VOLUNTEER AT
OLD CANAL DAYS
LOCKPORT, IL
JUNE 11-14, 2026
LOCKPORT, IL
JUNE 11-14, 2026
Get Involved with Old Canal Days
Each year, Old Canal Days is made possible thanks to the incredible support of community members who generously give their time to help keep the festival running smoothly. Volunteering at Old Canal Days is a fun, rewarding way to get involved, meet neighbors, support local traditions, and play an important role in one of the most beloved Illinois fairs.
While many people search for fair jobs during the festival season, our volunteer opportunities offer a way to experience this same level of involvement while giving back to the community. Volunteers help welcome visitors, support festival zones, assist with attractions, and ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience throughout the weekend.
The Lockport Chamber of Commerce is continuing its Volunteers for Tips program — a group volunteer opportunity where eligible organizations can volunteer in the Old Canal Days Beer Garden and receive a share of the Beer Garden tip jar proceeds from the festival weekend.
Whether you’re a student seeking service hours, a local resident wanting to give back, or an organization interested in our Volunteers for Tips Beer Garden program, we’d love to have you join our volunteer team.
Volunteer Roles
Stay tuned! More info coming soon.
Volunteers for Tips Program
The Lockport Chamber of Commerce’s Volunteers for Tips program is a group volunteer opportunity during Old Canal Days (June 11–14, 2026) where eligible organizations volunteer in the Beer Garden and receive a share of the weekend’s tip jar proceeds.
The first four eligible groups to commit a minimum of five volunteers (with each volunteer working a 4 to 4.5 hour shift) will each receive one-quarter (1/4) of the total Beer Garden tip jar proceeds collected during the festival weekend. Selected groups may also display signage in the Beer Garden to help encourage tips, and each organization should plan to provide a plastic tip jar and signage for use throughout the weekend.
Beer Garden volunteer shifts are available during the following timeframes:
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Friday, June 12: 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM
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Saturday, June 13: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM or 7:30 PM – 11:30 PM
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Sunday, June 14: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM or 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Because this program is scheduled by organization, groups are responsible for ensuring all volunteer slots are covered. If a volunteer cannot fulfill their shift, the organization must provide a replacement and notify the volunteer coordinator.
For eligibility requirements, deadlines, selection details, and how to sign up, please complete the registration form below (all program details are included in the form).
Why Volunteer at Old Canal Days?
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Be part of a cherished Lockport tradition
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Make new connections within the community
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Support organizers, vendors, and guests
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Gain behind-the-scenes experience in festival operations
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Earn service hours (if applicable)
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Enjoy a fun, energetic atmosphere surrounded by music, food, and fair attractions
Opportunities are available across the festival grounds, including guest services, information booths, parade support, children’s activities, set-up assistance, and more.