Things to do this weekend in and around Buffalo
Friendly fun in Buffalo and the Niagara Region for Friday, September 5, 2026 through Sunday, September 7, 2026. Check out these highlights!
(Scroll down for full list of weekend activities.)
Friday, September 5, 2026
Safari Tours At Hidden Valley Animal Adventure! - September 5-7, 2026 - Varysburg, NY. Take an open-air or self-drive safari through 63 acres to see and feed camels, zebra, bison, and more, plus visit the Small Animal Adventure for hands-on fun.
Growing Back to School at the Botanical Gardens | Free admission for kids - September 5-30, 2026 - Buffalo, NY. Kids 12 and under enjoy free admission and Saturday seed planting activities that celebrate the start of the school year among beautiful gardens.
Gabby’s Dollhouse MEOWseum Discovery Days at The Strong - September 5-6, 2026 - Rochester, NY. Meet Gabby, join themed crafts, scavenger hunts, stories, and dance parties inspired by Gabby’s Dollhouse at The Strong National Museum of Play.
Buy Three Tickets, Get One Free: Back to School deal at Buffalo Museum of Science - September 5-6, 2026 - Buffalo, NY. Sharpen science skills with a special admission deal where families get a free ticket when they buy three during the week before Labor Day.
Elmwood Farmers Market - September 5, 2026 - Buffalo, NY. Stroll the Elmwood-Bidwell market for fresh local produce, baked goods, and artisan items in a vibrant neighborhood setting.
Saturday, September 6, 2026
Hop Harvest Festival: Bines & Vines - September 5, 2026 - Mumford, NY. Explore one of the only working 19th-century breweries, learn about historic hop harvesting, and sample ale-inspired foods in costumed kitchens.
Solar Saturdays at Buffalo Museum of Science - September 5, 2026 - Buffalo, NY. Use special telescopes to safely view the Sun and enjoy rooftop views of the Buffalo Niagara region during this STEM-focused program.
Williamsville Farmers Market - September 5, 2026 - Williamsville, NY. Browse local farm stands and specialty vendors outside Amherst Town Hall for fresh food and community fun.
Buffalo Water Lantern Festival 2026 - September 5, 2026 - Buffalo, NY. Light and launch beautiful lanterns at Delaware Park during an evening festival celebrating hopes, memories, and togetherness.
War of 1812 Weekend at Old Fort Niagara - September 5-6, 2026 - Youngstown, NY. Step back into history with reenactments, demonstrations, and stories from the War of 1812 at the riverside fort.
Sunday, September 7, 2026
Sunday Narrated Afternoon Lock Cruise with Live Music - Colonial Belle - September 6, 2026 - Fairport, NY. Cruise the Erie Canal to Lock E32 with narrated history, watch the lock in action, and relax to live local music on the return trip.
General Admission to GCV&M's 2026 Season - September 6, 2026 - Mumford, NY. Wander through the Genesee Country Village’s historic homes, shops, farms, and public buildings to experience 19th-century life.
Sensory Hour @ Waterway of Change - September 6, 2026 - Buffalo, NY. Enjoy a calmer visit to The Buffalo History Museum’s Waterway of Change exhibit with reduced crowds, dimmed lighting, and muted sound.
Visit the Buffalo Fire Historical Society! - September 5, 2026 - Buffalo, NY. Explore firefighting history, vintage equipment, and local stories at this specialized museum dedicated to Buffalo’s fire service.