IWA Canalway Cavalcade 2026

IWA Canalway Cavalcade returns to London’s Little Venice on Saturday 2nd May 2026 for the full early May Bank Holiday weekend. Each year we celebrate the best of life on the waterways in London and its community at IWA Canalway Cavalcade.

Canalway Cavalcade is IWA’s premier fund-raising event of the year, and is organised for the Association by Inland Waterways Enterprises Ltd, IWA’s wholly-owned subsidiary trading company.

Boat bookings are now open – download the booking form here. Please contact Mike Moore on mike.moore@waterways.org.uk or 07545 546865 for boat booking enquiries.

Please contact cavalcade.trade@waterways.org.uk for trader enquiries.

There’s something for everyone at IWA Canalway Cavalcade; a vibrant canal festival in the heart of London’s waterways. Whether visiting by boat or on foot, it’s a splendid day out for you and your family. Soak up the atmosphere surrounded by colourful craft of all shapes and sizes, alongside a multitude of unique stalls, an on-site bar, and delicious foods for all appetites.

Each year we celebrate the best of life on the waterways and its community. With eclectic live music around the site, special boating activities like the legendary illuminated procession, and kids’ entertainment for all ages. You’ll also find amazing art from local schools on display, and plenty of opportunities to get involved at IWA Canalway Cavalcade. We are currently looking for volunteers for the event – could you be one? Get in touch with us for more information.

Event Opening Times: Saturday and Sunday 10.00 a.m. until 6.00 p.m. (plus illuminated boat procession, from 9.00 p.m. Sunday evening) and Monday 10.00 a.m. until 5.00 p.m.

Please note that the festival site is within London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone, details of which can be found on the TFL website.