Description

Stretching 202 kilometers (125 miles) from Kingston to Ottawa, the 178-year-old Rideau Canal is one of North America’s most scenic waterways. It is also the continent’s longest, continuously operating canal, a National Historic Site, a Canadian Heritage River and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
 
When it comes to the Rideau Canal there’s plenty to cheer about. And you can do just that at Canalfest, Merrickville’s annual outdoor celebration of the Rideau Canal.

A weekend craft show and sale features a fine group of artisans and a wonderful, diverse display of hand-crafted works, including examples of how alpaca wool is used.

You can also enjoy: live music in Blockhouse Park every afternoon, and in local pubs and restaurants at night, a two-day silent auction, Lions barbecue, Rideau Nautical Modellers regatta of over 20 model boats in the Canal, Voyageur Canoe boat tours to Merrickville’s bird sanctuary, self-guided tours of the Blockhouse, and more.

Kids activities include the always popular Loonie Fishing Derby, on Saturday morning, and free face painting on Saturday and Sunday afternoon. And you can catch Merrickville’s own “Bug Lady” at Blockhouse Park throughout the long weekend.  
 
Once again, purchases you make at local shops and businesses during Canalfest can result in your winning great prizes from the Canalfest Treasure Chest.