ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — One of the largest food festivals centered around the chicken wing is gearing up for its return to the home of the Buffalo Bills on Labor Day weekend.
The National Buffalo Wing Festival is set to host its 23rd annual event on August 31 and September 1 at Highmark Stadium.
"This year, we are turning up the heat and bringing even more excitement to the National Buffalo Wing Festival as we celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Buffalo Wing," said festival founder Drew Cerza.
He continued, "Our goal is to create a memorable experience for every attendee, celebrating the love for wings while supporting our community. We have an outstanding lineup of vendors, entertainment, and activities that will make this year's festival unforgettable."
Attendees can expect to see some changes this year.
63 new wing recipes will be debuted at the festival, with over 100 styles of wings from 19 different eateries across the nation.
French Toast, Hot Dill Pickle, and Whiskey Apple Bourbon are some of the debuting flavors coming to this year's lineup.
Along with the new offerings, those in attendance will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite wing through a QR code.
Access to the field will still be offered, however, all vendors will be located on the main concourse inside Highmark Stadium rather than on the outside of the stadium like in previous years.
The United States Chicken Wing Eating Championship and Buffalo Buffet Bowl for professional eaters from Major League Eating will return this year, along with an amateur Hot Wing Eating or Buffalo Wing Eating contest, bobbing for wings in a kiddie pool filled with blue cheese, and a baby wing costume pageant.
Parking is free and the event will run from noon to 9 p.m. on Saturday, and noon to 7 p.m. on Sunday.
For more information on tickets, click here.