Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Totally Buffalo's seventh annual "716MAS Festival" is happening this weekend at Buffalo RiverWorks, and it's going be bigger than ever.
Co-owner Mary Friona-Celani says the family-friendly event will feature over 120 local vendors, along with special appearances by Santa, the Grinch, and several superheroes.
"We have to cap it, unfortunately, because only so many can fit in there. But we get hundreds and hundreds of registrations from really wonderful artisans. We wish we could fit them all in, but we have everything from apparel, jewelry, candles, home décor, kids items, pet items," stated Friona-Celani in an interview with WBEN. "Everything you can think of made by local folks who live in our communities or our neighbors, and they rely on us to make a living. For some of them, it's a hobby, but for a lot of them, it is how they support their family."
Friona-Celani says the event is free of charge because they see no point in charging an entrance fee, just to shop and spend more money.
"We figured if people didn't have to pay at the door, they would be more likely to just spend the money with the artisans, so we thought that was just a better idea. That's what we went with, and it really does help," stated Friona-Celani.
The festival is a great way to connect with the community while supporting the local economy.
"It's a lot of fun for folks to come out and not only buy these wonderful items, but also meet the artisan and ask them questions and talk to them. It's really a great opportunity for both that artisan and for the consumer as well, just to sort of meet each other, and know that all of your money staying right here in the local economy, which is so so important all the time, but especially during tough economic times for folks," Friona-Celani shared.
The Totally Buffalo "716MAS Festival" runs from 10 a.m.-to-5 p.m. EST on Saturday, Dec. 7 and Sunday, Dec. 8.
Buffalo RiverWorks is located at 359 Ganson Street in Buffalo.