During the holiday season, you’re probably already spending well above your monthly limit on presents, treats, décor, and more – why spend extra on festive fun, too? In the Hudson Valley, there are plenty of free holiday events during which you can celebrate the spirit of the season without spending a dime. Bring the whole family to these light shows, festivals, holiday photo ops, and more activities that cater to all ages.
Holiday Lights in Bloom
Orange County Arboretum, Montgomery
Through December 29
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Weekends through December 29, head to the Orange County Arboretum in Thomas Bull Memorial Park for a free walk-through light show. This year marks the Montgomery destination’s 16th celebration of its garden-themed light display, which is the ideal place to lean into the holiday cheer. Stop by the Greenhouse for the Holiday Boutique while you’re there on select weekends.
Moments With Santa
Taconic State Park, Copake Falls
December 13, 5–7 p.m.
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In Columbia County, Santa makes a special stop at Taconic State Park in Copake Falls for photos with your kids and pets. While the holiday event is free, donations will be taken for the local Humane Society and Everlasting Hope Animal Rescue in the form of pet toys, treats, and food.
Glad Tidings
The Whippoorwill Theatre, Armonk
December 13–15
Catch your favorite local actors in this free, lively production at Armonk’s Whippoorwill Theatre this December. The show features witty tales and joyful songs that celebrate the magic of the holiday season. Presented by The Armonk Players, the performance captures the joy, madness, and more of what makes Christmas so memorable.
Snow Ball With the Snow Sisters
FASNY Museum of Firefighting, Hudson
December 14, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
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Join the Snow Sisters, Elsa and Anna, at Hudson’s FASNY Museum of Firefighting for this special Snow Ball. The family-friendly event kicks off with a festive sing-along and dance party, followed by winter-themed games with prizes and a holiday craft. All guests can pose for pictures with the Snow Sisters before finishing off the morning with a holiday scavenger hunt bingo game.
Photos With Santa
Robibero Winery, New Paltz
December 15, 2–4 p.m.
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Santa visits Robibero Winery in New Paltz for the first time ever this holiday season! Parents can indulge in a glass or flight of the vineyard’s own specialty wines before taking photos of their children with the big man himself. Well-behaved pets are also invited to join in on the festive fun with Santa.
Beary Merry Holiday
Bear Mountain State Park, Bear Mountain
December 21, 10:30–11:30 a.m.
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Celebrate the holidays with the bears at Trailside Museums and Zoo at Bear Mountain State Park by making tasty snacks to put in their den. Then, at 11 a.m., watch the black bears come out and unwrap their gift boxes full of delicious treats. Afterwards, head to the ice rink, merry-go-round, or hiking trails for a full day of family-friendly fun.
Free Holiday Open House
Mesier Homestead, Wappingers Falls
December 21, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
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Stop in at Mesier Homestead in Wappingers Falls to see the beautifully decorated rooms of the historic home. Take a self-guided tour to browse the greenery, ribbons, and bows by candlelight, and direct any history questions you may have to the onsite docent.
