New York will be celebrating the 200th Anniversary of the iconic Erie Canal during a “bicentennial period” from 2017-2025, representing the span of construction of the Erie Canal, from the groundbreaking in Rome in 1817 to the fabled “Wedding of the Waters” in New York Harbor in 1825.

Key events in 2017 include:

• Kickoff Celebration in Rome, New York, on July 22nd, including re-enacting the ceremonial groundbreaking, a symphony concert on the water, and fireworks.
• Major public events as part of the World Canal Conference in Syracuse, New York, in September. Read More.
• Statewide tour of the Lois McClure, a replica canal schooner operated by the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum.
• Orchestral tours by water by the Albany Symphony Orchestra, Syracuse Symphonia.
• Opening a major new Erie Canal exhibit at the New York State Museum in Albany, NY (expected opening Fall ’17).

Starting in 2017, cities, towns and villages throughout the Canal corridor will be celebrating their Erie Canal Heritage with historical society exhibits and community events.

Visit canals.ny.gov for more info.