Christmas at the Canal

Christmas at the Canal Event

The first Saturday in December you can catch a glimpse of how Christmas was celebrated back in the day, when horsepower was literal and candles lit the evergreen spectacle in American living rooms.

Come celebrate the holidays with us in pioneer era style at the Wabash & Erie Canal! Take in the sights, smells, and tastes of how Christmas used to be, including many available gift items made by our talented local artisans working in the trades and crafts of yesteryear.

Become a Volunteer Today!

To volunteer at the Canal, stop by the Reception Desk at the Canal Center Lobby and complete a volunteer questionnaire. You can also send an email to: info@canalcenter.org, and let us know how you would like to volunteer.

Become a Volunteer

view our handmade gifts at our conference center this winter

Tis the Season

The Conference Center is a must-see venue for handmade gift items created by talented artists. Handmade items of wood, alpaca, ceramics, jewelry paintings as well as many food items, including cheese balls, homemade noodles, cookies, and more can make the perfect Christmas gift.

enjoy tasty snacks from our christmas at the canal event

Enjoy the Food

Refreshments are available including tasty apple dumplings hot from the oven. Take home some frozen apple dumplings to bake later for your family and friends.

view craftsman hard at work in the log cabins

Take in the Sights

Crafts and trades people are in the Pioneer Village log cabins. Do not miss the Bowen Cabin where you will find more specialty gift items like pottery, hand-made knitted items, folk toys, pet gifts, books and more Christmas food items.

take in sounds and sights from festivities in the early canal days

Get in the Spirit

Adding to the festive mood is the music, including songs from the old-fashioned pump organ in the Reed Case House. The restored 1844 house will be decorated for Christmas and available for guided tours.

Event Vendor Information

For vendors interested in participating in one of our events, download and fill out the vendor application below. You can also send an email to info@canalcenter.org, and let us know if you'd like to volunteer.

Vendor Application

immerse yourself in history at the wabash and erie canal

See the Interactive Map!

Get a closer look at Canal Park with our Interactive Map!

VIEW NOW

Group Tours

Reserve a time to bring your group, friends, or family down to the canal for learning and fun!

School Tours

Make a reservation to bring your class to the canal for a fun and enriching experience.

COVID Announcement

Please read the announcement from the Canal Association’s Board.

Trails

Our beautiful and historic trails are OPEN! Learn more about the trails and get some fresh air.

Education

It’s as important as it is a pleasure to learn about those who have come before us and all the brave and impressive things they did which led up to the modern world we live in today. Learn more from the Learning Center on our site, starting with Canal History.

Things to Do

Come one, come all! Whether you have a school group, an event that needs hosting, or you plan on making a day trip, there’s no shortage of fun activities, period architecture, and educational displays to keep you engaged and inspired during your time here.

Weddings & Events

Your wedding day is one of the most memorable and magical days of your life. Bring your family and your friends, and we’ll supply the atmosphere to make your big day one to remember with memories and photos full of old-world charm. Contact us to reserve the Chapel and Canal Boat.

Christmas at the Canal