FEATURED EVENTS

Join “Mr. Christmas” for Buffalo’s can’t-miss family tradition! From the Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus to an audience sing along, we have all your holiday favorites and a few surprises. Deck the concert hall with holly jolly fun as Principal Pops Conductor John Morris Russell returns for four festive performances filled to the brim with holiday music favorites, a timeless carol sing-along, and maybe even a visit from the “man with the bag” himself… if you’re nice!

A family tradition of festive frivolity, Santa helping conduct the orchestra, and a seasonal souvenir for kids! You definitely don't want to miss this child-friendly holiday favorite! This is a magical, must-see experience for the entire family!

The magic of the holiday season begins with the Nutcracker. Come celebrate a very special performance of the holiday classic with the American Academy Nutcracker. This production has become a Western New York favorite, previously selling out performances at UB Center for the Arts. Headed into our 25th year, it is Buffalo's longest-running production of "The Nutcracker." The charm of this production is its child-friendly approach. Choreographed to delight children of all ages, there are surprises tucked into every scene. This production has scene after scene of color and magic. In China, a giant dragon takes center stage. At the North Pole, Santa's elves are busy putting finishing touches on holiday toys. The Snow Scene takes place in Central Park with an actual skating park and falling snow. A highlight of the Academy's Nutcracker is a visit that Clara and her Prince take to exciting lands each year. They travel around the world to exciting and enchanted lands.

Whether you’ve been naughty or nice this year, it’s time to visit Santa at Walden Galleria, sponsored by USA Insulation, Urban Air Buffalo, Master Gorino’s Tae Kwon-Do and NYS Office for People with Developmental Disabilities. We’re welcoming Santa Claus back to the shopping center this holiday season at his temporary home on the lower level near the Apple Store! Children, families, and even pets are invited by the jolly and joyous gift-giver to whisper their Christmas to Santa Claus starting on Friday, November 17th until Christmas Eve, Sunday, December 24th. With decked out evergreen trees, a cozy fireplace, and presents scattered around, it’s the perfect set up for a holiday card!

Climb to the top of the Basilica where you can have an angel's view of 15 acres of spectacular Christmas lights at Our Lady of Fatima's Festival of Lights in Lewiston. 15 acres of spectacular Festival lights, including a 9-foot tall illuminated outdoor Nativity. Get an angel's eye view from the top of the dome Basilica. New features annually. Free admission and ample parking.