MADISON, Wis. -- Residents can now add Venetian Boat Parade to their list of annual things to do on Labor Day weekend in Madison.

The first-time event was such a success on Sunday night that organizers said tha they're already beginning to plan for next year's parade.

Thousands of people lined the shores around Lake Mendota to enjoy the lighted line of boats parade past.

"Thirty boats are coming," said watcher Barbara Farley. "That's really beautiful. It's just wonderful."

The flotilla was sponsored by Dane Buy Local.

"Growing our local economy is what Dane Buy Local is all about," said organizer Kelly Starr-King. "Hopefully it will help bring people in from all over the place."

Boat owners Trisha and Ed Ornes said that they were happy to participate.

"I thought it was exciting, I think it's a really neat thing because so much of Madison is the lakes," said Trisha Ornes.

Dane Buy Local members sponsored boats. A type of atypical advertising, but one that helped spread the word.

"I think a lot of times people do think, when they think about going to restaurants and local stores, but there are so many other service industries that are local, that are very important," said King.

As the message sailed into the distance -- so did that last blast of summer.

"This is so cool," said Farley.

The money from the event will be split between Dane Buy Local and the Clean Lakes Alliance.