Thanksgiving weekend is one of the highlights of the holiday season, and for good reason! In addition to all of the delicious food, there are a variety of festive events to check out with the family in the Albany area.
Attend the Capital Holiday Lights and Other Fun Events
Here’s what’s going on this weekend and next week:
- Downtown’s Shop & Savor smAlbany: Today through December 4
- Holiday Lights Spectacular 2021: November 25 – January 3
- 2021 Troy Turkey Trot: November 25
- Capital Holiday Lights in the Park: November 26 – January 2
- Friendsgiving Cidery Tours!: November 26
- Wintertime Wonderland: November 26 – 28
- 2nd Annual Black Friday Super Sale at Viaport Rotterdam: November 26 – 28
- Christmas Land (Opening Weekend): November 27 – 28
- Ten Broeck Mansion Wreath Sale – First Look: November 27
- Holiday Express Gift Show: November 27 – 28
- 65th Annual Holiday Greens Show at the Hart Cluett Museum: December 2 – 5
See the full Albany events calendar >>
Upcoming Tree Lightings & More News to Know
Mark Your Calendar for Holiday Tree Lightings in Albany
The City of Albany is getting into the holiday spirit, and next weekend, there will be two tree lightings to attend. On Friday, December 3, the City will host its annual Tree Lighting at Academy Park from 5:00pm-8:00pm. The event will include free donuts and coffee and live music.
Then, on Sunday, December 5, head over to the Empire State Plaza for New York State’s Holiday Tree Lighting presented by Highmark of Blue Shield of Northeastern New York. This popular event will run from 12:00pm-8:00pm and feature an appearance from Santa Claus, live music, fireworks, and more.
Enjoy a Free Uber Ride in Downtown Albany This Thanksgiving Weekend
As a way to express gratitude to locally owned businesses and the public that continues to support them, the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District and DeCrescente Distributing Company have teamed up to offer a Downtown Thanks You program. From November 24 – 28, patrons of downtown bars and restaurants can receive a free Uber voucher good for one ride up to $50.
This program begins on Wednesday, November 24 at 8:00am and continues until Sunday, November 28 at 11:55pm. To redeem the Uber voucher, all you have to do is scan the QR code on the posters and flyers at any participating restaurant or bar within the boundaries of the Downtown Business Improvement District: https://downtownalbany.org/downtownthanksyou
Christmas Land Welcomes Back Families for Old-Fashioned Holiday Cheer
On November 27 – 28, Christmas Land in Altamont will host its opening weekend and welcome back families for another great season of activities and entertainment. This attraction is geared toward all age groups, ensuring every member of the family has a wonderful time. Look forward to photos with Santa Claus, horse-drawn sleigh rides, holiday gift shopping, train rides, kids activities, and more.
