With memories of a harsh winter in the rearview mirror and festival season in full swing, Western New Yorkers are enjoying the sights, sounds, tastes and activities that these events offer.
But with a smorgasbord of summer rituals from which to choose, what festival or event ranks at the top of people’s list?
Some said food plays a big role in their top choice. Hillary Geary said the National Buffalo Chicken Wing Festival is her favorite summer event. This year’s gustatory extravaganza will be held on Sept. 5 and 6.
“We’re really known for our chicken wings -- our Buffalo wings, and it’s always great to see everyone’s takes on those wings,” she said. “It’s just so connected with the city, we’ve always have that huge connection with the Buffalo wings and we really are home of the best wings
Ruby Ruiz, a Buffalonian who returned home after a short stay in San Diego, says one event is especially enjoyable.
“My favorite is the Allentown Art Festival, only because that’s my neighborhood. So they close down the streets and everyone just gets to wander around and take a look at all of the local vendors and all of the local musicians and be able to appreciate everyone’s talents.”
Other local residents surveyed by WBFO talked about the upcoming Masten Jazz Festival which begins Sunday July 19th outside the Buffalo Museum of Science. Still others said the Buffalo Bills’ season opener is the highlight of the season.
North Buffalo resident Steven Buckowski said that while it’s hard to pick just one summer event, he never misses Shakespeare in Delaware Park. Nothing like seeing a free play, grabbing some snacks and drinks to sit on the hill with friends to soak in some culture.
“Having a low-cost thing is always great, and then just being able to sit outside, especially at night under the stars. When the weather cooperates, the summer weather in Buffalo is hard to beat.”
One is clear: there seems to be a summer activity to please everyone in the Buffalo-Niagara region.
