New Attractions at Canalfest
Each year the Rome Rotary Canalfest, Aug. 1-3, at Bellamy Harbor Park, gets bigger and better. We begin this sixth year without exception with the introduction of several new attractions --
Flower Show
"A Festival of Flowers" with individual sections of the show emphasizing the celebratory nature of festivals. Exhibits will be judged by National Garden Clubs, Inc. accredited Flower Show Judges. Ribbons (not cash) will be awarded to Competitive Horticulture Exhibits and Floral Designs. In addition, there will be Educational Exhibits to introduce the objectives of NGC, Inc. clubs and their activities.
Members of Adirondack Forever Wild, Fort Stanwix, Hillsboro, Kanata, and McConnellsville Garden Clubs are eligible to enter exhibits. These are clubs from Section 6, District 5, Federated Garden Clubs of NY State, Inc. All are members of The Central Atlantic Region, National Garden Clubs, Inc.
A flower show's purpose is to educate club members and the viewing public about horticulture, floral design, and other goals of National Garden Clubs, and to encourage cooperation and fellowship among the participants. For information, call 315-336-2808.
Amusement Rides
At least two additional amusement rides are planned.
Urger tugboat
The flagship of the New York State Barge Canal System is open for inspection all weekend.
Pirates Cove
Pirates of the West Canada will be at Canalfest all 3 days. They will sail at Pirates Cove challenging passing ships and firing their water cannon. People on the Lil' Diamond tour boat will be able to participate in a water balloon fight against the pirates. There will be a pirate magic show and a pirate costume parade on both Saturday and Sunday. Visit the pirate's tattoo tent for a free removable tattoo and bring along a canned food donation for the food bank and receive a pirate eye patch. The ships cannon will signal the start of the biathlon. Here are some photos from prior pirate escapades.
Bikers for Babies
Canalfest at Bellamy Harbor Park will be the Utica-Rome start site for the largest motorcycle benefit ride event in central New York. The ride departs at 10:30am, registration starts at 8:30am on Saturday, August 2nd. Ride concludes at Quaker Steak and Lube, Syracuse. Proceeds go to the March of Dimes.
Please call the March of Dimes - CNY Division office at 315-463-0700 if you are interested in volunteering for Bikers for Babies. There are also opportunities for corporate sponsorship.