BUFFALO, N.Y. — Downtown Buffalo came alive Friday night as two major cultural events converged, drawing thousands of fans, tourists, and theater-goers into the heart of the city and creating one of the most vibrant evenings residents have seen in years.

The spotlight of the night was firmly on legendary musician Paul McCartney, who arrived at KeyBank Center for a highly anticipated stop on his Got Back tour. Just a few blocks away, the beloved Broadway phenomenon Wicked kicked off its opening weekend at Shea’s Performing Arts Center, transforming the city into a hub of music, theater, and celebration.

Fans moved to tears as Paul McCartney arrives

Outside KeyBank Center, lines began forming hours before doors opened. Many fans carried posters, records, and Beatles memorabilia as they waited for a chance to glimpse the icon himself.

When McCartney finally arrived and waved from his vehicle, the emotional reaction was immediate.

“I’ve loved him since I was like 5,” said Rosie Witschard, wiping away tears. “I can’t believe I actually saw him.”

Concert-goers from across New York State — and even across the country — traveled to Buffalo specifically for this show, making it one of the city’s biggest live music nights of 2025.

‘Wicked’ sells out Shea’s as theater season ignites

Meanwhile, at Shea’s Performing Arts Center, the opening weekend of Wicked filled the venue with excited theater fans lining up along Main Street. The award-winning musical, set to run for several weeks, has been one of the most anticipated productions on Buffalo’s schedule.

“There’s so much happening tonight — it’s amazing to see Buffalo this busy again,”
said Mary Bishop, who attended the show.

Local businesses celebrate a much-needed boom

With thousands of visitors flocking downtown, restaurants and bars experienced one of their strongest nights of the year.

Isaac Domingue, owner of Hombre Y Lobo, said these kinds of events are vital for the city’s small businesses.

“Without big nights like this, downtown would be a completely different place,” he explained. “We depend on this energy — all the small businesses around the venues do.”

A night Buffalonians haven’t seen in years

For many residents of Western New York, Friday night marked a turning point — a glimpse of a Buffalo buzzing with culture, nightlife, and tourism.

Between a global music legend, a blockbuster Broadway musical, and the surge of out-of-town visitors, locals say they haven’t felt the city this alive in a long time.

And for one unforgettable evening, Buffalo shined as brightly as any major entertainment hub in America.

FULL VIDEO BELOW