Fall Fest Brings Festive Fun to Canalside Sept. 26
A chill is in the air, Buffalo — and Canalside is ready. Western New Yorkers can embrace the new season and all that comes with it at Buffalo Waterfront’s annual Fall Fest on Saturday, Sept. 26.
Fall Fest 2026 is presented by Citizens, with support from Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield. Free activities for the whole family will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The lineup includes:
Storytimes & giveaways by Barb’s Book Buddies
Mini driving range by First Tee of Western New York where kids can test their golfing skills
Goat Yoga with River Road Ranch and Soma Cura Yoga
Bounce house
Live music on the Boardwalk
Vendors and food and beverage options including 716 Sips, Nema’s Café and S’mores by Nicole
“Citizens is proud to support experiences that strengthen community connections and make our region more vibrant for everyone,” said Ted Smith, Upstate NY Citizens President. “As presenting sponsor of Fall Fest at Canalside, we’re honored to help create a free, family friendly event where residents can come together, celebrate the season and enjoy Buffalo’s iconic waterfront. Investing in opportunities that bring people together is one of the many ways we demonstrate our commitment to Western New York.”
While the event is free to attend, a $5 “kid ticket” guarantees a pumpkin to decorate and a Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield bag with trinkets and activities. In addition, the first 300 purchasers of a ticket will receive a voucher for one free skating admission and rental for the Ice at Canalside this winter, courtesy of Rich Entertainment Group (REG). Tickets can be purchased at Fall Fest or in advance online.
“Canalside has become a vibrant community hub where people come together to celebrate, stay active and enjoy the beauty of Buffalo’s waterfront throughout the year,” said Michael Ball, vice president of community affairs, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield. “Highmark is thrilled to support programming that fosters connection, wellness and a sense of belonging, from summer fitness activities and winter skating to seasonal favorites like Fall Fest. We’re excited to help bring another season of memorable, family-friendly experiences to our community.”
Fall Fest attendees can also enter to win additional prizes from REG’s portfolio of businesses, and the first 500 children to enter the event will receive an exclusive, child-friendly REG giveaway.
More details can be found at the Fall Fest website.