As the warm weather approaches, I eagerly anticipate the start of summer in Erie County, New York. Located in the western part of New York State, this county is home to a diverse community that takes pride in its rich history and vibrant culture. From festivals to parades, there are plenty of summer celebrations in Erie County, New York that bring people together to celebrate and have a good time.
The Taste of Buffalo
One of the most highly anticipated events in Erie County is the annual Taste of Buffalo festival. Held in downtown Buffalo, this two-day event showcases the best food and drinks from local restaurants and wineries.Visitors can sample a variety of dishes ranging from traditional Buffalo wings to international cuisine while enjoying live music and entertainment. The festival also features a culinary competition where local chefs compete for the title of "Best Overall" and "Best Meat Dish". With over 450,000 attendees each year, the Taste of Buffalo has become one of the largest food festivals in the United States.
Allentown Art Festival
The Allentown Art Festival is another popular summer celebration in Erie County that draws in crowds from all over. This two-day event takes place in the historic Allentown neighborhood of Buffalo and features over 400 artists showcasing their work.From paintings and sculptures to jewelry and pottery, there is something for everyone at this festival. In addition to the art, visitors can also enjoy live music, food vendors, and a beer tent. The Allentown Art Festival has been a staple in Erie County for over 60 years and continues to be a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Canal Fest of the Tonawandas
The Canal Fest of the Tonawandas is a week-long celebration that takes place along the Erie Canal in the cities of Tonawanda and North Tonawanda. This festival celebrates the history and heritage of the Erie Canal, which played a significant role in the development of these two cities.The festival features live music, food vendors, carnival rides, and a parade. One of the highlights of the festival is the "Duck Race" where thousands of rubber ducks are released into the canal, and the first one to cross the finish line wins a cash prize. The Canal Fest of the Tonawandas is a fun-filled event that brings together the community and visitors to celebrate their shared history.
Italian Festival
Erie County has a strong Italian-American community, and their culture is celebrated at the annual Italian Festival in Buffalo. This four-day event features traditional Italian food, live music, and cultural performances.Visitors can also participate in bocce ball tournaments and cooking demonstrations. The Italian Festival is a great way to experience the rich heritage and traditions of the Italian community in Erie County.
National Buffalo Wing Festival
No summer celebration in Erie County would be complete without paying homage to its most famous dish - Buffalo wings. The National Buffalo Wing Festival is a two-day event that celebrates all things wings. Held at Sahlen Field in downtown Buffalo, this festival features over 100 different styles of wings from local restaurants and food trucks.Visitors can also enjoy live music, wing-eating contests, and even a wing sauce competition. The festival attracts over 70,000 people each year and has been featured on national television.
