Chicago Boat Show Dates 2025: Ultimate Fun!
Why Chicago Boat Show Dates Matter for Every Boating Enthusiast
If you’re searching for chicago boat show dates, you’re in luck. Chicago hosts multiple premier boat shows throughout the year, each offering unique experiences from cozy winter exhibitions to stunning summer showcases on Lake Michigan.
Quick Answer: 2025-2026 Chicago Boat Show Dates
| Show Name | Dates | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Find Boating Chicago Boat Show | January 8-12, 2025 | Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Rosemont |
| Chicago International Boat Show | August 21-24, 2025 | Navy Pier Marina & Festival Grounds |
| Find Boating Chicago Boat Show | January 28 – February 1, 2026 | Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Rosemont |
Whether you’re dreaming of owning your first boat, upgrading to a luxury yacht, or simply exploring the latest marine technology, Chicago’s boat shows deliver. The winter Find Boating show brings over 100 boats indoors when you need an escape from the cold. Come summer, the Chicago International Boat Show transforms Navy Pier into a waterfront celebration with 150+ boats on display, live music, and VIP experiences.
These events aren’t just about boats. They’re about connecting with the boating community, finding show-only deals, and experiencing the lifestyle that comes with life on the water. With over 30,000 attendees at the summer show alone, you’ll find yourself among thousands who share your passion for boating.
The best part? Kids 12 and under get in free at both shows, making it a perfect family outing. Active military personnel also receive complimentary or discounted admission.
Escape the Cold: Find Boating Chicago Boat Show (January 2025 & 2026)
When the Windy City’s winter chill sets in, our thoughts often drift to warmer days on Lake Michigan. Thankfully, the Find Boating Chicago Boat Show offers the perfect indoor escape, allowing us to dream of summer fun and explore the latest in marine recreation. This annual event is a true winter respite, packed with hundreds of boats, cutting-edge gear, and a plethora of family-friendly activities. It’s an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow boating enthusiasts, learn from industry experts, and even snag some fantastic show-only deals.
The Find Boating Chicago Boat Show, in partnership with Progressive® Insurance, has been a cherished tradition for generations, with the 2026 show marking its 94th year. This show is renowned for its wide selection of boats, abundance of must-see attractions, and fun features designed for all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned boater looking for an upgrade or a curious newcomer, this indoor extravaganza has something for everyone.
2025 & 2026 Chicago Boat Show Dates and Location
Mark your calendars for these exciting winter events!
The 2025 Find Boating Chicago Boat Show is scheduled for January 8-12, 2025.
The 2026 Find Boating Chicago Boat Show is set to run from January 28 – February 1, 2026.
Both shows will be held at the Donald E. Stephens Convention & Conference Center, located at 5555 N River Rd., Rosemont, IL 60018. This spacious indoor venue provides the perfect setting to explore hundreds of boats and marine accessories without worrying about the weather.
While specific daily hours for the 2025 show were not detailed, we expect a similar schedule to the 2026 event. For the 2026 show, the hours are:
- Wednesday, January 28: 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday, January 29: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday, January 30: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday, January 31: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday, February 1: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
For the most up-to-date information on the upcoming event, we recommend visiting the official 2025 Discover Boating® Chicago Boat Show® website.
Tickets and Admission
Getting into the Find Boating Chicago Boat Show is straightforward, and we have options to help you save!
- General Admission: For adults aged 13 years or older, tickets are $13 online when purchased in advance. If you decide to buy at the show, the price is $15. For the 2026 show, advance tickets are $15 online and $17 onsite.
- Children’s Admission: The best news for families! Children 12 and under are FREE when accompanied by a paying adult. This makes it an incredibly affordable outing for the whole family.
- Discounts: Active military personnel receive free admission with valid active Military ID onsite (for the 2026 show). Keep an eye out for potential “5 After 5” discounted admission on Wednesday and Thursday evenings for the 2026 show, a great way to catch the action after work!
You can easily purchase your tickets online in advance to save both time and money. Secure your spot at the show by visiting the official ticketing platform: Buy Tickets Now.
Family Fun and Must-See Attractions
The Find Boating Chicago Boat Show is truly designed for everyone, offering a fantastic array of attractions beyond just admiring boats. We love that it provides hands-on learning and entertainment for all ages.
Here are some of the family-friendly activities and must-see attractions you can expect:
- Huck Finn Trout Pond: A perennial favorite, kids (12 and under, free!) can try their hand at catch-and-release fishing. It’s a wonderful way to introduce youngsters to the joys of fishing in a safe and engaging environment.
- Paddlefest Pool: Ever wanted to try stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking but weren’t sure where to start? The Paddlefest Pool offers a controlled environment with expert instructors to guide you. It’s a splash-tastic way to experience these popular water sports.
- Bumper Boats: Get ready for some spinning, whirling, and bumping fun! The Bumper Boats are a surefire hit for kids (and even some adults who are young at heart!).
- Find Boating Beach Club: Step into a simulated summer oasis! This area brings the beach vibe indoors with live music, refreshing cocktails, and beach games. It’s the perfect spot to relax and soak in the summer atmosphere, even in January.
- Fred’s Shed How-to Center Presented by Progressive®: For the DIY enthusiast and curious boater, Fred’s Shed is your go-to resource. Here, you can get free one-on-one consultations with tech experts, learn valuable boat maintenance tips, and find how to tackle various boating projects. It’s an invaluable learning hub for boat owners.
Beyond the interactive fun, you’ll find a wide selection of boats, including pontoons, personal watercraft, and fishing boats, along with all the marine accessories and technology you could imagine. To make the most of your visit, we highly recommend checking out this year’s Official Show Guide, which lists all exhibitors, products, and attractions. You can View Guide online to plan your day efficiently.
Summer on the Lake: The Chicago International Boat Show (August 2025)
While the Find Boating show helps us beat the winter blues, the Chicago International Boat Show fully accepts the glorious Chicago summer. This event is an “all-new experience” that transforms Navy Pier into a vibrant hub for boating and waterfront culture. It’s less of an expo and more of a celebration, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Michigan and the iconic Chicago skyline. For those who live and breathe the boating lifestyle, this is a can’t-miss event.
With over 30,000 attendees expected, you’ll be part of a massive gathering of boaters, buyers, and brands, all united by their passion for the water. The Chicago International Boat Show promises to be a premier boating event that showcases luxury, innovation, and the sheer joy of life on Lake Michigan.
Your Guide to the 2025 Chicago Boat Show Dates and Venue
Prepare for an unforgettable summer experience on the water!
The 2025 Chicago International Boat Show is scheduled for August 21-24, 2025.
The event will take place at the picturesque Navy Pier Marina & Festival Grounds, located at 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611. This stunning location allows for an immersive on-water experience, truly showcasing boats in their natural element.
Here are the specific show hours:
- Thursday, August 21: 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Pre-Show | Invite Only)
- Friday, August 22: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday, August 23: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday, August 24: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
The Navy Pier Marina offers full accessibility, including ramps, elevators, and accessible parking, ensuring everyone can enjoy the show. You can find its exact location here: Navy Pier Marina.
Tickets and VIP Experiences
Accessing the Chicago International Boat Show is designed to be inclusive, with special options for those looking for an liftd experience.
- General Admission: For those 12 and under, entry is free! This makes it easy for families to enjoy the waterfront festivities together.
- Discounts: We’re proud to see that military personnel and first responders receive discounts with valid ID/credentials on-site. It’s our small way of saying thank you for their service.
- VIP Experience: The Chibs Club: For a truly exclusive and luxurious experience, consider upgrading to the Chibs Club. This VIP lounge offers:
- Private access with prime harbor views, perfect for watching the action unfold.
- Comfortable seating to relax and network.
- Premium beverage and food offerings available for purchase.
- Curated entertainment to improve your visit.
The Chibs Club has its own dedicated hours:
- Friday, August 22: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday, August 23: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday, August 24: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
To secure your tickets and explore VIP options, visit the official ticketing page: Get Your Tickets.
Highlights and Attractions
The Chicago International Boat Show is more than just a display of boats; it’s a vibrant festival celebrating waterfront culture. With over 150 boats and watercraft on display, including luxury yachts, sailing vessels, and sleek sport boats, there’s something to captivate every marine enthusiast.
Here are some of the key highlights and attractions we’re excited about:
- Extensive Boat Displays: Explore a magnificent collection of 150+ boats and watercraft, ranging from opulent luxury yachts to high-performance sport boats. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see the latest models up close and personal.
- On-Water Activities & Demos: What better way to experience boating than on the water itself? The show features hands-on boating demos and workshops, allowing you to get a feel for different vessels and learn new skills.
- Premium On-Land Exhibits: Beyond the boats, the festival grounds host a premium showcase of exotic vehicles, adventure vans, and outdoor lifestyle brands. It’s a holistic view of the adventurous spirit.
- Entertainment: Enjoy live music that sets a festive atmosphere, and keep an eye out for spectacular fireworks displays that light up the Chicago skyline.
- Industry Leaders & Networking: This is where the marine world converges. Thousands of boaters, buyers, and brands come together, offering unparalleled opportunities to meet industry leaders, share ideas, and explore what’s new in the boating world.
The Chicago International Boat Show truly positions itself as a “celebration of waterfront culture” and a destination for “lifestyle upgrades.” For more in-depth information about this premier event, we encourage you to visit: Learn More A Premier Boating Event onLake Michigan!.
Choosing Your Adventure: A Comparison of Chicago’s Boat Shows
Chicago is a fantastic city for boaters, not just because of our beautiful Lake Michigan, but also because we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to boat shows! While both the Find Boating Chicago Boat Show and the Chicago International Boat Show celebrate our love for the water, they offer distinct experiences. Knowing the differences can help you choose which one (or both!) is right for your next aquatic adventure.
Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Feature | Find Boating Chicago Boat Show (Winter) | Chicago International Boat Show (Summer) |
|---|---|---|
| Season | Winter (January/February) | Summer (August) |
| Location | Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Rosemont (Indoor) | Navy Pier Marina & Festival Grounds (Outdoor/On-water) |
| Vibe | Family-friendly, educational, practical, winter escape | Luxury, lifestyle, celebration of waterfront culture, social, chic |
| Boat Types | Wide selection of new boats (pontoons, fishing, PWC), smaller vessels | 150+ boats including luxury yachts, sailing, sport boats, larger vessels on water |
| Activities | Hands-on kids’ activities (trout pond, bumper boats), Fred’s Shed, Paddlefest Pool, Beach Club | On-water demos, workshops, live music, fireworks, VIP Chibs Club, on-land lifestyle exhibits |
| Focus | Learning, comparing, buying for all levels, escaping winter | Experience, luxury, networking, celebrating summer boating |
As you can see, each show has its unique charm. The Find Boating show is perfect for shaking off the winter doldrums with interactive fun and practical advice, especially if you’re looking to purchase a new boat or gear. The Chicago International show, on the other hand, is an immersive summer spectacle that celebrates the high-end boating lifestyle and the beauty of Lake Michigan.
Beyond these two major events, Chicago’s vibrant boating scene also sees other events like the Windy City Boat & Yacht Show. This show often features 100+ boats on the water, typically located at Burnham Harbor near Soldier Field, offering stunning skyline views and a waterfront festival atmosphere with VIP experiences and cutting-edge marine tech. While specific dates for this show were not provided in our research, it’s another fantastic example of an in-water show that contributes to Chicago’s rich boating culture. You can learn more about this in-water show here: Windy City Boat and Yacht Show.
No matter which show you choose, or if you decide to attend all of them, the Chicago boating community is always buzzing with excitement. If you’re planning a special event or looking to fully immerse yourself in Chicago’s on-water experiences, we at Playpen Chicago are always here to help. Find More info about event planning services to make your boating dreams a reality.
Plan Your Visit: Parking & Transportation for the Chicago Boat Shows
Attending a boat show is exciting, but navigating the logistics can sometimes be a challenge. We want to ensure your visit to any of the Chicago boat shows is as smooth and stress-free as possible, so let’s talk parking and transportation.
Chicago International Boat Show (Navy Pier) Logistics
The Chicago International Boat Show, being at Navy Pier, offers several convenient parking options, though it’s good to plan ahead.
- On-Site Parking: Navy Pier offers two on-site parking garages: the West Garage and the East Garage, which together can accommodate 1,500 vehicles.
- East Garage: Recommended for oversized trucks and vans, with a maximum height clearance of 7’9”.
- West Garage: Has a maximum height clearance of 6’3”.
- Navy Pier also provides complementary electric vehicle charging stations in both garages – a great perk for EV owners!
- Discounted Remote Alternate Parking Garages: To help ease congestion and offer more options, several off-site garages provide discounted rates with validation. These include:
- Grand Plaza Park (540 N. State St.)
- Ogden Plaza Self Park (300 E. North Water St.)
- Millennium Park Garage (5 S. Columbus Dr.)
- Cityfront Place Parking Garage (400 N. McClurg Ct.)
- Validation Process: To redeem these discounted rates, you must request validation at the Navy Pier Guest Services Desk, located at the west main entrance of the Pier. The alternate parking special rate typically provides 12 hours of parking at specified garages.
- Public Transportation: Navy Pier is well-served by various public transportation options, including CTA buses. We always recommend checking the CTA website for the most current routes and schedules.
For comprehensive details on planning your visit to the Chicago International Boat Show, including more parking information and directions, refer to the official Plan Your Visit | Chicago International Boat Show page.
Find Boating Chicago Boat Show (Donald E. Stephens Convention Center) Logistics
For the indoor Find Boating Chicago Boat Show in Rosemont, parking is generally straightforward at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.
- Parking Garages: Parking is available at the William St. Garage and the East Parking Garage. The cost is typically $15 for 24 hours, though it’s important to note that this usually does not include in-and-out privileges.
We always advise checking the specific event website closer to the show dates for any updated parking information or special arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chicago Boat Show Dates
We know you might have a few more questions as you plan your boat show adventures. Here are some of the most common inquiries we hear about the Chicago boat shows:
What are the main differences between the Chicago boat shows?
The two main Chicago boat shows offer distinct experiences primarily based on their season and location:
- The Find Boating Chicago Boat Show is an indoor, winter event held in Rosemont (Donald E. Stephens Convention Center). Its vibe is generally more family-focused, educational, and practical, providing a welcome escape from the cold and an opportunity to explore boats and gear in a comfortable setting. It’s great for comparing many different brands and models under one roof.
- The Chicago International Boat Show is an outdoor, on-water summer event at Navy Pier. This show leans towards a luxury, lifestyle-oriented experience, celebrating waterfront culture with larger yachts, on-water activities, live entertainment, and a more social atmosphere. It’s about experiencing boating in its natural element with the city skyline as a backdrop.
Are the Chicago boat shows good for first-time boat buyers?
Absolutely! Both Chicago boat shows are excellent resources for first-time boat buyers, though the Find Boating show might be particularly beneficial due to its educational focus. Here’s why:
- Compare Brands and Models: You can see a vast array of boats from numerous manufacturers side-by-side, making it easy to compare features, sizes, and styles without having to visit multiple dealerships.
- Talk to Experts: Industry professionals, dealers, and manufacturers are on hand to answer all your questions, offer advice, and help you understand the nuances of boat ownership.
- Show-Only Deals: Many exhibitors offer special pricing, incentives, or packages exclusively available during the show, which can translate to significant savings.
- Educational Centers: At the Find Boating show, the Fred’s Shed How-to Center provides free one-on-one consultations on boat maintenance and DIY tips, which is invaluable for new owners.
These shows provide an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in boating before making that big purchase.
Can I bring my kids to the boat shows?
Yes, you most certainly can and should! Both Chicago boat shows are very welcoming to families and offer great incentives and activities for children:
- Free Admission for Kids: Children 12 and under get in for free at both the Find Boating Chicago Boat Show and the Chicago International Boat Show, making it an affordable family outing.
- Dedicated Kids’ Activities: The Find Boating show, in particular, excels in family-friendly fun with attractions like the Huck Finn Trout Pond, Paddlefest Pool, and Bumper Boats, ensuring kids are entertained and engaged.
These events are a fantastic way to introduce your children to the joys of boating and foster a love for the water from a young age.
Conclusion: Set Sail for Your Next Chicago Adventure
Chicago’s boating scene is vibrant and active year-round, offering something for every type of enthusiast. From the cozy, educational atmosphere of the Find Boating Chicago Boat Show in the winter to the luxurious, celebratory vibes of the Chicago International Boat Show on Lake Michigan in the summer, we’re fortunate to have such diverse opportunities to engage with the marine world.
These events are more than just boat displays; they are community gatherings where passions are shared, knowledge is gained, and dreams of life on the water are ignited. Whether you’re a seasoned captain, a first-time buyer, or simply looking for a fun day out with the family, the chicago boat show dates are essential to mark on your calendar.
At Playpen Chicago, we’re all about connecting our incredible community with unforgettable on-water experiences and city events. We believe that boating is more than a hobby—it’s a lifestyle. So, after you’ve explored the latest models and dreamed of your next vessel, Playpen Chicago is your premier social networking hub for everything boating and beyond in our magnificent city.
Ready to take your love for the water to the next level? Join our community and Explore exclusive boat charters in Chicago to truly experience Lake Michigan!