Issued: 07-01-23 (7:45 AM) Veterans Cruise and Boat Parade Weather Update via the Madam Carroll Operations Team:

With the current forecast we will be taking the opening veterans’ ceremonies inside the Madam Carroll Lounge as opposed to our dock. The Madam Carroll will stay dockside until the weather passes, which we estimate to be approximately 11:00 AM. At which point we will make our way to the Oakdale Dam and begin the boat parade at 12:30 PM (1.5) hours later than originally scheduled. Should the weather continue and inhibit us from safely cruising to the above timeline, we will post status updates immediately to this page. Please spread the word!

The 2023 Lake Freeman Boat Parade, Veterans Cruise and Firework show will take place on Saturday, July 1st. A full outline of events is listed below along with registration information. Members of the Media wishing to cover this event should contact Matt McKean at 574-581-1131.

If you are looking for more information on the Fireworks show later in the evening, you can read more about the Madam Carroll Firework Cruise by clicking here.

Schedule of Events

8:15 AM – Boarding Begins for Veterans at the Madam Carroll Dock
9:20 AM – Opening Ceremony
9:30 AM – Departure of the Madam Carroll from Dock
10:30 AM – Boat Parade Line Up at Oakdale Dam
11:00 AM – Boat Parade Begins, Following the Madam Carroll

The parade route will run the length of the Lake from Oakdale Dam to Luse Bridge, with the Finish and Boat Decoration Judging being on the Deck of the Sportman Inn Restaurant.

12:20 PM – Madam Carroll Returns to Dock
12:30 PM1:00 PM – Boat Decoration Judging being on the Deck of the Sportsman

Registering a Vessel and Participating in the Boat Parade

The Boat Parade will be open to any person or group with a water vessel, and we encourage everyone on the water or in the surrounding areas to come out, decorate your craft, ride along or watch. All are welcome to participate in the Boat Parade.

If you wish to be judged on your Boat’s Decoration, you will have to register in advance, or on the morning of the Parade (with an official stationed at the Oakdale Dam) from 9:30-10:30 am. Registration is free of charge. All are welcomed to visit the Sportsmann, Kopacetic, or Oakdale Dam Inn before, during, or after the parade. If you have any issues registering, you may call 574-581-1131.

Lake Freeman Boat Parade

Register for the Lake Freeman Boat Parade by completing this form. Registration ends 24 hours prior to the event.

  • We will be assigning you with a boat number for the parade. Would you like to be called, emailed, or texted this information?
  • By confirmed my response and entry below, I agree for myself, and anyone on my boat to assume all risks of injuries or loss arising out of my participation in the activities related to the 2022 Boat Parade. I agree to abide by all City codes and water safety rules as they apply to boating.

Registering Veterans to Ride on the Madam Carroll

We are inviting Veterans of our community to participate in the Lake Freeman Independence Day Boat Parade by riding along as a guest on the Madam Carroll. Use the form below to register yourself or a veteran for the cruise. Anyone can help our veterans by filling out the form below on their behalf.

Spaces are limited to veterans and their guest and it is first come first serve. Drinks will be available for purchase in the Luse Lounge and music will be played throughout the cruise. If you have any issues registering, you may call 574-581-1131.