2026 Marks the 40th time that the Antique & Classic In-Water Boat Show will have been held on the Chain O-Lakes waterways in Northern Illinois, with the first show in the summer of 1985 preceding the formation of the Blackhawk Chapter in February of 1986.

To mark this milestone we are not only having the boat show as usual on Saturday July 11th from 9:30AM to 2:00PM at Famous Freddie’s Roadhouse in Fox Lake, but this year we are also have a meet up at the equally famous drag boat races at Blarney Island on Grass Lake on Thursday evening July 9th, followed by a full cruising tour of the Lakes beginning sometime mid-morning on Friday the 10th followed by lunch.

For the boat show on Saturday the boats should arrive at Freddie’s by 9AM to all get docked and settled in. The dockside patio bar will be staffed and coffee and donuts will also be provided.

The show has 6 categories of awards: Skipper’s Choice, People’s Choice, Best Runabout, Best Utility, Best Outboard, and Best Fiberglass. Each captain will receive a ballot to cast votes on each category except People’s Choice. The winner of each category will receive a varnished mahogany plaque in the shape of a wood boat transom, inspired from similar prizes seen at other shows like the Spring Lake Michigan show.

This is a signature event for the Blackhawk Chapter, and we hope to enjoy it with as many members as possible.

Calvin Seith
President – Blackhawk Chapter ACBS