Learn Spanish your way with a TakeLessons expert

Buffalo, NY offers an extensive range of inspiration for learning the Spanish language. From attending Hispanic heritage parades to getting involved with the Hispanic heritage council to sampling fine Spanish cuisine, there is something for everyone in Buffalo.

Annual Puerto Rican and Hispanic Day Parade

The Puerto Rican and Hispanic Day Parade Association of Western New York (WNY) is proud to sponsor local events that celebrate Hispanic heritage. As the WNY Hispanic community continues to expand, these events are key for growing the pride and tradition for all aspects of the Hispanic heritage including food, music, and costumes. The parade draws more than 2,000 participants from more than 70 WNY organizations. It kicks off at Buffalo City Hall. Afterward there is music, food, and amusement park rides at LaSalle Park along the gorgeous Buffalo waterfront. The annual Puerto Rican and Hispanic Day Parade takes place in mid-September. Hispanic flags in varying sizes are available at the Tainos Senior Center at 6:00 p.m. during parade meetings. Make sure to pick up your flag before the next parade!

Hispanic Heritage Council

Hispanics have been integral to the WNY region since the late 1800s and early 1900s. These immigrants came from Mexico, Spain, the Caribbean, and Central and South America with the dream of becoming citizens and contributors to WNY. Today Hispanics in Western New York continue the tradition of their ancestors with public and private sector positions in education, military fields, law, medicine, government, business, communications, finance, art, music, and sports.

The Hispanic Heritage Council holds a number of annual events to promote the Hispanic tradition in Western New York including Three King's Day in January, El Día del Niño in April, Cinco de Mayo in May, and a Community Breakfast in June. The council also hosts a variety of community activities and events in collaboration with Eric and Buffalo Counties arts and cultural groups for Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 to October 15.

Toro Tapas Bar

Toro Tapas Bar serves classic small plate tapas dishes that are intended for sharing. It's a great way to try Spanish cuisine and sample multiple dishes without having to commit to one large entree. Just a few of their most popular plates includes chicken spring rolls, chorizo meatballs, quesadillas, enchiladas, portobello mushrooms, and breads and spreads plates. Of course, if you’re 21+, you might as well get a glass of sangria or a specialty martini to complete the meal! When the weather is warm, they open their giant garage-door style doors and offer outdoor seating. On Saturday nights, Toro brings in a DJ and turns the restaurant into a club-like setting with a party atmosphere.

Niagara Cafe

Niagara Cafe offers delicious, cheap, and filling Spanish cuisine. Regular diners rave about the pastelillos, which are large dough pockets stuffed with beef, vegetables, and spices, and the roast chicken. Depending on your appetite, you can choose a quarter, half, or whole chicken. The meals come with rice and beans. It's a great place to order take out.

As you begin attending Spanish language and cultural events on a regular basis, you'll form friendships with people who also share your interest in and passion for Spanish language and culture. The people you meet at these events will lead you to additional opportunities for exploring Spanish language and culture, including Spanish lessons in Buffalo. Don't be afraid to reach out to other people who are attending local Spanish events so that you can access even more Spanish resources in Buffalo.