Home / Arts and Entertainment / Canal Fest Relocates to Gratwick Park Amid Council Budget Dispute
Canal Fest Relocates to Gratwick Park Amid Council Budget Dispute
18 Jul
Summary
- The Canal Fest is moving to Gratwick Park due to a cost agreement dispute.
- The festival will feature traditional events like car cruises and a laser show.
- Over 100,000 attendees are expected over the eight days of the festival.
The Canal Fest of the Tonawandas will take place in North Tonawanda's Gratwick Park this year, a departure from its usual locations. Organizers could not reach a cost-covering agreement with the Tonawanda Common Council, prompting the move. The festival, a tradition spanning over four decades, is scheduled to commence on Sunday and continue through July 26.
Despite the venue change, traditional favorites such as the car cruise, bike cruise, amusement rides, arts and crafts, diaper derby, and chainsaw wood carving will be present. This year, a laser show will illuminate the sky on Thursday evening, substituting the typical fireworks display. Canal Festimpics events are scheduled from July 20-24 at Wurlitzer Park.
Organizers estimate an attendance of over 100,000 people throughout the festival's eight days, contingent on favorable weather. They advise attendees to prepare for the elements, recommending hats, umbrellas, lawn chairs, and sunscreen, as Gratwick Park offers limited shade. The event aims to support participating nonprofit organizations, with no one receiving payment for their involvement.
