America 250
Boat Parade at Indiana Beach
Saturday, July 4, 2026 | Lake Shafer | Monticello, Indiana
Celebrate America's 250th Anniversary and Indiana Beach's 100th with a patriotic lighted boat parade, decorating contest, Shafer Queen Fireworks Cruise, and fireworks over Lake Shafer.
Register your boat below to be part of the parade.
Join the Parade
Decorate your boat in red, white, and blue and help us launch a brand-new Independence Day tradition on Lake Shafer.
Lighted Boat Parade
Local boaters are invited to decorate their vessels and join the patriotic parade route on Lake Shafer.
Decorating Contest
Compete for prizes including Best Patriotic Display, Most Creative Lighting, and Best Overall Decorated Boat.
Fireworks Spectacular
After the parade, enjoy Indiana Beach's fireworks display over beautiful Lake Shafer at 11:00 PM.
Event Schedule
8:45 PM
Boat gathering and check-in near Honey Creek Bay and the Yacht Club Pier.
9:15 PM
America 250 Boat Parade begins.
9:30 PM
Lighted boat judging as vessels pass Indiana Beach.
11:00 PM
Fireworks Spectacular over Lake Shafer.
Shafer Queen Fireworks Cruise
The Shafer Queen Fireworks Cruise will operate during the America 250 Boat Parade and Fireworks Celebration.
$10 Per Person
Tickets will be sold at the park only on the day of the event.
Boardwalk Gifts
Guests can purchase Shafer Queen Fireworks Cruise tickets at Boardwalk Gifts while supplies last.
Limited Capacity
The Shafer Queen cruise will be limited to 100 passengers and includes on-water viewing of the parade and fireworks.
Register Your Boat
Participation is free. Boat owners must register in advance to participate in the America 250 Boat Parade. Participants will receive their official boat number, route information, event guidelines, and check-in instructions prior to the event.
All participants must acknowledge the Participant Waiver and Release during registration.
America's 250th. Indiana Beach's 100th.
One unforgettable night on the waters of Lake Shafer.
