Published on September 17, 2026 6:46 am
Last Updated on September 17, 2026 6:47 am
NIAGARA FALLS – Against the backdrop of one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders, Buffalo Bills Legends Ryan Fitzpatrick (2009-2013) and Stevie Johnson (2009-2013) made history this morning by completing a cross-border football catch in front of Niagara Falls. Positioned aboard separate Niagara City Cruises vessels near the base of the Falls, Fitzpatrick launched a pass from one boat to another, with Johnson making the catch across the Canada-U.S. border in front of cheering Bills fans.
The successful boat-to-boat completion will be aired during NFL on Prime’s broadcast of the Buffalo Bills first 2026 home game on Thursday, September 17. Brought to life through a partnership between Niagara Parks, Niagara City Cruises and the Buffalo Bills, the event showcased how Bills Mafia transcends borders, bringing together fans from both Canada and the United States in one unforgettable moment. The Buffalo Bills participate in the NFL’s Global Markets Program (GMP), which grants the franchise official international marketing and fan engagement rights in Canada.
Niagara Falls to Shine in Buffalo Bills Red, White and Blue Ahead of First Home Game
On Thursday, September 17, coinciding with the official kick-off of the first regular-season game at the new Highmark Stadium, Niagara Falls will be illuminated in Buffalo Bills colours throughout the evening beginning at 8 p.m. To cheer on the Bills, the special illumination in red, white and blue will transform the Falls into a spectacular tribute to Western New York and Southern Ontario’s home team and the passionate fans who support them on both sides of the border.
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“We’re thrilled to be part of such a unique event and to celebrate the connection we share with Bills fans across Southern Ontario. The passion and support we feel from our Canadian fans is incredible, and we look forward to continuing to deepen those relationships and create memorable experiences together for years to come.” – Kate Hussmann, Buffalo Bills Chief Strategy Officer
“Niagara Parks is proud to partner with the Buffalo Bills and Niagara City Cruises to provide this standout fan experience ahead of the Bills’ first regular-season game at the new Highmark Stadium. This collaboration celebrates a truly binational fan base while highlighting Niagara Falls as a globally iconic destination that continues to bring people together from across borders and around the world.” – David Adames, CEO, Niagara Parks
“There are few places in the world where you could bring an idea like this to life, and we were proud to help create such a memorable moment at Niagara Falls. Having Ryan Fitzpatrick and Stevie Johnson aboard Niagara City Cruises, completing a cross-border pass in front of the Falls, was an incredible way to showcase the connection between Niagara and Buffalo and the shared passion Bills fans bring to both sides of the border.” – Greg Bechkos, VP Sales and Marketing, City Cruises Canada