The News, Eats & Events Shaping Western New York

The National Hockey League has selected KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York, for the 2026 NHL Draft, set for June 26 and 27.

This marks Buffalo’s fourth time as host, adding to its proud hockey tradition.

The upcoming draft will pioneer a new decentralized format at an arena, with NHL teams making selections remotely but all picks announced live on the Buffalo stage—often by special guests.

The excitement is already building among local fans, with the event expected to draw around 100 top prospects, their families, and millions in economic benefits for Western New York.

Buffalo will also continue its role as host of the NHL Draft Scouting Combine at LECOM Harborcenter.

Adding to the festivities, June 2026 will also feature the Taste of Country concert starring Luke Bryan and the New York State Craft Brewers Festival downtown.

Buffalo is poised for a vibrant, memorable summer.

The US Coast Guard has unveiled a cutting-edge 23,000-square-foot facility at 1 Fuhrmann Boulevard in Buffalo, marking a major boost for Great Lakes maritime safety.

Designed to support both routine and emergency operations, this modernized shore base will enhance the ability of Coast Guard teams to conduct rescues and secure regional waterways.

Officials at the ribbon-cutting emphasized the building’s crucial role in empowering crews to respond swiftly to emergencies and maintain secure borders.

Replacing outdated infrastructure, the state-of-the-art facility features advanced training, support, and living spaces, making it especially resilient during extreme weather events common to the area.

Senior Chief Petty Officer Craig Campomizzi underscored the positive impact on the 48 local members stationed there, noting its significance for operational readiness.

This opening is part of a broader push to modernize Coast Guard infrastructure nationwide, reinforcing a commitment to the safety and wellbeing of the Great Lakes community.

Froth Brewing Co., a favorite in Buffalo’s craft beer scene, will close its Military Road taproom on February 1, 2026.

The announcement comes just days after local eatery Allen Burger Venture revealed its own closure, reflecting the mounting pressures on small, independent businesses throughout Buffalo.

Since opening in 2019, Froth Brewing carved out a unique spot in the city, delighting patrons with inventive brews and a welcoming, communal vibe.

Although the taproom is closing, many of Froth's signature beers will still be available at retailers across the 716 area.

Owners expressed deep gratitude to their supporters, highlighting the friendships and memories they've made.

No specific reason for the closure was given.

For a last visit, Froth Brewing Co. is open at 700 Military Road through January.

The closure highlights the evolving challenges faced by Western New York’s food and beverage industry.

Winter Weekends in WNY: Events You’ll Love

Winter Blues Festival — Ellicottville

📅 Fri Jan 16 – Sun Jan 18, 2026
🕒 All Day
📍 Ellicottville, NY
🎟️ Varies by activity
📄 Enjoy a full weekend of live blues music and performances throughout the scenic village of Ellicottville — a perfect winter getaway with great music and local charm.

Tonawanda Winterfest — Town of Tonawanda

📅 Fri Jan 16 – Sun Jan 18, 2026
🕒 Various times (kids activities, demos & contests)
📍 Town of Tonawanda Aquatic & Fitness Center, Tonawanda, NY
🎟️ Mostly Free / some ticketed parts
📄 Family fun winter celebration including kids’ build-a-boat contest, model boat demos, and tastings — great for families and folks looking for indoor winter fun.

LOCI at Locust Street Art Opening

📅 Fri Jan 16, 2026
🕒 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Locust Street Art, Buffalo, NY
🎟️ Free
📄 Kick off the weekend with a local art gallery opening featuring regional artists — perfect for art lovers and community support.

Amid/In Western New York 2026 Art Exhibition

📅 Fri Jan 16 – Sat Apr 4, 2026 (runs through the weekend)
🕒 Evening art hours
📍 Buffalo area galleries
🎟️ Varies / Art-show pricing
📄 This major regional art exhibition brings together contemporary artists from across Western New York — an excellent cultural experience for art lovers any day of the weekend.

Candlelight: Mozart vs Beethoven — Concert

📅 Sat Jan 17, 2026
🕒 6:00 PM – 7:15 PM
📍 Buffalo, NY
🎟️ Ticketed
📄 A live musical experience featuring classical favorites from Mozart and Beethoven in an intimate candlelit setting — ideal for a relaxed and elegant evening.

Aquarium of Niagara “716 Days at the Aquarium” special — deep winter admission discount ($7.16) Saturday & Sunday, Jan 17–18 at the Aquarium of Niagara — great family outing.

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