Feel the Festive Cheer: 10 Must-Do Holiday Activities in Saratoga County, NY
Make Your Holiday Bucket List Today!
Are you ready to dive into the many holiday activities in Saratoga County, NY? The vibrant area offers plenty of opportunities to celebrate the magic of the season! Stroll through the beautifully decorated downtowns of Saratoga Springs and Ballston Spa, attend a holiday concert, meet Santa Claus aboard a train, and so much more.
🎅 Take a Stroll at the Victorian Streetwalk
Kick off your holiday adventures with the annual Victorian Streetwalk in Saratoga Springs, which will be held on Thursday, December 5, 2024. Venture into downtown, where Broadway is transformed into a Christmas wonderland for all to enjoy.
From 6pm-9pm, admire the decorated storefronts, stroll among twinkling lights, and immerse yourself in the lively entertainment on the street. Santa and Mrs. Claus will make an appearance, and the big Saratoga Christmas tree will help illuminate the night.
The Saratoga Victorian Streetwalk is also the perfect time to do a little holiday gift shopping. Stop by a few stores and boutiques as you listen to live music!
🎄 Get Into the Holiday Spirit at the Festival of Trees
Once you check out all of the Victorian Streetwalk festivities, head to the Saratoga Springs City Center to see dozens of Christmas trees, wreaths, and centerpieces at the annual Saratoga Festival of Trees.
This year's event will run from Wednesday, December 4 - Sunday, December 8, 2024, and there will be a $5 admission during the Victorian Streetwalk evening (open 4pm-9pm).
Wander through the Festival of Trees, marvel at the imaginative designs, and get inspiration for your own holiday decorations! Festival proceeds will benefit the Catholic Charities of Saratoga, Warren, and Washington Counties.
đźš‚ Hop Aboard the Candy Cane Express for a Sweet Holiday Adventure
All aboard the Candy Cane Express for a family-friendly adventure filled with cheer! Hosted by the Saratoga Corinth & Hudson Railway, this 60-minute Christmas-themed train ride through the scenic Southern Adirondacks is where holiday magic meets peppermint dreams.
Little ones will delight in candy canes, cookies, and hot chocolate while they eagerly await a visit from Santa himself. Several seating options are available, including First Class table seating for up to four people. Book your ride this November or December!
For even more holiday fun, Saratoga Corinth & Hudson Railway will also be offering a Christmas Tree Limited train ride. Join them for a trip to Kings Station where you'll be able to find the perfect Christmas tree to take home with you. This unique and magical experience is only available for Black Friday weekend.
🍸 Cheers to the Most Wonderful Time of the Year
Holiday cocktails are a must for the season, and Saratoga Springs has no shortage of hotspots to sip and savor.
Henry Street Taproom typically serves up seasonal favorites like a Peppermint Patty-themed cocktail and The Mistletoe—a refreshing blend of Tito’s vodka, cranberry & rosemary shrub, lemon juice, and club soda. When paired with their scratch-made food like the pork belly bites and taproom burger, you have the recipe for a perfect holiday meal.
"Literally can't miss at this place," said one customer. "The best of the best. Whether you want a cocktail, food, or both, you'll be totally satisfied when you leave here."
Meanwhile, Hamlet & Ghost transforms their dining area into a cozy winter wonderland, complete with holiday decor and deliciously festive drinks, such as an indulgent boozy hot chocolate.
Discover more great places for craft cocktails >>
đźšś Celebrate the Season at Dazzling Holiday Parades
No holiday season is complete without the excitement of the parades that fill the streets of towns in Saratoga County and beyond.
From the Ballston Spa Holiday Parade to the South Glens Falls Fire Company Holiday Parade, there are several fun events to choose from.
Just beyond Saratoga County, you’ll find even more festivities with the Greater Greenwich Chamber of Commerce's Lighted Tractor Parade and Granville’s Lighted Tractor Parade. Bundle up and enjoy watching the floats, decorated cars, and more make their way through these communities.
Design Your Own Holiday Cheer at a Paint & Sip Class
Want to add a creative spark to your celebrations? Sign up for a festive paint and sip class in the Saratoga area!
In November and December, local paint and sip studios begin offering holiday-themed classes on their calendar. Paint and sip events are perfect for unwinding, socializing, and creating new memories with friends and family.
One recommended spot in downtown Saratoga is the Saratoga Paint & Sip Studio, which has wines, craft beers, soft drinks, and water to enjoy during your class. Take a look at their upcoming schedule, which includes fun events like the Paint & Jam: The Grinch (Live Music Event) on Saturday, December 22, 2024.
Or, check out the Art in Mind Creative Wellness Studio, located just outside of Saratoga County in Glenville. They have a great selection of classes coming up, from the Poinsettias Paint & Sip Event on December 7, 2024, to the Starry Holiday Light-up Bottle Paint & Sip Event on December 20, 2024. All classes are family friendly, and drinks and snacks are available for purchase.
🎙️ Cozy Up at a Folk Music Venue
Take a break from the holiday hustle and bustle and enjoy a warm beverage and a sweet treat. Caffè Lena in Saratoga Springs offers light snacks, regional brews, wines, and homemade desserts to munch on while watching a live show.
From open mic night to performances by local musicians and more, you’ll find an event happening here almost every night! They even have some holiday events planned, such as The Singing Anchors Reunion Holiday Show on Thursday, December 19, 2024.
"Cozy and comfortable venue," said one visitor. "Friendly volunteers and staff, overall a very positive experience!"
🎵 Hear Wondrous Holiday Melodies at SPAC
Elevate your holiday experience with a live concert at Saratoga Performing Arts Center's Spa Little Theater. For 2024, the venue will present the "Sounds of the Season Holiday Concert Series," featuring three fantastic performances.
- Friday, December 13, 2024: A Time for Three Holiday
- Saturday, December 14, 2024: Damien Sneed: A Gospel Holiday
- Sunday, December 15, 2024: VOCES8: Winter Tales
The intimate venue in Saratoga Spa State Park offers a cozy setting and incredible acoustics that will make your night one to remember.
🖼️ Attend a Holiday Craft Fair
Keep an eye out for the numerous craft fairs happening throughout Saratoga County during the holiday season. They are the perfect places to shop for handmade ornaments, nifty crafts, artisanal goods, jewelry, clothing, home decor, and more.
The annual Saratoga Holiday Craft Marketplace and the Adirondack Holiday Festival in Glens Falls are popular, must-attend craft fairs in the area.
See more holiday events coming up >>
🛍️ Enjoy Local Festivities & Holiday Shopping in Ballston Spa
Ballston Spa, a charming village in Saratoga County, is known for its walkable downtown, cozy cafes, and antique stores, boutiques, and shops. Make plans to visit this season and soak up the community's holiday spirit.
From sweet and savory crepes at The Whistling Kettle to clothing and gifts at Boho Chic Boutique, there are plenty of things to do around town. You can even catch the Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting with the family on Friday, December 6, 2024.
For even more holiday gift ideas, we suggest visiting the Brookside Museum for the annual Artisan's Market. From November 30 - December 24, 2024, the Artisan's Market will offer a wide selection of handcrafted products created by local artisans. Find soaps, lotions, ornaments, pottery, and more for yourself or family members.
🎆 Ring in the New Year in Downtown Saratoga
To wrap up your holiday season festivities, welcome the new year at Saratoga New Year's Eve on December 31, 2024 - January 1, 2025.
This family-friendly event will feature live music throughout the Spa City, a fireworks display from the top of the City Center parking garage, and the Saratoga First Day 5K on New Year's morning. Acclaimed singer-songwriter Ben Folds will headline Saratoga New Year's Eve with a 90-minute performance at the City Center.
As friends and family in the community come together to celebrate, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the infectious joy and anticipation of a fresh start in 2025.
Saratoga County offers an array of holiday activities and celebrations to make your season special. Make your holiday bucket list, check it twice, and go have some fun!
This article is sponsored by Saratoga County Tourism. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions or view of Saratoga County Tourism or its members.
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