What to do at Lock 2…
The 40th Annual Waterford Canal Festival celebration will be atop and along the promenade of Lock 2 to the Battery …
Check out what we have in store for you…
Opening of the Locks
When: Friday, May 15, 2026, 8:00 AM
Where: Lock E2
Details: Prepare for NY boating travels, from yachts to kayaks, with the 201st opening of the Erie Canal lock system travel season at Lock 2. Then, stay and enjoy hearing from our dignitaries, political figures and sponsors, a tour of the Seneca Chief (historic replica of 1st boat to lock across state), followed by the Festival on May 16, 2026!
LIVE MUSIC
Opening Ceremony
When: Friday, May 15th, 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Where: Lock E2
Details: Come celebrate the locks 201st Anniversary with tours of the Seneca Chief, a historic replica of the original boat that crossed the State using the lock systems we celebrate.
Less Walking, More Talking Tour of the Champlain Canalway
When: Saturday, May 16th, 11:30 PM – 12:30 PM
Where: Lock E2 Park
Details: Discover the history and beauty of the Champlain Canalway on this FREE guided tour, hosted by Town of Waterford Historian, Russell Van Dervoort. Tour from Lock 2 to Old Champlain Canal Lock 5 and back.
Paddle the Flight (Erie Canal Waterford Flight)
When: Saturday, May 16th at 10:00 AM
Where: Starts at Lock 6 through Lock 2, ending at Peebles Island
Cost: $45/person (registration required only for those renting kayaks and gear with Upstate Kayak Rentals)
Details: Experience the thrill of paddling through the locks and explore the scenic beauty of the Erie Canal’s Waterford Flight.
Kayak rental available and equipment provided to those who register. This is a ONE WAY excursion and return transportation is not available. Please plan accordingly.
Lead by: Donna
Balloon Twisting at Lock 2
When: Saturdayday, May 16, 2026 (TIME TBD)
Where: Lock 2 (upper)
Details: Enjoy the balloon twisting stylings (balloonist TBD) and get your littles their FREE balloon animal (for kids up to age 14). Be sure to tip your artist!
Treasure Hunt by Kayak
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Where: Meet at the Waterford Boat Ramp by 1:45 PM Saturday
Cost: $25/person (registration required at Upstate Kayak Rentals)
Details: Paddle out to discover some hidden treasures
Lead by: Donna
Face Painting at Lock 2
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026, (TIME TBD)
Where: Lock 2 (upper)
Details: Get your littles face painted by (TBD) on Saturday for FREE! Be sure to tip your artist!
Bounce Around Fun
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Where: Lock 2 (upper)
Details: Let your kids jump and play for FREE in our bounce house at Lock 2.
Kid’s Fishing Clinic
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 (TBD)
Where: Peebles Island
Details: Join us for a FREE fishing clinic. Poles, bait and expert instruction provided.
Boat Rides
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 (10:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
Where: Front of the visitor center -and- at upper Lock 2
Details: Enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the canal. FREE for all visitors.
Champlain Canalway Trail Family Bicycle Celebration
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 (TIME TBD)
Where: Visitor’s Center (1 Tugboat Alley, Waterford NY) on the river side
Details: Join the Albany Bicycle Coalition for a family-friendly bike ride with a midway stop at Upper Newtown Road, ending back at the Visitor’s Center. Bring your own bike and helmet, as well as water to hydrate. Asphalt and stone dust terrain. Insurance Waivers will be required.
Waterford Canal Festival 