What to Do in Buffalo & WNY this Holiday Season: Top Picks

From November 20 through March 1, The Ice at Canalside (presented by BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York) is open for public ice skating, curling, ice bikes, and ice bumper cars—perfect for hours of outdoor winter fun! It’s also home to the annual Canalside Holiday Celebration.

This premier outdoor event brings together artisan vendors from Western New York and beyond, showcasing unique, handmade holiday gifts you won’t find anywhere else. Discover everything from signature mimosas, home décor, gourmet treats, craft spirits and wines, to stunning handmade jewelry and children’s gifts—there’s something special for everyone.

Designed with families in mind, the market features fun kids’ activities and festive selfie stations alongside our talented local makers. Whether you’re shopping for loved ones or applying to be a retail vendor, don’t miss Western New York’s must-visit holiday shopping destination!

The 2025 Buffalo Holiday Market runs November 28 through December 28.

The official soundtrack of Christmas in WNY. From early November through December, 96.1 plays nonstop holiday hits — perfect for every drive between festive activities.

Warm up this holiday season with hearty comfort food at Augie’s—the popular hamburger restaurant with locations in Buffalo and Hamburg. From delicious made-to-order burgers and crispy fried chicken sandwiches to tasty drinks and boozy milkshakes, it’s the perfect casual stop for a satisfying meal.

A WNY tradition! Drive through a two-mile-long light display filled with animated scenes, glowing tunnels, and holiday music at the Hamburg Fairgrounds.

One of Buffalo’s biggest indoor markets, packed with local makers, holiday cocktails, baked goods, jewelry, home décor, and unique gifts.

Explore Buffalo’s global marketplace, a great place to find global cuisine, holiday gifts, and a festive atmosphere. Filled with international food vendors and small businesses, don’t forget to stop by Malkia & Co. Gourmet—a standout spot known for bold flavors and beautifully crafted dishes that are perfect for holiday food lovers.

The Medina Railroad Museum brings the magic of the Polar Express to life with storytelling, hot cocoa, carols, and a scenic winter ride.

Daytime features thousands of poinsettias. At night, the gardens transform with colorful lights and glowing displays, creating a stunning holiday atmosphere.

Experience old-fashioned holiday magic at the Village of Lewiston Christmas Walk in the charming historic town just north of Niagara Falls.

The weekend celebration begins Thursday with a festive holiday market at Brickyard Brewing Company, followed by the village tree lighting on Friday evening. Throughout Saturday and Sunday, stroll past beautifully decorated storefronts and window displays, snap photos with the giant Lewiston wreath, and soak in the nostalgic charm. The weekend wraps up Sunday evening with a joyful Christmas lights parade down Center Street—a perfect throwback to Christmas past.

Jingle Falls USA is the can’t-miss holiday celebration in downtown Niagara Falls!

Head to Old Falls Street to create merry memories with a flurry of outdoor fun: a dazzling tree lighting, live music, train rides, real live reindeer, horse-and-carriage rides, Santa visits, and so much more. When you’re ready to warm up, step inside the Niagara Falls Convention Center and knock out your holiday shopping at the vibrant LiveNF Makers Market. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season!

Everyone knows Santa runs on cookies—and at The Village Bake Shoppe in Lewiston, the holiday treats are next-level. Pick up DIY cookie decorating kits for festive family fun or grab the TikTok-famous hot chocolate bombs that melt into the coziest cocoa. Whatever your sweet tooth craves this season, you’ll find it here!

Craving crisp air and snowy adventures? Lace up your boots and explore the winter wonderland of Niagara Falls USA state parks with free guided winter hikes. Feeling extra frosty? Niagara Falls State Park has you covered with free snowshoe rentals all season long—perfect for making snowy memories (and maybe even a snowman or two)!

With 13 incredible holiday experiences on this list, there’s truly something for everyone in Buffalo and Niagara Falls USA this season—from twinkling lights and outdoor ice fun to cozy markets overflowing with handmade gifts and sweet treats that make the holidays extra special.

But this is just the beginning! Western New York is packed with even more festive events, hidden gems, and cozy traditions waiting to be discovered. We’ll keep updating this guide throughout the season as new activities pop up, so check back often.

Got a favorite holiday event we missed? We’d love to hear about it! Send your suggestions to contact@buffalocurrent.com and help us make this the ultimate guide to holiday magic in our region.