Surprise! Canal Fest Of The Tonawandas Is Back On (Again)

It’s a little late for April Fools, Canal Fest!

Western New York was very close to going two years in a row without hosting the popular Canal Fest of the Tonawandas. 

Organizers of the 8-day event, which usually takes place in the third week of July, revealed last month that they wouldn’t be holding the festival this year in order to “rebrand and restructure” for next year.

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A press release from the organizers also stated that “exciting new events, attractions, and entertainment plans” were being made to prepare for the festival’s 2024 return.

CanalFest in the Tonawandas cancelled this year, will return for it’s “40th” next year
by u/Billy_Chaos in Buffalo

It’s unknown why this summer’s Canal Fest was called off, but budgetary issues and a lack of vendors led to the event also not taking place in 2022. 

News of the festival’s cancellation disappointed many Western New Yorkers, but now it looks like they have something to celebrate heading into the weekend. 

Canal Fest of the Tonawandas Back For 2023 (Again)

We’re not sure what happened, but it looks like the organizers of Canal Fest got it together, officially making this year’s festival a “go.”

When you click through to their website, displayed on the home page in giant letters is

“...And Yes, Facebook Fans We’re Back! Stay Tuned For More Details Soon!”

They put the same message, along with the original dates of July 16th - 23rd, on their Facebook page.

They have since removed the original cancellation announcement from their Facebook feed. 

This year will mark the 40th Canal Fest, so we’re likely to see many celebrations and special events to mark this milestone. 

Let the people watching begin!