NY Tailgate Party Raises Funds for 4 Local Charities

For the past several years, the town of Herkimer, New York has transformed NFL playoff Sunday into something much bigger than just watching games. Organizers Marc Butler and Rocky Fiato have built an annual tradition that feeds football fans while raising thousands for local causes.

This year's event happens January 25th at Waterfront Grille, and it keeps getting bigger. Butler, now mayor of nearby Newport and formerly a state assemblyman, says the community response grows every single year.

Here's what makes this tailgate special: your entire $30 entry fee goes directly to charity. Fiato, who owns Waterfront Grille, donates all the food including hamburgers, hot dogs, sausage, and salads, plus everyone's first drink.

The money raised supports four organizations doing critical work in the community. Mohawk Valley Ambulance Service keeps emergency response running, Herkimer County Humane Society cares for animals in need, the American Heart Association funds lifesaving research, and Real Men Get Tested for Cancer promotes early detection.

From 1 to 5 p.m., attendees can watch the start of the NFL Conference Championship games while enjoying classic tailgate food. The fundraising doesn't stop at the door, with auctions and raffles adding to the total throughout the afternoon.

Prize packages include sports memorabilia, a pair of tickets to see comedian Jimmy Failla in February, two tickets to a New York Giants game next season, and five tickets to a Buffalo Bills game at their brand new Highmark Stadium. There's also a 50-50 raffle giving attendees a chance to win while supporting the cause.

The Ripple Effect

What started as a simple watch party has become a model for community giving. By combining people's love of football with accessible price points and donated overhead, Butler and Fiato created a sustainable way to fund multiple charities at once.

The event proves you don't need a gala or formal fundraiser to make a real difference. Sometimes all it takes is good food, great company, and a shared screen showing the game everyone wants to watch anyway.

Tickets are available now at Waterfront Grille or at the door on Sunday.