It’s a busy time of year in the Albany area, and we’ve rounded up some of the latest news and events you should know about. See where you can find festive events, holiday markets, and more.
Get Your Capital Region Holiday Events Highlights
Looking for fun ways to spend the weekend? Here are just some of the top holiday events happening in the region!
- Capital Holiday Lights in the Park – Make the Capital Holiday Lights in the Park in Albany a part of your family’s holiday season traditions. The drive-through lights show is happening now through January 3, 2021.
- Rudolph’s Movie Experience & Pyrotechnics Show – Perfect for all ages, Rudolph’s Movie Experience & Pyrotechnics Show is a new event presented by Ellms Family Farm in Ballston Spa. Time slots are limited, so you’ll want to buy your tickets as soon as you can. The event will be held every Thursday – Sunday until December 22.
- Schenectady Festival of Trees – Celebrate the holidays with the Schenectady County Historical Society at the annual Festival of Trees. Their galleries are currently filled with lighted fir trees that you can view for a small fee.
- Troy Victorian Stroll “Season” – The reimagined Troy Victorian Stroll is happening now through Sunday, December 20. Take a trip to downtown Troy to see beautifully decorated storefronts as you shop, sip, and explore the city.
Santa’s Magical Express Transitions to a Zoom Party
Santa’s Magical Express is a unique holiday experience that’s typically hosted by Yankee Trails. Although the event is canceled this year, they are offering a “Santa’s Magical Zoom Party” instead. You can either sign up for a 60-minute Zoom party and join Santa, Mrs. Claus, and their elves in a quest to save Christmas, or book a private Zoom call with Santa.
Pick Up Last-Minute Gifts at Holiday Markets
Troy Waterfront Farmers Market Hosts a Special Holiday Market
The Troy Waterfront Farmers Market has recently settled in at their new indoor location in a former Price Chopper (865 2nd Avenue, Troy, NY). On Sunday, December 13 and Sunday, December 20, the farmers market will host a special Holiday Market featuring over 40 vendors offering locally made arts and crafts, specialty foods, wines, spirits, and more.
Visit Viaport Rotterdam During Their Christmas Market
Shop dozens of Capital Region vendors at Viaport Rotterdam’s Christmas Market this weekend, which will take place inside the mall. The market will be open on Friday, December 11 and Saturday, December 12 from 10:00am-8:00pm and Sunday, December 13 from 11:00am-6:00pm.
Albany Public Library Temporarily Suspends In-Building Appointments
The Albany Public Library has announced that they are moving back from Phase 2A to Phase 1B due to a surge in positive COVID-19 cases in Albany County. Although the library will be temporarily closed for in-building appointment services, patrons can still pick up materials curbside, return materials in book drops, participate in live virtual programs and videos, and more.
Plan ahead for Christmas and New Year’s! These local restaurants are offering holiday dining specials >>
Sources:
- Albany Public Library – Library Temporarily Suspends In-Building Services Starting Dec. 8, 2020
- Santa’s Magical Express – Santa’s Magical Zoom Party
