Celebrating America 250: The 2026 Chicago Lighted Boat Parade is Here!
July 18, 2026 | 9:00 p.m. | Monroe Harbor
Top Prizes – Two categories (Power & Sail)
$2,000, $1,500, and $500
off your 2027 Mooring Fee!
Get ready to shine! The Chicago Yachting Association in cooperation with the Chicago Park District and Chicago Harbors invite you to be part of one of summer’s most dazzling traditions — the 2026 Chicago Lighted Boat Parade.
This year’s theme: America 250! Celebrate 250 years of American history with a boat decked out in patriotic flair. Draw inspiration from 1776, the Stars and Stripes, iconic American landmarks, historic moments, hometown pride, unity and the enduring ideals of the Constitution. Go bold with red, white and blue lights, creative costumes and all-American decorations as we illuminate the lakefront in honor of this once-in-a-generation milestone.
The Parade
Once the sun sets (9:00 p.m.), the party lights up — literally. An unforgettable parade of brilliantly decorated boats will glide past Chicago’s iconic skyline while music fills the air and crowds line the shore.
Compete to Win Big
We’re only accepting the first 40 boats, so don’t wait! All entries are encouraged to go all-out with lights, theme, and creativity.
Prizes awarded by division (discounts off your 2027 mooring fee):
🥇 $2,000 off
🥈 $1,500 off
🥉 $500 off
Plus, glory, bragging rights, and serious crowd love.
Fun & Festivities
We’re turning Monroe Harbor into a full-on celebration with:
- Lighted Boat Parade
- Spectacular views
- Photo ops all night long
Registration Info
- Entry fee: $50
- Includes dockage at Monroe Harbor on the day of the parade
- Spaces limited – first come, first served!
Ready to be part of something unforgettable?
Register now and let your boat shine in the spotlight!
Click Here to Enter