
Local Customs & Etiquette in Buffalo, United States
1. Buffalo Bills Mafia Handshake
A unique greeting among Buffalo Bills fans, combining elements of the team's logo and symbolizing camaraderie.
- Sports Passion: Shows dedication to the Buffalo Bills and local sports culture
- Team Spirit: Creates a sense of belonging among fellow fans
- Local Identity: Symbolizes being part of the Buffalo community
2. Canalside Ice Boom
Annual installation of ice barriers in Canalside to prevent lake ice from entering the canal and causing damage.
- Environmental Protection: Prevents potential harm to aquatic life and the waterfront area
- Community Engagement: Provides opportunities for locals to participate in the installation process
- Seasonal Entertainment: Turns Canalside into a winter wonderland, hosting activities like ice fishing and skating
3. Buffalo Chicken Pizza
A regional specialty combining Buffalo-style chicken with pizza, showcasing the city's love for food innovation.
- Culinary Tradition: Represents a unique aspect of Western New York cuisine
- Local Pride: Symbolizes Buffalo's food-related accomplishments and identity
- Dining Experience: Offers a taste of authentic Buffalo culture through its food
4. The Silver Lake Amphitheater
Outdoor music venue hosting various concerts, showcasing local talent and attracting famous acts.
- Music Culture: Provides a platform for both local and international musicians
- Community Gathering: Brings people together to enjoy music and share experiences
- Natural Setting: Offers a beautiful outdoor environment for concerts and events
5. Snow Joe-Dance
Annual event where participants dance in snowsuits to celebrate winter and raise money for charity.
- Winter Embrace: Encourages residents to embrace the city's cold climate
- Charitable Giving: Supports local charities and encourages community spirit
- Fun and Entertainment: Provides a unique, fun-filled experience for participants and spectators
6. Buffalo Wing Festival
Annual event showcasing Buffalo-style chicken wings from various restaurants, celebrating the city's culinary heritage.
- Food Celebration: Highlights Buffalo's famous chicken wing cuisine
- Community Bonding: Brings together restaurants, vendors, and food enthusiasts
- Charitable Contribution: Supports local charities through ticket sales and fundraising activities
7. Allentown Art Festival
Annual event showcasing local artists, artisans, and performers in Buffalo's artsy Allentown district.
- Artistic Expression: Showcases the work of local artists and fosters creativity
- Community Interaction: Provides opportunities for locals to engage with artists and artisans
- Cultural Exchange: Promotes understanding and appreciation of various artistic styles and mediums
8. The Anchor Bar
Famous establishment where the Buffalo chicken wing was invented in 1964.
- Culinary History: Preserves the origin of Buffalo-style chicken wings
- Local Attraction: Serves as a tourist destination for food enthusiasts
- Culinary Innovation: Continues to develop and serve other delicious Buffalo-style dishes
9. Buffalo Sabres High Five Club
A tradition where Sabres fans extend their hands in the air to high five players as they leave the ice after a home win.
- Sports Camaraderie: Celebrates wins and supports the Buffalo Sabres hockey team
- Fan Interaction: Connects players with fans in a meaningful way
- Community Spirit: Symbolizes Buffalo's strong sense of team spirit and sports pride
10. First Niagara Center Public Skate
Public ice skating sessions at the home of the Buffalo Sabres, allowing fans to enjoy the arena outside game times.
- Ice Sports Accessibility: Provides opportunities for casual skaters to experience an NHL arena
- Community Engagement: Offers a fun and inclusive activity for locals and visitors alike
- Nostalgia and Tradition: Allows fans to reconnect with their love for ice hockey
11. Buffalo's Diagon Alley
A charming alleyway in the Elmwood Village district filled with Harry Potter-themed stores and shops.
- Fan Appreciation: Caters to Harry Potter fans looking for unique, themed merchandise
- Community Revitalization: Contributes to the economic growth and vitality of Elmwood Village
- Tourist Attraction: Offers a memorable experience for Harry Potter enthusiasts visiting Buffalo
12. Buffalo Fringe Festival
Annual event featuring performances by local and international artists in various genres, including theatre, dance, music, and visual arts.
- Artistic Diversity: Showcases a wide range of artistic expressions
- Community Collaboration: Connects artists, audiences, and organizations in the region
- Cultural Exchange: Promotes understanding and appreciation of diverse artistic perspectives
13. The Buffalo Zoo's Polar Bear Plunge
Annual event where brave participants jump into frozen Lake Erie to raise money for the Buffalo Zoo and local charities.
- Charitable Giving: Supports the Buffalo Zoo and local charities through fundraising
- Community Spirit: Brings together participants, volunteers, and spectators in a shared goal
- Winter Bravado: Tests the courage of those participating and encourages winter resilience
14. Canalside Winter Market
A seasonal market selling locally-made goods, food, and crafts during the winter months.
- Local Support: Highlights locally produced goods and promotes small businesses
- Community Bonding: Connects vendors, customers, and locals in a festive atmosphere
- Winter Celebration: Provides a fun, family-friendly winter activity for residents and visitors
15. Silver Lake Wine Festival
Annual event showcasing local wineries, vineyards, and wines in the Silver Lake district.
- Wine Appreciation: Offers a taste of Western New York's wine culture
- Community Connections: Brings together wineries, visitors, and locals to share their love for wine
- Culinary Exploration: Provides opportunities to pair wines with local food offerings