EVENTS AT
OLD CANAL DAYS
LOCKPORT, IL
JUNE 11-14, 2026
Old Canal Days fills Lockport with one of the region’s most beloved annual community events, bringing families, visitors, and local businesses together for a weekend of celebration, live entertainment, and activities. From classic carnival rides to the artisan market and Friday night parade, this festival transforms the city into a lively destination filled with food, music, art, tours, and special events that everyone can enjoy.
Use this overview to explore what’s happening throughout the festival—and click into each page for full event information, schedules, and highlights.
A Summer Tradition Among Illinois Events
As one of the standout Illinois events each year, Old Canal Days brings together the history of a historic canal city, the energy of a summer festival, and the charm of a small-town celebration. Whether you’re visiting from Lockport, traveling from Chicago, or planning a family trip to explore local culture, this event offers something fun and memorable for everyone.
Celebrate the season with a weekend full of:
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Live music and entertainment
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Family-friendly activities
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Local food and artisan vendors
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Carnival rides
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Historic tours
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Friday parade and Sunday fireworks show
Old Canal Days is a highlight on the event calendar for residents and visitors across the state—an outdoor celebration of summer, community, and canal heritage.
Explore Festival Events
Parade
Kick off the festival weekend with the Old Canal Days Parade, a centerpiece of this community celebration. Floats, marching bands, local groups, dancers, and classic cars take over State Street and downtown, delivering a festive start to the weekend.
Festival Schedule
Plan your festival experience with our detailed schedule outlining Friday, Saturday, and Sunday events. Discover everything happening across Main Street, the market, the carnival, and Canal Park—from morning activities to nighttime entertainment.
Carnival Rides & Midway
Enjoy all the excitement of a summer carnival—thrill rides, family attractions, midway games, and evening lights. Our carnival, presented by North American Midway Entertainment, is one of the festival’s favorite family activities, drawing visitors from Lockport and nearby Chicago suburbs.
Artisan Market & Craft Vendors
Stroll through our open-air artisan market, where local creators, artists, makers, and small businesses showcase their work. You’ll find handmade goods, boutique items, home décor, artwork, and unique festival favorites. It’s a lively spot to shop, explore, and enjoy the creative spirit of the community.
Food & Beverage
Taste the flavors of summer with festival classics, food trucks, sweet treats, and local favorites. Whether you’re grabbing lunch on the go or enjoying an evening snack with friends, the food & beverage experience offers something delicious for every palate. Don’t miss the beer tent, wine selections, or family-friendly drink stations.
Main Stage & Live Entertainment
Experience the energy of live music throughout the weekend. The main stage features local bands, regional performers, and evening concerts that bring the festival to life. From Friday night to Sunday afternoon, enjoy performances that highlight the vibrant arts and cultural scene of the area.
Festival Attractions
From petting zoos and historic tours to canal experiences, trolley rides, caricature artists, and the Sunday night fireworks show, festival attractions add something special to each festival day. These activities create fun moments for kids and adults alike, turning Old Canal Days into a destination worth visiting year after year.