Born Buffalo

The Night Before Christmas
2024-12-13 19:30 (America/New_York) | Lancaster Opera House, 21 Central Avenue, Lancaster, NY, 14086, United States
The Night Before Christmas

By
J. Michael Landis and Jay Wollin

Set in Christmastown on a very special Christmas Eve, our locally commissioned and well-received family musical tells the story of a brother and sister who get caught up in a fun-filled adventure with a colorful cast of Christmas characters.

The Sadies w/ Special Guests
2024-12-14 20:00 | Buffalo Iron Works, 49 Illinois St, Buffalo, NY, 14203, United States
The Sadies w/ Special Guests
The Sadies
The Sadies have played all over the world where, for the last 30 years, they have astonished audiences with their earthy arsenal of roots music, country, spaghetti western, surf, garage rock, psychedelia, and the slippery beast known as alt rock, all with uncanny precision and passion.

The Rock Orchestra
2024-12-14 20:00 - 23:30 | Shea’s Buffalo Theatre, 646 Main Street, Buffalo, NY, 14202, United States
The **Rock Orchestra at Shea’s** is a high-energy, live concert experience that combines classic rock music with the powerful sound of a full orchestra. This show brings together talented rock musicians and a symphonic ensemble to perform iconic rock anthems from legendary artists such as Queen, Led Zeppelin, The Beatles, Pink Floyd, and more, but with a dramatic orchestral twist.
Held at the Shea’s Performing Arts Center in Buffalo, the performance showcases the fusion of rock and classical genres, with the orchestra adding rich, lush layers to the familiar rock hits. The show typically features stunning arrangements that elevate the songs, blending electric guitars, drums, and keyboards with the grandeur of strings, brass, and percussion.
The **Rock Orchestra at Shea’s** offers a thrilling, immersive experience for music fans, where the raw energy of rock music is amplified by the sophisticated sound of orchestral instrumentation. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock or orchestral music, this performance is a spectacular fusion that captures the best of both worlds.

Jingle Bell Jam
2024-12-15 12:00 | Kleinhans Music Hall, 3 Symphony Circle, Buffalo, NY, 14201, United States
Jingle Bell Jam
Fernanda Lastra, conductor
The BPO’s Jingle Bell Jam is the perfect way to dive into the holiday spirit with the whole family. Conducted by Fernanda Lastra, this festive concert features beloved seasonal tunes and holiday sing-alongs that invite audience participation. Children will be thrilled with a special seasonal souvenir, and Santa himself will take a break from his busy schedule to conduct and lead a sing-along. It’s an afternoon of musical joy, designed to delight families and create lasting holiday memories. Gather your loved ones for a celebration that captures the wonder and excitement of the season, all set to the enchanting backdrop of live orchestral music.

Photography Night
2024-09-24 16:00 - 19:00 | Botanical Gardens, 2655 South Park Avenue, Buffalo, NY, 14218-1526, United States
Photography Night
4-7pm
FREE for Members and children under 2
Guest Passes not valid for Photography Nights

Make your reservation today! Bring along your favorite photographer and join us for Photography Nights to get the most out of your photo experience at the Botanical Gardens! We are opening up the Botanical Gardens for the public to take family photos, engagement shoots, senior portraits, maternity photos, baby photos or photos of any special occasion at a reduced rate.

Our Photography Policy (below) will apply during your reservation. Please keep in mind that Photography Nights provide a shared space and you must be respectful of other guests.

KEEP IN MIND! As the sun begins to set in the fall and winter, the Botanical Gardens conservatory will also lose daylight as we are an open glass greenhouse. We will be providing our house lights to create a lovely experience during sunset, but please keep this in mind as both a photographer or model.
If you would like to take posed photography outside of these days and times, a Photography rental reservation is required. To inquire, please contact events@buffalogardens.com.

Photography Policy:

Pets are not permitted.
Furniture and large props are not permitted.
We do not allow drone photography inside.
The Botanical Gardens’ plants, arrangements, exhibits, benches, chairs, tables, signage etc. are not to be moved, walked on, or disturbed in any way. Any destruction will be at the cost of the guest.
If your party is late for your reservation, you will be held to the remaining time of your reservation or you can reschedule for a full session.
No alcoholic beverages are allowed in the facility. We reserve the right to ask anyone who appears to be intoxicated to leave without a refund.
Some exhibits or special events may be taking place on the day of your reservation; therefore, some rooms may be unavailable or altered.

Upcoming Events

September 24, 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
October 15, 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
November 21, 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
November 26, 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
December 5, 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
December 10, 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
December 17, 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Unwind Wednesdays
2024-09-18 16:00 - 20:00 | Botanical Gardens, 2655 South Park Avenue, Buffalo, NY, 14218-1526, United States
Unwind Wednesdays

Unwind in our Botanical Gardens after work on the third Wednesday of each month.
We all know that the hustle and bustle of our day-to-day lives can be stressful and tiring, which is exactly why we’re inviting you to join us for Unwind Wednesdays! Join us during the third week of each month as we open the conservatory from 4pm until 8pm to give you the opportunity to unplug in a quiet oasis. Read a book, write a journal entry, listen to music, sketch, meditate, or just rest in the peaceful embrace of our conservatory. Chairs and seating will be available for you to plant yourself wherever you’d like inside the greenhouses. This “middle of the week” break is a perfect way to unwind and retreat from reality. These evenings are intended to provide a quiet and non-disruptive environment recommended for ages 16 and up.

Upcoming Events

September 18, 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
October 16, 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
December 18, 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm

The Lion King
2024-12-18 19:30 - 23:00 | Shea’s Buffalo Theatre, 646 Main Street, Buffalo, NY, 14202, United States
“The Lion King” at Shea’s Performing Arts Center is a stunning Broadway production that brings Disney’s beloved animated film to life with breathtaking puppetry, elaborate costumes, and unforgettable music. The show tells the coming-of-age story of Simba, a young lion who must embrace his destiny as king of the Pride Lands after the tragic death of his father, Mufasa. With iconic songs by Elton John and Tim Rice, such as “Circle of Life,” “Can You Feel the Love Tonight,” and “Hakuna Matata,” the performance captivates audiences with its vibrant visuals and emotional depth. The production’s remarkable set design, combined with the talented cast and choreography, creates an immersive theatrical experience that has made *The Lion King* a global phenomenon, making its stop at Shea’s a must-see event for theatergoers.

Holiday Pops
2024-12-19 10:30 | Kleinhans Music Hall, 3 Symphony Circle, Buffalo, NY, 14201, United States
Holiday Pops
Bradley Thachuk, conductor
Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus
The annual Holiday Pops concert, a beloved tradition under the baton of Bradley Thachuk, returns to fill Kleinhans Music Hall with the joy and wonder of the season. Featuring the Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus, this festive gathering is a tapestry of holiday favorites that sparkle with the magic of winter. From the serene beauty of “Silent Night” to the jubilant “Jingle Bells,” each piece is performed with the warmth and splendor that only your BPO can deliver. Perfect for families and friends of all ages, this concert invites you to revel in the music that makes the holiday season a time of communal joy and celebration, creating memories that last a lifetime.

Winter Floral Arrangement
2024-12-19 18:00 - 19:00 | Botanical Gardens, 2655 South Park Avenue, Buffalo, NY, 14218-1526, United States
Winter Floral Arrangement

December 19, 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Cost: $65/ticket | $58.50/member

Bring the scents and colors of the winter season home with this floral design workshop. Discover how to prep fresh materials for your arrangement, basic design elements, as well as how to keep your arrangement looking fresh. All floral materials and supplies will be provided. You may wish to bring a box for transporting your arrangement. Flowers will be based on seasonal availability. Registration closes on December 17.
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Meet your instructor, Andrea!

Andrea is a Horticulturist and Collections Manager here at the Botanical Gardens. After growing up locally in East Aurora, NY, Andrea went on to continue her education at Finger Lakes Community College and graduated with an Associates in Applied Science in Fish and Wildlife Technology. After that, Andrea transferred to the University at Buffalo, SUNY and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies. Prior to her position here, she worked as a landscaper and groundskeeper for a private venue for 5 years. Andrea has a strong passion for gardening, specifically with perennial and cut flower gardens, and likes to spend her free time with her husband, two dogs and two donkeys.

Thurs-Date Nights
2024-12-12 18:00 - 21:00 | Botanical Gardens, 2655 South Park Avenue, Buffalo, NY, 14218-1526, United States
Thurs-Date Nights
Grab your special someone and enjoy a romantic evening of food, flowers, and fun at the Botanical Gardens for Thurs-Date Nights! Our conservatory is the perfect hideaway for a cold winter evening. Stroll among the lit-up spaces and enjoy the magic of our Poinsettia Exhibit. Tickets include a glass of beer or wine from The Bubble Bar, light-fare from The Grazeful Gatherer, and a sweet treat to end the evening!

Upcoming Events

December 12, 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
December 19, 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Miracle on South Division Street
2024-12-19 19:30 - 2024-12-22 21:00 | O’Connell and Company, 4110 Bailey Avenue, Buffalo, NY, 14226, United States
Meet the Nowaks of Buffalo, NY. Clara and her three grown kids have always known they were special, ever since the miraculous Christmas Eve in 1942 when the Blessed Mother appeared to Grandpa in his barbershop! Daughter Ruth unveils her plan to write and star in a one-woman Christmas show about the family miracle so the “whole world will know!” However, as her plans for theatrical immortality unfold, the entire family’s faith is shaken to the very core when a deathbed confession causes the family legend to unravel. The results are heartfelt and hilarious.

Directed by Mary Kate O’Connell

Gardens After Dark
2024-11-29 17:00 - 21:00 | Botanical Gardens, 2655 South Park Avenue, Buffalo, NY, 14218-1526, United States
Gardens After Dark

November 29, 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Cost: $17.50/ticket | $15.50/member

Experience the magic of the holidays this month during Gardens After Dark! Thousands of twinkling lights will guide you through our magically illuminated greenhouses. See textures, shapes, and shadows that you’ve never noticed before as different colors bathe our plant collections in a whole new light. Escape Buffalo’s cold winter nights and enjoy a charming and calming evening at the Botanical Gardens.
During Gardens After Dark, experience our annual Poinsettia Exhibit! Step into the warm embrace of our tropical conservatory, filled to the brim with brilliant poinsettias of all sizes and colors. Allow the vibrant reds, magentas, pinks, yellows, and oranges to fill your heart with joy. This Western New York holiday tradition is sure to brighten your mood, and keep you warm, as you explore our carefully curated collection of pretty poinsettias.
Add to your romantic Gardens After Dark experience with drinks, wine, and cheese at Thurs-Date Nights. Tickets include a glass of beer or wine from The Bubble Bar, light-fare from The Grazeful Gatherer, and a sweet treat to end the evening!

Sister’s Christmas Catechism
2024-12-20 19:00 | Shea’s 710 Theater, 710 Main Street, Buffalo, NY, 14202, United States
Sister’s Christmas Catechism is a holiday mystery play about the search for the Magi’s gold that retells the nativity story. The show features a character named Sister who uses scientific tools, a choir, and audience members to create a living nativity.

Maple Leafs @ Sabres
2024-12-20 19:00 - 22:00 | KeyBank Center, 1 Seymour H Knox III Plaza, Buffalo, NY, 14203, United States
Buy your tickets online! Toronto Maple Leafs @ Buffalo Sabres | 7:00pm, Friday 12/20/2024

Tribute to Joe Strummer and The Clash
2024-12-20 19:00 - 22:30 | Town Ballroom, 681 Main St., Buffalo, NY, 14203, United States
A tribute to Joe Strummer at the Town Ballroom would likely be an electrifying celebration of the iconic Clash frontman’s legacy, held in an intimate yet high-energy setting. The event would pay homage to Strummer’s revolutionary contributions to punk rock, his passionate activism, and his dedication to blending genres like reggae, rock, and world music into the punk scene.
Expect a mix of live performances, possibly featuring local punk bands or musicians influenced by Strummer’s style, covering classic Clash hits like “London Calling,” “Train in Vain,” and “Should I Stay or Should I Go.” The Town Ballroom’s intimate atmosphere would allow fans to get up close and personal with the music, with the crowd singing along and honoring Strummer’s spirit. Special visuals and tributes might include projected footage of Strummer performing or images of The Clash in their prime, as well as moments dedicated to his legacy beyond music, such as his political and social activism.
Fans of all ages, from those who lived through the punk revolution to younger generations discovering Strummer’s work, would unite to celebrate his enduring impact on music and culture. The event would likely also feature merchandise and memorabilia related to Strummer and The Clash, adding to the sense of nostalgia and reverence.

The Great Bluesky Revival
2024-12-21 18:30 - 22:30 | Town Ballroom, 681 Main St., Buffalo, NY, 14203, United States
The Bluesky Revival at the Town Ballroom would be a soulful, high-energy event celebrating the best of blues, rock, and Americana. Set in the intimate and energetic venue of the Town Ballroom, this performance would showcase a dynamic fusion of classic blues and contemporary influences, with the band or artists bringing their unique interpretation of the genre to life.
Expect a lively atmosphere as the crowd is swept up by raw, electrifying guitar riffs, soulful harmonica, and powerful vocals. The music would tap into the deep emotional roots of blues while incorporating a modern twist, offering both traditional blues fans and newcomers an unforgettable experience. The performance could feature original compositions alongside timeless blues standards, paying tribute to legendary artists like B.B. King, Muddy Waters, and Howlin’ Wolf, as well as more contemporary blues rock acts.
The Town Ballroom’s rich history and intimate setting would create the perfect backdrop for the Revival, making it a memorable night for blues enthusiasts and music lovers alike. With an interactive vibe, the audience might find themselves dancing, clapping, and even jamming along with the band, embodying the spirit of the blues while celebrating the revival of this influential genre.

Patriots @ Bills
2024-12-22 13:00 - 16:00 | Highmark Stadium, 1 Bills Dr, Orchard Park, 14127, United States
Buy your tickets online! New England Patriots @ Buffalo Bills | 1:00pm, Sunday 12/22/2024

Motown Christmas
2024-12-22 14:00 | Shea’s 710 Theater, 710 Main Street, Buffalo, NY, 14202, United States
A Motown Christmas is a powerful family-oriented show combining Motown’s greatest hits with everyone’s favorite holiday classics. This show features those famous Motown trademarks: dazzling choreography and unforgettable harmonies all performed in that memorable, soulful Motown style.​
