Fox Lake to host Cardboard Boat Race

Fox Lake's annual Cardboard Boat Race is back this weekend. The village's Parks and Recreation Coordinator Nancy Rogers tell us what you need to know.

Q. What makes this such a fabulous event?

A. It is a family event which allows us to utilize our park and lake.

Q. How long has this event been in existence? How has it changed, and what is new this year?

A. This is the 12th annual boat race. It originated at the Mineola and the Village of Fox Lake continued the tradition the last three years.

Q. How does the event work?

A. There are two categories for the entries. There is Off Site Building. Rules for that are: no foam, no plastic, no wood. Cardboard, duct tape and paint are the only materials used. There are no restrictions on length or crew size.

The second category is On Site Building. Boats must be built from ONLY the materials supplied in our official kits. You may bring your own decorating applications. The size and shape of your boat is restricted by the amount of cardboard and duct tape included in each kit. Building on site can begin at 8 a.m.

There are three age groups under the two categories that compete: Children ages 10 and under, children 11-14, and adult. Medals will be given to all children who assist with the boat building and race in the boat. Trophies will be awarded for 1st and 2nd place for each age group. There will be a Best of Show and the Fastest Sinking trophy awarded for each category. Life preservers are mandatory.

Last year we saw local business have entries. What a good way to advertise and get their name out. The Village of Fox Lake encourages involvement from their community as well as welcoming guests from other communities.

Q. What's the highlight of the event?

A. The highlight would be how creative the cardboard boat entries are. The races are timed and the winners chosen from the best scores.

Q. What kind of activities will appeal to kids and families?

A. Entertainment will be by Soundwave Entertainment, which will provide DJ services and contests for the children in between races.

Q. What about adults? What does the event offer them?

A. Hopefully a beautiful day at the park with good weather and to enjoy watching the races.

Q. What kinds of food and beverages will be for sale?

A. Ice cream, steak tacos, corn on the cob, fruit smoothies, BBQ chicken, cheese fries and fried veggies.

Q. Tell us about the volunteers and organizers who pull this together.

A. The event is run by the Village of Fox Lake Parks & Recreation Department with the help of the Fox Lake Fire Department, Fox Lake Police Department along with their Explorers Team, and the Fox Waterway Agency. The Village of Fox Lake Street Department not only helps me get the race site ready but also donates their time the day of the event selling beverages. The Grant Township highway commissioner decorates the stage with a tropical theme.

If you go

What: Fox Lake annual Cardboard Boat Race

When: Sunday, Aug. 16. Building on site begins at 8 a.m. Registration starts at 8 a.m. If you have pre-entered you may arrive later. The races begin at noon.

Where: Lakefront Park, 71 Nippersink Blvd.

Cost: $25 for each entry. Free to watch!

More info: Registration forms and information may be obtained at the Village Hall or at foxlake.org.