Lake Macquarie City Council is calling on local boaties to help light up the lake for the event.

Council's arts, culture and tourism manager, Jacqui Hemsley, said more than 17,000 spectators lined the shore of Lake Macquarie over two nights last year to see a flotilla of illuminated vessels.

"We're calling on our boating community to join us to have some fun, dress up their boats with lights and take part in this fantastic event," Ms Hemsley said.

Thousands of dollars are up for grabs for the best boat over 10m, best boat over 5m, and the People's Choice Award.

"Last year we had more than 24 boats lit up as a mermaid, dolphins, turtles and even the Millennium Falcon from Star Wars," Ms Hemsley said.

"This year we want to see bigger and even more extravagant illumination displays and onshore performances."

Last year:

Float Your Boat is a popular family event, bringing people from across the region to the shores of the lake for an evening of fun, she said.

Participants will be in the running for cash prizes across three categories:

Applications are now open and registration is free.

Applicants can also register their interest in participating in a free four-hour marine sculpture workshop at Marmong Point Marina on Saturday, June 16, where participants will gain advice on how to make their illumination ideas a reality.

Float Your Boat will see illuminated boats parade along the western side of the lake on Friday, June 28, from 6pm to 9pm.

They will cruise the eastern side of the lake on the following evening, Saturday, June 29, also from 6pm to 9pm.

This event is sponsored by Marmong Point Marina, Belmont 16s and The Brighton.

For more information, visit lakemac.com.au/float-your-boat.

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