The Capital Region of New York is brimming with festive activities this holiday season, offering families a variety of entertainment options from traditional strolls to musical performances. Several events are scheduled throughout December, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the holiday spirit.
Victorian Streetwalk takes place on Thursday, December 4, while the Troy Victorian Stroll is set for Sunday, December 7. These events encourage attendees to dress in Victorian attire, creating a lively atmosphere in downtown areas. Various free entertainment options will be available, complemented by food and drink vendors. The Saratoga Streetwalk will run from 18:00 to 21:00 on December 4, while the Troy event will occur from 11:00 to 17:00 at various downtown locations.
In addition to outdoor festivities, several indoor events are noteworthy. The much-anticipated Melodies of Christmas, now in its 46th year, will be held at Proctors Theatre from December 18 to 21. This performance has become a staple of the holiday season in the region.
On December 7, the Albany Symphony Orchestra will present “The Magic of the Season” at the Palace Theatre, showcasing popular holiday music. For fans of ballet, two productions of the beloved Nutcracker are on the roster this year. The Northeast Ballet will perform at Proctors on December 12 and 13, while the Moscow Ballet will present “Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet!” at the Palace Theatre in Albany on December 3.
Another highlight is “The Many Moods of Christmas,” performed by Albany Pro Musica at the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall on December 21. This choral event features a full orchestra, promising a blend of popular and sacred holiday music.
For theatre enthusiasts, the Playhouse Stage is making strides to establish an annual event. After last year’s success, they will again present the family-friendly “A Christmas Story” at the Cohoes Music Hall from December 3 to 21. Additionally, “How The Grinch Stole Christmas” will be performed at Proctors from December 2 to 7, providing another delightful option for families.
Children can also enjoy “Santa’s Magical Express,” offered by Yankee Trails. This interactive experience invites kids to help Santa find his stolen hat, which is essential for Christmas. The journey, available from November 29 to December 22, includes entertainment from Santa’s elves and photo opportunities with Santa himself.
The classic tale “A Christmas Carol” is being presented by the Berkshire Theatre Group at the Unicorn Theatre in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, from December 4 to 21. In Troy, local Equity actor David Girard will perform his one-man rendition titled “David Girard presents ‘A Christmas Carol’ as a Fundraiser for Troy Foundry Theatre.” This event will take place on December 5, 6, 10, and 12, with free performances offered during the Victorian Stroll on December 7 at 14:00 and 18:00.
Other holiday-themed events include “Two for Murder: the Holiday Edition” at the Capital Repertory Theatre in Albany and “The Christmas Tree Farm” at the Schenectady Civic Theatre from December 5 to 14. The Home Made Theater in Saratoga Springs will showcase “The Boxcar Children” from December 4 to 7.
With a multitude of options available, the Capital Region offers something for everyone this holiday season, ensuring that families can create lasting memories together.
