May 18 & 19, 2024
Celebrate NY's canal heritage in Waterford, NY
Saturday, 10AM to 6PM
Sunday 10AM to 3PM
Join us for Waterford Canal Festival Festival!
Walking Tour of the Champlain Canalway
When: Saturday, May 18th, 10:00 AM - Noon
Where: Lock E2 Park
Details:Discover the history and beauty of the Champlain Canalway on this free guided tour.
Face Painting at Lock 2
When: Saturday, May 18th & Sunday, May 19th, 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Details: Enjoy free face painting for kids and adults alike at Lock 2.
Paddle around Peebles Island
When: Sunday, May 19th, 2024, 1:00 PM
Cost:$20/person (registration required at Upstate Kayak Rentals)
Details:Explore the scenic beauty of Peebles Island from the water. Kayak rental available.
Bounce House Fun
When: Saturday, May 18th (10:00 AM - 6:00 PM) & Sunday, May 19th (10:00 AM - 3:00 PM)
Details: Let your kids jump and play for free in our bounce house at Lock 2.
Kid's Fishing Clinic
When: Saturday, May 18th (10:00 AM - 4:00 PM) & Sunday, May 19th (10:00 AM - 2:00 PM)
Where: Peebles Island
Details: Join us for a free fishing clinic. Poles, bait, and expert instruction provided.
Paddle the Flight
When: Saturday, May 18th, 10:00 AM
Where: Starts at Lock 6
Cost: $45 (registration required with Upstate Kayak Rentals)
Details:Experience the thrill of paddling through the locks. Equipment provided.
Boat Rides
When: Saturday, May 18th (10:00 AM - 6:00 PM) & Sunday, May 19th (10:00 AM - 3:00 PM)
Where: Front of the visitor center or at Lock 2
Details: Enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the canal. Free for all visitors.
Champlain Canalway Trail Family Bicycle Celebration
When: Sunday, May 19th, 2024, 10:00 AM - Noon
Where: Lock 2, Champlain Canalway Trail
Details: Join us for a family-friendly bike ride with a midway stop at Upper Newtown Road.
Children’s Bicycle Safety Rodeo
When: Sunday, May 19th, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Details: A fun and educational event for young cyclists (ages 4-12). Bring your own bike.
Our Partners and Sponsors
About Us
The Waterford Canal Festival is a yearly celebration that takes place in May in the Village of Waterford, NY. The festival marks the opening of the NYS canal season. The event features various activities, including a vendors, live music, delicious food, and much more. Visitors can take stroll along in canal, take part in tours, and witness the impressive workings of the locks in operation. Children's activities, such as face painting and bounce houses, are also available to entertain the little ones. The festival provides an excellent opportunity to explore the Waterford's rich history and enjoy a fun-filled day with family and friends while celebrating the canal's important role in the region's history.
Getting there
By car
Use the address 1 Tugboat Alley, Waterford, NY 12188 to get directions to the festival.
The Waterford Canal Festival takes place along a quarter mile of the Erie Canal and at Lock E2 Park. The address of the festival will take you to the Hurst Harbor Center at the heart of the festival. Please note that this is a residential area and be respectful of homes and driveways. If you choose to find parking closer to the festival, typically there are more spaces available north of Broad St, and then short walk south to the festival.
By bus
The CDTA bus route 923 will take you to Broad Street in Waterford just two blocks north of the festival. Exit the bus anywhere along Broad St, and walk south (left when coming from Troy) to the Erie Canal.
By Boat
From the the north, proceed south on the Champlain Canal.
From the south, proceed north on the Hudson River.
From the west, proceed east on the Erie Canal.
Dock space is first come first serve.