This year’s Independence Day festivities on the downtown waterfront will extend to the Outer and Inner Harbors, and will feature what’s being billed as “one of the biggest fireworks displays Western New York has ever seen.”
“Just when you thought Buffalo’s official July 4th celebration couldn’t get any better, the Outer Harbor and Canalside join forces to take the fun and festivities to a whole new level,” said Erie Canal Harbor Development Chairman Robert Gioia.
Organizers are inviting all of Western New York is invited to enjoy the holiday on the city's revitalized waterfront. Activities and events will include live music, a beer garden, food trucks, children’s activities and vendors. Live music will begin on Monday at noon at Canalside’s main stage, and at 4 p.m. at Wilkeson Pointe. Children’s activities will run from noon to 6 p.m.
The events will include face painting, a balloon artist, a KidZone Kandy Korner, a build-A-bear workshop and children’s hip hop dance instruction. Check Canalside's web site for a full schedule of events.
Attendees are encouraged to express pride in both our nation and city.
“Never has there been a better time to be a Buffalonian," said State Senator Tim Kennedy. "And never has there been a better time to come down and enjoy our extraordinary waterfront as it’s being transformed before our very eyes."
A dazzling fireworks display, courtesy of Russell J. Salvatore, will end the event with a bang at 10 p.m. Monday. Prime views of the firework show can be found at both Canalside and the Outer Harbor. The display will be synchronized to music.
“I’m looking forward to being down here at Canalside on the Fourth of July,"
said Mayor Byron Brown. “I know that the crowds continue to grow. The excitement continues to grow. I encourage all residents of Buffalo and Western New York, if they want to see a great fireworks display and a lot of wonderful things to do, the Inner Harbor and the Outer Harbor are the places to be.”
No outside food or beverages will be allowed, and pets are also prohibited. Folding chairs and blankets are welcome.
For those planning to use the Queen City Bike Ferry to get back and forth between the Outer Harbor and Canalside, be aware it only runs until 8 p.m. on the Fourth of July. Bicyclists will need to use Ohio Street after 8 p.m.
The event’s rain date is Tuesday, July 5.
