*This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you make a purchase through these links (at no additional cost to you) I will earn a small commission. Click here for the full disclosure*
Shakespeare in Delaware Park has been a Buffalo summer tradition since 1976. Since then it has grown to become one of the largest outdoor Shakespeare companies in the USA and is now the second oldest such company. Theatre students from the University at Buffalo work alongside professional actors to provide high-quality performances of the bard’s beloved plays. Each year two plays are chosen to be performed and each one runs about 3-4 weeks with performances six days a week. The outdoor performances are free to attend, which make for a great date night or a fun way to spend a summer evening with a group of friends!
5 Tips for Enjoying Shakespeare in Delaware Park:
1. Arrive Early!
The Shakespeare in Delaware Park website advises the audience to arrive at least 30 minutes before the performances start. I would advise you to get there even earlier as the hill fills up quickly. Arriving early allows you to claim your preferred spot on Shakespeare Hill for the best views. Note that the area closest to the stage is reserved for blankets only, so if you prefer to bring a chair to sit in, you’ll have to sit behind that area on the hill. Additionally, parking spaces in the neighborhoods surrounding the park fill up quickly.
Don’t arrive at the last minute or you might find yourself in a desperate hunt for a parking spot as well as a seat for the show!
2. Eat, Drink, & Be Merry (But still respectful)
Bringing food and drinks is not only permitted, but encouraged. This is the perfect opportunity to have the picnic you’ve been dreaming of all summer. Bring a variety of snacks and a bottle of wine (or two) to enjoy the evening.
Please do remember that this is a live performance so be respectful to the actors as well as those around you who are there to enjoy the show. Also be sure to pick up after yourself at the end of the night to help keep Delaware Park beautiful!
3. Pack the Bug Spray
Being an outdoor venue means that the audience is sharing space with mosquitos and other bugs. With the shows starting at 7:15pm, you might find yourself being snacked on by these tiny audience members. We didn’t think to bring any bug spray the first time we attended Shakespeare in Delaware Park and wished we had! Learn from our mistakes (and itches) for an enjoyable evening.
While on the topic of nature’s irritants, it’s also a good idea to bring (or take in advance) allergy medications if the lawn or nearby rose garden are likely to bother you.
4. Bring a sweater or a blanket
While Buffalo can have some truly lovely weather during the summer months, the evenings are often much cooler than the days. Sitting out on Shakespeare Hill in the cool night air wearing your light summer clothes can lead to some goosebumps. You’ll enjoy the end of the performance much more if you come prepared with additional layers to stay comfortable.
It’s never a bad idea to check the weather forecast as well to make sure you’re prepared!
5. Bring cash!
Like I already mentioned, the performances are 100% free to attend. However, it’s nice to have cash with you to support the Shakespeare in Delaware Park program and the volunteer actors. There’s a merchandise booth where you can pick up shirts, hats, etc. to support the program. Also during intermission the actors will come around to collect donations. These volunteers put on fabulous performances all summer and just a couple bucks can help support the program.
Get Thee to the Show!
Now that you know how to enjoy your evening’s entertainment, here are some additional details. The performances take place at Shakespeare Hill in Delaware Park which is next to Hoyt Lake and behind the Rose Garden (which is across from the Albright Knox Art Gallery). For additional information be sure to visit Shakespeare in Delaware Park’s website or their Facebook page. Take advantage of all Buffalo has to offer during the summer and support this wonderful program!
Have you ever attended an outdoor theatre performance?
Find Local Stays:
This sounds like an amazing experience! Thanks for sharing your tips and should I ever be able to see a performance I’ll remember them.
Loren | plaid and sugar
We love going! I hope you make it to Buffalo sometime!
This looks like so much fun! I’ll have to see if anywhere near me does something like this x
It’s a great way to spend a summer evening! Take a look around your local area, I think a lot of cities have outdoor activities during the summer months.