Celebrate 188th anniversary of Erie Canal with student art contest, music, Krolick's chicken BBQ

It's a day to celebrate - the 188th anniversary of the opening of the Erie Canal. Lockport and New York state's special occasion will be an all-day event at the Erie Canal Discovery Center, 24 Church St., Lockport.

Middle and high school student artists from Niagara County will compete for honors in an Erie Canal poster contest, with winners announced at 11 a.m. The Heenan Brothers will provide pre- and post-ceremony music in their "Canal folk and blues" style.

Patrons can enjoy a Krolick's chicken barbecue from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. as drive-thru takeout. Chicken dinners are $9.50 presale and $10 at the door. Presale tickets are available at the Erie Canal Discovery Center and Niagara History Center.

Visitors will receive free admission to the Erie Canal Discovery Center and Penney Gallery from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Take a virtual canal ride and experience the life of canal-era travelers, workers and area residents through interactive exhibits.

For more information, call the Erie Canal Discovery Center at 716-439-0431.

Volunteers Ellen Nelson and Jay Krull are shown with History Center Director Melissa Dunlap at a past event.