It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and the Valley is full of merry events. Through the annoying carols, packed malls, decked halls, and frantic gift shopping emerges a comforting sense of community unity. So sling on your Santa hat and swig some spiked ‘nog, — It’s time to celebrate with festive cheer.
Holidays in Haverstraw
​December 3, 12 p.m.
Downtown Haverstraw
The community-wide celebration will feature concerts, workshops, and caroling through the area’s downtown at multiple vendors and locations. Plus, chow down at participating restaurants and get in on special day-only deals.
Sinterklaas
​December 3, 10 a.m.
Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck
In celebration of the Hudson Valley’s Dutch heritage, the festival honors the age-old cultural tradition of regarding children as royalty who bring light in a time of darkness. It incorporates new and old traditions with over 250 performers, a cookie tree, and a parade featuring everything from fabled figures to a 1911 Baker electric car.
Winding Through Warwick
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December 3, 10 a.m.
Begins at Mount Alverno Center, Warwick
Warwick residents open their doors to welcome you into their homes during this self-guided holiday tour. Check out the festive décor at grand properties like a historic bed & breakfast, 18th century home, and a horse farm estate.
Yuletide Fair
December 3, 10 a.m.
Hawthorne Valley Waldorf School, Ghent
For nearly 40 years, the annual festival has gathered families across Columbia County for a day of holiday performances, crafts, and most famously, its gingerbread house competition and auction.
Chanukah Market & Bazaar
December 4, 10 a.m.
Woodstock Jewish Congregation Family School, Woodstock
Whether you’re in need of a new menorah and handcrafted dreidels, or are in a time crunch to cross a few names off the gift list, this holiday market has everything you need for a happy Chanukah.
Athens Victorian Stroll
December 10, 1 p.m.
Athens Cultural Center, Athens
A nod to the age of horse-drawn trolleys and Victorian–style garb, this 19th century themed seasonal celebration is equally as educational as it is festive. Join in for a day of caroling and contests, then huddle up by the riverfront for a bonfire and tree lighting celebration.
Christmas at Hill-Hold
Two weekends starting December 10; Saturdays 3 p.m., Sundays 12 p.m.
Hill-Hold Museum, Campbell Hall
Tour the famous 19th century museum by candlelight and check out their traditional Christmas tree, fixed with handmade antique toys.
The Nutcracker
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December 10, 7:30 p.m.; December 11, 3 p.m.
Ulster Performing Arts Center, Kingston
The New Paltz Ballet Theater takes on this age-old Christmastime classic for an 18th year. Follow Marie through the Land of Snow on her journey to the Kingdom of Sweets, where she meets its magical ruler, the Sugar Plum Fairy.
Breakfast with Santa
December 17, 10 a.m.
Putnam County Golf Course, Mahopac
Feast from an illustrious breakfast buffet as you rub elbows with the man himself. Kids take home a special gift, and you’ll get a share-worthy family photo, perfect atop the fridge or the fireplace.
Polar Express Reading
December 19, 5 p.m.
Hyde Park Station, Hyde Park
Everyone’s favorite holiday story tells the tale of a young boy who takes a magical train ride to the North Pole. Kiddies sit in on an afterschool reading of Chris Van Allsburg’s famous book, followed by a craft sesh and snacks.
Ugly Christmas Sweater Dance Party
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December 23, 8 p.m.
Pennings Farm Cidery, Warwick
Now’s the time to bust out the sweater granny knitted you last Christmas. Grab a Captain Lawrence cold brew or a sweet pour from Pennings Farm Cidery and get on the dance floor. DJ Skyhook and Professor Pere will be mixing until 11 p.m. 21+ only.
