The News, Eats & Events Shaping Western New York

Buffalo’s Canalside is gearing up for a summer packed with vibrant energy as the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corp. and Buffalo Waterfront announce a lively slate of events.

The beloved World’s Largest Rubber Duck returns July 3–5, with ‘Mama Duck’ and Timmy drawing crowds for photos and family fun, including a golden duck scavenger hunt and outdoor movies.

Debuting this year, The Sunday Social at Canalside will fill the first Sunday each month with live music, food trucks, and local vendors.

Visitors can rent whimsical duck-themed paddleboats from the Buffalo Maritime Center or join classic rowboat rides by Explore & More Children’s Museum starting Memorial Day weekend.

Fitness lovers can enjoy free daily classes, puppy yoga, and goat yoga through the 15th season of ‘Fitness at Canalside.’

A free shuttle makes exploring and experiencing every event easy, ensuring all of Buffalo can join this summer’s waterfront excitement.

Catholic Charities of Buffalo welcomes the People of Hope traveling museum to the OLV Human Services Campus in Lackawanna this weekend, offering an inspiring exploration of faith-based community service.

The event runs Saturday, May 9, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Sunday, May 10, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with free admission for all visitors.

This national initiative by Catholic Charities USA transforms a retrofitted tractor-trailer into an immersive experience, featuring over 40 video stories from Catholic Charities staff and volunteers nationwide.

Guests can explore interactive exhibits, including a poverty simulation and an audio library with powerful segments on poverty and social action.

Attendees are invited to share their own uplifting stories, joining a nationwide narrative of hope.

The exhibit has captivated hundreds elsewhere, underscoring Buffalo’s commitment to compassion and neighborly service.

Buffalo Sabres fans brought an electric atmosphere to bars all over Western New York on Wednesday night, rallying behind their team as the playoffs kicked off against the Montreal Canadiens.

At The Banshee Irish Pub downtown, excited crowds gathered long before the puck dropped, with loyal supporters like Brendan Feeley describing the playoff run as an emotional rollercoaster.

Lifelong ticket holders Dylan Cottrell and TJ Jones said the Sabres’ return to the postseason feels like a dream realized.

Jones noted the city’s lively transformation, with packed streets and fans caught up in the celebration.

On Allen Street, Adam Rupczyk likened the city’s charged spirit to a Buffalo Bills playoff run, while Peggy Milliron’s anxiety has turned into soaring confidence in the team’s speed and accuracy.

For families like Joe Erbacher’s, this playoff series has become a unifying experience, reflecting the unwavering support that links the Sabres with their community.

Blooming Across WNY: Top Florists to Know

• Wildroot Floral
  📍 Buffalo, NY
  A boutique floral studio known for upscale, modern arrangements and stunning wedding work. Their designs lean artistic and trendy while still feeling elegant and approachable.

• Maureen’s Buffalo Wholesale Flower Market
  📍 Buffalo, NY
  A longtime local favorite offering fresh-cut flowers, custom bouquets, and wholesale pricing. Perfect for DIY floral lovers and large event orders.

• Brighton Eggert Florist
  📍 Tonawanda, NY
  Family-owned and trusted for generations, this florist is known for dependable delivery, classic arrangements, and exceptional customer service throughout the Northtowns.

• Englewood Flower Shop
  📍 Buffalo, NY
  A well-established neighborhood florist offering timeless floral designs, sympathy arrangements, and seasonal bouquets with a personal touch.

• North Park Florist
  📍 North Buffalo, NY
  A Hertel Avenue staple loved for personalized service, fresh flowers, and creative arrangements that fit everything from birthdays to weddings.

• Flowers By Johnny
  📍 Buffalo, NY
  Known for bold, artistic floral styling and premium event work. Their arrangements often stand out for their color combinations and unique presentation.

• Hess Brothers Florist
  📍 Hamburg, NY
  Serving Western New York since the 1920s, Hess Brothers is one of the area’s most respected classic florists with strong same-day delivery options.

• Country Florist
  📍 East Aurora, NY
  Popular for vibrant custom bouquets, wedding florals, and creative seasonal arrangements. Customers consistently praise the freshness and quality.

• Arnie’s International Flowers
  📍 Buffalo, NY
  A budget-friendly option with a huge variety of flowers and bulk stems. Great for customers looking for fresh flowers without premium pricing.

• Infinite Blooms Garden Center & Gift Shop
  📍 Depew, NY
  Combines floral arrangements with garden-inspired gifts and décor. A great spot for seasonal flowers, plants, and unique gift ideas.

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