It’s Not Christmas In Buffalo Until You Do These 9 Enchanting Things

It's the most wonderful time of the year – to be in Buffalo! Here in the 716, we don't just get through our winters. We embrace them! Come December, the city comes alive with a full schedule of festive events to enjoy. While they're all equally entertaining, it's not Christmas in Buffalo New York until you do these nine enchanting things.

1. Go curling at Canalside.

Buffalo is NOT Canada, but we're close enough to appreciate some of their favorite activities! Try your hand at curling at Canalside to ring in the Christmas season.

2. Ride ice bikes.

Speaking of Canalside... ice bikes are all the rage in Buffalo during the winter. Even good ol' St. Nick likes taking a spin every once in a while!

3. Ice skating at The Rotary Rink.

We've mentioned our love for this skating rink before, and we're here to say it again. Rotary Rink is one of the most festive places to enjoy downtown. Lace up the skates and enjoy a day of family fun!

4. Watch a free Christmas movie at the Aurora Theatre.

The kids will love this one for the entertainment, and you'll love it because it's free! Take a trip out to East Aurora to watch a Christmas flick inside this historic theatre. Get your Christmas movie showtimes here!

5. Fill up on Polish Christmas Cookies at The Broadway Market.

More on this local gem to come, but in the meantime... mark your calendars to check out The Broadway Market during Christmastime. This place is famous for its Easter celebrations, but we promise the winter holiday season is just as special!

6. Take a toboggan ride at Chestnut Ridge.

Chestnut Ridge is a must-do during any Buffalo winter. But there's something especially magical about shooting down the toboggan hills during the Christmas season!

7. Stock up on sponge candy!

Buffalonians and native Western New Yorkers cross their fingers each Christmas that Santa will fill their stockings with sponge candy! If you can't wait for the big day, you can take matters into your own hands with a visit to Parkside Candy Co.

8. Shop on Elmwood.

There's always something to do in the Elmwood Village, and Christmastime is no exception! Stroll along Elmwood to shop for great gifts. It's always better to check names off your lists with Buffalo-centric items!

9. Attend a tree lighting celebration.

Several towns and villages around Buffalo celebrate the start of the Christmas season with tree-lighting celebrations. Mark your calendars to attend your local tree lighting to spark your holiday spirit!

What are your favorite Christmas events in Buffalo, New York? Have you been to the one place in Buffalo where it's Christmas year-round? Share the best ways to spread Queen City Christmas cheer in the comments below!

Still need to wrap up your gift list? If you've got some intrepid explorers on that list, you can check out our new gift guide for travelers, there are all kinds of exciting items to be found.