The Capital Region of New York is gearing up for a festive holiday season, offering a variety of events suitable for families and individuals alike. With Thanksgiving now behind us, excitement builds as the community prepares for cherished traditions and new experiences.
Victorian Strolls and Christmas Classics
The Victorian Streetwalk takes place on Thursday, December 4, followed by the Troy Victorian Stroll on Sunday, December 7. These events invite attendees to don Victorian attire, joining volunteers in period costumes as they explore downtown areas filled with free entertainment. Local food and beverages will be available for purchase, enhancing the festive atmosphere. The Saratogian Streetwalk runs from 18:00 to 21:00 along Broadway, while the Troy Victorian Stroll is open from 11:00 to 17:00 at various downtown sites.
For those seeking indoor entertainment, the long-standing holiday concert, “Melodies of Christmas,” returns for its 46th year at Proctors Theatre from December 18 to 21. Additionally, the Albany Symphony Orchestra will present “The Magic of the Season” at the Palace Theatre on December 7, providing a delightful musical experience for attendees.
The beloved “Nutcracker Ballet” also graces the stage this season with two performances. The Northeast Ballet will showcase the classic at Proctors on December 12 and 13, while the Moscow Ballet will perform “Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet!” at the Palace Theatre in Albany on December 3.
Another highlight is “The Many Moods of Christmas,” a concert by Albany Pro Musica accompanied by a full orchestra, scheduled for December 21 at the Troy Savings Banks Music Hall. This event promises a blend of popular and sacred holiday music.
Theatre and Family Fun
In Saratoga Springs, the Saratoga Schenectady Symphony Orchestra presents “Poinsettia Pops” at Universal Preservation Hall on December 6 and 7. Theatre enthusiasts can look forward to “A Christmas Story,” hosted by Playhouse Stage at Cohoes Music Hall from December 3 to 21. After last year’s success, the production aims to establish itself as a beloved local tradition.
Families with children will enjoy “How The Grinch Stole Christmas” at Proctors in Schenectady from December 2 to 7. For a unique experience, “Santa’s Magical Express” invites kids to help find Santa’s magical hat, reportedly stolen by Jack Frost. This interactive journey begins at Colonie Mall and runs from November 29 to December 22, featuring entertainment from Santa’s elves and a chance to meet Santa himself.
No holiday season would be complete without Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol.” The Berkshire Theatre Group presents this timeless tale at the Unicorn Theatre in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, from December 4 to 21. Additionally, local Equity actor David Girard will perform his one-man show, “David Girard presents ‘A Christmas Carol’,” as a fundraiser for the Troy Foundry Theatre on December 5-6 and 10-12. A free presentation will also occur during the Victorian Stroll on December 7 at 14:00 and 18:00.
Other notable performances include “Two for Murder: the Holiday Edition” at Capital Repertory Theatre in Albany, “The Christmas Tree Farm” at Schenectady Civic Theatre from December 5 to 14, and “The Boxcar Children” by Home Made Theater in Saratoga Springs from December 4 to 7.
As the holiday season unfolds, the Capital Region offers a rich tapestry of events that promise to bring joy and community spirit to residents and visitors alike.
