The Buffalo Maritime Center is proud to announce the launch of the “Erie Canal Boat Summer Series” - an exciting lineup of events celebrating the Erie Canal Bicentennial. Sponsored by Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation and in partnership with the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park, visitors are welcome to enjoy dockside demonstrations, hands-on activities, panel discussions, and more - FREE to the public and open to all. Stay tuned to this page for more information!
Saturday, July 12 | 11AM - 2PM
Dockside Demonstrations
Commercial Slip | 44 Prime St. Buffalo, NY 14202
Dockside Demonstrations is a hands-on celebration of traditional crafts inspired by the Erie Canal Boat Seneca Chief boatbuilding project. July's featured demonstrators include Stitch Buffalo making jump ropes, Lew’s Canoes steam bending wood for canoe construction, Samantha Jacobs showcasing raised beadwork, Jonathan Thornton creating handmade cordage, and Kyle Taylor demonstrating sailor’s fancywork knotting techniques.
Upcoming demonstrations may include rope-making, wood-carving, highlights from the BMC machine shop, draft horses and more!
This all-ages event is non-ticketed and free to the public. Schedule is subject to change due to weather and other conditions..
Friday, July 18 | 3PM - 7PM + Saturday, July 19 | 11AM - 3PM
Canal Fest 2025
Waters Edge | 24 E Niagara Street, Tonawanda, NY 14150
From July 18-19, the Erie Canal Boat Seneca Chief will leave the Commercial Slip to join Canal Fest of the Tonawandas. Come aboard, explore the boat, and celebrate canal heritage with us on Friday and Saturday! The boat will be docked in front of the Long Homestead Historical Museum.
This all-ages event is non-ticketed and free to the public. Schedule is subject to change due to weather and other conditions.