There are two stories my dad always tells when the subject of boats comes up. One involves the time he ate beer and eggs for breakfast, got on a boat and promptly barfed, while the second recalls the incident in which he launched himself, my mother and my toddler self out into a lake, only to realize the boat's brand-new engine wouldn't start. The swim back to shore didn't cool his temper, and the boat was promptly sold. Dad swore he'd never buy a boat again, and for years has kept his promise. But a trip to the Dallas Summer Boat Show and Sale might weaken his resolve. Area dealers are setting up shop at Market Hall to show and sell several types of watercraft (and I'm not talking about rowboats). Whether you're into wakeboarding, sailing, fishing or simply relaxing on the water, you'll surely find something to drool over. The show opens this weekend at Market Hall, 2200 Stemmons Freeway, and continues next weekend, July 23 through 25. Hours are 3 to 9 p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays. Tickets are $10, or $5 for kids 13 and younger. For tickets and more information, visit dallasboatshow.net.
Fridays, 3-9 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sundays, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Starts: July 16. Continues through July 25, 2010