To ensure health and safety, many events have become virtual. Some have been reimagined. Others have reduced capacity for social distancing. Because of the reduced capacity, advanced reservations (and masks) are a must for in person events. Plan ahead and enjoy!
It's a good idea to also check your local town or city for information about about neighborhood tree and/or menorah lightings and other holiday events. Your local synagogue, church, community center or Chamber of Commerce may be holding seasonal events as well.
Wishing all of our readers Happy Holidays! Stay healthy, stay safe and always wear a mask!
Please visit our Community Calendar for the latest event updates or to add your own.
Shows, Concerts & Festivals
Thu Nov 12th - Sun Jan 31st 2021
New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd, The Bronx, NY
Open to members only this year, the train show is back! Advance tickets required. Marvel at model trains zipping through an enchanting display of famous New York landmarks—imagine the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Rockefeller Center, and other favorites—each delightfully re-created from natural materials such as birch bark, acorns, and cinnamon sticks.
12th Annual Greenwich Reindeer Festival
Fri Nov 27th 10:00am - Tue Dec 22nd 10:00am
Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouses, 437 North Street, Greenwich, CT
The 12th Annual Greenwich Reindeer Festival will feature Santa's three Reindeer this year, Dasher, Dancer and Vixen. Santa will be staying at the North Pole this year for the health and safety of all of the children and their families. Please come visit the Reindeer and enjoy beautiful Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouses. Pick out your Christmass Tree, holiday plantings and you won't want to miss the Christmas Shop for festive, fun, unique holiday gifts. Santa looks forward to seeing you Christmas Eve.
Rockin' Holiday Kickoff Concert at Westchester Children's Museum
Sat Nov 28th 11:00am - 12:00pm
Westchester Children's Museum, 100 Playland Pkwy, Rye, NY
Do you feel that excitement in the air? It's the most wonderful time of the year starting! What are the holiday songs you can't stop singing? Guitarist Andrew Wang from Rock Island Sound is going to perform some of our holiday favorites... but only if you get involved! Bring your best dance moves and singing voices, and we'll provide the instruments! We will learn to play rhythms through some holiday songs like Five Little Gingerbread, The Mitten In The Snow and many more! Andrew will be available after the show to talk and share his guitar with the audience. Let's spread some cheer to kick off the holiday season! Spots are limited, register here.
Free Guided Holiday Tours at Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Thu Dec 3rd - Sat Jan 2nd 2021
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site, 29 Warburton Ave, Yonkers, NY
Stop by the gallery at Philipse Manor Hall the first Thursday of each month during extended viewing hours! View a new and exciting exhibit of art and culture before stepping out for a night in Yonkers! The gallery at Philipse Manor Hall is located inside the museum and is always free to enter during museum hours.
Holidays on the Hill at Lasdon Park
Fri Dec 4th - Dec 31st
Lasdon Park, 2610 NY-35, Katonah, NY
The annual holiday train show returns to Lasdon Park starting December 4. Holidays on the HIll tickets are on sale now! Use promo code: "sparkle20" for holiday discount!Enjoy the holiday train show in the Lasdon Conservatory, Elf Hunt, Lasdon Shop and of course Santa will be on hand to meet with the children and hear their holiday wishes. Visit LasdonPark.org to purchase your tickets.
Irvington Theater's Rock the Halls
Fri Dec 4th 7:30pm - 8:30pm
Virtual (www.irvingtontheater.com/holiday)
Rockin’ in a winter wonderland! Parker Reilly and the Electric Stories jam to classic songs alongside little-known holiday rockers in a never-before-seen recording of last year’s hit concert. Get festive with the sounds of Chuck Berry, Darlene Love, and more at this seasonal celebration for the whole family! Don't miss out on this streaming seasonal singalong for all ages! Purchase tickets online.
Larchmont Vintage Winter Wonderland
Sun Dec 6th 1:00pm - 6:00pm
Larchmont Avenue, Larchmont Ave, Larchmont, NY
The Larchmont village will be transformed into the village in Norman Rockwell's "Home for Christmas" painting. The village will have shopping, Olaf, Mr & Mrs Claus, carolers, carriage rides and more.
Santa's Holiday Extravaganza from WPPAC
Fri Dec 11th - Sun 13th
Virtual: Get tickets here
Join Santa, Mrs. Claus, and all of their friends from all over the world for this exciting Holiday Show! The show showcases a special celebration of pre-recorded songs, stories and traditions observed during the Winter Season. You’ll hear some of your favorite holiday tunes (including a 7-minute version of The Nutcracker) and make some new friends from North Pole. Mrs. Claus will conclude the collection of performances with her lovely reading of “Twas The Night Before Christmas” and gear up for the star of the show: Santa Claus LIVE via ZOOM! Each screen will be permitted 2 minutes alone with Santa to get a screenshot for their Holiday memento…one not to be forgotten!
A Christmas Carol Streaming From WPPAC
Fri Dec 11th - Sun Jan 3rd 2021
Streaming
Watch this holiday classic safely at home with this streaming show. The timeless tale of Ebenezer Scrooge comes to thrilling new life as Tony Award® winner Jefferson Mays (I Am My Own Wife, Gentleman’s Guide…) plays over 50 roles in a virtuosic, master class of a performance that must be seen to be believed.
Home for the Holidays Streaming Concert from WPPAC
Fri Dec 11th - Sat 19th
Streaming
Enjoy this magical holiday concert from the comfort of your home. Tony nominee and Emmy winner Liz Callaway – the original voice of ‘Anastasia’ – will perform a mix of holiday favorites, beloved Broadway showtunes, share stories about the holidays and her career, and offer a preview of music from her upcoming holiday album, Comfort and Joy – An Acoustic Christmas.
Chanukah Drive-In
Sun Dec 13th 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Dobbs Ferry Commuter Lot, 100 Palisade St, Dobbs Ferry, NY
Looking for a fun,interactive and "COVID safe" family experience this Chanukah? For the first time ever, children and parents of all ages can enjoy a drive in Chanukah multi media experience featuring animation, game show, and concert on a giant screen! Be dazzled by a live fire performer all from the comfort of your own car.
Westchester Chordsman Home for the Holidays: A FREE Virtual Winter Holiday Concert
Sun Dec 13th 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Virtual
Are you ready for the sounds of the season? Then cozy up around your computer and enjoy a free, live holiday concert performed by The Westchester Chordsmen Chorus.
The Nutcracker on the Big Screen
Sat Dec 12th - Sun 13th, multiple shows
Ridgefield Playhouse, 80 E Ridge Rd, Ridgefield, CT
The Ridgefield Conservatory of Dance presents its annual Nutcracker performance in film form this year. Directed by Alexander Glaz and filmed by Adam Lobelson, enjoy a beautiful holiday tradition in a magical land where sugar plums dance and flowers waltz to tell the classic tale of a young girl and her Nutcracker prince. Tchaikovsky’s soaring score, graceful ballerinas and wooden soldiers who come to life will make the holidays bright for young and old!
The Polar Express
Wed Dec 23rd 7:00pm - 9:00pm
The Ridgefield Playhouse, 80 E Ridge Rd, Ridgefield, CT
This holiday classic is showing on the big screen this season. From the Academy Award-winning team of Tom Hanks and Robert Zemeckis, The Polar Express is an inspiring adventure based on the beloved children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg. When a doubting young boy takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe.
Holiday Light Displays & Drives
Fri Nov 13th - Fri Dec 25th
Cross County Shopping Center, 8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers, NY
Starting November 13th, come see the brand new 44 foot tall Cross County Christmas Tree for a real NY holiday experience! The sparkling Christmas Tree has an intriguing walk through feature. Adding to the experience, there will be strolling entertainers from stilt walkers to musical performances at the tree throughout the season.
Magic of Lights at Jones Beach, Long Island
Fri Nov 13th - Sat Jan 2nd 2021
Jones Beach State Park, Bay Pkwy, Wantagh, NY
Magic of Lights is festival of twinkling, magical holiday lights spread over a 1-2 Mile course. A 200-foot light tunnel and over 40 Scenes of holiday lights displays make this a unique and thrilling family-friendly drive-through experience for all ages. Reserve tickets in advance.
Magic of Lights at PNC Bank Arts Center
Fri Nov 13th - Sat Jan 2nd 2021
PNC Bank Arts Center, 116 Garden State Pkwy, Holmdel, NJ
See 2.5 miles of holiday lights in this drive-through experience, with LED tech and digital animations. There is a Blizzard Tunnel, and displays of the 12 Days of Christmas and Night Before Christmas. There is also the Toyota Mega Tree Spectacular, which has 240 feet of LED Christmas trees “dancing” with holiday programming. Reserve tickets in advance.
Fri Nov 13th - Sat Jan 2nd 2021
Toyota Oakdale Theatre, 95 S Turnpike Rd, Wallingford, CT
A 200-foot light tunnel and over 40 scenes of holiday lights displays will be featured at this unique and thrilling family-friendly drive-through. The 1-2 Mile course also features a variety of festive scenes and sparkling LED displays depicting your favorite characters of the season, including animated snowmen, elves, poinsettias, candy canes, and more! Reserve tickets in advance.
Holiday Lights at the Bronx Zoo
Fri Nov 20th - Sun Jan 10th 2021
The Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Blvd, The Bronx, NY
The Bronx Zoo’s Holiday Lights, a family-favorite holiday light experience, is returning to the Bronx this year to bring light and joy to the holiday season. The event will take place on select dates from November 20 to January 10 with a WCS member preview November 17-19. Tickets for Holiday Lights must be purchased in advance and are available online.
Peace, Love & Lights Drive-Thru Holiday Light Experience in the Catskills
Mon Nov 23rd - Sun Jan 3rd 2021
Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Rd, Bethel, NY
Peace, Love & Lights is a a drive-thru holiday light experience in the beautiful Sullivan Catskills. Open seven days a week from November 23 - January 3, this is this season's best and brightest socially-distant activity. Just turn off your headlights and follow the magical glow. Reserve tickets in advance.
Fri Nov 27th - Sun Jan 10th 2021
20 Randalls Island Park, New York, NY
LuminoCity Festival is a dynamic holiday light festival and immersive art experience on Randall's Island in New York City. It features all new light art installations spanning several acres. Each of the three parks illuminates the night with beautiful sculptures inspired by nature, history, and magic! The timed-entry experience invites you to go on a 30-45 minute walking, narrative journey through five different sets consisting of chapters of an original story starring Lumi. Travel across different worlds of the Mysterious Forest, Dangerous Dunes, Forgotten Ruins, Hidden Land of Hria, and Mystical Moon Land. Purchase tickets in advance.
ERDAJT Drive-Thru Light Display
Fri Nov 27th - Sun Dec 27th
8 Patrick Dr, Lagrangeville, NY
The ERDAJT Holiday Light Display holds the title in the Guinness Book of World Records for most holiday lights— 670,000! Created by the Gay family in Dutchess County, this brilliant display is a drive-thru experience located in their driveway. Watch the lights dance as they are synchronized to over 250 songs. This will every night of the week through December 27 from 4:45-9:30 pm. (10:30 pm on Fridays).
A Frosty Fest
Fri Nov 27th 3:00pm - Sun Dec 27th 3:00pm
Headless Horseman Hayrides & Haunted Houses, 778 Broadway, Ulster Park, NY
Snuggle with family and friends on Frosty's drive through in the comfort of your vehicle, you will enjoy Christmas music, experience dazzling holiday lights, spectacular displays and magical animations as you travel through Frosty's Enchanted Forest. In the Enchanted Forest, you will visit the Candy Cane Factory, a Snow Village, 12 Days of Christmas, Santa's Workshop and more. Live actors and computer animatronics will transport you and your family into a magical land of make believe! You can also park and walk in to see 11 additional attractions all included in the ticket price.
Winter Wonderland – New Drive-Thru Holiday Light Extravaganza
Fri Nov 27th - Sun Jan 3rd 2021
Kensico Dam Plaza, 1 Bronx River Pkwy Rd, Valhalla, NY
Westchester's Winter Wonderland is back this year with a Drive-Thru Light Extravaganza. Unlike prior years where there was skating, rides and circus shows, this year will be an experience from the safety of your car. Enjoy a festive 1.2-mile drive through Kensico Dam Plaza, filled with dazzling exclusive light displays that will thrill youngsters of all ages. Tickets are on sale now at wwinterwonderland.com. Open select nights, Friday, November 27th through Sunday, January 3rd! Tickets are available for specific dates and time slots by reservation only.
NYBG GLOW
Fri Nov 27th - Sat Jan 9th 2021
New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd, The Bronx, NY
New this year, let it GLOW at The New York Botanical Garden with an all outdoor experience illuminating NYBG’s landmark landscape and Enid A. Haupt Conservatory. With lots of room to spread out, explore a glowing world of color and light featuring the Haupt Conservatory as the centerpiece—its iconic exterior a glittering canvas. Washes of brilliant colors, thousands of dazzling lights, and picture-perfect installations fill the Reflecting Pool and enliven surrounding gardens and collections. Also during your visit, enjoy artistic ice sculptures, music, roving dancers, plus more outdoor fun. Purchase tickets in advance.
Sat Nov 28th - Fri Jan 1st 2021
21 N Kensico Ave, White Plains, NY
This annual no frills light show is a holiday staple for locals. Four neighboring houses together display over 10,000 lights on 144 channels synchronized to music. Tune your FM car radio to 107.7 to hear the music in your car.
Twilight Tours at Boscobel
Sun Nov 29th - Tue Dec 8th
Boscobel, 1601 NY-9D, Garrison, NY
Experience Boscobel at its holiday best. With the mansion lit by candles, decorated for 19th-century holidays, and resonating with live string music, Twilight Tours offer an especially beautiful view of Boscobel House and Gardens. Outside, the mansion, Apple Orchard, Rose Garden, and Maple Lane will be lit with an elegant display. There is also a post-tour reception in the decorated gallery, and live holiday music in the Visitor Center as well as a festive Design Shop.
New Rochelle Virtual Holiday Lighting Ceremony
Thu Dec 3rd 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Virtual (facebook.com/newrochellechamber)
The New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce, together with the City of New Rochelle and the New Rochelle Downtown Business Improvement District will be presenting a virtual holiday lighting ceremony. Both the city's Christmas tree and Menorah will be lit during the event. The event will feature performances by Gian Faraone, the New Rochelle Artist in Residency. The virtual ceremony will be live streamed at facebook.com/newrochellechamber, and will be broadcast throughout the week on local stations as well as on demand at newrochelleny.com.
Grand Holiday Illumination at Untermyer Park and Gardens
Sat Dec 12th - Sun Jan 3rd 2021
Untermyer Park and Gardens, 945 N Broadway, Yonkers, NY
Back for another year, the annual Grand Holiday Illumination will take place from December 12 until January 3. The Illumination will be free, outdoor, socially distanced and masked. Reservations are required using their free timed entry reservation system on their website. Tickets will be released on a weekly basis on Wednesdays at 8 am (except for this week which you can reserve your tickets now for the week of December 12-18). Your reservation will allow you to visit the illuminated Walled Garden for 20 minutes. Keeping visits brief lets us have more visitors during the holiday season. Visitors will not be allowed in the gardens without a reservation. Get your tickets here.
Let The Be Light! Drive-Through Art and Light Show
Sat Dec 12th - Sun 20th (select days)
GARNER Arts Center, 55 W Railroad Ave, Garnerville, NY
Enjoy a bright, inspiring and elegantly decorated art path within one of the region's most unique historic sites, a repurposed 19th century mill complex known as the GARNER Historic District. The path will include illuminated window art, video projections, music, sight specific installations, immersive light displays and more! Just over the bridge in Rockland County.
Santa
Wed Nov 25th - Mon Dec 14th
White Plains City Hall, 255 Main St, White Plains, NY
Santa Claus invites all local children to write to him using his special mailbox. Kids may drop their letters in the mailbox (no postage necessary). Please remember to include your return address.
Santa Visits and Photos at Ridge Hill
Fri Nov 27th - Thu Dec 24th
Ridge Hill, Ridge Hill Boulevard, Yonkers, NY
Santa is coming to town, with safety in mind! Pre-purchase your photo package and schedule your contactless visit with Santa. Reservations to visit Santa are strongly encouraged.
Lights. Camera. Santa! Santa Photo Experience at The Westchester
Fri Nov 20th - Thu Dec 24th
The Westchester, 125 Westchester Ave, White Plains, NY
Make your Santa photo reservation today. Advanced reservations are strongly encouraged. For everyone’s safety this will be a socially-distanced experience. Santa and his helpers will be wearing masks, guests are required to wear masks where mandated by local health authorities and government agencies.
Santa Photos at Cross County Shopping Center
Fri Dec 4th - Thu 24th
Cross County Center, 8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers, NY
For safety, this year Santa will be featured in a new, custom space that allows for social distancing and a touchless experience. You’ll be able to capture a magical photo of your family inside Santa’s workshop. Face coverings are required for the staff, Santa and all guests. Advance reservations are strongly recommended.
Ice Skating
Sat Nov 7th - Sun Mar 7th 2021
Bear Mountain Ice Rink, 3006 Seven Lakes Drive, Tomkins Cove, NY
While this is not an official holiday event, ice skating outside feels very festive! Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Bear Mountain as you skate in the great outdoors. Rentals available.
Pop-Up Holiday Ice Skating Rink at Cross County Shopping Center
Fri Nov 27th - Thu Dec 24th
Cross County Center, 8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers, NY
Starting November 27th, families can skate at the Pop-Up Holiday Ice Skating Rink. Guests will be limited per skate session and are required to wear masks. Admission is $10 per person (ages 5 and up) and includes skate rentals and a one-hour session.
Skate with Frosty
Sun Dec 20th 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Delfino Park / Ebersole Ice Rink, 110 Lake St, White Plains, NY
Frosty the Snowman returns to Ebersole Ice Rink for skating fun!
Shopping & Holiday Boutiques
Sat Nov 21st - Wed Dec 23rd
Pelham Arts Center, 155 Fifth Ave, Village of Pelham, NY
Art Boutique highlights a dynamic collection of quality, affordable handmade items for sale, from Saturday, November 21 through Wednesday, December 23. Art Boutique will feature one-of-a-kind items by local and national artists who represent a range of traditional and modified artisan techniques. The Art Boutique also includes an exhibition of work by emerging and mid-career artists, all priced under $2,500. This annual exhibition is the perfect collecting opportunity to take home affordable artworks and to directly support artists. Art Boutique is an in-person art collecting and shopping experience. If you are interested in viewing pieces remotely, please contact [email protected] with Subject Line: Art Boutique to arrange a video call.
Online Artisan Boutique
Mon Nov 23rd - Tue Dec 1st
Virtual: https://www.ryeartscenter.org/workshops-1/2020/11/23/online-artisan-boutique
The Rye Arts Center presents its third annual Artisan Boutique...this time it's entirely online! Get a head start on holiday shopping, find unique treasures to brighten your home, or treat yourself to something special!You'll find hand-crafted jewelry, functional ceramics, chocolates and macarons, chic clothing and accessories, and so much more.A portion of proceeds will support The Rye Arts Center's outreach activities. Every treat you purchase will treat the community to scholarships, after-school programs and more!
Cross County Holiday Food Truck Market
Fri Nov 27th - Fri Jan 1st 2021
Cross County Center, 8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers, NY
Shoppers at the Cross County can enjoy tasty treats and savory snacks at the holiday food truck market. Trucks will be parked on The Green, in the center of the mall and will be open for lunch and dinner. Food Trucks include: Leila’s Crepes, Abeetz Pizza, Mac’s Food Truck, Sloppie Joe’s and Waffle Box.
Virtual Greenwich Holiday Stroll, 24 Days of Holiday Shopping & Dining"
Tue Dec 1st - Thu 24th
Greenwich Avenue, Greenwich Ave, Greenwich, CT
The Tradition Continues! 2020 marks the 12th Annual Greenwich Holiday Stroll. The Virtual Greenwich Holiday Stroll features 24 days of short videos highlighting local retail stores and restaurants throughout downtown Greenwich, Village of Old Greenwich, Byram, Glenville, Cos Cob, and Riverside. Over 100 merchants are anticipated to participate. All merchants will be sharing their holiday merchandise, gift ideas, festive wares, services, signatures dishes, celebratory cocktails, and more through fun and engaging videos broadcast on Greenwich Holiday Stroll multi-media and digital platforms on Greenwichmag.com, December 1 - 24.
White Plains Holiday Market
Thu Dec 3rd - Sun 13th, Thursday-Saturday: 11am - 9pm & Sunday-Wednesday: 11am - 7pm
Waller Avenue, Waller Ave, White Plains, NY
If you are looking for variety, check out The White Plains Holiday Market, a City of White Plains event in partnership with 914PopUps. This COVID-aware market will feature 40+ vendors and artisans, in individual open-air booths in the heart of downtown White Plains on Waller Avenue.
Pick up your Christmas tree or holiday wreath! Find interesting and unique gifts for everyone on your holiday shopping list. Free to enter. Masks are required and social distance must be maintained per NYS Guidance.
Wednesday, December 9th will be a Day of Giving. A percentage of sales will be donated to Snarr Northeast animal rescue and Friends of White Plains Public Schools.