Special Nights

November 28 - Opening Night

Celebrate the Festival’s opening night with an official tree lighting ceremony with WIVB-TV in the walk around portion of the Festival at the spectacular 76-foot-tall tree. The event will include remarks, special guests and a fireworks display by Skylighters of New York at 6:30 p.m. Festivities will also feature seasonal music performed by the Erie County Fair Pepsi All-Star Band.

November 30 - Silent Night

On Sunday, November 30, the Festival of Lights will offer limited sensory friendly accommodations. In the walkaround portion of the event (where possible), sounds and flashing lights will be turned down to create a less stimulating and more inclusive event for those with sensory disabilities. Please note that the lights will not be turned off in the drive-thru portion of the Festival.

December 5 - Couples Night

Friday, December 5 is couples night! Get your picture taken by the large tree, enjoy drink specials at Frosted Grapes & Hops outdoor bar, and enter to win a $100 indulge gift certificate and $100 in slot play at Hamburg Gaming (enter to win at Frosted Grapes & Hops).

Drink specials at Frosted Grapes & Hops:Any 2 Specialty Drinks on a Festival Mug for Only $20 ($4 savings)
Mix and Match - Any 2

Hot Chocolate and Fireball
Hot Chocolate and Irish Cream
Hot Cider and Fireball
Coffee and Irish Cream
The Bourbon Blizzard
The Fireside Nog

2 Glasses of Wine for only $15 ($3 savings)

Choose from Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Grigio

December 7 - $20 Discount Night

Experience the full event, including both the drive-thru displays and walk-up attractions, for just $20 per carload (includes fees, any size vehicle).

December 12 - Mascot Night & Armor Boot Drive

December 12 is Mascot Night AND Armor Volunteer Fire Company Boot Drive! Wear your hometown pride gear and come meet local mascots between 6:00-8:00pm. Appearances by Fair Bear, Frosty, Buster Bison, Billy Buffalo, Hamburg HS Bulldog, Frontier HS Falcon, St. Francis HS Reggie, AAA's Otto the Auto and WNY Heroes Freedom Freddie!

December 19 - Ugly Sweater Night

It's National Ugly Sweater Day! Wear your ugliest holiday sweater on Friday, December 19.

December 21 - Grinch Night

December 21 is Grinch Night! Special appearance from the Grinch throughout the night! Enjoy discounted Grinch Nachos and Grinch Kettle Corn on this night too.

December 22 - Frost & Sparkle Night

December 22 is Frost & Sparkle Night! Special appearances from the Snow Queen and Mrs. New York State 2026.