Chicago’s boating scene is getting a major addition this summer. The inaugural Windy City Boat & Yacht Show arrives at Burnham Harbor June 12–14, 2026, bringing a new in-water boat show experience to downtown Chicago during peak boating season. Produced by Informa Markets, the team behind some of the marine industry’s largest events, this new show is designed around the Great Lakes boating lifestyle and Chicago’s incredible waterfront atmosphere. For boaters throughout Lake Michigan and the Great Lakes, this is shaping up to be one of the most exciting new boating events of the summer.
What Is the Windy City Boat & Yacht Show?
The Windy City Boat & Yacht Show is a new in-water boating event hosted directly at Burnham Harbor in downtown Chicago. Instead of walking convention-center aisles in the middle of winter, attendees will experience boats where they belong, in the water, on the docks, surrounded by Chicago’s skyline and Lake Michigan.
- Luxury yachts
- Cruisers and sport yachts
- Center consoles and day boats
- Marine accessories and technology
- Waterfront hospitality experiences
- Select demonstrations and sea trials
An in-water show simply feels different. You can move naturally from dock to dock, step aboard boats in a real marina environment, and experience the energy of boating season instead of imagining it months away. The in-water setup also makes it easier to compare layouts, experience cockpit flow, and get a better feel for how boats actually live on the water.
Where Is the Windy City Boat & Yacht Show?
📍 Burnham Harbor | 1559 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
Located just south of downtown Chicago near Soldier Field and the Museum Campus, Burnham Harbor is one of the city’s most recognizable waterfront destinations.
- Chicago’s lakefront
- Downtown restaurants and hotels
- Waterfront walking paths
- Nearby attractions and nightlife
Dates & Hours
- Friday, June 12 | 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday, June 13 | 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday, June 14 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Why This Show Matters for Great Lakes Boaters
The launch of the Windy City Boat & Yacht Show says a lot about the continued growth of Great Lakes boating.
Informa Markets is known globally for producing some of the boating industry’s most recognized events, and their decision to launch a first-ever Chicago in-water show is a major moment for Lake Michigan and the surrounding Great Lakes region.
Team JBYS at the Windy City Boat & Yacht Show
Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales is excited to be part of the inaugural Windy City Boat & Yacht Show. With a dedicated Chicago location, Team JBYS is looking forward to connecting with boaters directly on the docks throughout the weekend. For our Chicago team, it’s exciting to finally see a large-scale in-water show arrive downtown during the heart of boating season.
Visitors will be able to:
- Explore available inventory
- Connect with our Chicago team
- Discuss brokerage opportunities
- Learn more about Great Lakes cruising
- Step aboard select models on display
As Great Lakes boaters ourselves, we’re especially excited to see a major in-water event arrive in Chicago during the heart of boating season. The first-ever Windy City Boat & Yacht Show is shaping up to become one of the premier boating events on Lake Michigan.
Whether you’re actively searching for your next boat or simply looking to spend a weekend around great boats, great people, and Chicago’s incredible waterfront, this is a show Great Lakes boaters will not want to miss.
We look forward to seeing you on the docks this June.
Planning Your Visit
If you’re attending the Windy City Boat & Yacht Show, a little planning goes a long way.
A few helpful tips:
- Wear comfortable dock shoes
- Plan for summer weather on the waterfront
- Allow extra time to explore Burnham Harbor
- Schedule private showings ahead of time if you have specific boats in mind
- Make a full day of it and enjoy downtown Chicago while you’re there
Windy City Boat & Yacht Show FAQ
Is the Windy City Boat & Yacht Show indoors?
No. The Windy City Boat & Yacht Show is an outdoor in-water event hosted at Burnham Harbor in Chicago.
Will boats be in the water?
Yes. The show is designed as a true in-water boat show experience.
Will Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales be at the show?
Yes. Team JBYS will be on the docks throughout the weekend with select inventory and representatives available to connect with attendees.
Where is Burnham Harbor located?
Burnham Harbor is located directly on Chicago’s lakefront near Soldier Field and the Museum Campus.
Why Choose JBYS?
With 7 Great Lakes locations, 2 in Naples, FL and 21 mobile service vehicles, JBYS is your trusted partner for boating year-round. Many of our clients head south for the winter, and our Naples location ensures we’re here to support your boating needs wherever the water takes you. Whether you’re exploring the Great Lakes in summer or cruising Florida’s coastline in winter, we’re here to provide world-class service, expertise, and an unmatched selection of yachts and boats.
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