By Tony Farina
If you are looking for fun, excitement, great food, and a chance to win some money, you might try Batavia Downs Gaming just off the Thruway beginning this Saturday, Dec. 20, to start your holiday off on the right foot and maybe walk away better off financially with all the opportunities to make a buck. In fact, many people do just that.
The holiday excitement kicks off with Racing Appreciation Night on Saturday, the last night of live racing for the year, with racing resuming Jan. 13. On this Saturday, you can meet the riders at 4:15 through 4:45 with Santa Claus on hand from 4 to 6 p. m. and a spin-the-wheel prize giveaway from 5 to 6 with free programs for the first 100 visitors.
As former Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown says in his commercials for Batavia Downs, “we want people to love coming here” and the atmosphere is indeed very welcoming with great food and slot play for visitors to not only enjoy the sights and sounds, but also to try their luck at winning some big cash at the racing and at the slot machines.
“It’s been a great year at Batavia Downs- the most successful in the corporations history,” said Byron Brown, President and CEO. We wish our loyal patrons a happy holiday season and all the best in 2026.
On Sunday, Dec. 21, there will be the Thurman Thomas tailgate party beginning at 12:30 at 34 Rush for the very important Bills game against Cleveland at 1, There will be prize packs at the end of the game and a chance to get pictures with the Hall of Fame running back.
As for Christmas Eve, Fortune’s Italian Steakhouse is on the menu with first seating from 2 to 4 p.m., with the second seating from 4 to 6 p.m. It is simply an outstanding restaurant that draws rave reviews from all, and there will free play and other prizes for those who get there Christmas Eve.
The New Year’s Eve Party promises to be very special, with prices starting at $199 person and $395 per couple. And it includes $100 in free play per person. That’s right, $100 per person to try their luck on the gaming floor.
It features a casino theme with a dinner buffet from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., open bar until 10:30, the Coupe De Villes live from 8 to 11, and fireworks live at 10:30 p.m. Live music, food, and fireworks all at Batavia Downs Gaming on New Year’s Eve.
Many groups and corporations like to rent a room to have a special time at Batavia Downs, and rooms are available for those special events through Stacey Hollfelder shollfelder@westernotb.com or bdcatering@bataviagaming.com or by calling 585-344-6143.
Lots of fun and excitement on the menu at Batavia Downs Gaming for the holidays. Make your plans now and don’t get left out. The holiday season promises to be a great one at the facility just off the Thruway. Make your plans now and you also may come away a winner as many people have.
President and CEO Byron Brown invites all to come down for the holidays and have a great time.
