Buffalo Billiards, one of DC’s most iconic sports bar since 1994, will host a farewell party this Saturday, Aug. 24, from noon until close. The bittersweet occasion will celebrate 25 years of legendary memories with special Buffalo Billiards memorial t-shirts and giveaways. The event will also feature a Buffalo Billiards photo/selfie wall, music and entertainment, and special pours from Board Room Brewing Company. In July 2019, it was announced that Buffalo Billiards will close as the new landlord, WeWork, did not wish to renew the bar’s lease.
Founded by Geoff Dawson and Mark Handwerger, Buffalo Billiards opened its doors on April 1, 1994. In more than two decades since its opening, the establishment has sold 10,862,941 beers and recorded 1,721,748 games of pool. Additional milestones include 72,500 burgers consumed, 78, 213 kegs emptied, 3,091 college football games watched, and 782 team members employed over the years. The success of the original Buffalo Billiards led to the opening of other locations including Gaithersburg, Nashville, Austin and Philadelphia. Today, locations in Philadelphia and Austin remain open.
“With news of the closing, we’ve had an outpouring of disbelief and outrage from customers far and wide,” said Geoff Dawson, co-owner of Buffalo Billiards. “We’re heartbroken to leave the premises but proud of what we’ve built over the years, and want to thank everyone – staff and patrons – who have helped grow Buffalo Billiards into the landmark DC bar where so many have made lifelong memories and friendships.”
Following news new landlord, WeWork, did not wish to renew Buffalo Billiards’ lease, loyal patrons have spontaneously shared endearing stories of first dates, engagement shoots, and “Buffalo Billiards babies” – partnerships that have resulted in children born, thanks to those finding love at Buffalo Billiards. Anyone with a fun Buffalo Billiards memory is invited to share pictures and anecdotes on the official Buffalo Billiards Memory Page on Facebook.
For those interested in owning a piece of Buffalo Billiards nostalgia, equipment and decor is currently being auctioned online. A percentage of proceeds from auction sales will benefit So Others May Eat (SOME) and items will need to be picked up on August 25 and 26.
