You'll be able to ride the tall ships on Lake Michigan when they return to Chicago this summer.

Tall Ships Chicago 2010 organizers said more than 20 tall ships from around the world will appear at the event, last held in 2006, including vessels from Canada, Germany and the Netherlands.

This year's event, Aug. 24-29, will for the first time allow the public to sail on some of the festival ships. Ticket purchase is required.

"Previously, the most they could do is board the ship and look around," said Jon Kaplan, director of public relations for the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority, which owns and manages Navy Pier. Four of the ships will offer 60- and 90-minute cruises, he said.

Mayor Richard Daley welcomed the return of the event during a news conference Friday at Navy Pier.

"This is really a celebration of our great history," Daley said.

Besides the sailing experience, a special program for students has been added to this year's event. Young people will have the opportunity to spend time on the ships to mingle with the crews and learn about sailing..

During the six-day event, there will also be a festival of international music, international food and nightly fireworks, Kaplan said.