DOWNTOWN COUNTRY MARKET
The 44th Anniversary season of the Downtown Country Market will take place at Fountain Plaza in Downtown Buffalo in 2026. The Downtown Country Market is Presented by M&T Bank, & Media Partner, The Buffalo News. Fountain Plaza is located on Main Street, between Chippewa and Huron Streets.
The season will take place weekly on Thursdays from June 4th through October 15, 2026 between the hours of 10am and 2pm.
Click here to download our 2026 vendor application and learn more!
Stay tuned to our Facebook and Instagram for more information on our upcoming season.
Held on Thursdays on at Fountain Plaza (Main Street Chippewa and Huron Streets) the Market provides a delightful shopping experience for residents, workers, and visitors, and features an eclectic mix of fresh goods and fine wares. The Downtown Country Market is a proud participant in the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, Field & Fork Network Double Up Food Bucks Program, and the Farmers’ Market Federation of New York.
Learn more about the Market and apply to be a vendor today by emailing: jjonmaire@buffaloplace.com. Click here to view our Grow Guide for information on peak timing for fresh fruits and vegetables.
+ LOCAL FARMERS & VENDORS
Anzalone's Olive Oil
Clarence Center | Branch to bottle olive oils
Bittersweet Buffalo Jam Company
Williamsville | Homemade jam and honey
Charlie's Greenhouses
Clarence | Fruits and vegetables
Clear Creek Dahlias
Arcade | Seasonal cut flowers and vegetables
Dirty Pop Soda Cart
Clarence | All natural homemade soda
Environmental Design Landscape Farm + Greenhouse
Cowlesville | Flowers and plants
Ko’s Kettle Corn
Buffalo | Freshly made kettle corn and caramel corn
Najah Corporation
Buffalo | Somali sauce, spices, chai tea and sweet treats
Nikki's Chocolates WNY
Buffalo | Chocolate and sweet treats
Senek Farms
Ransomville | Fruits and vegetables
Simone's Natural Creations
Buffalo | Homemade soaps, body butters, lips balms, and bath scrubs
We R Nuts
Hamburg | Fresh and local roasted nuts
Rotary Rink at Fountain Plaza is a free, open-to-the-public ice-skating rink in Downtown Buffalo. The 2025-26 Ice-Skating Season is Presented by Community Bank. Special thanks to our media sponsor and partner, The Buffalo News.
Rotary Rink is weather dependent. If the air temperature reaches 45 degrees, please call (716) 854-RINK or (716) 856-3150 to check the rink’s status before you come Downtown to skate. Visit our Facebook page for additional information.
Rotary Rink is Downtown Buffalo’s free and open-to-the-public outdoor ice-skating rink, located at the corner of Main and Chippewa Streets at Fountain Plaza. Rotary Rink opened in 1991, the result of ten years of planning and design. The Rotary Club of Buffalo donated $500,000 to the project.
In 1998 Buffalo Place Inc. entered into a partnership with the City of Buffalo to manage the Rink and offer free ice-skating in the heart of Downtown. The program offers families, visitors, residents, and workers the opportunity to ice-skate outdoors in an urban setting, surrounded by many of Buffalo’s architecturally significant buildings.
The official opening of Rotary Rink and the ice-skating season is the Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration and the season runs through March on an annual basis. Rotary Rink welcomes many school groups throughout the season, who utilize the Downtown amenity for field trips.
Regular Hours of Operation
Monday: Closed
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday: 11a-2p, 5p-9p
Saturday: 11a-9p
Sunday: 11a-6p
Last ice-skate rental 30 minutes prior to closing
2025-2026 Special Holiday Hours
December 22-23: 11a-9p
December 24: 11a-2p
December 25: closed
December 26: 11a-9p
December 29-30: 11a-9p
December 31: 11a-1a
January 1: 11a-6p
January 2: 11am-9p
January 19: 11am-9p
February 16-20: 11a-9p
Birthday Parties, Celebrations, School Groups
Download our 2025-26 School Group Form
Download our 2025-26 Birthday Party Form
Download our 2025-26 Concession Menu
To host a party or special event at Rotary Rink, call (716) 856-3150 for information on group rates, party packages, and rink reservations. Rotary Rink hosts school groups throughout the season.
Click the link above or call (716) 856-3150 for a school skate form.
Students K-12 receive free skate rentals, compliments of our Rotary Rink Presenting Sponsor, Community Bank.
Amenities
Ice skate rental is available for $2 for children and $3 for adults. Skate rentals end 30 minutes before closing. Snacks and beverages are available for purchase at the Rotary Rink concession stand. Profits from concession sales support the rink’s operation.
THURSDAY & MAIN
Thursdays at Fountain Plaza
Buffalo Place will produce the 10th Anniversary season of the free outdoor summer series, Thursday & Main, weekly from June 4th through July 30, 2026 in Downtown Buffalo at Fountain Plaza. Thursday & Main is presented by M&T Bank. The series continues to pay homage to the venerable Buffalo Place-produced summer tradition, Thursday at the Square.
Thursday & Main is made possible with the generous support of our official sponsor family. The series is presented by M&T Bank. Supporting Act Sponsors include: Crowley Webb, Big Ditch Brewing Company, The Buffalo News, Iroquois Construction Services, Katz Americas, Lawley, National Grid, Premium Parking, Try-It Distributing, and VanDette Law PLLC.
Now, in its 10th anniversary season, Thursday & Main continues to build on that legacy with an exciting lineup that blends regional talent, nationally recognized performers, and unforgettable live music experiences in the heart of Downtown Buffalo.
“At M&T Bank, we are proud to support initiatives that foster connection and contribute to the vitality and spirit of Downtown Buffalo,” said Tracy Woodrow, M&T Bank Chief Administrative Officer and Western New York Regional President. “For a decade, Thursday & Main has filled Fountain Plaza with live music and memorable summer moments, celebrating talented artists and capturing the energy that truly makes Downtown such a special place to gather.”
“Celebrating 10 years of Thursday & Main is a meaningful milestone for Buffalo Place and for Downtown Buffalo,” said Peter Burakowski, Executive Director of Buffalo Place. “This series has always been about more than great music - it’s about creating energy, supporting our local business community, and giving people another reason to come together Downtown. This season’s lineup reflects how far we’ve come, and we’re excited to keep building on that momentum for years to come.”
2026 Thursday & Main Series Schedule
June 4, 2026: Handsome Jack and The Burkharts
June 11, 2026: The Strictly Hip with Erin Hoyle
June 18, 2026: The Big Easy in Buffalo presents: The Soul Rebels with Honey Island Swamp Band
June 25, 2026: The Black Rock Beatles with The Shakermakers
July 9, 2026: Lazlo Hollyfeld with One Foot Up
July 16, 2026: Hollerado with Amateur Hockey Club
July 23, 2026: An evening with The Dave Matthews Tribute Band
July 30, 2026: Robert Randolph with Damone Jackson Outcome
To kick off the 2026 season on Thursday, June 4th, Buffalo Place is pleased to welcome Handsome Jack back to Fountain Plaza, joined by The Burkharts. Known for their signature blend of boogie, blues, and soul-infused rock ‘n’ roll, Handsome Jack has built a reputation for gritty riffs, swampy grooves, and powerhouse vocals that channel both classic influences and a distinctly modern edge. With a sound rooted in American blues traditions yet constantly evolving, the band continues to captivate audiences far beyond Western New York. Opening the evening, The Burkharts bring their own brand of indie surf pop tunes that wallow in a 60s Californian dream, setting the stage for a dynamic and high-energy start to the season.
The momentum continues on Thursday, June 11th, as a Western New York summer tradition returns with The Strictly Hip, joined by acclaimed vocalist Erin Hoyle. Since 1995, The Strictly Hip have served as passionate ambassadors of The Tragically Hip, performing with a level of precision and reverence that has earned them a devoted following across the region and beyond. With Erin Hoyle’s powerful and dynamic vocal presence elevating the evening, audiences can expect a moving, high-energy celebration that resonates with longtime fans and new listeners alike.
On Thursday, June 18th the series shifts into high gear as our partner, The Big Easy in Buffalo, takes us down to New Orleans for an electrifying night of "swamp and soul," featuring The Soul Rebels and Honey Island Swamp Band. Hailing from New Orleans, The Soul Rebels have redefined the modern brass ensemble by blending elements of funk, jazz, hip-hop, and soul into their unmistakable sound. Known for their high-energy performances and innovative approach, the group has built an international reputation for turning every show into a full-scale dance party. Honey Island Swamp Band complements the evening with a rich mix of Southern rock, Americana, and swampy grooves, creating a layered and immersive musical experience. "As The Big Easy in Buffalo marks our 20th season of bringing the best in Louisiana music to Western New York, we're thrilled to be part of the 10th annual Thursday & Main series for this free community celebration," said Big Easy in Buffalo Director Tod Kniazuk. "Thanks to Buffalo Place for letting us join the party!"
The energy carries into Thursday, June 25th, as Buffalo Place presents a night of iconic hits and local talent with The Black Rock Beatles and The Shakermakers. A beloved staple of the Western New York music scene, The Black Rock Beatles are known for their faithful and energetic renditions of The Beatles’ legendary catalog, capturing both the precision and spirit of the original recordings. Kicking off the night, The Shakermakers will deliver a crowd-pleasing tribute to Oasis, packed with anthemic hits and singalong favorites.
On Thursday, July 9th, the series returns following a brief Independence Day break with local favorites Lazlo Hollyfeld. Led by Buffalo music community leader Sonny Baker, the trio is known for its expansive, instrumental-driven soundscapes and dynamic live improvisation. Long regarded as a staple of the region’s jam and progressive rock scene, Lazlo Hollyfeld’s performances balance intricate musicianship with atmospheric build, creating a deeply immersive listening experience that resonates with both dedicated fans and new audiences alike. Opening the evening, Buffalo-based One Foot Up will kick things off with a high-energy blend of original alternative rock and familiar covers, delivering a guitar-driven set built for the live stage.
On Thursday, July 16th, Buffalo Place welcomes Canadian indie rock standouts Hollerado to the Thursday & Main stage. Known for their infectious hooks, anthemic songwriting, and anything-can-happen live performances, Hollerado has built a loyal fanbase through their energetic and deeply engaging shows. Their ability to blend feel-good indie rock with a playful and unpredictable stage presence creates an immersive concert experience that extends well beyond the music itself. Opening the evening, Buffalo-based Amateur Hockey Club will deliver a fresh, energetic indie sound that perfectly complements the night’s lineup.
Thursday, July 23rd will feature an evening with The Dave Matthews Tribute Band, offering audiences an extended and immersive celebration of the music and legacy of Dave Matthews Band. For over two decades, the group has performed thousands of shows across the globe, earning a reputation as one of the premier tribute acts in the country. Their performances transport audiences back to the height of the 1990s jam band era, complete with intricate musicianship, improvisational energy, and crowd-wide singalongs.
Closing out the 10th anniversary season on Thursday, July 30th, Buffalo Place is thrilled to welcome Robert Randolph to Fountain Plaza for what promises to be a powerful and unforgettable finale. A virtuoso of the pedal steel guitar, Randolph is widely celebrated for his genre-defying sound that blends rock, funk, soul, and gospel into an electrifying live performance. Having collaborated with an impressive range of artists and earned widespread critical acclaim, he is known for his technical mastery, magnetic stage presence, and ability to turn every performance into a joyful, high-energy experience. His appearance serves as a fitting and dynamic conclusion to a milestone season of Thursday & Main. Kicking off the night, Damone Jackson Outcome brings a vibrant mix of soul, funk, and R&B, creating the perfect lead-in to an electrifying finale.
Visit our Facebook and Instagram pages for updates!
Guests will enjoy a rotating roster of local restaurants on site weekly. Bijou Grille, Fat Bob’s Smokehouse, and Jack Rabbit will be set up Fountain Plaza weekly with wonderful food items available for attendees to purchase and enjoy.
In 1987, Fountain Plaza hosted the first Thursday at the Park season, produced and managed by Buffalo Place. One year later, crowds became too large for the space. The series was shifted to Lafayette Square and renamed Thursday at the Square. In 2016, the new Buffalo Place produced series, renamed Thursday & Main, returned to Fountain Plaza.
This free, open-to-the-public happy hour concert series, held Thursday evenings at Fountain Plaza on Main Street (south of Chippewa Street), carries forward the mission of Thursday at the Square: to create vibrancy in Downtown Buffalo while supporting local restaurants, bars, and businesses through increased foot traffic and community engagement.
Saturday, December 6, 2025, Community Bank presents the Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration. This annual event marks the official opening of the free ice-skating season in the heart of Downtown Buffalo. The event begins at 5pm with free ice-skating. At 6pm, we will countdown the lighting of the official tree and fireworks display over Fountain Plaza.
“We look forward to carrying on the tradition of free ice-skating in the heart of Downtown Buffalo and to working with Community Bank, Presenting Sponsor of the Tree Lighting” said Michael T. Schmand, Executive Director of Buffalo Place, Inc. “In partnership with the City of Buffalo and Rotary Club of Buffalo, Buffalo Place has managed the operation of this outdoor ice-skating rink for 25 years. Renovations to Fountain Plaza provide residents and visitors with a charming outdoor winter activity to enjoy all season.”
2026 Thursday & Main Series Schedule
June 4, 2026: Handsome Jack and The Burkharts
June 11, 2026: The Strictly Hip with Erin Hoyle
June 18, 2026: The Big Easy in Buffalo presents: The Soul Rebels with Honey Island Swamp Band
June 25, 2026: The Black Rock Beatles with The Shakermakers
July 9, 2026: Lazlo Hollyfeld with One Foot Up
July 16, 2026: Hollerado with Amateur Hockey Club
July 23, 2026: An evening with The Dave Matthews Tribute Band
July 30, 2026: Robert Randolph with Damone Jackson Outcome
Immediately following the fireworks and tree lighting, the fun will continue with visits with Santa, holiday gifts, face-painting, and ice-skating. Ice-skating is free and ice-skate rental is available; $2 for children and $3 for adults. Guests are encouraged to bring their own ice-skates and avoid waiting in the ice-skate rental line. Santa will visit with children from 6:30pm to 8pm.
Buffalo Place thanks Community Bank for their Presenting Sponsorship of the Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration. Buffalo Place also thanks our official Media Sponsor and Partner, The Buffalo News, for their support of the event.
