SANDPOINT — The community is invited to join the Inland Empire Chapter of the Antique and Classic Boat Society this weekend as the group's annual boat show comes to town.

Held today through Sunday at the Sandpoint City Boardwalk, the family friendly event features dozens of restored antique and classic boats.  

The occasion commences with a boat launch and moorage from noon to 5:30 p.m. Friday, with the main boat show taking place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. Towards the latter part of the boat show, a boat parade featuring antique vessels will travel up Sand Creek, offering viewers the opportunity to admire antique craftmanship.   

An award dinner will transpire Saturday evening from 6:30-9:30 p.m.

On Sunday, a boat and float will conclude the weekend.  

Throughout the event, a variety of activities will be available for kids, including the chance to build their own miniature wooden boat during the boat show Saturday.

Now in its 23rd year, the show is hosted by the Inland Empire Chapter of the ACBS, the show attracts not only boats from throughout the region but often from throughout the country. Nationally, the society has upward of 8,000 members. The show typically attracts participants from a half-dozen other chapters or more.

Boat show officials said they appreciate the community's boating coating allowing the show to take over the boardwalk for the weekend. Inspired by the hospitality, Robson said chapter members love to share classic wooden boats that are an average of 65 years old, with most being of unique wood construction.

Over the years, the show has seen entries from just about everywhere and featured everything from international show winners to everyday boats to boats made of different materials.