As the holiday season approaches, families in New York’s Capital Region have a variety of events to look forward to. From traditional festivities to new experiences, there is something for everyone. The region’s annual celebrations kick off with the Victorian Streetwalk in Troy on December 7, following the Saratogian Streetwalk on December 4. These events invite participants to dress in Victorian attire while enjoying free entertainment and seasonal treats at local downtown venues.
The Victorian Streetwalk is designed to engage the community, encouraging families to come downtown for a day filled with activities. The Saratogian Streetwalk will run from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. along Broadway, while the Troy event will take place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at various downtown locations. Food and beverages are available for purchase, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Signature Holiday Performances
Indoor holiday events are also in full swing, with the iconic “Melodies of Christmas” celebrating its 46th year at Proctors from December 18 to 21. Another highlight is the Albany Symphony Orchestra’s “The Magic of the Season,” scheduled for December 7 at the Palace Theatre.
For ballet enthusiasts, the season features two productions of the beloved “Nutcracker.” The Northeast Ballet will perform at Proctors on December 12 and December 13, while the Moscow Ballet presents “Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet!” at the Palace Theatre in Albany on December 3.
Local choral group Albany Pro Musica will present “The Many Moods of Christmas” on December 21, accompanied by a full orchestra at the Troy Savings Banks Music Hall. This event promises to deliver a delightful mix of popular and sacred holiday music.
Family-Friendly Activities and Traditional Theatre
Families looking for entertainment can attend “Poinsettia Pops,” presented by the Saratoga Schenectady Symphony Orchestra at Universal Preservation Hall on December 6-7. The Playhouse Stage is also bringing back “A Christmas Story” at Cohoes Music Hall, which runs from December 3 to 21. This production aims to establish itself as an annual holiday tradition after a successful inaugural run last year.
Additionally, the Proctors Theatre in Schenectady will host “How The Grinch Stole Christmas” from December 2 to 7. For younger audiences, “Santa’s Magical Express” offers a unique experience where children can help find Santa’s lost hat, an adventure that begins at Colonie Mall and includes visits to various festive locations.
As the holiday season wouldn’t be complete without the classic tale of “A Christmas Carol,” the Berkshire Theatre Group will present this timeless story at the Unicorn Theatre in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, from December 4 to 21. In Troy, local actor David Girard will perform a one-man rendition of the classic as a fundraiser for Troy Foundry Theatre on December 5-6 and December 10-12. A free presentation will also take place during the Victorian Stroll on December 7 at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Other notable performances include “Two for Murder: the Holiday Edition” at the Capital Repertory Theatre in Albany and “The Christmas Tree Farm” at Schenectady Civic Theatre from December 5-14. Home Made Theater will present “The Boxcar Children” in Saratoga Springs from December 4-7.
With a plethora of events and performances scheduled throughout the season, families in the Capital Region have numerous opportunities to create lasting holiday memories. The festive calendar promises to deliver joy and entertainment for all ages, ensuring that this year’s celebrations are as vibrant as ever.
