Saturday, December 9, 2023, BankOnBuffalo Presents the Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration at Rotary Rink at Fountain Plaza. This annual event marks the official opening of the free ice-skating season in the heart of Downtown Buffalo. The event begins at 5pm with free ice-skating. At 6pm, Buffalo Place and BankOnBuffalo representatives will countdown the lighting of the official tree and fireworks display over Fountain Plaza.
“We look forward to carrying on the tradition of free ice-skating in the heart of Downtown and to working with our partners at BankOnBuffalo” said Michael T. Schmand, Executive Director of Buffalo Place, Inc. “In partnership with the City of Buffalo and Rotary Club of Buffalo, Buffalo Place has managed the operation of this outdoor ice-skating rink for 26 years. Renovations to Fountain Plaza provide residents and visitors with a charming outdoor winter activity to enjoy all season long.”
“The Downtown Buffalo Christmas tree lighting ceremony is a cherished tradition that brings the community together in the spirit of joy and celebration, and BankOnBuffalo is proud to be the presenting sponsor for this event. As a community bank, we understand the importance of supporting local initiatives that help create a vibrant and cheerful environment for our customers, neighbors, and friends. We are proud to be a part of this wonderful tradition and to contribute to the magic and excitement of the holiday season in Buffalo” says Michael Noah, President of BankOnBuffalo.
Immediately following the fireworks and tree lighting, the fun will continue with visits with Santa, holiday gifts, and ice-skating. Hartland Carriage will offer free horse and carriage rides around Fountain Plaza with their esteemed equine. Thistle Creek Alpaca Farm and their friendly furry alpacas will roam throughout the event site, visiting with guests. The Buffalo AKG Art Truck will also be on-site. The new Art Truck is a mobile center for free hands-on artmaking that brings art activities and workshops for individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and levels of ability. Fat Bob’s Smokehouse food truck will offer delectable bites for purchase. Ice-skating is free and ice-skate rental is available; $2 for children and $3 for adults. Guests are encouraged to bring their own ice-skates and avoid waiting in the ice-skate rental line. Santa will visit with children from 6:30pm to 8pm.
Buffalo Place thanks BankOnBuffalo for their Presenting Sponsorship of the Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration. Buffalo Place also thanks our official Media Sponsor and Partner, The Buffalo News.
