By Canney Savanney Buffalonians wait in anticipation for this time of year. Fest-mas time! That special time in Buffalo when all of the festivals begin. Find yourself a pair of flip-flops, shorts and tank top and get out there and enjoy the hot sunny weather, that is of course if the sun ever does d...

By Canney Savanney

Buffalonians wait in anticipation for this time of year. Fest-mas time! That special time in Buffalo when all of the festivals begin. Find yourself a pair of flip-flops, shorts and tank top and get out there and enjoy the hot sunny weather, that is of course if the sun ever does decide to come back. All summer long festivals are scattered throughout Erie County and Niagara County. The best part about them is that a majority of them are FREE to attend! The only thing it will cost you is some time, energy and transportation fees.

The first weekend of June launches the first round of festivities starting with the Greek Festival. Those wishing to attend can go for FREE if they get there before 3 PM on Friday May 31st, 2019 at 146 W Utica Street in Buffalo. If you cannot escape work that early on Friday, it’s only three dollars at the door for the remainder of the weekend. Each year there is a variety of vendors and tasty treats available inside the church and outside in the tents. The Greek salad available is simply the best and has me coming back each year along with the fun live music and dancing.

Following the Greek Festival, it is the Taste of Williamsville on June 1st located at 5583 Main St in Buffalo beginning at 4 PM. There are a wide variety of participants in this event including but not limited to Sweet Melody’s, Brennan’s Bowery Bar, Creekview Restaurant, Apple Wood and more. Live music can be heard at Sorrentino’s and at the Creekview Restaurant later in the evening. If you do not like the larger festival or have never been to one before this is a great introduction to them.

The following weekend in June is one of my favorites of the year. It is the Allentown Art Festival that will take place this year from June 8th – 9th, 2019 from 10 AM – 6 PM starting on Allen Street. There are over 400 vendors that gather for this incredible festival that’s been established for 62 years now. Each year new vendors flock for the opportunity to participate here. Crowds seem to come in waves to this event. The best part of this festival is that you can always find something here to take home for the whole family.

I’ve been attending this festival for well over a decade now and one of the best pieces I have ever found is a purple iron wired ring that I have received multiple compliments on. Attending this might make your holiday shopping a little easier because not only are you supporting local vendors, but you are beating the holiday rush too. Make sure you stay hydrated and wear your sneakers and fitness tracker because you will surely get your steps in for this event.

Keep an eye out for new events popping up in Buffalo as well. Your HWH is hosting its 1st Health and Wellness Expo this year on June 29th at Buffalo RiverWorks from 10 AM – 4 PM. You’ll be able to get freebies and have fun with the whole family visiting all of the vendors tables. For more details, visit yourhwh.com/expo.

Whether it is the Allentown fest or one of the many festivals or expos Buffalo has, just make sure you get out and enjoy the weather while supporting local businesses. These are just a few of the festivals taking place in the upcoming months. In the city of good neighbors, you are bound to have a great time and enjoy the sunshine when it does finally arrive.