This weekend in the Capital Region is filled with a fun Thanksgiving Turkey Trot, Black Friday events, opportunities to shop small, and holiday festivities.
November 24

Spend your Thanksgiving morning at one of the oldest and largest turkey trots in the US! The Troy Turkey Trot has 5k and 10k options, a virtual option, a one mile Turkey Walk, and a Grade School Mile, so the whole family can participate, no matter their level of athleticism. Don’t forget to dress up in your best costume! Prizes will be awarded to the best Thanksgiving and most unique costumes on race day.
November 25
Spend Black Friday in Downtown Saratoga! There will be over 25 stores participating in this promotion, and they’ll be offering a variety of discounts as part of the event.
November 25
Take a tour of Nine Pin Ciderworks and see how a batch of Nine Pin is made, from start to finish. The tours will include a glass of Nine Pin for the tour, tastings of limited-edition ciders, an in-depth discussion about the cider-making process, and a souvenir glass to take home. There will also be live music in the evening! Purchase your tickets in advance for this unique event.
Small Business Saturday on Lark Street
November 26
Shop small, shop local, and support Downtown Albany businesses during Small Business Saturday on Lark Street! Check out the wide variety of shops, restaurants, and bars for all the holiday gifts you need—whether it’s a pair of earrings, a piece of art, a bag of coffee, or a gift certificate to a local bar or eatery.
The 47th Saratoga Holiday Craft Marketplace
November 26
Enjoy handmade crafts from over 145 artisans in one place at the Saratoga Holiday Craft Marketplace. Items for sale will include home & holiday decor, blown glass, art, woodworking, jewelry, fiber art, fashion wear, food delicacies, pottery, photography, and more. Plus, you’re supporting a good cause—100% of profits go to the Saratoga Center for the Family to prevent and treat child abuse, trauma & neglect.
November 27
Enjoy a childhood classic at the Capital Repertory Theatre on Sunday—join Dorothy and Toto as they head to the land of Oz, in search of the mysterious Wizard! The show has all the classic vibes with an updated look and feel. We guarantee you won’t want to miss it!
November 25-27
After Thanksgiving is officially over, it’s time to get into the holiday mood! Check out Wintertime Wonderland in Schenectady. With attractions like an ice maze, Santa’s Post Office, a light show, and a gingerbread house, it’s sure to put you in the holiday spirit.
November 26-27
Are you looking for old-fashioned Christmas cheer? Check out Christmas Land in Altamont. There’s everything you could dream of at this festive event, including photos with Santa, music, light displays, ornament and cookie decorating, horse-drawn carriage/sleigh rides, great food, and much more. Start the holiday season off right with this fun event.
Santa Claus is Coming to Town—at Crossgates Mall!
You’ll have a chance to see Santa this Friday at 11 AM at Crossgates Mall. Stop in for a photo and you’ll get a free 30 minute play card from Apex Entertainment and a voucher for a complimentary kids meal from 110 Grill just for visiting! Santa will be located at Crossgates outside of Apex Entertainment through Christmas Eve, after which he’ll be headed out to make his annual deliveries.