About This Festival
Area Surrounding the Event
The Lake James Antique & Classic Boat Show takes place at Lake James in Angola, Indiana, near the Four Corners area and the bridge spanning Lake James and Jimmerson Lake. Lake James is Indiana’s third-largest natural lake, covering more than 1,200 acres, and is known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and waterfront relaxation. The surrounding Steuben County boasts charming small towns, excellent restaurants, cafes, and boutique shopping—particularly in downtown Angola, which is a short drive away and worth a visit after the event. The lakeside location not only provides a picturesque backdrop but also offers plenty of space for both on-water displays and land-based activities, with amenities like Bledsoe’s Beach contributing to the event’s summery, vacation-like atmosphere.
Vibe of the Event
The Lake James Antique & Classic Boat Show is a free, family-friendly event that attracts over 5,000 visitors each year, making it one of the most anticipated gatherings of the summer season in northeast Indiana. It’s an energetic but laid-back celebration that blends nostalgia, craftsmanship, and community. Attendees can expect a lively but relaxed ambiance, with the sparkling lake, rows of gleaming classic cars, and restored wooden boats creating a picturesque scene. Live music, food trucks, and vendor tents add to the festive feel, while the participation of local artists and craftspeople gives the event a creative, locally rooted touch. Whether you’re an enthusiast of historic boats and cars, an art lover, or simply looking for a fun day out with family, the vibe is inclusive, welcoming, and full of small-town Indiana charm.
Event Activities and Schedule
Here’s a breakdown of the main activities and a rough schedule, along with their locations:
- Boat and Car Displays: More than 60 classic and antique boats are shown in the water near the Lake James/Jimmerson Lake bridge, while dozens of classic cars and vintage outboard motors are displayed on shore. Boat and car owners are often present to share stories and details about their restorations.
- Art Exhibition: A large art exhibition tent and individual artist booths line the channel, showcasing (and selling) works by local and invited artists. This is a distinctive feature that sets the event apart from typical boat shows.
- Food and Vendors: Multiple food trucks and vendors offer fair food favorites like foot-long hot dogs and Sno-Cones, as well as other treats. Vendor booths also sell crafts and vintage items.
- Live Music: Bands and musicians perform throughout the day, adding to the festive atmosphere.
- Kids’ Activities: Family-friendly activities (exact details vary year to year) ensure there’s something for younger attendees.
- Community Gathering: The event is as much a social gathering as a showcase, with plenty of space to stroll, chat with exhibitors, and enjoy the lakeside setting.
Rough Schedule
| Time | Activity | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 9:00 AM | Gates Open | Lake James Four Corners/Jimmerson Lake area |
| 9:00 AM–4:00 PM | Boat & Car Viewing, Art Exhibit | Waterfront & Shoreline Tents |
| All Day | Food Vendors, Crafts | Vendor Booths Along Channel |
| All Day | Live Music | Main Stage/Tent Area |
| Noon | Engine Start-Up (Boats) | Dockside |
| 4:00 PM | Event Concludes | — |
Note: Exact timing of live music and special demonstrations (like the engine start-up) may vary each year. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the full experience.
Event History and Founding
The Lake James Antique & Classic Boat Show is organized by the local chapter of the Antique and Classic Boat Society (ACBS), a nationwide organization dedicated to preserving and enjoying pleasure boats built at least 25 years ago. While the exact founding year isn’t specified in available materials, the event has clearly grown from a modest gathering of boat enthusiasts to a major regional festival that now includes classic cars, art, food, and family activities. It consistently happens on the last Saturday in July, highlighting its established place in the local calendar. The show’s expansion to include cars, art, and community elements reflects its evolution into a broader celebration of heritage, craftsmanship, and local culture, while remaining anchored by its original focus on vintage boats.