismatic presence on screen has made him a favorite among Hallmark aficionados. With a portfolio of feel-good films, including “Merry & Bright,” “Christmas on My Mind,” along with this year’s “Christmas Island” and an all-new extended cut of 2022 hit “Three Wise Men and a Baby,” Walker embodies the quintessential Hallmark leading man.

Nikki Deloach, another Hallmark fan favorite, is celebrated for her captivating performances in movies like “Five More Minutes” and “A Dream of Christmas.” With her warm smile and on-screen charm, Deloach has become synonymous with heartwarming stories and enchanting holiday narratives. “A World Record Christmas” will be Deloach’s forthcoming Hallmark endeavor certain to be a welcome addition to the festive season.

“We are absolutely thrilled and deeply honored to be named Grand Marshals of the 115th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. Just like Hallmark, Newport Beach truly embodies the magic of the holiday season, and to be a part of this cherished tradition is a dream come true,” says Nikki Deloach. “The city’s transformation into the most festive coastal destination is truly enchanting, and we can’t wait to share in the joy and love that this parade represents,” adds Andrew Walker.

On opening night on December 13, Andrew and Nikki will ride on the boat parade’s grand marshal boat, visible to parade-goers on route via the vessel’s deck-to-sail LED screen that will showcase some of Hallmark’s iconic movie moments.

Thursday, December 14

BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF NEWPORT BEACH

an essential part of the neighborhood since 1971, serves youth allowing them to cultivate skills enabling them to reach their greatest potential.

2016-10-14-Officer-Friendly

Friday, December 15

LOCAL HEROES:
NEWPORT BEACH POLICE DEPARTMENT
AND
NEWPORT BEACH FIRE AND LIFEGUARD DEPARTMENTS

Cheer on our local Fire and Police departments, those first-responders and lifesavers who serve our communities, as they lead the evening’s festivities.

Capture

Saturday, December 16

2024 ROSE QUEEN® and ROYAL COURT

 

Visit Newport Beach is thrilled to be participating in the world-renowned 135th Rose Parade®, set to dazzle spectators on January 1, 2024 in Pasadena, California. After an 18-year hiatus, Newport Beach will once again make a splash on the global stage, showcasing its rich history and vibrant community spirit through its record-breaking float entry that pays homage to the city’s iconic Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade.

From Left to Right – Princess Emmerson Tucker, Princess Trinity Dela Cruz, Princess Olivia Bohanac, Queen Naomi Stillitano, Princess Phoebe Ho, Princess Mia Moore-Walker, and Princess Jessica Powell.

Sunday, December 17

CORONA DEL MAR HIGH SCHOOL DRUM LINE

The CdM Drum Line is one of the premier performing groups at Corona del Mar High School. It serves as a musical ambassador, performing regularly in pep rallies as well as school and community events.

Past Grand Marshals have included…

  • MICKEY MOUSE from the DISNEYLAND® RESORT
  • OLYMPIANS from Orange County
  • CHRISTINA ANSTEAD | Star of HGTV’s “Christina on the Coast” and “Flip or Flop
  • ARTE MORENO | Owner of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
  • ALBERT PUJOLS | First baseman for the Anaheim Angels
  • VICKI GUNVALSON | Star of Bravo’s hit TV show, “The Real Housewives of Orange County”
  • Comedic actress LESLIE MANN and MARK MCGRATH, actor, songwriter and lead singer for the band SUGAR RAY
  • Business Persons of the Year and Citizens of the Year for the City of Newport Beach
  • Members of the U.S. WOMEN’S NATIONAL SOCCER TEAM
  • CONTESTANTS from SEASON 8 OF “THE VOICE”
  • HEART GLOBAL