DARLINGTON — For more than a half a century, Darlington has played host to the annual Canoe Fest, a family-focused event featuring music, food and, of course, canoing on the scenic Pecatonica River.

The event is in its 57th year and is considered more than just a summer festival. It is billed as a “homecoming” for former residents to make an annual return visit to Darlington and the small-town way of life.

The event is held in Darlington’s historic downtown business district along the banks of the Pecatonica River.

The four-day festival has something for everyone, including Little League and softball tournaments, stock car races, two- and five-mile road runs, the Beowulf Motorcycle Club summer party, a talent show, and more. It also includes an arts and crafts fair, carnival, and a parade. 

A highlight of the event is the fireworks show set for 9:45 p.m. on Saturday, June 10. 

The 2023 Canoe Fest Princess Contestant participants are Allison Andino, Alyza Johnson and Laura Weaver.

Andino is a 15-year-old freshman and the daughter of Karla Andino. She said being a contestant allows her and girls like her to get out into the community and become a part of its cultural fabric.

She said it’s especially important for girls like her, for whom English is a second language, to get involved. And that she loves living in Darlington.

“I also want to be a strong role model for other students, especially our bilingual students,” she said. “I want to show everyone that even if your English is not perfect, you can still do your best to get involved and try activities that are out of your comfort zone.”

Laura Weaver is a 17-year-old senior and the daughter of Doug and Renee Weaver. She grew up having fun at Canoe Fest and admiring the girls who came before her.

“One of my favorite parts of Canoe Fest when I was little, was the Canoe Fest princesses,” she said. “I looked up to … the girls and decided for my senior year I would like to participate by becoming the senior representative.”

Alyza Johnson, the daughter of Jason and Holli Johnson of Darlington, is a junior and said the festival brings many visitors to Darlington each year and is looking forward to being a part of it. She has also been active in the festival, participating in the road run event.

“The festival allows members of our community and people from all over to come celebrate and have fun, and be able to enjoy so many unique traditions,” she said. “I greatly appreciate the opportunity and am honored to be a 2023 Canoe Fest Princess Candidate.”