Jaunted

This past weekend, Buffalonians celebrated the nearby historical site that put Western New York on the map. We're not talking about Niagara Falls. We're talking about the Erie Canal. Sound boring? The canal was to the 1820s what hybrid cars are to the 2000s -- the sexy, state-of-the-art way to get around.

In honor of the manmade river that stretches from Albany to Buffalo, the infamously snowy city celebrated its heritage in the sun. Canal Fest, from July 15 to 22, is an annual tradition. Lake Erie boaters motor down to the Tonawanda Gateway Harbor for the weeklong celebration.

The festival features musical performances, boat shows, canoe races, and standard carnival fare -- rickety rides and fried dough stands.

Related Stories:
· Niagara Falls Travel [Jaunted]
· Travel in Buffalo [Jaunted]
· Canal Fest [Official Site]

[Photo: Canal Fest]