History of Buffalo Nite

Inauguration

In 1978, the event started with modest beginnings in the Capitol, Room EF100. Staffers from the offices of Representatives Jack Kemp, John LaFalce, and Henry Nowak organized the event. Large and enthusiastic crowds spilled into the Capitol hallways as what was then called the Buffalo Party was established. This Buffalo Party continued under the management of Western New York congressional staffers through 1985.

Evolution

The Buffalo Chamber of Commerce ran the renamed Buffalo Night in Washington, DC, from 1986 through 1992. During that period, the event was held in various District hotels and in the Cannon, Longworth, and Rayburn Buildings of the House of Representatives. These years saw additional Buffalo flavor added with more hometown management.

Revolution

The New York State Society of Washington, DC, assumed stewardship in 1993. A larger committee implemented a multitude of ideas. The event was renamed again as Buffalo Nite, and the Charging Buffalo Award was instituted to recognize outstanding Buffalonians. Corporate support, food and beverage donations, and our charitable contributions grew. A unique logo was created and live music was presented. Buffalo Nite continues to receive annual support from New York senators and other members of Congress. Attendance at Buffalo Nite and membership in the New York State Society increases annually.

Tradition

A showcase of Buffalo, New York State’s second largest city, Buffalo Nite is an annual celebration of Buffalo pride and tradition right in the heart of our nation’s Capital. The City of Good Neighbors legacy attracts hundreds of local Buffalo people and fellow New Yorkers. Friends, food, fun, reminiscence, camaraderie, and conversation are sparked by memories of Millionaires’ Row, Kleinhan’s Music Hall, Hertel Aveune, Elmwood and Chippewa haunts, the HSBC Arena, the “new” airport terminal, the Aud., Shea’s Performing Arts Center, Lake Erie and the waterfront, Albright Knox, Delaware Park, the Bills, Sabres, and Bisons, the universities, Our Lady of Victory National Shrine, the Allentown Art Festival, the Broadway Market, and the Anchor Bar. Buffalo, each year, is number one for a special night in the shadow of the nation’s Capitol Dome.