You probably already know that chicken wings are an essential item on your Buffalo foodie bucket list but what about craft beer? New York State’s second-largest city is in the midst of a rebirth, with more and more young entrepreneurs returning to the city to found exciting new businesses and fueling a cultural renaissance. Breweries are leading the way in Buffalo’s revitalization – fitting considering that beer is a classic partner of the city’s iconic Buffalo wings – with dozens of breweries opening over the past several years.

Many of these breweries are breathing new life into disused or abandoned buildings by transforming them into brewing facilities. You’ll find Resurgence Brewing Co.’s inviting beer hall and beer garden on the site of a former boat engine factory; while RiverWorks Brewery – part of the already-innovative RiverWorks sporting complex – is the world’s first brewery to operate inside a former grain silo.

Taking place from September 14 to 23, Buffalo Beer Week is one of the best times of year to experience the city’s thriving craft beer scene. The celebration sees diverse beer-related events taking place at bars, restaurants and breweries across the Buffalo Niagara region, including pub crawls, beer tastings, meet-the-brewer nights and beer-paired dinners.

The theme for this year’s Beer Week is beer education, with events aiming to highlight the skill and knowledge that goes into producing our beloved brews. Catch the kick-off of the week-long festival at Flying Bison Brewing Company to enjoy live music, food truck eats and free tasting glasses. Enjoy a beer and cheese pairing at Shango Bistro or check out a tap takeover by volunteers from Habitat Buffalo at bars across the city.

The Borderland Music Festival, held from September 22 to 23, offers another fantastic opportunity to get a taste of Buffalo’s craft brews. The two-day music and cultural festival set on the grounds of Knox Farm State Park features over 22 bands – including headliners Sam Roberts Band and the Revivalists – along with artisan vendors and eats served up by some of the region’s best food trucks. Brewers like Big Ditch and 42 North Brewing Company will be on hand to quench the thirsts of attendees.

Whether you sample Buffalo’s brews as part of one of these action-packed fall festivals or create your own tour of the city’s best beers, you’re sure to be impressed with the creativity and diversity of Buffalo’s breweries.