OLD CANAL DAYS
Lockport’s Signature Summer Festival
LOCKPORT, IL
JUNE 11-14, 2026
LOCKPORT, IL
JUNE 11-14, 2026
Celebrate the spirit of Lockport at the Old Canal Days festival, a community celebration honoring our canal heritage along 2nd Street in Lockport, IL. This annual Old Canal Days event fills Main Street and the surrounding area with family entertainment, carnival rides, live music, artisan market vendors, festival food trucks, and canal-inspired experiences for all ages.
What Is Old Canal Days?
Old Canal Days is an annual festival presented with support from the Lockport Chamber of Commerce, celebrating the legacy of the Illinois & Michigan Canal and the community that grew along its banks.
This weekend event brings together local businesses, residents, and visitors from across the state to enjoy a lively mix of family fun, historic attractions, fair food, and live entertainment. From canal heritage tours to festival favorites like the carnival beer garden, there’s something for everyone throughout the weekend.
Whether you’re strolling the festival grounds along 2nd Street or exploring downtown’s canal-side attractions, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere filled with Lockport pride.
Festival Highlights
Discover the experiences that make Old Canal Days one of Illinois’s favorite summer festival features.
Parade
Kick off the weekend with the Old Canal Days parade, featuring community groups, decorated floats, marching bands, and local performers.
Carnival Rides & Games
Enjoy classic carnival rides, midway games, and evening attractions at this year’s carnival beer garden live area.
Old Canal Days partners with North American Midway Entertainment, one of North America’s premier midway providers, to bring thrilling rides and family favorites to Lockport.
Artisan Market & Craft Fair
Browse the artisan market, featuring art, craft vendors, handmade goods, and artisan market food trucks offering festival treats.
FOOD & BEVERAGE
Taste summer classics at the festival food vendors, from fairground staples to food trucks and wine tent favorites. Whether you want a quick snack or a stop at the beer garden, Old Canal Days has something delicious waiting at the food court area.
Festival Attractions
Explore special festival attractions including:
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Petting zoo
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Caricature artists
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Trolley tours
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Cemetery history tours
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Canal-inspired exhibits
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Family entertainment fireworks show
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Drone show
Main Stage & Live Music
Experience live music, evening concerts, and live entertainment from local and regional performers. The main stage becomes the heart of Lockport after dark with groups that bring energy to the entire festival area.
MEET OUR SPONSORS
2026 Sponsors
Entertainment
Parking
Events at a Glance
From Thursday evening through Sunday, the Old Canal Days festival fills downtown Lockport with weekend events designed for all ages.
Whether you come for a few hours or plan to enjoy all three days, the festival includes something special every day.
Thursday
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Drone show
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Friends with Disabilities
Friday
Parade
Rides
Food vendors
Beer garden open
Saturday
Artisan and craft market
Live music
Canal tour
Carnival attractions
Sunday
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Family fun day
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Festival attractions
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Fireworks show
Get Involved with Old Canal Days
Check out Old Canal Days from previous years
We are grateful for the incredible turnout and epic vibes.
