The holiday spirit is alive and well in the Albany area, and some of the city’s most anticipated events of the season are happening this weekend. Don’t miss the annual tree lighting at the Empire State Plaza, the Great Train Extravaganza, or any of the other fun holiday events.
Fill Your Weekend With Holiday Season Festivities
Empire State Plaza Holiday Tree Lighting and Fireworks Festival – Sunday, December 2
Bring the family to the Empire State Plaza on Sunday and experience the magic of the holiday season with a tree lighting presented by SEFCU and more fun events. Activities will take place from 1:00pm-8:00pm both indoors and outdoors, and there will be live performances by Tuba Christmas, The Rusty Pipes, and other groups.
2018 Troy Victorian Stroll – Sunday, December 2
Step back in time as the Rensselaer County Regional Chamber of Commerce presents the 36th Annual Troy Victorian Stroll on Sunday from 11:00am-5:00pm. The local tradition brings holiday cheer to Downtown Troy each year and offers over 100 free attractions, including rides, shows, and so much more.
Annual Schenectady Festival of Trees – Saturday, December 1 – Sunday, December 16
Celebrate the holidays at the Schenectady County Historical Society this weekend. As part of their annual Festival of Trees, the historical society’s rooms will be filled with lighted fir trees decorated with Christmas ornaments.
Great Train Extravaganza – Sunday, December 2
It’s all about trains at the annual Great Train Extravaganza this Sunday. Hosted at the New York State Convention Center, this massive model and toy train show features dozens of vendors, several operating model railroads, and a Roaming Railroad that will take you around the Empire State Plaza Concourse.
Attend Opening Day at the Empire “Skate” Plaza
Ice Rink Opening Day – Friday, November 30
Are you ready to kick off the “Winter at the Plaza” season? This Friday is Opening Day at the Empire “Skate” Plaza, and skating will be available from 4:30pm-8:00pm (weather dependent). Rentals are free!
Discover Potential Holiday Gift Items in the Capital Region
Troy Night Out – Friday, November 30
Each month, Troy Night Out attracts thousands of people to the streets of Downtown Troy for a variety of events and specials. The theme for November is Shop Local, Give Local, which means the night will be perfect for gift shopping at all the local stores. Shop, dine, and explore Downtown Troy from 5:00pm-9:00pm.
Irish Christmas Market – Saturday, December 1
Taste traditional food and look for holiday gifts at the Irish American Heritage Museum during their Irish Christmas Market. Children young and old are invited for fun, gifts, food, and an appearance from Santa Claus. Admission is $3 for adults and free for kids 12 and under.
Taste NY Holiday Market – Sunday, December 2
Is there anything better than a chocolate dipping fountain to satisfy your sweet tooth this season? The Taste NY Holiday Market at the New York State Museum will have a large chocolate fountain and tons of vendors offering “made in New York” food and beverages. Taste and shop for holiday gifts at this free one-day market.
Taste New Brews at Crossgates
Cask & Crossgates Winter Beer Fest – Saturday, December 1
Don’t miss the new Cask & Crossgates Winter Beer Fest happening this Saturday from 2:00pm-6:00pm. The brewfest will be held under heated tents and in front of fire pits outside Crossgates Mall. Enjoy sampling unique beers from some of the region’s finest breweries.
