Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - The City of Buffalo, once again, welcomes the New Year with one of its most anticipated traditions: The annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and Fireworks Celebration at the Electric Tower, presented by M&T Bank.
This year's festivities begin at 10 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 31 at Roosevelt Plaza in Downtown Buffalo.
This annual family-friendly celebration will feature live music, a ceremonial New Year’s Eve Ball Drop, and a spectacular fireworks display to ring in 2026 in grand fashion.
DJ Jickster from "97 Rock" returns as the special guest DJ and host for the evening, and will lead the event up to the midnight countdown.
Live music will, once again, feature beloved saxophonist Will Holton and Buffalo’s own "The Strictly Hip", renowned for their masterful tribute to the music of The Tragically Hip and their sold-out performances across North America.
The celebration will culminate at midnight with the ceremonial Ball Drop and a dynamic fireworks display by SkyLighters of WNY, illuminating the downtown skyline.
"New Year’s Eve in Downtown Buffalo is a tradition that brings our community together," said Buffalo Mayor Chris Scanlon in a statement. "This celebration reflects the spirit of our city — welcoming, vibrant, and full of pride — and we encourage residents and visitors alike to join us as we ring in 2026 together."
Thanks to the continued generosity of event sponsors, proceeds from the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop support the Police Athletic League of Buffalo, funding free programs that serve youth throughout the City of Buffalo.