Buffalo selected to host National Gay Flag Football League's Gay Bowl 2027

Premier LGBTQ+ flag football championship to bring more than 2,500 athletes & significant economic impact to Western New York

Visit Buffalo press release

The National Gay Flag Football League (NGFFL) is proud to announce that Buffalo was selected as the host city for Gay Bowl XXVII, the organization’s premier championship tournament. The event will take place in October 2027 and is expected to draw more than 2,500 athletes, in addition to spectators, supporters and volunteers from across the U.S. and Canada.

Gay Bowl is one of the largest LGBTQ+ sporting events in North America, celebrating athletic competition, inclusivity and community. The multi-day tournament features teams competing across multiple divisions, while also delivering a robust schedule of social events, community engagement and local activations.

“We are thrilled to bring Gay Bowl to Buffalo in 2027,” said Joel Horton, commissioner of the NGFFL. “Buffalo stood out as a city that not only embraces the spirit of competition, but also leads with authenticity, inclusivity and pride. Our athletes and attendees can expect an incredible experience, from top-tier playing fields to a community that is ready to welcome them with open arms. Gay Bowl is about more than football – it’s about connection, visibility, and celebrating who we are – and Buffalo is the perfect stage for that in 2027.”

The selection of Buffalo reflects the NGFFL’s continued growth and commitment to expanding its presence across the U.S. and into neighboring Canada while partnering with cities that demonstrate strong community support and a dedication to inclusion. Buffalo is one of the newest member cities in the NGFFL, and will be sending its first team to compete at Gay Bowl XXVI in Minneapolis later this year.

The Buffalo Sports Commission, a subsidiary of Visit Buffalo, has been working with the NGFFL for five years in order to secure this event. Sports Commission staff hosted several site visits and coordinated with local hotels, athletic facilities, the Town of West Seneca and Buffalo United Flag Football staff to submit the winning bid. 

Patrick Kaler, president and CEO of Visit Buffalo and Buffalo Sports Commission, said, “We are proud to welcome the National Gay Flag Football League Championships to Buffalo and Erie County in October 2027. This event will bring more than 2,500 athletes to our community and generate an estimated $2.3 million in economic impact, while showcasing Buffalo on a national stage.

“Buffalo is a welcoming and inclusive community with a vibrant LGBTQ+ presence reflected in our neighborhoods, culture, and annual Pride celebrations. We look forward to partnering with the NGFFL to deliver an exceptional championship experience both on and off the field.”

Gay Bowl 2027 is expected to build on the record-setting momentum of recent tournaments, continuing to elevate the level of play while expanding opportunities for athletes in both open and women’s+ divisions. In addition to on-field competition, attendees can expect a dynamic lineup of events designed to highlight Buffalo’s local culture, dining and entertainment offerings.

Further details regarding venues, host hotels and event programming will be announced at a later date.

The National Gay Flag Football League (NGFFL) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit sports organization dedicated to promoting diversity, inclusion, and community through flag football. Founded in 2002, the NGFFL has grown to include leagues in more than 25 cities across the U.S. and Canada, bringing together thousands of LGBTQ+ athletes and allies each year. Through recreational play, competitive tournaments, and marquee events such as the annual Gay Bowl, the NGFFL fosters athletic excellence while creating safe and welcoming spaces that celebrate authenticity both on and off the field. For more information, visit NGFFL.com or follow @NGFFL on social media.