The Festivals of Buffalo, New York
advertisement
VOICE OVER: Rebecca Brayton
Summers in New York State's Buffalo-Niagara region are beautiful, so locals and visitors take advantage by spending as much time outdoors as possible. For instance, Taste of Buffalo is one of the city's most well-known celebrations, and is full of food and entertainment. The Buffalo Book Fair is great for families, as it features a number of hands-on activities for little ones to enjoy. Cultural festivals like Juneteenth – which marks the end of slavery – or the Grease Pole Festival – which celebrates Puerto Rican culture – are festive events. In this video, http://www.WatchMojo.com takes a look at a few of Buffalo, New York's most interesting and popular summer festivals.
Taste of Buffalo
Considered one of Western New York’s best outdoor festivals, Taste of Buffalo is a popular food festival. The two-day event takes place in downtown Buffalo and is full of entertainment and, of course, food. Held annually since 1984, this festival draws almost half a million visitors each year. Taking place one weekend in July, the event is an affordable and fun experience for the whole family.
Buffalo Book Fair
Also held in July is the Buffalo Book Fair. This festival supports local and national authors, and features a number of interesting activities. Another great family outing, the book fair includes author signings and readings, as well as hands-on art projects for the kids.
Grease Pole Festival
A festival that promotes Puerto Rican heritage, July’s Grease Pole Festival features music, food and fun. Buffalo’s oldest ethnic festival, the event culminates in the grease pole competition, where participants try to scale a pole that has been covered in grease.
Jazz at the Albright-Knox
Another summer festival in Buffalo is Jazz at the Albright-Knox. Held in Delaware Park, on the steps of the Albright-Know Art Gallery, admission to the event is free. With concerts taking place on summer Sunday afternoons, this is another great family excursion in the city.
Shakespeare in the Park
Another festival held in Delaware park is the city’s Shakespeare Festival. Bringing in roughly 50 thousand visitors each year, this festival has showcased the Bard’s work since 1976. It is one of the United States’ biggest and most successful outdoor Shakespeare festivals, and is free of charge for patrons interested in taking in some theater in a beautiful environment.
Buffalo's Juneteenth Festival
Also started in 1976 was Buffalo’s Juneteenth Festival. This event celebrates African-American culture, and commemorates the end of slavery. Buffalo’s is one of the country’s largest Juneteenth festivals, and features food, parades and other cultural activities.
Elmwood-Bidwell Farmers' Market
The Elmwood-Bidwell Farmers’ Market is known as one of the best markets in Western New York. Visitors can buy produce directly from growers, ensuring fresh and delicious fruits and veggies. Held every Saturday from mid-May to mid-December, this market is found outdoors on the Bidwell Parkway.
Being outdoors is the best way to enjoy the summer months, and Buffalo has no shortage of activities to entertain.
