Buffalo Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Buffalo and surrounding areas

Buffalo welcomes Christmas 2025 with theater flair and waterfront charm around Shea's and Canalside. The Nutcracker at Shea's Buffalo, White Christmas Musical, and Neglia Ballet's The Nutcracker provide festive events, Holiday lights, and Santa visits across neighborhood venues. From winter gatherings to seasonal entertainment and family-friendly activities, Buffalo offers a warm blend of arts, local flavors, and lights-filled holiday attractions.

Find the best Buffalo Christmas happenings this year!

Buffalo Christmas Events

All Christmas Events Within 25 Miles of Buffalo

Buffalo Christmas Movies, Theater and Entertainment

Neglia Ballet's The Nutcracker

πŸ’° $$$
πŸ“ Shea's Performing Arts Center
638 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14202

Neglia Ballet presents a spectacular production of The Nutcracker, a cherished holiday tradition. This magical performance features award-winning international dancers, local talent, and the enchanting music of Tchaikovsky performed live by the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. With over 400 costumes and 100 props, the show promises a dazzling display of artistry...

Lindsey Stirling's Snow Waltz Tour

πŸ’° $$$
πŸ“ Shea's Buffalo Theatre
646 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14202

Experience the magic of the holiday season with Lindsey Stirling's 'Snow Waltz' tour. This one-of-a-kind performance features the artist's signature blend of violin virtuosity, electronic beats, and captivating choreography. Prepare for a visually stunning show filled with festive cheer and innovative musical arrangements, perfect for a memorable winter evening.

The Nutcracker at Shea's Buffalo

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Shea's Buffalo Theatre
650 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14202

Immerse yourself in the magic of the holiday season with a captivating performance of The Nutcracker at the historic Shea's Buffalo Theatre. This beloved ballet, set to Tchaikovsky's iconic score, tells the enchanting story of Clara and her Nutcracker prince. Experience the artistry of Neglia Ballet and the powerful sounds...

White Christmas Musical

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Shea's 710 Theatre
710 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14202

Step into a winter wonderland with the enchanting musical adaptation of 'White Christmas.' This heartwarming production brings the beloved holiday film to life on stage, featuring 17 iconic Irving Berlin songs. Audiences of all ages will be delighted by this uplifting and wholesome show, perfect for celebrating the festive season.

Holiday Pops

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Kleinhans Music Hall
3 Symphony Circle, Buffalo, NY 14201

Immerse yourself in the magic of the season with Holiday Pops, a beloved Western New York tradition. The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, led by conductor Ron Spigelman, presents a joyous celebration of holiday music. Joined by the Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus and the Buffalo United Community Choir, this performance promises festive melodies...

Jingle Bell Jam

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Kleinhans Music Hall
3 Symphony Circle, Buffalo, NY 14201

Experience the enchantment of the Jingle Bell Jam, a festive holiday concert perfect for the entire family. Delight in magical decorations and engaging pre-concert activities. The highlight is a joyous sing-along where Santa Claus himself takes the conductor's podium, leading the orchestra in a celebration of the season.

Celtic Woman Christmas with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Kleinhans Music Hall
3 Symphony Circle, Buffalo, NY 14201

The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra proudly presents Celtic Woman for a magical Christmas concert. Experience the beloved Irish music sensations as they return with their signature angelic voices, performing classic hits and cherished Christmas favorites. This enchanting performance is the perfect way to embrace the holiday spirit with a blend of...

JoAnn's Classical Christmas

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Kleinhans Music Hall
3 Symphony Circle, Buffalo, NY 14201

Immerse yourself in the magic of the season with JoAnn's Classical Christmas. This enchanting concert features the renowned Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, led by conductor JoAnn Falletta, with a special performance by soprano Sirgourney Cook. They will present a captivating program of Christmas-season music, including Adam's 'Cantique de NoΓ«l,' John Jacob...

Fallsview Casino's Christmas on Ice (Niagara Falls, ON)

β€’ 17 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Avalon Theatre
6380 Fallsview Blvd, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 7X5

Prepare for a dazzling holiday spectacle as Fallsview Casino presents Christmas on Ice. This high-paced show features national championship ice skaters, dancers, and singers performing in a magical winter wonderland. Experience the thrill of world-class talent and the joy of the season in this unforgettable performance.

Chorus Niagara Presents Handel's Messiah (St. Catharines, ON)

β€’ 26 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre

Experience the timeless magic of Handel's Messiah with Chorus Niagara. This beloved holiday tradition returns with a festive performance, offering both a complete evening rendition and a special, interactive Children's Messiah concert perfect for igniting young musical passions. Prepare for glorious orchestral sounds, powerful choruses, and stunning solo performances.

A Niagara Christmas Carol (St. Catharines, ON)

β€’ 26 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Mandeville Theatre, Ridley College
2 Ridley Rd, St. Catharines, ON

Discover 'A Niagara Christmas Carol,' a captivating Canadian adaptation of Dickens' timeless ghost story. Set in 19th-century St. Catharines during the Welland Canal's construction, this family-friendly event offers a unique take on Ebenezer Scrooge's redemption. Starring Jamie Williams as Scrooge and directed by Artistic Director Emily Oriold, the performance promises...

A Christmas Carol at the Shaw Festival (Niagara, ON)

β€’ 27 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Royal George Theatre
85 Queen St, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0

The magic of Christmas returns to the Royal George Theatre with a captivating production of Charles Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol.' Follow the journey of the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge as he rediscovers the true meaning of the holiday spirit. This beloved annual tradition is the perfect way to embrace the festive...

A Christmas Carol (Niagara, ON)

β€’ 28 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Royal George Theatre
Queen Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0

Journey to Victorian London for a magical retelling of Charles Dickens' beloved classic, 'A Christmas Carol.' This production at the Royal George Theatre promises to be a heartwarming holiday experience, reminding audiences of the true spirit of Christmas. Directed by Tim Carroll, the show features original music and captivating performances.

Buffalo Christmas Light Displays

Safari Lights Drive Thru (Stevensville, ON)

β€’ 10 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Safari Niagara
2821 Stevensville Road, Stevensville, ON L0S 1S0

Experience the magic of Safari Lights, a spectacular drive-thru holiday light adventure at Safari Niagara. Immerse yourself in over a million dazzling lights, including luminous tunnels and whimsical animal displays, all set to custom holiday music. This enchanting 3 km journey offers a safe and comfortable way to create lasting...

The Fairgrounds Festival of Lights (Hamburg, NY)

β€’ 11 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ The Fairgrounds
5600 McKinley Parkway, Hamburg, NY 14075

WNY's largest holiday light show, the Festival of Lights in Hamburg, NY, illuminates the fairgrounds with over 70 dazzling displays and a 76-foot Christmas tree. Visitors can choose between a magical drive-thru experience with synchronized lights and music, or a full festival with walk-up attractions like Santa's Barnyard, the Whoville...

Jingle Falls USA (Niagara Falls, NY)

β€’ 17 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Old Falls Street

Experience the magic of the holiday season at Jingle Falls USA in downtown Niagara Falls, NY. This festive event transforms Old Falls Street into a winter wonderland with a stunning nearly 50-foot Christmas tree, free activities, and delightful photo opportunities. It's the perfect way to embrace the holiday spirit.

Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights (Niagara Falls, ON)

β€’ 17 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Niagara Falls
6815 Stanley Avenue, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3Y9

Immerse yourself in the magic of Canada's largest FREE outdoor light festival. Millions of twinkling lights and spectacular, larger-than-life displays transform Niagara Falls into a breathtaking winter wonderland. Experience the enchanting 'Sparkling Winter Lights' illumination show and enjoy festive events like the Hot Chocolate Trail and dazzling fireworks.

Welland Winter Lights People's Choice Voting (Welland, ON)

β€’ 20 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Various Residential Locations

Experience the magic of the holiday season with the Welland Winter Lights tour. Residents across the city have transformed their homes into dazzling displays of festive lights. Embark on a self-guided driving tour to admire the creativity and holiday spirit. Cast your vote for the most spectacular display and help...

Merry and Bright in Downtown Welland: Santa Claus Parade and Tree Lighting (Welland, ON)

β€’ 20 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Civic Square
60 East Main Street, Welland, ON L3B 3X4

Get ready for a magical evening in downtown Welland as they host the Merry and Bright celebration! This festive event combines the beloved Santa Claus Parade, the enchanting Civic Square Tree Lighting Ceremony, and a spirited chili cookoff. Join the community for a night filled with holiday cheer, from the...

Let it Glow: A Celebration of Light (St. Catharines, ON)

β€’ 26 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° $
πŸ“ Various Locations in St. Catharines

The City of St. Catharines invites you to experience the magic of the 4th annual Let it Glow: A Celebration of Light. From November 23, 2024, to January 5, 2025, the city will be illuminated with over 50 dazzling light installations across Rennie Park, Port Dalhousie, and downtown. Enjoy free...

Niagara-on-the-Lake Rotary Holiday House Tour (Niagara, ON)

β€’ 27 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Niagara-on-the-Lake

Step into a winter wonderland at the 26th annual Niagara-on-the-Lake Rotary Holiday House Tour. This cherished event invites you to explore exquisite homes, each uniquely decorated for the festive season, offering inspiration for your own holiday celebrations. It's a perfect way to embrace the holiday spirit while supporting vital local...

Niagara-on-the-Lake Candlelight Stroll (Niagara, ON)

β€’ 27 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° $
πŸ“ Heritage District

Experience the magic of the Niagara-on-the-Lake Candlelight Stroll, a heartwarming tradition that illuminates the Heritage District with community spirit. Join locals and visitors alike to stroll through charming streets, enjoy live holiday music from talented Niagara-area performers, and contribute to a meaningful cause by purchasing a candle to support a...

Buffalo Christmas Food, Drink and Parties

Holiday Dining in Buffalo, NY

πŸ’° $$$
πŸ“ Various Restaurants in Buffalo

Discover a curated selection of Buffalo's finest restaurants open to serve you during the holiday season. From Thanksgiving feasts to Christmas Eve and Day dinners, and festive New Year's Eve celebrations, find the perfect dining experience. Explore diverse cuisines and special menus designed to make your holidays memorable.

SantaCon Buffalo 2025

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ West Chippewa Street
West Chippewa Street, Buffalo, NY

Get ready for SantaCon Buffalo 2025, a massive holiday bar crawl transforming downtown Buffalo into a festive spectacle! Hundreds of Santas will take over Chippewa Street for a day of carols, cheer, and bar hopping. This 21+ event includes admission, special drink deals, and giveaways, with a portion of proceeds...

Ugly Sweater Christmas Silent Disco

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Forbes Theater
512 Pearl Street, Buffalo, NY 14203

Get ready for a uniquely festive celebration at the Ugly Sweater Christmas Silent Disco! Held at the historic Forbes Theater within 500 Pearl, this event invites you to don your most outrageous holiday attire. Dance the night away with wireless headphones, choosing from three different music channels featuring throwbacks, current...

Beers + Cheers: Holiday Party (Williamsville, NY)

β€’ 8 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° $
πŸ“ Wingnutz Bar and Grill
1402 Millersport Highway, Williamsville, NY 14221

This festive holiday party offers a unique opportunity for women to connect and celebrate the season. Attendees can enjoy a variety of experiences, including a clothing swap, healthy snacks, and consultations for skincare, B12 injections, and ear seeds. Shopping stations will also be available, featuring permanent jewelry and press-on nails....

Grand Island Holiday Happenings (Grand Island, NY)

β€’ 11 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Nike Base Community Center
3278 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island, NY

Children aged 5 to 10 can enjoy an evening of games, including checkers, foosball, and air hockey, followed by a holiday movie with pizza and snacks. This event offers parents a chance for last-minute shopping or a break while kids have supervised fun.

Winter Festival of Lights Hot Chocolate Trail (Niagara Falls, ON)

β€’ 18 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° $
πŸ“ Various Venues Across Niagara Falls

Warm up this winter season by embarking on the Hot Chocolate Trail in Niagara Falls. This event, part of the Winter Festival of Lights, features a delightful array of unique hot chocolate creations. Visitors can choose from 'Naughty' options with a spirited kick or 'Nice' classics perfect for all ages....

Port Colborne New Year's Eve Celebration (Port Colborne, ON)

β€’ 18 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Vale Health & Wellness Centre
550 Elizabeth Street, Port Colborne, ON

Join the vibrant community celebration at the Vale Health & Wellness Centre for a free New Year's Eve event. This family-friendly gathering offers entertainment and culminates in a spectacular fireworks display. Attendees are encouraged to bring donations for Port Cares, adding a charitable element to the festivities.

Buffalo Christmas Markets and Shopping

Larkin Holiday Artisan's Market

πŸ’° $
πŸ“ Larkin at Exchange Building
726 Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY

Discover unique holiday treasures at the Larkin Holiday Artisan's Market. This vibrant event brings together over 35 local vendors offering handmade crafts, jewelry, art, and festive goods. It's the perfect opportunity to find one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting local creators. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and convenient amenities of Larkin Square.

Buffalo Holiday Market

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Richardson Olmsted Campus
444 Forest Ave, Buffalo, NY 14213

The Buffalo Holiday Market returns in 2025 to the historic Richardson Olmsted Campus, offering a magical holiday shopping experience. Discover a curated selection of handmade gifts from talented artisans, featuring everything from home dΓ©cor and jewelry to gourmet treats and craft spirits. Enjoy festive food and drinks, family-friendly activities, and...

SUNY Niagara Gingerbread Village (Niagara Falls, NY)

β€’ 17 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Niagara Falls Culinary Institute
28 Old Falls Street, Niagara Falls, NY 14303

Step into a world of sweetness and sparkle at SUNY Niagara's Gingerbread Village, now in its second year. Wander through a whimsical holiday setting filled with candy-covered cottages and imaginative gingerbread displays. Enjoy festive food kiosks serving seasonal treats and make lasting memories with family. Don't miss the special events...

Lewiston Christmas Walk Weekend (Lewiston, NY)

β€’ 21 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° $
πŸ“ Village of Lewiston
895 Center Street, Lewiston, NY 14092

Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit at the annual Lewiston Christmas Walk Weekend. This festive event transforms the historic Village of Lewiston into a winter wonderland, with Center Street bustling with special activities, promotions, and unique shopping sales. Discover delightful treats and experience the charm of the season.

Buffalo Other Christmas Activities

The Ice at Canalside Public Ice Skating 2025-2026

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ The Ice at Canalside
44 Prime Street, Buffalo, NY 14202

Embrace the winter chill at The Ice at Canalside, Buffalo's premier outdoor ice skating destination. Glide across the expansive rink, enjoy exciting ice bumper cars, or try your hand at curling. Rent skates on-site and warm up with hot cocoa from the snack shack. Cozy igloos offer a unique way...

Visit with Santa at Explore & More

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Explore & More – The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children’s Museum
130 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14202

Experience the magic of the holiday season as Santa Claus visits Explore & More. This special event offers a wonderful opportunity for children to meet Santa and share their holiday wishes in a festive atmosphere. It's a cherished tradition for families looking to create lasting memories during the Christmas season.

Poinsettia Exhibit

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens
2655 South Park Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14218

Step into the warm embrace of the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens for their annual Poinsettia Exhibit. This beloved Western New York holiday tradition showcases a stunning array of poinsettias in every size and color imaginable, from vibrant reds to cheerful yellows. It's the perfect way to brighten your...

A Motown Christmas (North Tonawanda, NY)

β€’ 9 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Riviera Theatre
67 Webster Street, North Tonawanda, NY 14120

Get into the holiday spirit with 'A Motown Christmas' at the historic Riviera Theatre. This dazzling show features the Motortown All-Stars, vocalists from legendary groups like The Temptations and The Miracles, performing beloved Motown hits and festive holiday classics. Accompanied by a live band with brass, the performance promises impeccable...

Light Up the Boulevard Electric Parade and Festival (Grand Island, NY)

β€’ 11 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Grand Island Boulevard

Experience the magic of the Annual Light Up the Boulevard Electric Parade and Festival. This cherished family tradition invites the entire community to participate in a dazzling display of illuminated floats and vehicles. Join residents for an evening of festive fun and community spirit.

18th Annual Christmasville Fire Truck Parade (Lancaster, NY)

β€’ 11 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Lancaster High School
1 Forton Dr, Lancaster, NY

The Greater Lancaster Museum of Firefighting presents the 18th Annual Christmasville Fire Truck Parade, a beloved tradition marking the start of the holiday season. Over 200 emergency vehicles, from fire trucks to law enforcement cars, will be elaborately decorated with Christmas themes and lights, parading through Lancaster.

Niagara Falls Santa Claus Parade (Niagara Falls, ON)

β€’ 18 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Downtown Niagara Falls
4310 Queen St, Niagara Falls, ON L3N 2G4

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Santa Claus Parade in Downtown Niagara Falls. This beloved event features a vibrant procession of bands, floats, and beloved characters, culminating in a special appearance by Santa Claus himself. Following the parade, join the community for a festive tree lighting ceremony...

Christmas in Port Colborne Events (Port Colborne, ON)

β€’ 19 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° $
πŸ“ Port Colborne
66 Charlotte Street, Port Colborne, ON L3K 3C8

Port Colborne invites you to celebrate the holiday season with a charming collection of festive events. Experience the magic of Santa's arrival by tugboat, followed by a dazzling Lighted Santa Claus Parade through the downtown core. Engage in community spirit through a holiday drive supporting local charities, or unleash your...

Santa Claus Christmas Cottage (Lockport, NY)

β€’ 22 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Santa Claus Christmas Cottage
5014-5098 Day Road, Lockport, NY 14094

Step into a magical Christmas wonderland at the Santa Claus Christmas Cottage, a free, family-friendly destination dedicated to the beloved Western New York Santa legend. Meet Santa Claus himself in his custom-decorated cottage, complete with a sleigh, historic artifacts, and a North Pole mailbox for your letters. Experience the joy...

Niagara-on-the-Lake Christmas Parade (Niagara, ON)

β€’ 27 mi from Buffalo πŸ’° $
πŸ“ Old Town, Niagara-on-the-Lake

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Christmas Parade. This beloved annual event features a vibrant procession of decorated floats, marching bands, and festive community spirit. After the parade, explore the charming shops and enjoy other local holiday events, making for a perfect festive outing.

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