Christmas in Buffalo, NY - a time of year that's full of magic and wonder! As the snowflakes fall gently over the city, the atmosphere is transformed into a winter wonderland that's perfect for creating lifelong memories. From festive light displays to visits with Santa, Buffalo has a wide range of Christmas events that are sure to delight both kids and adults. In this article, we'll take a look at 5 magical Christmas events in Buffalo, NY that you won't want to miss!
Buffalo is a city that takes its Christmas celebrations seriously. From the twinkling lights that adorn the streets of downtown to the cozy holiday markets that fill the air with the scent of hot chocolate and cookies, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a local or just visiting the area, you'll find that Buffalo's Christmas events are the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.
So, without further ado, let's dive into our list of 5 magical Christmas events in Buffalo, NY that are sure to make your holiday season merry and bright!
1. Canalside Christmas Tree Lighting
The Canalside Christmas Tree Lighting is one of the most popular holiday events in Buffalo, and for good reason. Every year, thousands of people gather at Canalside to watch the lighting of the giant Christmas tree, which is accompanied by live music, hot chocolate, and a visit from Santa Claus himself. The event takes place on the Friday after Thanksgiving and marks the official start of the holiday season in Buffalo.
Event Details:
- Date: Friday after Thanksgiving
- Time: 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
- Location: Canalside, 44 Prime St, Buffalo, NY 14202
- Admission: Free
2. Albright-Knox Art Gallery's Christmas Tree Lighting
The Albright-Knox Art Gallery's Christmas Tree Lighting is a beloved holiday tradition in Buffalo. Every year, the gallery's outdoor sculpture garden is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with a giant Christmas tree, twinkling lights, and a festive holiday market. The event takes place on the first Friday in December and features live music, hot chocolate, and a visit from Santa.
Event Details:
- Date: First Friday in December
- Time: 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
- Location: Albright-Knox Art Gallery, 1285 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, NY 14222
- Admission: Free
3. The Polar Express at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens
The Polar Express is a holiday tradition that's perfect for families. The event takes place at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens and features a festive holiday market, a visit from Santa, and a screening of the beloved Christmas movie, The Polar Express. Kids can also enjoy a holiday craft station and a visit with the conductor of the Polar Express train.
Event Details:
- Date: Select dates in December
- Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
- Location: Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, 2655 South Park Ave, Buffalo, NY 14218
- Admission: $11 adults, $8 children (3-12), free for children under 3
4. The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra's Holiday Pops Concert
The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra's Holiday Pops Concert is a festive holiday event that's perfect for music lovers. The concert features a program of holiday classics, including "Jingle Bells," "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," and "Silent Night." The event takes place at Kleinhans Music Hall and is a great way to get into the holiday spirit.
Event Details:
- Date: Select dates in December
- Time: 8:00 pm
- Location: Kleinhans Music Hall, 3 Symphony Circle, Buffalo, NY 14201
- Admission: $29 - $75
5. Letchworth State Park's Christmas in the Country
Letchworth State Park's Christmas in the Country is a holiday event that's perfect for nature lovers. The event features a festive holiday market, a visit from Santa, and a chance to explore the park's beautiful winter landscapes. Visitors can also enjoy a holiday craft station and a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the park.
Event Details:
- Date: Select dates in December
- Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
- Location: Letchworth State Park, 1 Letchworth State Park, Castile, NY 14427
- Admission: $10 per vehicle
We hope this list of 5 magical Christmas events in Buffalo, NY has helped you plan your holiday season. Whether you're a local or just visiting the area, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So why not grab some hot chocolate, bundle up, and get out there to experience the magic of Christmas in Buffalo?!
Share your favorite Buffalo Christmas events with us in the comments below!
What is the best way to get into the holiday spirit in Buffalo?
+There are many ways to get into the holiday spirit in Buffalo, including attending festive events like the Canalside Christmas Tree Lighting and the Albright-Knox Art Gallery's Christmas Tree Lighting, visiting the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, and taking in a performance of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra's Holiday Pops Concert.
What are some fun holiday activities to do with kids in Buffalo?
+Some fun holiday activities to do with kids in Buffalo include visiting the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, taking a horse-drawn sleigh ride through Letchworth State Park, and attending a screening of The Polar Express at the Botanical Gardens.
What are some unique holiday gift ideas in Buffalo?
+Some unique holiday gift ideas in Buffalo include handmade crafts from the Albright-Knox Art Gallery's holiday market, local wines and cheeses from the Niagara Wine Trail, and gift certificates for a performance of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra's Holiday Pops Concert.