News
April 13, 2016Canal Events on Tap for 2016
The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor and the New York State Canal Corporation have teamed up to sponsor 28 festivals and events in 2016 to showcase the Canalway Corridor’s nationally significant heritage and the tremendous recreational appeal of the waterway and trails today. Events include cycling and paddling tours, canal festivals, and concerts at the waterfront. The canal system is scheduled to open May 1, weather permitting.
“We are proud to partner with communities and organizations to ensure a lively and fun season along the canal,” said Bob Radliff, Executive Director of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor. “Starting in May and going right through the fall, these events offer great ways for people to explore and enjoy the canal.”
Events are a significant contributor to the $380 million in economic impact generated annually by canal-related tourism. Erie Canalway and NYS Canal Corporation’s investment in event sponsorships is expected to be matched nearly 10:1 by local sponsors and attract 64,000 people. Sponsored events are just a few of the more than 400 events that take place each year along New York’s canals.
“We are pleased to once again support a wonderful season of local events along the canal system,” said Canal Corporation Director Brian U. Stratton. “The world-class festivals and sporting events held on the canals attract thousands of visitors to upstate New York and are a boon to local economies. From mariners and cyclists, to food and wine enthusiasts, there is something for everyone to enjoy this season.”
This year’s event highlights include: Low Bridge, High Water- a canal opening celebration in Brockport in May, the Little Falls Cheese Festival in June, Canal Days at Schoharie Crossing SHS in July, Towpath Day in Camillus in August, and the Waterford Tugboat Roundup in September.
