Children's Park

FUN FOR THE FAM!

Children’s Park is where Harborfest opens up for families. From live performances to interactive experiences, this space is designed for kids to play, explore, and be part of the festival, not just watch it.

Throughout the weekend, you’ll find a rotating lineup of entertainment including live music, high-energy shows, puppetry, and surprise moments that keep kids engaged and excited. Plus the beloved children's parade.

FULL SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES COMING SOON...

For Kids of all ages

what to expect

Located in a dedicated section of Breitbeck Park, families can look forward to a full weekend of kid-friendly entertainment, creativity, and hands-on fun, including:

• Live performances from musicians & entertainers each day
• High Flying Trampoline shows with multiple performances daily
• Interactive acts including puppets, storytelling, and theatrical experiences
• Hands-on crafts and creative stations for kids to make and take
• Bounce house fun & more

Good to Know

This year’s Children’s Park and Children’s Parade theme is Happy 250th Birthday, America! We encourage kids to wear fun clothing and costumes that tie to this theme.

Wildlife Animals

Grace and Glory Animals brings an up-close wildlife experience to Harborfest, offering a chance to meet and learn about incredible animals in a safe, engaging setting.

Live Music + Energy

Jared Campbell brings high-energy music and a powerful message to the Children’s Park, blending humor, storytelling, and original songs that connect with kids of all ages. An award-winning singer-songwriter recognized by Billboard as a top independent artist in the Northeast, his performances inspire confidence, kindness, and a strong sense of purpose.

Theater

The REV Theatre Company brings professional, high-quality theatrical performance to the Children’s Park, giving families a chance to experience live theater in a fun, accessible way. Known for their artistic excellence, REV delivers engaging performances that spark imagination and invite kids into the magic of storytelling.

Puppets & Parade

Catskill Puppet Theater returns to the Children’s Park with enchanting performances featuring beautifully crafted puppets, vibrant sets, and original music that bring stories to life. They’ll also be part of the beloved Children’s Parade, giving kids a chance to help carry and interact with these magical creations.

Crafts & Games

T-shirt workshops return this year, giving kids a chance to design and create their own Harborfest keepsake to take home.

Throughout the park, Empower Performing Arts brings a playful, carnival-style experience with interactive games like plinko, prize wheels, bean bag toss, and more, keeping the energy high and the fun going all day.

Entertainment

The Rainbow Thief from Impact Entertainment brings playful, high-energy fun to the Children’s Park on Friday with multiple shows full of color, comedy, and surprises.

All weekend long, don’t miss the High Flying Trampoline Shows, featuring incredible aerial flips, stunts, and action-packed performances that will have kids (and adults) watching in awe.

Children's Parade - Saturday Morning

how kids can march

Any child is welcome to march in the Children's Parade — no experience required, no auditions, no complicated sign-up process. Just show up, dress up (if desired), and join the fun. Here's how it works.

Come Earlier for Crafts

Join us in the Children’s Park at 9:30 AM before the parade for crafts, games, and hands-on fun. Kids can create themed pieces to wear or carry in the parade, helping bring even more color, creativity, and excitement to the celebration.

2026 Parade & Park Theme: Happy 250th Birthday, America!

Costumes are encouraged, but absolutely not required. If you’d like to join in the fun, we invite kids and families to get creative with this year’s “Happy 250th Birthday, America!” theme and bring a little extra color and imagination to the parade.

Volunteer to Hold a Puppet

Want to be part of the parade magic? Kids have a special opportunity to help carry one of the giant Catskill Puppet Theater puppets in the Children’s Parade.

Space is limited, so families interested in volunteering should email us in advance to sign up.

March, Wave, and Enjoy

When the parade begins around 10:00 AM, kids walk the route through downtown Oswego while the crowd cheers them on. Parents and guardians are welcome to walk alongside younger children. It's a moment your kids will talk about all year.

bring the whole family

July 23-26 · Oswego, NY · Free Admission · Fun for All Ages

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Oswego Harbor Festivals, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit producing Oswego’s annual waterfront festival since 1988. McCrobie Building, 41 Lake Street, Oswego, NY 13126.