40th Annual Waterford Canal Festival at 1 Tugboat Alley

The initial celebration of the 201st opening of the NYS Canal Season begins at the confluence of the Mohawk and Hudson Rivers, the Erie Canal's Lock E2 on Friday morning, May 15, 2026. Many dignitaries are expected to attend as the Canal System opens its third century, along with a showing of the Albany Symphony Orchestra. Many water travelers await to enter the canal system on their travels ... from yachts, to motor boats, to tug boats, to canoes, to kayaks ... all boaters welcome!

Plan to stay the night, or come back and join us on Saturday, May 16, 2026 between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM for the 40th Annual Waterford Canal Festival! The festival draws thousands of residents, visitors and tourists to our historic waterfront, not only to shop, enjoy the views and let the children play; but to preserve our local history and pride. The festival provides an excellent opportunity to explore the Waterford Canal System’s rich history, while enjoying a fun-filled day with family and friends.

Last year’s canal experience was highlighted by the observance of its Bicentennial year. But perhaps the most significant and memorable of its many planned events is the Buffalo Maritime Center's presentation of its hand-built replica of the Erie Canalboat 'Seneca Chief', the first canalboat to navigate the Erie Canal from Buffalo to New York City in 1825. The 'Seneca Chief' completed the trip of its namesake in October and spent the Winter in Waterford. It is expected it will make its return trip to Buffalo, pulled by tugboat, after the canal opens this year. The Seneca Chief will be on display and available for boarding and interpretation both Friday during the opening of the Canal on May 15, and Saturday, May 16 during the festival. You're going to want to see this!

You can also enjoy LIVE music, a LIVE DJ (with giveaways), historical tours, boating, bicycling; as well as our children’s bounce house, obstacle course, face painting and more fun for the whole family. You can even get grab your cell phone and get your family photo in the decorated area up on Lock E2 with the canal as your backdrop! Or, have it taken by the professional thereby and have it placed on a gift item for Father's Day! And of course, we have our delicious food and beverage, artisan, craftsmen and tradesmen vendor provisions, and so much more. Visitors can take a stroll on the promenade along the canal, go for a boat/bike ride, take part in one of the historical tours and witness the impressive workings of the locks system in operation.

Always a beautiful way to spend the day outdoors, with beautiful views, eagle play and family fun! We hope to see you there!

Time: 10:00 - 18:00