Hollywood comes to the Chain O' Lakes

Fox Lake officials are asking boaters to make Hollywood come alive on the Chain O' Lakes next weekend.

The first Venetian Night and Block Party will take place Aug. 2 in front of Dockers on Grand Avenue, and feature a fireworks display over the Chain, co-chairman Chris Valenziano said.

The theme for all boats during the first village-sponsored Venetian Night asks people to dress up their boats as their favorite movie.

"By choosing movies, it opens up a large array of options for people," Valenziano said. "It should be very creative and a great time."

The event kicks off at 6 p.m. with the opening of the block party. The boat parade begins at 7:30 p.m., with fireworks shooting off at 9 p.m. The rain date is Aug. 3.

"Venetian Night allows boaters to do something out of the ordinary with their boat," Valenziano said. "It also gives non-boaters a chance to enjoy an event based around the water. Adding a fireworks finale and a block party makes the night enjoyable for the entire family."

The winner of the Venetian night contest will take home a $500 check. she said.

Boat-owners interested in being a part of the Venetian Night parade are asked to fill out an entry form. The form can be picked up at Fox Lake village hall, 66 Thillen Drive, or are available for download at www.foxlake.org.

Prizes will be awarded for most creative lighting and decoration.

There will be food and beverage vendors from local establishments, as well as a disc-jockey spinning music in the streets during the block party.

Grand Avenue will be shut down from Pistakee Lake Road west to the lake for the party. Parking is available on Pistakee Lake Road, and at the plaza at Grand Avenue and Rollins Road.

"A lot of hard work has gone into the planning of this event," Valenziano said. "And, we are really hoping this will grow into an annual event."