DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — Just days away from the Hardy's Race for the Lake, businesses across the city and surrounding towns are gearing up for the big weekend.

Last year, The Beach House was closed during the races. But new owner Todd Parker said they'll be staying open throughout the competition. "It was a time honored tradition, and we lost the boat races for many, many years. So to get them back, we want them to really feel like they have a reason to stay here and be here always." Parker said.

The Decatur Mt. Zion Hampton Inn is sold out in preparation for the weekend, with more reservations booked than last year. Director of Sales Mae Appelhans said rooms went fast. "We sell out pretty much regularly, but this particular weekend sold out pretty quickly. We had people calling once they found out the races were here, calling pretty much right away to get their reservations. And so we've been sold out for a while," Appelhans said. 

There are still reservations available at the Beach House, and there are rooms at The Hampton Inn on select days. 

Copyright 2025. WANDTV. All Rights Reserved.