Where it all began in 1966!
Our festival had its humble beginnings on Father's Day in 1966 when the Darlington Fire Department hosted a canoe race from Calamine to Darlington on the Pecatonica River. Who would have known that lone event would evolve into a four-day festival packed full of excitement for the entire region to enjoy?
The Canoe Festival races begin in Calamine, WI. The launch site is situated on County Highway C at the intersection of County Highway G. Canoes will begin to launch at 6:00 am and will continue to launch throughout the morning. The races end in Darlington adjacent to the campgrounds. The total distance along this scenic route is roughly 10 miles.
