THE MAIN EVENT
Saturday September 19th 2026

WHAT'S ON WHEN

Canal walk

A one-hour Canal Heritage Walk with local historian, author and former long-term canalboat resident Mark Davies, departing 10:30 am to arrive at Aristotle Lane at about 11:30.

The route will include a refurbished railway swingbridge, a pivotal canal lock, and the culturally-rich suburb of Jericho, combining social and economic history with insights into the canal’s  literary and living heritage.

No charge but contributions welcomed. Places are limited. Email to Book here and for joining instructions.

Mark will also be leading a return walk from the festival site (Kilsby tent) at 17:00 going to Hythe Bridge Street at about 18:00.  Book for it in advance or at the Kilsby tent on the day

Dog Show

No previous experience required. Many classes - Waggiest Tail Pup, Best Buiscuit Catcher, Best Dressed Dog & Owner, Best Trick,  Most Look-alike Dog & Owner, and Best In Show!

Canal Olympics

Canal-themed fun and games. Bring friends and family. Something for everyone from boaters' arm wrestling to sack-of-coal race and Canal Tug challenge.

STORY TENT

For this festival  we have teamed up with The Story Museum who have arranged a great programme featuring Wendy Shearer, Adeola Sokunbi, Peter Chand, David Gibb, Neill Cameron and ending with well-known local author Mark Haddon in conversation.

Community Stalls & Traders

Community stalls and a selection of local traders, including some on canal boats that will join in the festival along the nearby towpath.

Thank you to all our sponsors and partners. More info.

Please note the following safety Information about the Oxford Canal Festival

• Inclusivity - we want the Oxford Canal Festival to be a safe space and strongly believe that everybody has the right to enjoy the festival experience free from harassment, microaggressions, abuse or intimidation. We are committed to ensuring that it is an inclusive space for communities targeted by discrimination such as racism, sexism,  transphobia, ableism and homophobia.
• There is NO PARKING available at the festival, please arrive on a bike, on foot or by public transport.
• Our medical team welcomes you and your injuries to our Medical Tent (please see map for location). Do pop in for any reason however minor it seems.
• Should you lose your children, or should they lose you, please see our professional Lost Kids Team. The Lost Kids Tent is next to the Medical Tent. Please report lost kids to any steward or official immediately and follow their advice – we have procedures – and they work!
• Oxford Canal Festival has a zero tolerance policy for drugs and legal highs, which is a legal requirement for licensing an event in the UK. The same laws apply within the festival site as on the outside.