We couldn’t help but notice, while getting ready to hit the road for Buffalo for the 15th Annual National Buffalo Wings Festival, that the skies were dark and gray. Rain was forecasted at over 80% for the afternoon. The venue isn’t really suited for rainy events and later on I’d see a photo of The Wing King himself praying on his knees for the rain to go away. Gods be praised, by the time we rolled up to Coca-Cola Field the rain was done threatening to dampen the day and the breezy day was much to our liking. 
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Having been spared the rain, we took our time taking in the options and the driving blues-rock coming from the stage. As the day wore on the sky cleared up more and it turned out to be a really beautiful Labor Day Sunday! Just take a look at these competitors, all these delicious sauces – oh my!
Doc Sullivan’s from South Buffalo won first place in the Creative Sauce category for their rich, garlicky Beef on Weck wings. While totally not Buffalo, it was a great sauce which I remarked would probably taste good on a list of dishes (beginning with the sandwich, of course).
Booty’s is a restaurant slinging the best Medium sauce we sampled at this year’s Festival. It was bright, packed a punch of flavor and did not feel greasy. International Pizza Expo offered some really unique, well-balanced Maple Bacon wings which were really delightful.
Finally, we have got to mention Odis 12, one of Erie, PA’s hometown favorites. Odis (as we affectionately refer to them) took second place in the Creative Sauce category for their Trinity sauce, which was a unique combo of three other sauces. There is a touching story behind the naming of this sauce which The Wing Authority would like to discuss at another time. As always, please stay tuned.
What a blast! The National Buffalo Wings Festival is every Labor Day weekend, so mark it on your calendars. The vibes are always great at this event. You never see arguments or shoving. Everyone waits in line (which move quickly, no matter how long they appear) and everyone just talks about chicken wings with genuine interest, with big smiles all around. It’s totally pleasant. Totally beautiful day in Buffalo, New York. Check it out!