Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Changes are coming to the National Buffalo Wing Festival in 2026. What has become a Labor Day Weekend tradition will now take place the weekend before the holiday weekend.
For the first time in its 24-year history, the National Buffalo Wing Festival is set for the weekend before Labor Day Weekend, August 29–30, due to a scheduling conflict with the Buffalo Bisons’ baseball schedule.
Festival founder Drew Cerza believes the new dates will be a welcome change.
"The new dates should have a positive effect on the festival," Cerza said with WBEN. "Over the years, so many people have told me they couldn’t attend because of annual family plans over Labor Day Weekend. This change opens the door for even more wing fans to join us."
Cerza says the new weekend falls just one week after the close of the Erie County Fair, and avoids any major local event conflicts.
"Restaurants and sponsors have expressed strong support for the date change, noting that staffing challenges during the holiday weekend have long been a hurdle," Cerza added.
Anthony Sprague, general manager of the Bisons, echoed the excitement.
"Wingfest is a perfect fit for Sahlen Field and our family-friendly environment," Sprague said in a statement. "Last year’s event was a tremendous success, and we look forward to continuing our partnership for years to come."
If you can't wait to get tickets, general admission and VIP tickets went on sale Thursday through the festival website at www.buffalowing.com.