Got plans for Thanksgiving? Black Friday? The weekend? Now you do! We’ve rounded up a dozen events that are taking place between Thanksgiving and Sunday. Check out turkey trots, shopping opportunities, and more.

Be a Part of a Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day
Thursday, November 22
The Troy Turkey Trot is one of the oldest Turkey trots in the country, having gotten its start in 1916 with just six runners. Be a part of this epic event that consists of a 5K, 10K, Turkey Walk, and Grade School Mile. Online registration closes at 11:59pm today, Monday the 19th. Last chance registration takes place in-person on Wednesday.
Christopher Dailey Turkey Trot
Thursday, November 22
Thousands of runners each year also gather at the Christopher Dailey Turkey Trot, which takes place in Saratoga. You must register in advance for this one, with Wednesday the 21st the last day to register.
Spectators are free at both Turkey trots!
Get That Holiday Shopping Done
Friday, November 23
If you’re planning on Black Friday shopping you’ll want to check out the Albany Black Friday page. We’ve rounded up which major retail stores are open when, including on Thanksgiving, and we’ve linked to some deals at the bottom of the page.
Small Business Saturday in Schenectady
Saturday, November 24
Schenectady is participating in Small Business Saturday. You’ll find store specials, contests, discounts, and events going on.
Museum Store Sunday at the Pine Bush
Sunday, November 25
Here’s a great chance to shop local – check out the Discovery Center Gift Shop at the Albany Pine Bush Preserve on Sunday for a special sale going on. You can save 25% on clothing, books, toys, and Pine Bush logoed items.
Find Festive Fun for the Holiday Weekend
Friendsgiving at Nine Pine Cider
Friday, November 23
Looking for fun on Black Friday that extends beyond shopping? Head to Nine Pine Ciderworks for a Friendsgiving celebration. Tours will be going on for $20, the tasting room will be open, and Brian LaPoint will be performing. The day ends with a pop up seafood dinner in the tasting room.
Santa Parachutes Into Ellms Family Farm
Saturday, November 24
Visiting with Santa, breakfast with Santa – there are a lot of Santa-centric events, but this is a unique one. See the big guy parachute into Ellms Family Farm in Ballston Spa – this could be the start of a new Christmas tradition! Enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and get your Christmas tree while you’re at it.
Upper Union Street Tree Lighting
Saturday, November 24
Santa Claus himself will be lighting the tree on Upper Union Street in Schenectady. This is happening at 5pm, so you can plan to enjoy this tree lighting after your Small Business Saturday shopping.
Sunday, November 25
Got a bicycle? Bring it to Capital Holiday Lights in Washington Park on Sunday for a special Bicycle Night. The cost to ride through the park is just $5 per person or $10 per family, and proceeds go towards Albany PAL, who will then provide free bike helmets to area kids.
Looking for Non-Holiday Events? Check Out an Adult Prom & Two Live Performances
Troy Prom: A Grown-Up Only Themed Dance Party
Saturday, November 24
Get a second chance at prom at the Troy Prom! This is the fourth year of this event that takes place at the Takk House and an after party will follow at the Franklin Alley Social Club. This is a popular event and tickets do sell out, so get your today. They’re $80 per person, or there’s a group rate available.
The Disco Biscuits at The Palace
Friday, November 23 to Saturday, November 24
Attention jam band fans – The Disco Biscuits are performing two nights in a row at The Palace. Ticket prices start at $39.50 for one show; you can also get a discounted two-day pass for $75.
Friday, November 23
Jackson Galaxy of Animal Planet’s My Cat From Hell will be making an appearance at The Egg. Cat enthusiasts can get tickets starting at $39.50.