Venetian Night to light up Fox Lake sky
Twinkling lights on boats, fireworks and more will be part of a big party Saturday night in Fox Lake.
"Holiday on the Chain" is the theme of Fox Lake's Venetian Night festival starting at 6 p.m. on West Grand Avenue where it dead ends by Dockers Restaurant & Lounge overlooking Pistakee Lake. There is no admission charge.
Amy Serafin, village of Fox Lake's parks and recreation coordinator, said the Dockers area at 33 W. Grand is where a block party will feature disc jockeys providing entertainment. Food, beverages and trinkets such as glow sticks will be for sale.
At 6:30 p.m., the Wonder Lake Ski Show Team will perform on Pistakee Lake. The team was formed in 1955 and competes in various tournaments.
Serafin said the Wonder Lake water skiers have been a hit at festivals in St. Charles and elsewhere.
"I've heard nothing but good things about them," Serafin said.
Serafin said the Venetian Night parade of boats decorated with lights will start at 7:30 p.m. at Famous Freddie's Roadhouse at 510 Park Ave., working its way to the crowd by Dockers on Pistakee Lake. At least 30 boats are expected in the parade.
"I'm hoping to see some unique holidays out there," Serafin said.
Cash prizes of $500, $300 and $200 will be awarded to the top-three finishers in the boat judging that includes creativity, costumes, decorations and lighting. It costs $25 to enter the boat parade, said Serafin, and applications will be accepted Saturday.
Fireworks are set to go off starting at 9:30 p.m. or so. The show is set to last 15 to 20 minutes.
Serafin said the street party will carry on after the fireworks. Organizers expect 3,000 to 5,000 patrons to pass through Venetian Night.
<p class="factboxheadblack">If you go</p>
<p class="News">What: Fox Lake's Venetian Night</p>
<p class="News">When: Party begins at 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 7. Boat parade starts at 7:30 p.m., fireworks at about 9:30 p.m.</p>
<p class="News">Where: Party on West Grand Avenue overlooking Pistakee Lake near Dockers, 33 W. Grand. Boat parade starts at Famous Freddie's Roadhouse, 510 Park Ave. </p>
<p class="News">Admission: Free. Food and beverages for purchase. $25 entry fee for boat parade.</p>