Arts, Culture, Recreation in the Buffalo New York Area | What’s happening in Buffalo

FEATURED EVENTS

Home Alone Film in Concert with the BPO

See the holiday classic in the most joyful way, with the full film on screen while your BPO performs John Williams’ captivating score live. Kevin McAllister’s madcap defense of his home is still hilarious, and the live orchestra adds warmth, suspense, and extra sparkle to every scene. It is family friendly, perfectly timed for the season, and ideal for starting a tradition. The laughter hits harder, the tender moments land together, and the music feels bigger because it is happening right in front of you. Come with kids, friends, or your own inner crafty 8-year-old and enjoy a night that feels like the holidays arriving in real time.
Dates: 
11/28/2026
11/29/2026
November 28 @ 7:30 pm, November 29 @ 2:30 pm
Location: 
786 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo, NY, USA
See map: Google Maps
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Santa's Wonderland Express 2026! (SOLD OUT)

*Tickets On Sale Now* All aboard for a magical holiday adventure on Santa’s Wonderland Express at the Arcade & Attica Railroad! During November and December, families can ride a heated vintage train to the North Pole, where Santa and his elves are waiting with festive fun. Children can write and mail their Christmas wish lists, visit the Elf House, enjoy face painting, meet Santa, and take family photos. Hot cocoa, cookies, and other treats are available for purchase, and every child receives a special gift on the return trip. It's a wonderful way to make holiday memories together!
Dates: 
11/21/2026
11/22/2026
11/27/2026
varies, see website
Location: 
278 Arcade and Attica Railroad, Arcade, NY 14009, United States
See map: Google Maps
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Swan Lake Presented by Classical Arts at Shea's Buffalo Theatre

Swan Lake, presented by Classical Arts Entertainment, comes to Shea's Buffalo Theatre on Friday, November 20th at 7:00 PM. The most iconic ballet ever staged — Tchaikovsky's score and a story that still breaks hearts 150 years later.
Dates: 
11/20/2026
7 pm
Location: 
Sheas Performing Arts Center, 646 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States
See map: Google Maps
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Polar Express Train Ride at Medina Railroad Museum 2026

Weekends in November/December starting Nov 21, AND Tuesday, Dec 21: Experience the magic this holiday season! Join us for a truly magical recreation of the classic holiday story, THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride. THE POLAR EXPRESS™ with the Medina Railroad Museum is back this season! The 1¼ hour round-trip passenger excursion comes to life as the train departs Medina for a journey through the quiet wilderness for a special visit at the North Pole. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. Children’s faces show the magic of the season when the train arrives at the North Pole to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa will board THE POLAR EXPRESS™, greeting each child and presenting them with a special gift as in the story, their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to Medina. Certain dates and car types will sell quickly so you’ll want to book soon to reserve your preferred seating!
Dates: 
11/21/2026
11/22/2026
11/28/2026
varies, see website
Location: 
Medina Railroad Museum, 530 West Avenue, Medina, NY 14103, United States
See map: Google Maps
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Annie at the Historic Palace Theatre

The sun'll come out tomorrow when Annie takes the stage at the Historic Palace Theatre in Lockport, November 13–22, 2026! This heartwarming, family-friendly musical follows a spirited young orphan whose optimism and determination lead to an unforgettable adventure. Filled with lovable characters, lively dancing, and unforgettable songs like "Tomorrow" and "It's the Hard Knock Life," Annie is a joyful celebration of hope, friendship, and finding a place to call home. With plenty of humor, heart, and toe-tapping music, it's a theatrical treat for the whole family!
Dates: 
11/13/2026
11/14/2026
11/15/2026
varies, see the website
Location: 
Palace Theatre, East Avenue, Lockport, NY, USA
See map: Google Maps
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Chris Botti with the BPO

Chris Botti brings his signature trumpet sound to Kleinhans for an evening of elegance and atmosphere. With Ron Spigelman and the BPO, expect luminous melodies, refined artistry, and the kind of shared stillness that only live music can create.
Dates: 
11/14/2026
7:30 pm
Location: 
786 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo, NY, USA
See map: Google Maps
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Wildlife Signs Hike at Waste Management Preserve, Chaffee

Come join Earth Spirit Staff for our FREE hike at Waste Management of Chaffee’s Nature Preserve. We will adventure along the rustic trail system in search of wildlife and their signs, such as tracks, scat, and shelters! During this program, we will be collecting data as part of an ongoing wildlife survey of the private nature preserve. We may venture off trail at times. Please be prepared for a moderately challenging walk due to the un-groomed nature of the trails. FREE FOR EVERYONE | Pre-registration is required
Dates: 
11/14/2026
10 am - 12:30 pm
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Location:

Beaver Island State Park
2136 Oakfield Rd
Grand Island, NY, 14072
United States

Phone:

(716)941-6267

French Heritage Days at Old Fort Niagara

Visitors will meet French explorers, traders, missionaries and soldiers in this interactive living history event. Learn about French cuisine, travel, military life and recreational pursuits of the early 18th century. Friday's program is for students and runs from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Teachers receive pre-visit information and links to pre-visit videos. To book your visit, contact Marlene at (716) 745-7611 x 223 or email mwessel@oldfortniagara.org
Dates: 
11/06/2026
11/07/2026
10 am - 4 pm
Location: 
Old Fort Niagara, Morrow Plaza, Youngstown, NY 14174, United States
See map: Google Maps
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