The News, Eats & Events Shaping Western New York

Registration has opened for the 31st annual Ride for Roswell, a beloved cycling fundraiser supporting Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center.

The event takes place June 26 and 27 at the University at Buffalo’s North Campus.

Cyclists can pick from nine routes, including a new scenic 44-mile Niagara Falls ride passing through Goat Island.

This addition replaces the traditional Canada route and gives participants a unique photo opportunity before returning to campus.

Riders 16 and older must raise at least $200, while Niagara Falls route participants have a $750 minimum commitment.

Those collecting $1,500 or more join the Extra Mile Club, honoring top fundraisers.

In 2025, the ride set a record by raising $6.1 million, supporting groundbreaking cancer research and care for over three decades.

Join the cause and help move Buffalo closer to a cancer-free future.

Girls’ flag football is on a rapid rise in Western New York, fueled by strong support from the Buffalo Bills.

Since launching in 2022, the number of teams in Section VI has soared from 12 to 61, spanning both public and private schools.

Nearby Section III in Syracuse is expected to feature 33 teams by 2026, signaling the sport’s expanding appeal.

Marissa Dauria and local stars like Ellie Edwards of Pioneer High inspire a new generation, with Edwards having started in a Bills-sponsored league at age eight.

With NCAA recognition as an emerging women’s sport, more colleges—including SUNY Brockport—are offering team opportunities.

The Bills and the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation provide crucial funding and equipment, making flag football accessible and competitive.

Local athletes now dream bigger, with pathways to scholarships, state titles, and even the Olympics in 2028—marking a standout era for girls’ and women’s sports.

Western New York faces a dangerous plunge in temperatures as an arctic cold front arrives late Friday night.

The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Cold Watch from Friday night through Sunday morning, with wind chills expected to dip as low as 25 degrees below zero.

Frostbite may occur on exposed skin in only 15 minutes, making outdoor activity risky.

A Winter Weather Advisory is also in place from 7 AM Friday to 7 PM Saturday, forecasting 3 to 6 inches of snow and the potential for more south of Buffalo.

Wind gusts may reach 40 mph, causing blowing snow and treacherous travel conditions.

Everyone is urged to limit outdoor exposure, dress in warm layers, and pay close attention to updated advisories to remain safe during this extreme cold.

Cold Weather, Hot Events: February Fun in Buffalo & WNY

1. 🍺 Buffalo On Tap 2026

• 📅 Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026

• 🕒 Time: 12:00 PM – 8:30 PM

• 📍 Location: Buffalo Niagara Convention Center, Buffalo, NY

• 🎟️ Admission: Ticketed (VIP & General)

• 📄 Details: Buffalo’s big beer fest returns with 100+ craft beers, ciders, seltzers, meads, and live music — plus souvenir tasting glasses and good vibes. Great for beverage lovers and social tasting fun.

2. ❄️ Fire and Ice Celebration – Celoron

• 📅 Date: February 12–14, 2026

• 🕒 Time: Evenings, 5 PM – 9 PM

• 📍 Location: Chautauqua Harbor Hotel, Celoron, NY

• 🎟️ Admission: Ticketed event (21+)

• 📄 Details: Tons of ice sculptures, martini luges, great music, seasonal food, and a fireworks finale — a winter spectacle on the lakefront.

3. ☃️ Mayville Winterfest

• 📅 Date: February 13–15, 2026

• 📍 Location: Lakeside Park, Mayville, NY

• 📄 Details: Classic winter fun with live music, food trucks, horse-drawn wagon rides, fireworks, and a craft show around Chautauqua Lake — ideal for families and friends.

4. 🎶 SNOW JAM 2026

• 📅 Date: February 21, 2026

• 📍 Location: Buffalo Irish Center, Buffalo, NY

• 📄 Details: A winter music celebration featuring local bands and live performances — perfect for music lovers who enjoy cozy indoor events in winter.

5. 🏮 Lunar New Year: A Night of Tradition

• 📅 Date: Friday, February 20, 2026

• 🕒 Time: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

• 📍 Location: Buffalo AKG Art Museum, Buffalo, NY

• 🎟️ Admission: Free (donation option for gifts)

• 📄 Details: Celebrate the Year of the Horse with vibrant performances, Asian cuisine, art workshops, and family-friendly cultural experiences.

6. 🎤 Concert & Performance Highlights

(Ticket info via venues)

• Eric Church & Ella Langley – mid-Feb at KeyBank Center

• Monster Jam – February 20 at KeyBank Center

• Rascal Flatts with Lauren Alaina & Chris Lane – February 27 at KeyBank Center

• Excision: NEXUS – February 22 at Buffalo RiverWorks

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