7 things to do in Western New York this weekend: November 16th - November 18th

We're a week away from stuffing our face with turkey and mashed potatoes. 

However, you don't have to wait long to experience the holidays. So here are some events you can attend that will give you that holiday feel. 

Santa Clause Parade 

Nothing will get in Santa's way as he marches down the streets of Niagara Falls, Canada Saturday. This parade features entertainers, colorful floats, mascots and more. The parade starts at 11 a.m. at Victoria Avenue. You'll be able to meet Santa himself afterward. More info here. 

The North Pole Express with Santa's Reindeer

Take a ride on the Polar Express Saturday with Santa at the Arcade and Attica Railroad. This Christmas experience features a Santa's workshop, a giant sleigh and a two and a half hour train ride across the area. First train ride leaves the station at 11 a.m. Saturday. It costs $26 for children ages one through twelve and $28 for adults. You can purchase tickets here. 

Evening with an Icon: Thurman and Patti Thomas

You can't have Thanksgiving without football! So why not get a head start and hear from a Bills legend who played on the gridiron for many years. Retired Hall of Fame running back Thurman Thomas and his wife Patti Thomas will have an intimate conversation about football, their life, and their love of Buffalo. The event will take place at The Buffalo History Museum Friday starting at 5:30 p.m. It costs $10 to get in if you are a member of the museum. Tickets for the public cost $25. You can find tickets here.

Famous Thanksgiving Flea Market
If you're looking for collectibles and antiques, St. Mary of the Lake is the spot to be Saturday. Vendors from across the area will be there to offer their expertise. Buffalo radio legend Dan Neaverth will be on hand as well. This flea market runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. You can find more information here. 

Christmas at the Wurlitzer

Here's a show for people who love arts and crafts. Almost ninety percent of the items you'll find at the Christmas at the Wurlitzer is homemade. It costs $5 to get into the craft show. The craft show happens on both Saturday and Sunday and goes from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, click here. 

Great Lakes Shipwrecks

There's a reason why they call it the Gales of November. Head on down to the Buffalo Maritime Center Saturday at 11 a.m. and hear about all the shipwrecks Cleveland Underwater Explorers have been to. To register, email info@buffalomaritimecenter.org. 

Cascades of Fire Fireworks Competition

If you didn't have a chance to catch some of the best firework displays you'll ever see, you're in luck this weekend. The Cascades of Fire International Fireworks Competition will resume with a display from Team Finland on Friday, November 16. On Saturday, November 17, Team Brazil will show off their fireworks display. There will also be a fireworks display from the lower Niagara Gorge on Sunday.

Each of the fireworks displays will take place at 9 p.m. weather permitting.

Have a news tip, question or comment?