The News, Eats & Events Shaping Western New York

Kenmore Porchfest will celebrate its first-ever music scholarship winners during halftime at the Porchfest Preview Party, taking place at the Kenmore Farmers Market on June 21.

This season, while Buffalo’s Porchfest series brings music to neighborhoods like Elmwood, South Buffalo, Parkside, Tonawanda, and Lancaster, Kenmore is shining a spotlight on its rising young musicians.

Since 2021, Kenmore Porchfest has grown into a beloved local event, turning front porches into lively stages for bands—many led by youth performers.

Run entirely by volunteers, the festival introduced a new scholarship initiative this year, awarding two $300 grants to high school and college students, with next year’s applications opening in May.

There’s a special energy when young musicians step onto the stage, often for the first time, gaining confidence and inspiring the whole community.

Catch the magic yourself at Kenmore Porchfest on Sunday, June 28.

Mayor Sean Ryan has launched Phase 2 of construction at Ralph Wilson Park, signaling another major step in Buffalo's ongoing waterfront revitalization.

This stage brings a 130-foot model lake freighter play structure, new playgrounds, fresh landscaping, expanded pathways and roadways, and enhanced shoreline features.

With more than $78 million devoted across playground equipment, infrastructure, landscaping, and shoreline work, the park is becoming a true community destination.

The Ralph Wilson Park Conservancy and Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation highlight the collaborative spirit and community input powering the park’s design, reflecting Ralph’s legacy of unity.

Residents can already enjoy amenities like the playground, skate park, splash pad, pool, football field, dog park, and live concerts, even as certain areas remain under construction.

Originally planned as a 30-40 acre update, community voices expanded the project to a 100-acre, transformative waterfront park featuring safer access and vital environmental improvements.

As summer shines on Western New York, barbecue enthusiasts have plenty to celebrate in Buffalo.

Fat Bob’s Smokehouse in Allentown stands out for its award-winning barbecue and Texas-style smoked meats, drawing loyal fans with every bite.

Southern Junction blends Texas barbecue with South Indian spices, offering a creative twist that excites adventurous diners.

On Hertel Avenue, Roaming Bison Tavern pairs competition-level barbecue with a vast selection of bourbons—an irresistible combo for local foodies.

In Blasdell, BW’s Smokin’ Barrels Barbecue serves up hearty portions of expertly smoked meats, making it ideal for families seeking delicious, casual fare.

Big Dan’s Smokin’ Barbecue offers a cozy, family-run atmosphere on Sheridan Avenue, where their tender brisket leaves a lasting impression.

Sampling these local favorites lets you enjoy Buffalo’s vibrant barbecue scene while supporting neighborhood businesses.

Relish the flavors and savor every moment this season brings.

Your Weekend Starts Here

1. 🎸 Marcus King Band at Outer Harbor Live

📅 Sunday, June 14
🕒 8:00 PM
📍 Terminal B, Outer Harbor
One of the biggest concerts of the weekend. Grab a lawn chair and enjoy live music on the waterfront.

2. 🎤 Coheed and Cambria at Buffalo RiverWorks

📅 Thursday, June 11 (close enough to kick off the weekend)
🕒 7:00 PM
📍 Buffalo RiverWorks
A major rock show at one of Buffalo's most unique concert venues.

3. ⚾ Buffalo Bisons vs. Syracuse Mets

📅 Sunday, June 14
🕒 1:05 PM
📍 Sahlen Field
A classic Buffalo summer afternoon downtown with baseball, ballpark food, and family-friendly fun.

4. 🎭 A Few Good Men

📅 Friday, June 12 – Sunday, June 14
🕒 Fri 7:30 PM • Sat 8:00 PM • Sun 2:00 PM
📍 Shea's 710 Theatre
The stage adaptation of the hit courtroom drama starring the famous "You can't handle the truth!" scene.

5. 🌹 WNY Rose Show

📅 Saturday, June 13
📍 Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens
See more than 100 award-winning roses, chat with local experts, and get ideas for your own garden.

6. 🦋 Butterfly Experience

📅 All Weekend
🕒 During Botanical Gardens hours
📍 Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens
Walk among hundreds of live butterflies inside the Tropical Orchard exhibit. Great for families and photos.

7. 🛍️ Elmwood-Bidwell Farmers Market

📅 Saturday, June 13
🕒 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 Bidwell Parkway, Elmwood Village
Fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, coffee, local vendors, and one of Buffalo's best Saturday morning traditions.

8. 🎨 Allentown Art Festival

📅 Saturday, June 13
🕒 All Day
📍 Allentown
One of Buffalo's signature summer events featuring artists, crafts, food vendors, and live entertainment throughout the neighborhood.

9. 🎶 FUNGKSHUI at Nietzsche's

📅 Friday, June 12
🕒 Doors 8:00 PM • Music 8:30 PM
📍 Allentown
Experimental funk and psychedelic grooves at one of Buffalo's legendary music venues.

10. 🌆 Thursday & Main Summer Concert Series

📅 Thursday, June 11
📍 Downtown Buffalo
Featuring The Strictly Hip with Erin Hoyle as part of the popular free outdoor concert series downtown.

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