Enjoy Annual Holiday Events in Albany, NY and the Capital Region
See What's Happening During the 2023 Holiday Season
Christmas Land LLC in Altamont is bringing back the spirit of Christmas! Take the kids to this wonderful attraction and enjoy old-fashioned holiday activities like pictures with Santa and horse-drawn sleigh rides, and find some great gift ideas too. Learn More »
It's the most wonderful time of the year in Albany, NY and the Capital Region! The holiday season is always full of festive celebrations and fun things to do with the whole family. Mark your calendar today for these annual events happening during the 2023 holiday season.
Schenectady Holiday Parade
Date: November 18, 2023
Held the Saturday before Thanksgiving each year, the annual Schenectady Holiday Parade is recognized as one of the largest nighttime parades in the Northeast. This year is the 54th edition of the parade, and it will kick off at 5:00pm. The theme is "New York State of Mind," which celebrates New York State.
Black Friday in the Capital Region
Date: November 24, 2023
Are you looking to do some early holiday shopping on Black Friday? Plan ahead and make sure you get the best deals! We've rounded up mall and store hours and information about special sales that you should know about for this popular shopping event.
Wintertime Wonderland
Dates: Happening on Select Dates Starting November 18, 2023
Wintertime Wonderland may be one of the Albany area's newest annual holiday events, but it's become a highly anticipated one already. Now based out of Via Port Rotterdam in Schenectady, Wintertime Wonderland will feature an illuminated interactive walkthrough where you can meet Santa and all his friends. This is the largest indoor holiday event around, and you and your family will have an amazing time exploring all the different holiday-themed attractions.
City of Albany Tree Lighting
Date: December 1, 2023
Each December, a special tree lighting ceremony is held across the street from Albany City Hall at Academy Park. The event features the tree lighting, music, refreshments, holiday crafts, and more!
New York State's Holiday Tree Lighting
Date: December 3, 2023
Celebrate the season in downtown Albany at New York State's Holiday Tree Lighting, which is held at the Empire State Plaza. You can usually expect to enjoy visits with Santa Claus, carriage rides, holiday concessions and beverages, ice skating, live music, fireworks, and other festivities at this annual event. Don't miss out!
Troy Victorian Stroll
Date: December 3, 2023
The 41st Annual Troy Victorian Stroll will take place on December 3, 2023, in downtown Troy. Visitors are encouraged to shop and dine local in this beautiful Victorian City as the community celebrates the holiday season.
Schenectady Festival of Trees
Dates: December 2 - 23, 2023
See a fantastic display of ornaments, lights, and more at the Festival of Trees in Schenectady. Let the decorations fill you with holiday spirit! The Festival of Trees is a fundraiser for the Schenectady County Historical Society.
Christmas Land LLC
Dates: Happening on Select Dates From November 25 - December 17, 2023
Once again, Christmas Land LLC in Altamont will be bringing back the spirit of Christmas to the Capital Region. Take the kids to this annual holiday attraction and enjoy photos with Santa Claus, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and more holiday activities. Christmas Land LLC will be open on Saturdays and Sundays (10:00am-6:00pm) from November 25 - December 17, 2023.
Santa's Magical Express
Dates: Happening on Select Dates from November 24 - December 23, 2023
All aboard Santa's Magical Express in Rensselaer! Operated by Yankee Trails World Travel, Santa's Magical Express is a one-of-a-kind holiday show, bus ride, and theatrical experience that's perfect for families. Visit the Santa's Magical Express website for more details and to get your tickets early.
View More Upcoming Holiday Events
Looking for even more holiday events? Find everything the Albany area has to offer and then mark your calendar!