Tonawanda Cuts Canal Fest to Six Days Amid Cost and Security Concerns

NORTH TONAWANDA, N.Y. – The City of Tonawanda Common Council voted Tuesday night to shorten its portion of the annual Canal Fest from eight to six days, citing concerns over financing, security, and shared responsibilities. The decision means Canal Fest will now run from July 15-20 in Tonawanda, while its co-host, the City of North Tonawanda, will maintain an eight-day schedule from July 13-20.

The move resolves a period of uncertainty for the four-decade-old festival in Tonawanda. Last year, the council had approved only a one-year agreement by a narrow 3-2 vote, unlike North Tonawanda, which has a contract with the festival through 2026.

Tonawanda Mayor John White highlighted increased operational costs as a significant factor in the council's decision. "We don’t have a big police force," White stated. "We’re half the size of North Tonawanda and our budget is a lot smaller and it costs us a lot to protect our people and the people who come to Canal Fest and for the officers that work it."

First Ward Council Member James Shiesley voiced a stronger stance against the festival, suggesting it has "run its course" and burdens taxpayers. "It’s just something that — costing us money, costing us aggravation, we don’t have the police at this time," Shiesley commented during the meeting. "It’s something that I believe we can live without."

However, Second Ward Council Member Christopher Fisher viewed the change as a "great compromise," advocating for continuous improvement and adjustment rather than outright cancellation of the popular event.

Despite the challenges, Mayor White expressed his enduring support for the festival. "I love Canal Fest. I think it’s a great event," White remarked. "How can I not like 150,000 people coming to our city? It’s exciting because I get to show them what we’re about and living on three waterways — it’s just beautiful, beautiful location."

Canal Fest, which first launched in 1983, has been a summer staple, bringing a variety of festivities to residents and visitors annually. In North Tonawanda, Mayor Austin Tylec confirmed that his city would continue to coordinate with Tonawanda to ensure the festival remains a safe and enjoyable experience for all.