Albany, NY - It's almost time to deck the halls, bake the cookies, stuff the stockings, and sing with cheer for all to hear! Just like the retail stores, we're starting the holidays out early by introducing you to some of the many ways Albany's historic homes celebrate for the holidays. Though these buildings no longer serve as residences to families as they used to, the warmth of the season can still be felt throughout the halls and rooms of these magnificent houses. And in their backyard is a city that embraces the cooler weather and snowfalls with many fun celebrations. Let's get started!
Ten Broeck Mansion
The Ten Broeck Mansion was built in 1797 for General Abraham Ten Broeck and his wife, Elizabeth Van Rensselaer. Since 1948, the Albany County Historical Association has maintained the house, and each year hosts a Holiday Open House.
This year, in addition to the regular Holiday Open House (December 15), a Champagne Preview Party (December 6) will allow the public to see the house in its holiday splendor. If you prefer something a little different, a Holiday Tea is being hosted on December 8.
Schuyler Mansion and Crailo
Schuyler Mansion was home to General Philip Schuyler and his wife, Catherine Van Rensselaer. Today's keepers invite the public for an evening of merriment for everyone! The January 5th festivities will highlight the holiday season as it may have been celebrated by the Schuyler family in the 18th century. Come and revel in the holiday traditions of Albany's past with live music, bonfires, traditional fare, and wassail toasts! (Who can say no to wassail toasts!)
Following, cross the Hudson River where the celebration continues at Crailo State Historic Site, a historic house that was home to Catherine Van Rensselaer as a little girl. Two holiday celebrations in one!
Pruyn House
The Pruyn family was very prominent in Albany, and the Pruyn House was the summer home of Casparus, his wife Ann, and their eight children. Each December, the residence is transformed into a winter wonderland of greens for show and sale. Enjoy the fragrance of evergreen and bask in the warmth of this historic house.
Woman's Club of Albany
The Woman's Club of Albany also celebrates the season with a Magical Evening on Madison Avenue event on December 6. Merriment, magic, music, delicious food, wine and a fabulous silent auction and raffle, all to benefit the Next Step of Albany! Kick start the fun at their Celebrate the Season Tea, which takes place November 30 and December 1.
There's More!
That's not all! There are plenty of other winter events that are fun for the entire family. Events range from our 16th Annual Capital Holiday Lights in the Park, to the annual Tree Lighting and Fireworks at the Empire State Plaza. You can watch the Santa Speedo Sprint on Lark Street during their Winter WonderLARK celebration, or you can stay warm and attend the Chocolate Expo and Holiday Market at the New York State Museum.
For a full listing of events, check out our events calendar at www.albany.org!
About the ACCVB:
The Albany County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc. was established in 1976 to promote the civic and commercial progress of the community through increased development of conventions and tourism. ACCVB currently represents more than 300 member businesses and assists each year in hundreds of regional meetings. ACCVB also operates the Albany Heritage Area Visitors Center, Henry Hudson Planetarium, and the Albany International Airport Information Center. For more information, call 518-434-1217 or 800-258-3582 or visit www.albany.org.