By Dave Warner
LITTLE FALLS, NY – The second day of the 38th Annual Canal Celebration in Little Falls, New York, unfolded yesterday with a vibrant array of events that blended historical reverence, community dedications, and outdoor excitement, drawing residents and visitors alike to honor the city’s deep ties to the Erie Canal.
The Canal Celebration, now in its 38th year, commemorates Little Falls’ pivotal role in the Erie Canal’s history, especially poignant this year as it coincides with the Erie Canal Bicentennial. What began as a local festival has evolved into a five-day extravaganza from August 6 to 10, emphasizing free and low-cost family-friendly activities amid rising costs for larger-scale events.
Organized by a dedicated committee with fresh ideas, the celebration features new twists like a rock climbing wall, an expanded Foam Fest, and a non-competitive bicycle ride along the Empire State Trail, all supported by community sponsors including Holy Family Parish, Rotary, the Youth and Family Center, and local businesses.
The full schedule includes parades, races, music performances, historical tours, and fireworks, creating opportunities for all ages to engage with the canal’s legacy and the community’s spirit.
Yesterday’s highlights kicked off with the dedication of the new Buttermilk Falls Park, marked by a ceremonial ribbon cutting that celebrated the area’s natural beauty and recreational potential. This was followed by the African American sign dedication, a poignant moment honoring the city’s diverse history.
The Little Falls Historical Society then led a moving reading of the names of the 81 individuals buried in the Church Street Cemetery, fostering reflection on the community’s past.
The day continued with the beloved “Big Kids” adult fishing derby at Rotary Park and Canal Harbor, a staple of the celebration for nearly three decades.
More than 50 local anglers vied for cash prizes while casting lines into the waters between locks 17 and 18 on the Mohawk River.
The event showcased a variety of species, including smallmouth bass, walleye, perch, northern pike, rock bass, carp, and sheepshead, all displayed for spectators before being released back into the river.
Young aspiring anglers received hands-on education about the fish from Amanda Talaba, a Cornell graduate and passionate fisher. All participants walked away with door prizes, courtesy of longtime sponsor Feldmeier Equipment.
Individual winners in the derby included:
Smallmouth Bass: 3.0 lbs. – Josh Talbot
Walleye: 2.65 lbs. – Jim Smith
Perch: 0.59 lbs. – Michelle Gressler
Northern Pike: 2.5 lbs. – Tom Coughlin
Rock Bass: 0.65 lbs. – Chad Salls
Carp: 1.3 lbs. – Ron Gorski
Sheepshead: 3.2 lbs. – Ron Gordon
The derby owed its success to volunteers Pat Talaba, Michael Farber, John Kilmacek, Amanda Talaba, and Sharon Mumford, whose efforts ensured a smooth and enjoyable experience for all.
Adding to the festivities, the Cruise Inn Car Show brought classic vehicles to the forefront, with the Happy Haggs dance troupe and Shriners on site, entertaining crowds and enhancing the celebratory atmosphere.
As the Canal Celebration continues today with events like the parade at 6 p.m., 3-on-3 basketball tournament, and more, the community looks forward to building on yesterday’s momentum.
For the complete schedule and updates, visit the official Canal Celebration Facebook page or mylittlefalls.com.
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