30-Aug-16 – Venetian Night, at least for this year, has been cancelled due to a “low number of participants,” says Chicago Yachting Association.

The event, featuring an hour-long parade of illuminated boats, dates back to 1958. It was held every year until 2010, then skipped a few years, returning in 2013 and every year since. It was the oldest event sponsored by the City of Chicago.

This year’s event had been scheduled for September 10 at Navy Pier.

“After much discussion between Chicago Yachting Association and Navy Pier, the executives of Navy Pier made the decision to cancel Venetian Night for 2016, because of the low number of participants,” said Rear Commodore Sandra Smith (left) on Monday.

According to Chicago Yachting Association, Venetian Night “has brought over a half million spectators to the lakefront.”

A fireworks show is still planned for September 10.