6 Ways To Celebrate A Buffalo Christmas

Buffalo, New York, is a city that takes its Christmas celebrations seriously. From the snow-covered streets of Elmwood Village to the vibrant lights of Canalside, there's no shortage of festive cheer in this Western New York city. If you're looking for ways to celebrate a Buffalo Christmas, here are six ideas to get you started:

Ice Skating at Canalside

There's something magical about gliding across the ice with the Buffalo skyline as your backdrop. Canalside, a popular waterfront destination, offers outdoor ice skating during the winter months. The rink is open from late November to early February, and admission is free (though skate rentals are available for a fee). After you've worked up an appetite, grab a hot chocolate or snack from one of the many food vendors on site.

Special Events at Canalside

Throughout the holiday season, Canalside hosts a range of special events, including visits with Santa, live music performances, and holiday-themed movies under the stars. Be sure to check the Canalside website for a full schedule of events.

Tour the Elmwood Village Lights

The Elmwood Village is one of Buffalo's most charming neighborhoods, and during the holiday season, it's transformed into a winter wonderland. Take a stroll down Elmwood Avenue and enjoy the festive lights and decorations adorning the homes and shops. You can also grab a cup of hot cocoa or coffee from one of the many local cafes to keep you warm as you wander.

Visit the Elmwood Village Holiday Market

On select Saturdays in December, the Elmwood Village hosts a holiday market featuring local artisans, craftspeople, and food vendors. It's a great opportunity to find unique gifts and support the local community.

Experience the Albright-Knox Art Gallery's Holiday Exhibit

The Albright-Knox Art Gallery is one of Buffalo's premier cultural institutions, and during the holiday season, it's transformed into a winter wonderland. The gallery's annual holiday exhibit features a range of art and artifacts, including festive decorations, sculptures, and paintings. Be sure to check the gallery's website for a full schedule of events and exhibits.

Attend a Holiday Concert or Performance

Buffalo is home to a thriving arts scene, and during the holiday season, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy festive concerts and performances. From the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra's annual holiday concert to the Shea's Performing Arts Center's production of "A Christmas Carol," there's something for everyone.

Take a Sleigh Ride at a Local Farm

There's something quintessentially Western New York about taking a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered countryside. Several local farms, including the Spring Lake Winery and the Becker Farms, offer sleigh rides during the holiday season. Be sure to check the farm's website for a full schedule of events and availability.

Visit a Local Christmas Tree Farm

If you're looking for a more traditional holiday experience, consider visiting a local Christmas tree farm. Many farms in the Buffalo area offer choose-and-cut trees, as well as a range of holiday activities, including hayrides, hot chocolate, and visits with Santa.

Explore the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens

The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens is a stunning example of Victorian-era architecture, and during the holiday season, it's transformed into a winter wonderland. The gardens feature a range of festive decorations, including lights, garlands, and a stunning Christmas tree.

Attend a Holiday Event at the Gardens

Throughout the holiday season, the gardens host a range of special events, including concerts, workshops, and visits with Santa. Be sure to check the gardens' website for a full schedule of events.

We hope these ideas have helped you plan a fun and festive Buffalo Christmas. Whether you're a lifelong resident or just visiting for the holidays, there's something for everyone in this vibrant Western New York city.