December 8
Troy Victorian Stroll
Downtown Troy
Completing the one-two punch of iconic holiday events in Troy is the annual Victorian Stroll, which, for more than 30 years, has been transforming the Collar City into a scene from a bygone era. Don your top hat or bonnet and take to the streets for an afternoon of performances, family activities, food and shopping. victorianstroll.com
December 3
NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet
Palace Theatre
Celebrate America’s favorite holiday tradition at the Palace. NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet brings Tchaikovsky’s beloved story alive by way of world-class ballet, whimsical puppets, lavish costumes and stunning acrobatics. Splurge on a platinum ticket for the best seats, a pre-show Q&A with one of the artists and take-home gifts including a Nutcracker ornament and collectable book. palacealbany.org
December 5
Victorian Streetwalk
Downtown Saratoga Springs
For those who’d rather walk in Victorian garb than stroll (there’s a big difference—trust us), Saratoga’s Victorian Streetwalk returns to the Spa City the Thursday after Thanksgiving. The 38th annual event will see thousands flood Saratoga’s main drag for an evening of live entertainment, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and a tree-lighting ceremony. The evening also marks the start of the Saratoga Festival of Trees, a fundraiser benefiting Catholic Charities of Saratoga that’s held in the Saratoga Springs City Center. saratogaspringsdowntown.com
December 6
Merry Swift-mas
Universal Preservation Hall
Shake it off this holiday season with a Taylor Swift–themed holiday dance party featuring The DJ Swiftie at UPH in Saratoga. Meant for fans of all ages, the evening will be complete with mocktails, friendship bracelets, selfie stations and so many Swifties you’ll think you’re at the Eras Tour. atuph.org
December 7
Hudson Winter Walk
Downtown Hudson
Mere days after longtime Winter Walk organizer Hudson Hall announced it would not be able to produce this year’s event, the City of Hudson and new business Foundry At Hudson stepped up to ensure the beloved holiday tradition continues. Voted Best Community Winter Event of the Year, Winter Walk won’t change too much under the new organizers—there’ll still be plenty of shopping, dining and family activities—but expect some new performers and surprises. visithudsonny.com/winterwalk
December 7-28
Schenectady Festival of Trees
Schenectady County Historical Society
Step into the wonderful world of lights, sparkle and shimmer at the 18th annual Schenectady Festival of Trees. More than 70 fir trees decorated by local artists, businesses and nonprofits will be on display for most of the month of December, with proceeds supporting the many programs and services provided by the Schenectady County Historical Society. schenectadyhistorical.org
December 8
Albany Symphony: Magic of Christmas
Palace Theatre
Nothing screams holiday fanfare like a full symphony orchestra. Witness the magic made when dozens of musicians take the stage at the Palace for Albany Symphony’s annual holiday spectacular, an unforgettable show complete with Christmas carols, holiday classics and more. albanysymphony.com
December 20-21
Candlelight: Holiday Special
Kenmore Ballroom
Now, picture your favorite holiday tunes performed in a room filled with twinkling yellow candles. That’s what’s on deck at the Kenmore Ballroom, which hosts candlelight concerts year-round. The Holiday Special is 65 minutes long and features “The Nutcracker” as well as classics like “O Holy Night,” “Greensleeves,” “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” and more. feverup.com
December 29
Chanukah on Jay
Jay Street, Schenectady
The Capital Region Jewish Community’s annual Chanukah celebration returns to Jay Street on Sunday, December 29 for a free, family-friendly afternoon of music, entertainment, crafts, games and a kosher food truck. New this year: a giant ice menorah! chanukahonjay.com
December 31-January 1
Saratoga New Year’s Eve
Downtown Saratoga Springs
Another annual festival with new organizers is Saratoga New Year’s Eve. Ring in 2025 with a free outdoor concert (à la Belmont on Broadway) and fireworks on Ellsworth Jones Place, followed by live music at multiple venues throughout the city. The next morning, get a kickstart on your New Year’s resolution by participating in the First Day 5K. discoversaratoga.org
