Enjoy Annual Christmas & Holiday Events In and Near Albany, NY

See What's Happening During the 2024 Holiday Season

The holiday season brings magic to New York's Capital Region, and there's no shortage of festive celebrations to enjoy! Whether you're seeking family-friendly fun or looking to embrace the holiday spirit, we've got you covered. Mark your calendar for these can't-miss Christmas and holiday events happening in and near Albany, NY.

Schenectady County Holiday Parade

Date: November 23, 2024

Photo credit: Brian Moak/Brian Jude Photography

Held the Saturday before Thanksgiving each year, the annual Schenectady County Holiday Parade is recognized as one of the largest nighttime parades in the Northeast.

This year is the 55th edition of the parade, and it will kick off at 5:00pm. Although there is no specific parade theme for 2024, participants will showcase their creativity and what the holiday season means to them!

Bring the family to see all the decorated firetrucks, parade floats, marchers, and more, including a special appearance from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Black Friday in the Capital Region

Date: November 29, 2024

view of a department store entrance in a mall

Are you looking to do some early holiday shopping on Black Friday? Plan ahead and make sure you get the best deals!

We've rounded up mall and store hours and information about special sales that you should know about for this popular shopping event.

City of Albany Tree Lighting

Date: December 5, 2024

large Christmas tree outside a city building

Each December, a special tree lighting ceremony is held across the street from Albany City Hall at Academy Park. This year's event will include:

Refreshments from Cider Belly Donuts, La Empanada Llama, and Albany High School Abrookin Center Culinary
Photo opportunities and live performances by Albany High School's Albanettes and Troubadours
Free take-home craft bags filled with goodies for all ages

Downtown Albany Hot Chocolate Stroll

Date: December 7, 2024

overhead view of hot chocolate mug full of marshmallows

Warm up with one of the best drinks of the holiday season - hot chocolate! The 5th Annual Downtown Albany Hot Chocolate Stroll is scheduled for December 7, and tickets include an exclusive Downtown Albany x Upstate of Mind hot chocolate mug and samples at various businesses.

While you're out and about at the stroll, swing by The Kenmore Ballroom and check out all the local artisans, makers, artists, and small businesses at the Holiday Market, open from 11:00am-4:00pm.

Troy SantaCon

Date: December 7, 2024

Dress in your most festive attire for the 2024 Troy SantaCon on Saturday, December 7! The event will kick off at Bootlegger's on Broadway, where a $5 donation at registration will get you a White Claw Santa Hat.

Afterwards, attendees, can head to McAddy's, Ryan's Wake, Uncle Sam's, and other venues for drink specials and holiday fun. Santacon tickets will benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area.

New York State's Holiday Tree Lighting

Date: December 8, 2024

crowd standing outside city buildings near a large Christmas tree with lights

Celebrate the season in downtown Albany at New York State's Holiday Tree Lighting, which is held at the Empire State Plaza. You can usually expect to enjoy visits with Santa Claus, carriage rides, holiday concessions and beverages, ice skating, live music, fireworks, and other festivities at this annual event. Don't miss out!

Troy Victorian Stroll

Date: December 8, 2024

Photo Credit: Val Lazzari

The 42nd Annual Troy Victorian Stroll will take place on December 8, 2024, in downtown Troy. Visitors are encouraged to shop and dine local in this beautiful Victorian City as the community celebrates the holiday season.

Schenectady Festival of Trees

Dates: December 7 - 28, 2024 (closed on December 24 & 25)

See a fantastic display of ornaments, lights, and more at the Festival of Trees in Schenectady. Let the decorations fill you with holiday spirit! The Festival of Trees is a fundraiser for the Schenectady County Historical Society.

Christmas Land LLC

Dates: Happening on Select Dates From November 30 - December 22, 2024

Christmas Land sign and people standing outdoors nearby

Once again, Christmas Land LLC in Altamont will bring the spirit of Christmas to the Capital Region. Take the kids to this annual holiday attraction and enjoy photos with Santa Claus, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and more holiday activities.

Santa's Magical Express

Dates: Happening on select dates from November 29 - December 23, 2024

All aboard Santa's Magical Express in Rensselaer! Operated by Yankee Trails World Travel, Santa's Magical Express is a one-of-a-kind holiday show, bus ride, and theatrical experience that's perfect for families.

Visit the Santa's Magical Express website for more details and to get your tickets early. https://www.santasmagicalexpress.com/

Northeast Ballet's Annual The Nutcracker

Dates: December 14-15, 2024

Get your tickets to a holiday classic in the Capital Region! Northeast Ballet's annual production of The Nutcracker will be held at Proctors Theatre in Schenectady on December 14 and 15.

Northeast Ballet's cast of over 100 is looking forward to entertaining audiences this holiday season. Make plans today and experience Clara's magical dream through the glistening snowfall to the Magic Kindom of Sweets.

View More Upcoming Holiday Events

Looking for even more holiday events? Find everything the Albany area has to offer and then mark your calendar!

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Joe Legault Joe is a dedicated editor from Lake Luzerne, NY, with a passion for hiking the Adirondack high peaks, running half marathons and 5Ks, and visiting local craft breweries like Common Roots and Dancing Grain. He enjoys writing about the region's can't-miss attractions and activities.