On The Bandwagon

Alec DiConza is a 17-year-old horse racing superfan from Clifton Park, New York. DiConza was introduced to the sport at age 6. Since then, he’s spent almost every summer at the Saratoga Race Course, where he's witnessed triumph and tragedy.

Two drag queens talk about their favorite pop divas. Dominick “Deyy” Allen has emulated Beyoncé’s fierce performance style since he was a kid. Two-time RuPaul’s Drag Race contestant Mrs. Kasha Davis said Tina Turner has been a source of strength during the most challenging moments of her life.

Tug Hill, New York, is known for its snowmobiling culture. Behind every smooth trail are volunteers like Dave Kowell, who spend winter nights deep in the woods operating 25,000-pound vehicles. As a trail groomer, Dave found purpose in this work that keeps the region alive and riding.

Parker Sokol, a 23-year-old Syracuse University student, is a Taylor Swift fanatic. Parker’s obsession started in 2012. Since then, her love for Taylor has gone international. She’s attended over 20 Eras Tour shows, collected memorabilia and created long-lasting memories.

In their 33 years, the Buffalo Bandits of the National Lacrosse League have found tremendous success and an incredibly passionate fanbase. We went to Buffalo to experience a game day with Bandits superfan Tony Failla.

Jason West is a lifelong horror fan from Syracuse, New York. He became fascinated with the genre after watching “The Lost Boys” at 3 years old. Now the co-owner of the horror convention Creepy Cuse, Jason has become an icon to the local fandom.

Micayla MacDougall started collecting vinyl in 2020 during the so-called “vinyl revival.” Her fandom started with her dad Patrick’s love for music and her Nana's ballroom dance records.

Since 2023, romantasy books have consistently appeared on the New York Times bestseller list. But what makes sexy dragons and fairies so popular? Enter the Enchanted Stories Society, a romantasy book club in Syracuse, New York, where fans find community— and escape — in the pages of these steamy, fantastical reads.

A frigid playoff tailgate outside Highmark Stadium is the scene of chaos and community for the freakishly loyal Buffalo Bills Mafia. We dive into fan traditions, from ketchup rituals to bowling ball shots.