Erie County, New York is a vibrant and diverse community that offers a wide range of family-friendly celebrations throughout the year. From festivals and parades to cultural events and holiday traditions, there is always something to celebrate in this beautiful county. As an expert on the area, I am excited to share some of the top family-friendly celebrations in Erie County that you won't want to miss.
The National Buffalo Wing Festival
One of the most popular celebrations in Erie County is the National Buffalo Wing Festival, held every Labor Day weekend at Sahlen Field in downtown Buffalo. This festival celebrates the birthplace of the famous Buffalo wing and attracts over 70,000 people each year.Families can enjoy live music, games, and of course, plenty of delicious wings from local restaurants. There are also wing-eating contests and a kids' zone with activities for younger attendees.
The National Buffalo Wing Festival
is not just about indulging in tasty wings, but it also supports local charities and organizations. So while you're having fun with your family, you're also giving back to the community.The Erie County Fair
Another must-visit celebration in Erie County is the Erie County Fair, held annually in August at the Hamburg Fairgrounds. This fair has been a tradition for over 180 years and is one of the largest county fairs in the country.Families can enjoy carnival rides, live music, agricultural exhibits, and delicious fair food. There are also special events like a demolition derby and a rodeo that add to the excitement. One unique aspect of the Erie County Fair is its focus on agriculture and education. Families can learn about farming and animal husbandry through interactive exhibits and demonstrations. This makes it a great opportunity for kids to learn while having fun.
The Taste of Buffalo
If you're a foodie family, then you won't want to miss The Taste of Buffalo, the largest two-day food festival in the United States.Held in downtown Buffalo in July, this festival features over 50 local restaurants offering their best dishes for attendees to sample. There are also cooking demonstrations, live music, and activities for kids. One of the highlights of The Taste of Buffalo is the Kids' Zone, where children can participate in hands-on cooking activities and learn about healthy eating. This festival is not only a celebration of food but also a celebration of the diverse culinary scene in Erie County.
The Allentown Art Festival
For families who appreciate art and culture, the Allentown Art Festival is a must-visit celebration in Erie County. Held in June in the historic Allentown neighborhood of Buffalo, this festival showcases the work of over 400 artists from all over the country.Families can stroll through the streets and admire paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and other unique pieces. There are also food vendors and live music to add to the festive atmosphere. The Allentown Art Festival is a great opportunity for families to support local artists and find one-of-a-kind pieces to take home as souvenirs.
The Holiday Season in Erie County
Erie County truly comes alive during the holiday season with numerous family-friendly celebrations that bring joy and cheer to everyone. One of the most beloved traditions is the Festival of Lights at the Hamburg Fairgrounds. Families can drive through a mile-long display of over one million lights, animated displays, and holiday scenes.There are also horse-drawn carriage rides and visits with Santa. Another popular celebration is the Buffalo Holiday Market, held at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center. This market features over 100 vendors selling unique gifts, decorations, and food items. Families can also enjoy live music, holiday-themed activities, and a visit from Santa. Other holiday celebrations in Erie County include the Christmas in the Country craft show, the Winterfest at Chestnut Ridge Park, and the Ice at Canalside skating rink. These events offer something for everyone in the family to enjoy and create lasting memories.
The Erie County Fairgrounds Events
The Erie County Fairgrounds is not just home to the annual county fair but also hosts a variety of other family-friendly celebrations throughout the year.These include the Springtime in the Country craft show, the Buffalo Motorama car show, and the Erie County Fairgrounds Festival of Lights. These events offer a diverse range of activities and entertainment for families to enjoy.
The Buffalo Zoo
The Buffalo Zoo, located in Delaware Park in Buffalo, is another popular destination for families in Erie County. In addition to being home to over 1,000 animals from around the world, the zoo also hosts several family-friendly celebrations throughout the year. These include ZooBoo, a Halloween-themed event with trick-or-treating and costume contests, and Lumagination, a winter festival featuring light displays and ice sculptures.Conclusion
Erie County, New York is a fantastic destination for families looking to celebrate and have fun together.From food festivals and art shows to holiday traditions and zoo events, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your bags and head to Erie County for an unforgettable family-friendly celebration experience.
