Vintage watercrafts from throughout the country to be featured on Geneva Lake
Step Back in Time at the Annual Antique and Classic Boat Show
Each fall, the shores of Geneva Lake sparkle with a special kind of nostalgia during the Annual Antique and Classic Boat Show in Fontana. Hosted by the Blackhawk Chapter of the Antique and Classic Boat Society, this beloved event brings together a stunning collection of meticulously restored wooden boats, vintage watercraft, and passionate collectors from around the region.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Abbey Resort and Fontana Harbor, the show offers visitors a chance to admire gleaming mahogany runabouts, sleek Chris-Crafts, and rare historical models—all floating pieces of art that tell the story of America’s rich boating heritage. Owners are on hand to share the history behind their boats, making this event as educational as it is beautiful. Held annually in September in the harbor of the Abbey Marina on the western end of Geneva Lake, this boat show allows land lovers and enthusiastic boaters alike the unique opportunity to enjoy the excitement of this nationally renowned event.
While most of the participating boats hail from Wisconsin and Illinois, the show regularly attracts entries from as far away as Florida and California, and even from Canada. Each year, more than 100 award-winning vintage boats are expected to attend, representing all classes of antique and classic watercraft. Visitors can admire beautifully restored runabouts, utilities, lapstrake boats, outboards, and the ever-popular Streblows, all docked in the Abbey Marina throughout the weekend.
Saturday features a highlight of the event—the annual boat parade—where these floating works of art cruise the harbor for all to see. Both the boat displays and parade are free and open to the public, and guests are encouraged to stroll the docks, enjoy live music, browse local vendors, and sample great food.
Exhibitors also look forward to competing for top honors, including the Captain’s Choice and the Sharpest Arrow Award, which recognizes the best original restoration. Attendees can get in on the fun too by casting a vote for the People’s Choice Award, announced on Sunday afternoon.
Additional activities—such as private tours and evening receptions—are often offered with advance registration and a separate fee. For full event details and updates, visit the Geneva Lakes Antique Boat Show website. To learn more about the host location and weekend lodging packages, head to The Abbey Resort's website.
Whether you're a boat enthusiast, history buff, or simply love a good lakeside event, the Antique and Classic Boat Show offers a one-of-a-kind glimpse into the golden age of boating. Live music, local vendors, and plenty of scenic photo ops make it a fall favorite in the Lake Geneva region.
About The Abbey Resort and Avani Spa
Located just 80 miles from downtown Chicago and 50 miles from Milwaukee, The Abbey Resort and Avani Spa is a treasured icon and the only full-service resort on the shores of Lake Geneva. The resort completed a multi-million dollar renovation of the exterior, meeting space and common areas in 2013. The resort boasts a breathtaking setting on 90 acres of beautifully manicured grounds, award-winning dining and banquet facilities, nearby championship golf courses and a wide range of outdoor activities. This only scratches the surface of all the activities and offerings The Abbey Resort provides. With impeccable customer service, the team at The Abbey Resort consistently meets the needs and expectations of both guests and meeting planners. The 35,000 square-foot Avani Spa enhances the resort experience with innovative spa treatments and modern luxuries.
With the first signs of fall in the air and the lake as beautiful as ever, there’s no better way to spend a September weekend than by the water, surrounded by classic boats, good food, and great company. It’s the perfect way to welcome the season and enjoy a little lakeside nostalgia.