If you’re planning to remain in Central New York during the Thanksgiving break, a variety of exciting activities await you, along with delicious local takeout options. Local restaurants have prepared an array of holiday meals available for pick-up, so don’t forget to place your orders early!
For those seeking festive events to kick off the holiday season, here’s a rundown of some wonderful activities in the area:
Critz Farms Holiday Traditions
Located at 3232 Rippleton Rd. in Cazenovia, Critz Farms will open its doors from Friday, Nov. 29, through Sunday, Dec. 15, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is free, and you can select your own Christmas tree while enjoying wagon rides, full-service baling, and visits to the cafe, gift shop, and tap room.
Home for the Holidays Tree Lighting
In Syracuse, the tree lighting ceremony will take place at Clinton Square, 161 Genesee St., on Friday, Nov. 29, at 6 p.m. Admission is free, and attendees can enjoy the illumination of a majestic 42-foot tree along with live performances by local musicians.
Shop Local Fest
Join the celebration of local artisans and producers at the CNY Regional Market, located at 2100 Park St., Syracuse, on Saturday, Nov. 30, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. This free event features fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique gifts, perfect for putting you in the holiday spirit!
Lights on the Lake
For a dazzling experience, head to 106 Lake Drive in Liverpool for Lights on the Lake, which runs until Monday, Jan. 13, 2025. With tickets priced between $10 and $20 per carload, this two-mile drive-through show showcases over 600,000 holiday lights in stunning displays that captivate more than 40,000 vehicles each season.
SKY Armory’s Night Market
On Saturday, Nov. 30, from 3 to 9 p.m., visit SKY Armory at 351 S. Clinton St. in Syracuse. Admission is $5, and this market will feature over 70 local artisans and makers, providing a perfect opportunity for shoppers to find unique items while enjoying food and drinks.
The Downtown Holiday Market
Visit the Downtown Holiday Market located at 201 East Washington St. in Syracuse on Sunday, Dec. 1, from 1 to 5 p.m. Admission is free, and you can look forward to festive music, delightful snacks, and handmade gifts.
Winter Wonderland of Lights at The Wild Animal Park
From now until Jan. 1, 2025, partake in a winter wonderland experience at The Wild Animal Park, located at 7621 Lakeport Rd. in Chittenango. Admission ranges from $16.99 to $19.99 per person, with the opportunity to stroll through engaging lighting displays and see animals that thrive in the colder months.
Dickens Christmas
Experience a charming holiday tradition in the Village of Skaneateles, featuring Dickens Christmas from Nov. 30 to Dec. 24. Every Saturday and Sunday, along with select days, you can enjoy roasted chestnuts, live theater, caroling, and the chance to meet Father Christmas.
These events not only offer fun and joy during the holiday season but also foster community connection and support local businesses. Embrace the spirit of goodwill as you participate in these festive activities, and make lasting memories with family and friends this Thanksgiving!