FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – November 14, 2006
Media Contact:
Ann Sylvester - (312) 744-4306 - asylvester@cityofchicago.org
Veronica Resa -  (312) 744-5648 -  veronicaresa@cityofchicago.org     

The City of Chicago announces the return of the largest Tall Ships® festival in the Great Lakes, when more than 20 vessels sail into Chicago this summer for Tall Ships® Chicago 2006, August 3-9. The festival brings the vessels to the shores of Lake Michigan docking along the Chicago River, Navy Pier® and DuSable Harbor, providing a display that will be reminiscent of the majestic lakefront of the 1800's.

Tall Ships® Chicago 2006 celebrates Chicago's rich maritime history and new waterfront developments by bringing this spectacular array of ships to Chicago with its incomparable skyline as the backdrop. In 2003 nearly 2 million people participated in Tall Ships® Chicago.

On Thursday, August 3, the festival kicks off with a breathtaking Parade of Sail, culminating in the ships docking in the three festival sites. Beginning Friday, August 4 through Wednesday, August 9, festival attendees will have the opportunity to board vessels to learn about the ships and experience the sailing life (vessels remain docked). Festival grounds are free admission and boarding passes will be available for sale in advance of the event or at the festival grounds.

New this year, sailing enthusiasts will have an opportunity to purchase tickets for a "Sail Away," aboard selected vessels. Trips sailing in Lake Michigan will feature educational and entertaining rides, offering unique views of the city's skyline and fun for the entire family to enjoy.

“This festival has been the most anticipated since its successful run in 2003. It provides a wonderful opportunity for Chicagoans and visitors to experience these magnificent vessels up close,” said Jim Law, executive director of the Mayor's Office of Special Events. “Activities include ship boarding, a spectacular parade of sail, entertainment and fireworks, making the city's lakefront and river a prime destination during Tall Ships® Chicago 2006.”

Tall Ships® Chicago 2006 is part of the American Sail Training Association's (ASTA) TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE® 2006 Great Lakes, an annual series of sail training races, rallies, cruises and port festivals organized by ASTA in conjunction with host ports in the U.S. and Canada. During the 2006 TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE®, wind-powered ships will make their way along the St. Lawrence Seaway and stop at different ports along their way to Chicago's festival stop. Other festival stops include Cleveland, Ohio; Bay City, Michigan; Chicago,Illinois; and Green Bay, Wisconsin.

Tall Ships® Chicago 2006 is presented by The City of Chicago, Navy Pier and the Chicago Park District. For more information on Tall Ships Chicago® 2006 visit www.tallshipschicago.net or call (312) 744-3315 .