Our 43nd ANNUAL SUNNYLAND ANTIQUE BOAT FESTIVAL IS SCHEDULED FOR
March 22nd, 23rd and 24th, 2024
The Annual Sunnyland Boat Festival on Lake Dora
Premier East Coast Antique and Classic Boating Event
Join us at the Annual Sunnyland Boat Festival on Lake Dora, renowned as the largest event of its kind on the East Coast. This year, we’re excited to welcome enthusiasts from over 26 states, all converging to celebrate the beauty and history of antique and classic boats.
Event Location
Set in the picturesque Wooten Waterfront Park in the heart of downtown Tavares, Florida, our festival enjoys a prime location directly on the shores of Lake Dora.
A Three-Day Celebration
Spanning three days, the festival offers a wealth of activities and experiences for all who share a passion for antique and classic boating.
Plan Your Visit
To ensure your time at the festival is both memorable and enjoyable, we’ve compiled some essential information for your visit. Join us for a unique blend of history, beauty, and community at our show.
 General Show Information
- We have all new docks and a larger show footprint
- The show begins Friday at 9:00AM and ends on Sunday, at Noon – weather permitting.
- Ticket prices are $12.00 for the weekend (Credit Card Sales Only, No Cash Sales at the gate).
- Sea Tow Members show your card and buy one get one free
- The show site address is123 South Joanna Ave, Tavares Florida 32778. GPS coordinates are 28.48.043N—–81.43.655W
- Parking is available at the City of Tavares Parking Garage, located 2 blocks from the show site
- The City of Tavares welcomes leashed pets to events
- In addition to the Boat Festival, there are Seaplane rides available –  See the City of Tavares web site for more information at www.tavares.org or www.tavareschamber.com
- Food and beverages are available for purchase at the show
- Restaurants and shopping are within walking distance of the show
Schedule Of Events
General Admission
- $12.00 for all three days. (Credit Card Sales Only, No Cash Sales at the gate)
- Free Parking at the City Garage
Friday March 22—9am to 5pm
- All exhibits open
- Picnic for boaters 10:30am – Registered participants only. – Ticket Required
- Food Court and Beer Garden
- Nautical Flea Market
- Field of Dreams (Antique Boats for Sale)
- Sunnyland Ship’s Store—clothing, boat show items for sale
- Live Bluegrass Band
- Sea Plane Rides available. Tickets required
- Captains Party – Registered participants only – 6pm – 8pm – Ticket Required – Not Open To The Public
Saturday March 23—8:30am to 5pm
- 9:30am Opening Ceremony
- All Exhibits open
- Festival Of Speed – over 60 antique and classic cars to complement our beautiful boats on display
- Food Court and Beer Garden
- Beer Garden
- Woody Cars
- Amphicars on display
- Nautical Flea Market
- Field of Dreams (Antique boats for sale)
- Sea Plane Rides. Tickets required
- Youth Activity Events at the SCAMPY tent
- Dinner Banquet – Registered participants – Ticket Required – Not Open To The Public
Sunday March 24—8:30am to 12pmÂ
- Free Parking in City Garage
- Awards Ceremony 10AM
- Church Services at 11AM
- Free admission after 1pm
- Shows starts to wind down at 1pm
- All exhibits open
- Food Court and Beer Garden
- Nautical Flea Market
- Field of Dreams (Antique Boats for sale)
Sunnyland Antique Boat Festival Overview
Celebrating 43 Years of Nautical Heritage
The Sunnyland Antique Boat Festival, now in its 43rd year, stands as the largest classic wood boat show in the United States. Spanning over a third of a mile, our festival proudly displays between 250 to 300 boats, drawing a crowd of 8,000 to 10,000 enthusiasts annually.
Attractions for Everyone
Nautical Flea Market
Discover over 80 vendors at our nautical flea market, offering a wide array of rare marine parts and unique finds.
Boat and Motor Displays
Be amazed by our collection of stunning outboard motors and a variety of race boats, showcasing the elegance and power of nautical engineering.
Event Timing
Coinciding with spring break, our festival marks the beginning of the boating season, attracting visitors from across the U.S., with representation from over 26 states.
Sponsorships and Support
Thanks to our corporate sponsors, we offer an extensive range of marine products, including both new and restored vintage boats.
The Sunnyland Chapter
As the largest chapter in the Antique and Classic Boat Society (ACBS), the Sunnyland Chapter represents Florida’s rich boating history. Our all-volunteer team ensures each year is more successful than the last.
A Journey Through Time and Locations
From its inception in Sanford, to Mount Dora, and now in Tavares for the past 14 years, our festival has become a historical event for the Sunnyland Chapter.
Join Us
We invite you to be part of this historical celebration. Join us for a memorable experience filled with fun in the sun at our 43rd anniversary show.
Wooton Park General Information:
Features
- Boat Ramp
- Boating
- Kayak Rentals
- Parking
- Pavilion Rentals
- Picnic Areas
- Picnic Shelter
- Playground
- Restrooms
- Swing Set
Amenities:
Provisions |
Information |
Park size | 6Â acre |
Park structures | Gazebos & Pavilion; Tavares Seaplane Base |
Swimming | Children’s Splash Park |
Picnic areas | Picnic Tables & BBQ Pit |
Activities | Playground (reconstruction July 5 2022 until early 2023); Boat Ramp; Fishing Pier; Seaplanes |
Parking | Lot and street parking |
Public Restrooms | Yes |
Water Access | Yes |
ADA Accessibility | Yes |
On-Site | Seaplane Rides, Prop Shop General Store |
Nearby | Walk to nearby restaurants and shops |