Buffalo Wild Wings, often affectionately called B-Dubs, offers one of the most popular loyalty programs for sports fans and wing lovers alike. Known as Blazin’ Rewards, this program is designed to give back to frequent guests by turning every dollar spent into points that can be traded for free food, drinks, and exclusive experiences. Whether you are a regular during the football season or just stop in for a quick lunch, understanding how to navigate the rewards system and the merchandise options can help you get the most value out of every visit. This guide will walk you through the process of earning points, redeeming them for your favorite menu items, and finding official brand gear.
Joining the Blazin’ Rewards Program
Before you can start redeeming points, you must first become a member of the program. The process is straightforward and can be completed in a few different ways to suit your preference. The most common method is downloading the official mobile application on your smartphone. Once installed, you can create an account using your email address, phone number, and some basic information.
Alternatively, you can sign up through the official website. During the registration process, you will be asked to provide a preferred location. This is helpful because the restaurant often runs local promotions that are specific to certain regions or individual locations. Once your account is active, you will receive a digital rewards card within the app, which serves as your primary tool for earning and spending points. Many users find that signing up also grants them an immediate introductory offer, such as bonus points or a discount on their next order.
How to Earn Points Effectively
Earning points is the first step toward getting free rewards. The standard earning rate is 100 points for every $10 spent on qualifying food and non-alcoholic beverage purchases. However, there are several ways to boost your point total faster than just ordering your favorite wings.
Dining In and Takeout
Every time you dine at a restaurant or place a takeout order, make sure your account is linked to the transaction. If you are dining in, you can provide your phone number to your server or scan the QR code on your receipt using the app. For online orders placed through the official website or app, points are typically added automatically as long as you are logged into your account. It is important to note that taxes, tips, and alcohol purchases usually do not count toward your point total, depending on local state laws and restaurant policies.
Mobile App Check-Ins
One of the unique features of the rewards program is the ability to earn points just for being at the restaurant. When you arrive at a location, you can “check in” through the app. This often grants a small number of bonus points even before you order. If you are visiting with a group of friends who are also rewards members, you can sometimes earn “Group Points” by checking in together, making it a great way to accumulate rewards during a big game or a social gathering.
Participating in Games and Promotions
The mobile app frequently features interactive games and trivia that allow users to earn extra points. During major sporting events, keep an eye out for special challenges. For example, you might earn bonus points for ordering a specific new sauce or visiting during a designated promotional window. These limited-time offers are often communicated through email newsletters or app notifications, so staying engaged with these communications can be very beneficial for those looking to maximize their balance.
Redeeming Points for Food and Drinks
Once you have accumulated a balance of points, you can visit the rewards section of the app or website to see what you can afford. The rewards catalog is divided into different tiers based on the number of points required. This allows you to choose between saving up for a large meal or spending points quickly on smaller items.
The Rewards Catalog Tiers
While the specific point requirements can occasionally change, the catalog generally follows a tiered structure. At the lower end, around 250 to 350 points, you can typically find rewards like a free non-alcoholic beverage, a side of French fries, or a side of potato wedges. These are excellent options if you have a small balance and want to enhance your current meal without extra cost.
The middle tiers, ranging from 500 to 750 points, usually include appetizers and snack-sized portions of wings. You might be able to redeem points for a portion of roasted garlic mushrooms, mozzarella sticks, or a small order of boneless wings. For many members, this is the sweet spot for redemption, as it provides a significant value for a moderate amount of points. The higher-end rewards, requiring 1,000 points or more, offer the biggest prizes. This can include large orders of traditional wings, full entrees like burgers or chicken sandwiches, and even multi-item platters. Saving up for these rewards requires more patience, but it results in a completely free meal.
Steps to Redeem Your Points
To use your points, follow these simple steps: First, open the app and navigate to the “Rewards” tab. Browse the catalog and select the item you wish to claim. Once you select it, the item will be added to your digital rewards locker. When you are ready to pay for your meal, you can apply the reward from your locker to your order. If you are in the restaurant, show the reward code to your server. If you are ordering online, you can apply the reward at the checkout screen. Remember that rewards usually have an expiration date once they are claimed from the catalog, so only redeem them when you are ready to use them.
Purchasing Buffalo Wild Wings Merchandise
For the ultimate fan, points are not the only way to enjoy the brand. Many people look for ways to bring the experience home. This is where the merchandise options come into play. While the rewards program focuses on food, the brand also offers a variety of physical goods that can be purchased through their official channels.
The Sauce Lab
The most sought-after merchandise is undoubtedly the signature sauces and dry rubs. From the mild Lemon Pepper and Honey BBQ to the intense Blazin’ Carolina Reaper, these flavors are available in bottled form. You can often find these bottles for sale directly at the front counter of your local restaurant. Additionally, the official online store frequently carries the full lineup, including limited-edition sauces that might not be available in all locations. Buying these allows you to recreate the signature flavor on your own grilled meats or snacks at home.
Apparel and Accessories
Beyond the food, there is a wide range of apparel designed for fans. This includes t-shirts, hats, and hoodies featuring the iconic winged buffalo logo. These items are typically sold through an official online merchandise portal. The shop often features seasonal items, such as specialized gear for the March Madness tournament or the start of the football season. In addition to clothing, you can sometimes find accessories like glassware, bar mats, and even specialized wing-eating tools designed to make your home viewing parties more authentic.
Managing Your Rewards Account
To ensure you never lose out on your hard-earned points, it is important to manage your account actively. One of the most critical things to remember is that points can expire. Generally, if there is no activity on your account for a period of six months, the points may be forfeited. Activity includes both earning points and redeeming them. To prevent this, try to visit at least once every few months or participate in an in-app game.
You should also keep your contact information up to date. The brand often sends out a special reward for your birthday, such as a free order of wings or a dessert. If your birth date is not recorded in your profile, you might miss out on this annual perk. Similarly, having a verified email address ensures you receive notifications about double-point days, which are the best times to visit and maximize your earnings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use multiple rewards at once? Generally, most locations allow only one reward redemption per visit or per order. It is always a good idea to check the specific terms and conditions listed on the reward in your app locker before you try to use it.
Do points earned online show up immediately? Points usually appear in your account within 24 to 48 hours after a purchase. If they do not appear after a few days, you can contact customer support through the app with a photo of your receipt to have them added manually.
Can I transfer points to a friend? Currently, the rewards program does not offer a direct way to transfer points between accounts. However, you can always redeem a reward and share the food with a friend or purchase a gift card for them using standard payment methods.
Conclusion
The Buffalo Wild Wings rewards and merchandise systems offer fantastic ways for fans to engage with their favorite sports bar. By consistently using the mobile app, checking in during visits, and keeping an eye on the rewards catalog, you can enjoy plenty of free meals and exclusive perks. Whether you are aiming for a free side of fries or saving up for a massive wing platter, the points you earn are a testament to your loyalty. Don’t forget to check out the official shop for sauces and gear to keep the spirit alive at home. For more tips on making the most of your favorite loyalty programs and online services, be sure to explore our other helpful guides and articles.