The News, Eats & Events Shaping Western New York

Spring break in Buffalo brings families together at Canalside as the beloved Buffalo Heritage Carousel reopens for the season.

On Friday, April 3, visitors can enjoy free rides from 10 a.m. to noon, with appearances by the Easter Bunny and live face painting for riders.

Guests will also be treated to complimentary popcorn, along with discounts on toys and candy, making it a festive kickoff.

Saturday, April 4 features Buffalo Bandits Spirit Day, offering a buy-one-get-one-free deal on rides for fans in Bandits gear.

Family fun continues throughout spring break week, with extended hours and a quiet ride every Sunday morning from 11 a.m. to noon for guests with sensory sensitivities.

Powered by solar energy and nestled at 1 Marine Drive, the Carousel blends Buffalo’s heritage with a commitment to sustainability, making it an ideal destination for lasting spring memories.

The Buffalo Bills will host the 2026 High School Girls Flag Football Kickoff from March 27–29 at their indoor training facility in Orchard Park, NY.

Over 70 teams from Buffalo and Rochester are expected, making this the largest kickoff since the event began in 2022.

Teams will join preseason scrimmages, participate in media day, and connect with local press, celebrating the rapid growth of girls’ flag football in Western New York.

The sport’s footprint has expanded from just 20 squads in 2022 to 91 teams now competing from Sections VI, V, and III.

Western New York teams have claimed three of the last five state championships since flag football became a sanctioned sport in 2023.

The Bills, now in year two of a three-year pilot, support middle school flag football by offering grants and equipment to 32 schools.

With flag football joining NCAA Emerging Sports in 2026 and the 2028 Olympics, the local scene is set for even greater excitement.

The 64th Annual Variety Club Telethon has once again highlighted the incredible generosity of Buffalo, with over $1 million raised to benefit the newly renamed Golisano Children’s Hospital of Buffalo and local children’s charities.

This year’s event, held on March 21 and 22, 2026, revealed the steadfast dedication of Western New Yorkers to supporting children’s health and well-being.

Organized labor stood out, giving more than $75,000, reflecting a strong collective spirit in challenging economic times.

Tony Vaccaro, Variety Club President, and William Mayer, Labor Co-Chair, praised the unity and generosity shown by the community and union members alike.

The hospital itself was recently named for philanthropist Tom Golisano, who donated $50 million in January 2026.

This year’s telethon success underlines Buffalo’s commitment to children and ensures lasting support for families throughout Western New York.

Spring Into Motion - WNY's Best Trails

• Delaware Park Loop (Hoyt Lake → Ring Road)
  A classic Buffalo route—flat, scenic, and perfect for walking, jogging, or biking around Hoyt Lake and the park system.

• Outer Harbor Bike + Walk Trails
  Wide, paved paths along Lake Erie with amazing water views. Great for biking, rollerblading, or a long walk.

• Niagara Gorge Rim Trail (Devil’s Hole Area)
  A more challenging hike with elevation, stairs, and incredible views of the Niagara River gorge.

• Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve (Depew/Cheektowaga)
  Peaceful, flat trails ideal for walking, light jogging, or birdwatching—great for beginners.

• Ellicott Creek Trailway (Amherst)
  A long, paved trail perfect for biking or distance running with plenty of entry points.

• Chestnut Ridge Park Eternal Flame Trail
  A moderate hike leading to the famous natural flame behind a waterfall—short but rewarding workout.

• Tifft Nature Preserve Trails (South Buffalo)
  Easy loops with a mix of boardwalks and dirt trails—nice for a low-impact walk close to the city.

• Clarence Pathways (Bike-Friendly Routes)
  Smooth, suburban trails great for cycling or casual walks with less crowding.

• Canalside + Ohio Street Fitness Loop
  Walk or run along the waterfront, then loop toward Ohio Street for a longer urban workout route.

• Hunter’s Creek County Park (East Aurora)
  One of the more rugged options—trail running, hills, and creek crossings for a solid workout.

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