DARLINGTON — The Darlington Chamber/Main Street is inviting residents and visitors to the 59th Annual Canoe Fest, a beloved summer tradition returning June 12-15. The four-day celebration promises a vibrant mix of live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and community spirit that draws crowds from across the region.
The festivities kick off Thursday evening, June 12, on Ann Street with the crowning of the Canoe Fest Representative and Mini Royalty at 5 p.m., followed by the 10th annual “Bringin’ Back the Laps” cruise night, featuring live music by The BlackBridge Boys and local food vendors.
Friday morning brings the Sieg Memorial Golf Tournament at the Darlington Country Club, and in the afternoon a 2- and 5-Mile Run/Walk at Collins Park, along with the opening of the Badgerland Midways Carnival. The evening wraps up with a high-energy performance by Time Machine at the festival grounds (must be 21 to enter, gates open at 5 p.m., show at 8 p.m., $10 cover).
Saturday is packed with fun for all ages, including the Lafayette County Dairy Breakfast, Sieg Memorial 10U Baseball Tournament, “Climb in the Cab” for kids, a community blood drive, petting zoo, Team Elite Tae Kwon Do and DRWS dance performances, Talent Show, teen dance, and a fireworks display at Riverside Park at 9:15 p.m.
Sunday’s highlight is the iconic Canoe Races, beginning at 6:30 a.m. with the last canoe launching at 10:30 a.m. from County G Bridge in Calamine to Wells Street in Darlington. The day also features a craft fair, Glennie’s Chicken BBQ, BeeGiggles face painting and balloon art. Canoe Fest Parade will be on Ohio Street starting at 1:30 p.m., followed by raffle drawings, and a performance by Echoes of Camp Randall. The festival concludes with community Bingo at 3:30 p.m.
Carnival rides will be available on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Discounted passes, schedule of events and event updates can be accessed by scanning the QR code on festival posters, visiting the Darlington Canoe Festival Facebook page or City of Darlington website.
