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Event Schedule
Two weekends, one Holiday celebration.
The Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor Commission’s annual Soulful Christmas returns this year with new and exciting changes. The Corridor invites you to celebrate the holiday season over two weekends.
CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
DECEMBER 4, 2025
When: Thursday, December 4, 2025 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Historic Michigan Street Baptist Church
Join us for the official kick-off to the holiday season with our annual Tree Lighting Ceremony! Enjoy Christmas carols, warm beverages, and the glow of community spirit as we light up one of Buffalo’s most cherished landmarks. FREE to Everyone!
Schedule:
6:00pm – Candlelight service begins
6:10pm – Welcome
6:15pm – Mary Talbert presents “Memories of Christmas Past”
6:25pm – Christmas Caroling led by Andrea Dabney
6:55pm – Gather around the Tree
7:00pm – Lighting of the Tree
7:15-8:00pm - Hot chocolate, Cookies, Popcorn, and much more
SOULFUL CHRISTMAS
DECEMBER 6, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Where: The Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor
What: Join us for free family-friendly activities, such as:
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Black-owned Business Holiday Market
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Visits from Santa Claus
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Storytelling by Tradition Keepers: Black Storytellers of WNY
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Art activities for kids
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Visits from a Buffalo Fire Truck and an opportunity to explore it
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Musical performances by the Colored Musicians' Club and local school students
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Free Hot Chocolate, Cookies, and Popcorn
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Free Toy Giveaway starting at 3pm for all kids
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Live music with The Historic Colored Musicians Club
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Ongoing music with DJ Ras Muata
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Crafts, Hot chocolate, and so much more
Schedule:
10am – Holiday Activities & Holiday Market Opens
11am – Entertainment at Historic Michigan Street Baptist Church
11am – Pictures with Kente Klaus
12pm – Storytelling at the Nash House Museum
1pm – Storytelling at the Nash House Museum
2pm – Storytelling at the Nash House Museum
3pm – Toy giveaway at Santa Land at 136 Broadway
THE SOUL BALL
DECEMBER 13, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Where: Marriott Buffalo Lecom Harborcenter
Tickets: $100, tickets on sale now!
What: An elegant evening with music, wine & beer, dinner, and raffles.