Summer 2025

Celebrate The Erie Canal Bicentennial

In 2025, the city of Lockport, New York will commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Erie Canal, a landmark event that marks two centuries of rich history and cultural significance. This milestone is especially meaningful for Lockport, home to the iconic Lock 34 and 35 and the renowned Flight of Five. The planning committee, comprised of dedicated community members and local leaders, is hard at work organizing a series of events to celebrate this bicentennial. These events will not only honor the canal's historical impact but also shine a light on Lockport's pivotal role in the development and success of this vital waterway.

As we approach this momentous occasion, excitement is building throughout the community. The bicentennial celebration promises to be a vibrant and engaging showcase of Lockport's heritage, featuring a range of activities and events designed to bring the past to life.

Join our email list below for updates on upcoming events and join us in celebrating the remarkable history and enduring legacy of the Erie Canal in Lockport.

Upcoming events

  • Now - Sept. 28th

    Get your Bicentennial Savings Pass for special deals in Lockport, NY! Pick up at the Erie Canal Discovery Center and Lockport Community Farmers Market.

  • Tuesday, August 5th: 11AM & 2PM

    FREE Summer Movie Series

    Enjoy a free showing of A Minecraft Movie at the Historic Palace Theatre, sponsored by the Erie Canal Bicentennial Committee.

  • Saturday, August 9th: 9AM to 2PM

    Visit the Bicentennial Table at the Lockport Community Farmers Market to shop merch and get your Bicentennial Savings Pass. Enjoy LHDC Flight of Five Lock Demonstrations from 11AM to 1PM.

  • Sunday, August 10th: 11AM-4PM

    Stop by LKPT Food Fest on Main Street in the City of Lockport to enjoy delicious food, local vendors, a beer tent, live music, a kids zone, and more!

  • Tuesday, August 12th: 11AM & 2PM

    FREE Summer Movie Series

    Enjoy a free showing of Moana 2 at the Historic Palace Theatre, sponsored by the Erie Canal Bicentennial Committee.

  • Saturday, August 16th: 10am to 4pm

    Erie Canal Family Fun Day at the Niagara History Center.

    Enjoy a fun filled day at the Niagara History Center with Erie Canal themed activities for youth to celebrate the Erie Canal’s Bicentennial year!

  • Saturday, August 23rd: 9AM to 2PM

    Visit the Bicentennial Table at the Lockport Community Farmers Market to shop merch and get your Bicentennial Savings Pass. Enjoy LHDC Flight of Five Lock Demonstrations from 11AM to 1PM.

  • Saturday, Sept 13th: 10am-10:30pm; Sunday, Sept 14th: 10am-6:30pm

    24th Niagara Celtic Heritage Festival & Highland Games

    Enjoy a day celebrating the Celtic Heritage with live music, Highland Games, a Haggis Eating Competition, and so much more! Located at the Niagara County Fairgrounds, 4487 Lake Ave, Lockport.

  • Sunday, September 21st: 2PM-4PM

    Opening reception for the Erie Canal Celebration in the Kenan Center Art Gallery.

  • Monday, Sept 22nd: 5:30PM-8:30PM

    Erie Canal Bicentennial Cruise Night at Ida Fritz Park featuring classic cars, food vendors, and live music!

  • Tuesday, Sept 23rd

    Community Day at the Historic Palace Theatre. Enjoy free movies! More details coming soon.

  • Wednesday, Sept 24th: 5PM-8PM

    Rock the Locks, 5 PM: Arrival of Seneca Chief; 5PM-8PM: Rock the Locks, hosted by Stooges and The Lock Tender , on the Pine Street Bridge.

    Welcome and tour the Seneca Chief and enjoy 7:30 PM fireworks presentation, courtesy of Lockport Erie Canal Bicentennial Committee.

  • Thursday, Sept 25th: 730PM

    Cornerstone Community Federal Credit Union presents the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra at the Historic Palace Theatre.

    This special concert promises an unforgettable evening of music, community, and history as we honor 200 years of Lockport’s rich heritage.

  • Friday, September 26th: 7PM

    Enjoy the World Premier of America’s Stairway at the Historic Palace Theatre.

    Tickets can be purchased for just $5 at Mills Jewelers and the Palace Theatre Box Office. Enjoy this masterpiece on the big screen!

  • Saturday, September 27th: 10am to 5pm

    12th Annual Locktoberfest Celebration!

    Don’t miss Locktoberfest on Canal Street in Lockport! Enjoy delicious food, live music, 55+ local vendors, Flight of Five demonstrations, and more!

Find more local events by checking out our Events Calander!

Plan your trip and explore the City!

  • Explore the Locks

    Did you know that Lockport is the only place in the country where you can see 19th Century Erie Canal Locks located alongside modern-day Locks, which are currently part of an actively operating canal system?

  • Grab a bite to Eat

    Lockport has a rich diversity of dining establishments to please all visitors. From fine dining to family-style, to coffee and ice cream shops, many appealing offerings await.

  • Local Shopping

    Shop our charming downtown for clothing, music, gifts, home decor, jewelry, comics, toys, antiques, and more.

  • Arts and Culture

    Explore the City of Lockport’s rich history inlcuding a 100 year old theatre, 1850’s Italianate-style mansion and so much more!

  • Entertainment

    Attractions are plentiful in Lockport. Catch a movie under the stars at our drive-in. Go bowling or skating. Check out the many shops around town. There’s always something fun to do here!

  • Salons, Barbershops, and Spas

    Keep up on your health and beauty while your in the City!

  • Sports and Recreation

    Explore the outdoors on the orginal Towpath of the Erie Canal, hit the golf green, or enjoy a senic park. There is so much to do!