The News, Eats & Events Shaping Western New York

The Taste of Buffalo returns July 11-12, 2026, bringing the nation’s largest two-day food festival to downtown Buffalo’s Delaware Avenue and Niagara Square.

This year, 42 restaurants and food trucks plus four wineries will spotlight the culinary diversity of Western New York.

Food fans can look forward to 13 newcomers joining beloved favorites, promising fresh tastes and traditions.

Festival chairperson Adam Roma says guests can expect an exciting blend of returning icons and debuting eateries, with event proceeds supporting local charities.

A new entertainment lineup will unfold on six stages, offering an energetic atmosphere that complements the festival’s signature bites and beverages.

Performers and additional attractions will be revealed soon, making this year’s event a highly anticipated celebration of food, music, and community spirit in Buffalo.

Community gardens throughout Western New York are set for improvement as local students step up with new innovations.

Teens from Stanley G. Falk School’s welding and metal fabrication program have created steel-reinforced corner brackets to strengthen garden beds across the region.

These durable components, made during a hands-on semester at The Foundry, promise to extend the beds’ lifespan and support ongoing gardening projects.

The Foundry’s Executive Director, Megan McNally, highlighted how this project not only benefits gardens but also empowers students to use their technical skills for community good.

This collaboration reflects a growing movement where schools and local organizations team up to foster sustainability, education, and civic engagement.

With each robust new garden bed, students are building more than just infrastructure—they’re nurturing a deeper connection between education and community service in Western New York.

The Buffalo Bills spread excitement and encouragement throughout Western New York by hosting their third annual Community Takeover Day on May 27, 2026.

Players and coaches visited eight schools, including Big Tree Elementary, where students eagerly welcomed quarterback Josh Allen and other beloved team members.

Kids enjoyed games, high-fives, and uplifting moments that made their school day unforgettable.

Running back Ty Johnson enthusiastically took part, even learning a new sport during the visit.

Head Coach Joe Brady reflected on the lasting impact of these experiences, recalling the excitement he would have felt meeting pro athletes as a child.

The energy continued at Hillery Park Elementary, where students cheered for the Bills during field day activities.

Vice President of Community Impact, Michelle Roberts, highlighted how the event deepens the team’s bond with fans and demonstrates their commitment beyond the field.

🍺 Sip Local: Best Breweries in Buffalo & Western New York

1. 🍻 Britesmith Brewing

• 📍 Williamsville, NY & Niagara Street, Buffalo
• 🍺 Known For: Craft beer, upscale pub food, stylish atmosphere
• 💬 Why Go: One of the hottest brewery hangouts in WNY with beautiful indoor/outdoor spaces, wood-fired dishes, cocktails, and now a second Buffalo location bringing the same elevated brewery vibe to Niagara Street.

2. 🍻 Resurgence Brewing Company

• 📍 Buffalo, NY
• 🍺 Known For: Huge beer selection, massive patio, live events
• 💬 Why Go: One of Buffalo’s most popular brewery hangouts with great food, spacious indoor seating, and an energetic atmosphere year-round.

3. 🌞 Big Ditch Brewing Company

• 📍 Downtown Buffalo
• 🍺 Known For: Hayburner IPA, downtown vibes, full kitchen
• 💬 Why Go: A Buffalo staple perfect for before Sabres games, nights out, or casual dinners with craft beer lovers.

4. 🎶 Hamburg Brewing Company

• 📍 Hamburg, NY
• 🍺 Known For: Outdoor beer garden, live music, community events
• 💬 Why Go: Relaxed Southtowns favorite with one of the best outdoor brewery setups in WNY.

5. 🌲 Ellicottville Brewing Company

• 📍 Ellicottville, NY
• 🍺 Known For: Ski town vibes, craft beer, mountain atmosphere
• 💬 Why Go: Perfect destination brewery after hiking, skiing, or exploring Ellicottville’s shops and restaurants.

6. 🍔 Thin Man Brewery

• 📍 Elmwood Village & Chandler Street, Buffalo
• 🍺 Known For: Experimental beers, trendy crowd, food menu
• 💬 Why Go: Great social atmosphere with constantly rotating craft brews and one of Buffalo’s coolest brewery interiors.

7. 🌊 Southern Tier Brewing Buffalo

• 📍 Downtown Buffalo
• 🍺 Known For: IPA variety, rooftop patio, game-day crowds
• 💬 Why Go: A lively downtown brewery destination connected to the famous Southern Tier brand with a fun waterfront feel.

8. 🐾 Community Beer Works

• 📍 Buffalo, NY
• 🍺 Known For: Whale Brown Ale, neighborhood vibes, local culture
• 💬 Why Go: Smaller but beloved brewery with a laid-back crowd and strong Buffalo community roots.

9. 🍕 Belt Line Brewery & Kitchen

• 📍 Buffalo, NY
• 🍺 Known For: Pizza, craft beer, relaxed atmosphere
• 💬 Why Go: Great casual hangout spot pairing house beers with comfort food and friendly service.

10. 🌅 Woodcock Brothers Brewing Company

• 📍 North Tonawanda & Wilson, NY
• 🍺 Known For: Riverside atmosphere, lagers, outdoor seating
• 💬 Why Go: Excellent summer brewery destination with waterfront energy and strong traditional beer offerings.

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