Lake Michigan is officially open for business with the Progressive Insurance Chicago In-Water Boat Show kicking off summer, June 13-16

What better way to spend Father’s Day weekend than experiencing the fun of boating? If you missed the Progressive Insurance Chicago In-Water Boat Show last year, don’t miss out this year! Chicago’s premier boating event returns to the new, state-of-the-art marina 31^st Street Harbor, June 13-16, with hundreds of the newest boats and marine accessories for sale, on-water activities, education and daily entertainment. Plus, anyone can get their feet wet for only $10, and kids 15 and under get in free!

Check out a few ways you can dive into summer fun at the boat show:

1. It’s Chicago Bike Week, so if you’re looking for a little bit of exercise, grab your family, hop on a few bikes and ride down to the show. With a convenient lakefront path to 31^st St. Harbor and free bike parking for all show attendees – it makes getting to the show a breeze.
2. Climb aboard and take a Discover Boating course to learn how to sail, dock a powerboat and much more! Then head to Fred’s Shed, an interactive garage-like setting, to learn how to keep that boat in tip-top shape. Check the website for registration details and seminar schedules.
3. Flyboard combines the thrills of jet skiing, snowboarding and acrobatic diving. Words cannot describe it; see it to believe it! Demos will be held at scheduled times in Try it Cove daily.
4. Are the kids getting antsy to begin summer?  Well, Chicago Yacht Club is hosting free sailing lessons to aspiring sailors ages 10-17!
5. Plus, be sure to bring your swimsuits and make a splash in Try it Cove, where you can enjoy kayaking, floating water mats, and Banana Boat rides! Plus, enjoy the newest craze in paddlesports and fitness, Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP); and on Sunday check out the latest trend in SUPs – relay races!
6. If you spot the boat of your dreams, you can buy dad (or yourself) a new summer ride to continue the fun for years to come. There are hundreds of new boats and marine accessories to browse, board and buy; plus an array of antique boats for history buffs.

So lather on the sunscreen, slip on your boat shoes and head on down to the boat show!

– Meghan Edwards, Progressive Insurance Chicago In-Water Boat Show