The News, Eats & Events Shaping Western New York

Buffalo, New York reaffirmed its legacy as the home of the chicken wing by breaking the Guinness World Record for largest chicken wing eating competition.

On December 20, 2025, 499 participants packed the Buffalo Convention Center for the Revelas Family Foundation’s annual “A Not So Silent Night” fundraiser.

The community gathered to raise funds and awareness for teen mental health programs in Western New York, shattering the previous record of 397 eaters set in 2018.

Competitive eater George Chiger claimed victory by devouring 36 wings in five minutes as Drew Cerza, the beloved “Wing King,” hosted the event.

Reflecting the spirit of Buffalo’s culinary heritage sparked at the Anchor Bar in 1964, proceeds will support Horizon Health Services and positively impact students, teachers, and families in over 40 local schools.

The evening underscored Buffalo’s enduring pride and compassion through food and philanthropy.

The Buffalo Bills are advancing social justice in Western New York with their 2025 Inspire Change grants, a continued show of support for the community.

This year, the Bills have chosen two standout initiatives for funding as part of the NFL’s Inspire Change campaign, focusing on key areas like education, economic progress, and improved police-community connections.

The Community Responders Coalition Pilot Program will receive $40,000 to promote non-violent emergency response and strengthen trust between law enforcement and residents.

Meanwhile, the Game Changer Scholarship Program launches new opportunities for Buffalo Public School students, offering ten $1,000 scholarships each year to help future technical professionals overcome economic barriers.

Ongoing efforts also include donations to Code Blue and essential backpack drives for those experiencing homelessness.

Through these grants, the Bills are reinforcing their commitment to measurable, positive change in the Buffalo area.

On Christmas Day, the Buffalo City Mission united over 300 volunteers to deliver 4,000 hot meals to families in need throughout Western New York.

The annual Hambone Express initiative, supported by Wegmans, reached more than 900 homes with generous ham dinners.

Volunteer teams packed and personally delivered the festive meals, spreading holiday cheer and compassion across the region.

The project’s meticulous organization began days in advance with a large prep night at the Mission’s facility, as community members came together to cook, package, and organize each meal.

For volunteers, the event has become a cherished tradition, highlighting the Mission’s ongoing commitment to addressing hunger and building community.

Beyond filling plates, the Hambone Express delivers hope and togetherness, reminding families they’re supported during the holidays and beyond.

Ring in the New Year: Buffalo Events This Week

38th Annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop 🎉

• 📅 Date: Wed, Dec 31 – Thu, Jan 1

• 🕒 Time: 10:00 AM – 12:15 AM

• 📍 Location: Roosevelt Plaza / Electric Tower, Downtown Buffalo

• 🎟️ Admission: Free / Public event

• 📄 Details: Buffalo’s annual New Year’s Eve celebration returns with live entertainment, downtown energy, and a traditional ball drop at midnight — a great way to ring in 2026 with local flair.

Countdown to 2026 at Explore & More 🎈 (Family-Friendly)

• 📅 Date: Wed, Dec 31

• 🕒 Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

• 📍 Location: Explore & More Children’s Museum

• 🎟️ Admission: Museum entry applies

• 📄 Details: Celebrate New Year’s Eve earlier in the day with kid-friendly countdowns at 12 PM and 3 PM, plus themed activities included with admission — perfect for families looking to join the fun before midnight.

Open Roller Skate & Ice Skate at RiverWorks ⛸️

• 📅 Dates:

  • Tue, Dec 30 – Thu, Jan 1 (Ice & Roller options vary by day)

  • Skate Again: Sat, Jan 3

• 🕒 Time: 11:00 AM – 5:30 PM

• 📍 Location: RiverWorks (Buffalo)

• 🎟️ Admission: ~$5 (plus skate rental)

• 📄 Details: Grab friends or family for seasonal skating fun — roller skating and ice skating sessions are scheduled through the holiday period, with another open skate on Saturday, Jan 3.

Bob Meier & The Hitmen Horns Big Band 🎷

• 📅 Date: Fri, Jan 2

• 🕒 Time: ~7:00 PM 

• 📍 Location: The Caz, Buffalo

• 🎟️ Admission: Ticketed 

• 📄 Details: Enjoy a night of live music and big band sounds with Bob Meier & The Hitmen Horns — a lively evening for jazz and swing lovers.

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