The holidays are meant for spending time with friends and family through old and new traditions! If you’re new to the Capital Region area or are looking for holiday happenings to make an annual event out of, look through some of our favorite traditions! These tried-and-true events are filled with so much holiday spirit that our community waits eagerly for them all year long. Make new memories this holiday season and enjoy all the wonderful activities the Capital Region has to offer!
Capital Holiday Lights in the Park
The Albany Police Athletic League puts on a one of a kind holiday lights show each year at Washington Park in Albany! Sponsored by Price Chopper/Market 32, tens of thousands of Capital Region residents drive through this incredible show. With sparkling candy canes, giant snowflakes, and hundreds of other displays, it’s perfect for a winter night drive. Bring some hot cocoa to enjoy the drive while staying cozy in your car! Look for their special nights where you can walk through the park and for nights you can bring your pup for a stroll!
Outdoor Ice Skating at Empire State Plaza
Skate a beautiful winter day away on the rink at Empire State Plaza! A staple during the holiday season, this gorgeous outdoor rink is the perfect place to have some fun and spread your holiday cheer! Need a skating refresher or want your kids to learn? Training seminars are held to help with your skills! With stunning unobstructed views of the Empire State Plaza, the Egg, and other historic downtown Albany buildings, you’ll be able to appreciate the beauty of Albany while skating.
Saratoga Victorian Street Walk
Downtown Saratoga Springs is always impeccably decorated for the holidays! The season kicks off with the Victorian Street Walk, hosted typically the first weekend of December. This night (or weekend like in past years) is filled with festivities on Broadway and in Congress Park! With a dazzling tree lighting ceremony, street performers, carolers, visits from Santa, and decorated store windows (and those amazing holiday deals!), the street walk is the perfect way to start off the holiday season. Stop into Uncommon Grounds for some hot cocoa and enjoy your night!
Annual Festival of Trees
The Festival of Trees in Schenectady is a celebration of the holiday season and a great opportunity to give back to your community! The festival is a fundraiser for two local organizations, the Schenectady Historical Society and YWCA Northeastern NY, and local businesses and people can sponsor and decorate a tree! Guests are invited to stroll through dozens of trees and even vote on their favorite. This festive holiday tradition is a must-attend in the Capital Region!
Wintertime Wonderland
The largest indoor Christmas event in the Capital Region, Wintertime Wonderland in Latham is an incredible experience. Visit Santa’s workshop, walk through a life-sized gingerbread house, take a ride on the Christmas train, and more at this magical place. If you’re looking for presents for family and friends, stop by their vendor market to find unique gifts for everyone on your list! Snap some photos with Santa to make this trip unforgettable!
Looking for an apartment in the Capital Region?
The Capital Region is famous for its year-round events and happenings. A wonderful place to live and work, it’s the perfect place to call home in Upstate New York. Allow our expert team at Burns Management the privilege of helping you find your next dream space. With over 20+ communities located throughout the Capital Region, you’ll love where you live.