It is a holly jolly time of year! Capital Region businesses, organizations and historic sites are unleashing their creativity with socially-distanced and virtual events this holiday season. Mask up for drive-through bake sales, socially-distanced festive experiences, virtual runs and more!
Festive at 48
Very few spots remain for Historic Albany Foundation's Festive at 48! Marvel at yuletide decorations adorning the halls of Albany's oldest building while enjoying a free 15 minute tour. You'll learn about the story behind this historic Dutch timber-framed building and get in the holiday spirit! There will also be hot cocoa and hot cider, a mini-mart featuring architectural and festive-themed items for sale, and free craft instructions for your family! Spots must be reserved in advance and the event is free! December 4 & December 5.
A December to Remember
Grapevine Farms is hosting a drive-through A December to Remember event at the Cobleskill Fairgrounds. Turn on the local radio station (WSDE) to tune into holiday music while enjoying the festivities from the comfort of your vehicle. Admire illuminated trees and wreaths, view a live nativity scene and see Santa, Mrs. Claus & Elves. Church bells will ring on the hour and there will be a stationary parade of cars circling the track. Masks are required. December 5
Outdoor Holiday Photos at the Pruyn House
Searching for the perfect holiday photo spot? Sign up for an appointment to take a holiday photo in front of the decorated (and recently renovated!) Pruyn House. Pose your family with the site’s old-fashioned 1800’s sleigh for a totally holiday-card-worthy photo. Appointments are $25. Each child will also receive a free Holiday Craft kit! Remember to bring your own camera! December 5 & December 6.
Ten Broeck Mansion Holiday House
Marvel at shimmering lights, festive trees and bright garlands in an immersive socially-distanced, walk-through experience of Ten Broeck Mansion this holiday season. While enjoying the decorations, chat with a docent about historic holiday traditions and the history of Ten Broeck Mansion. Reserve your timed tickets in advance! Masks are required. Ten Broeck Mansion Holiday House activities also include Photos with Sinterklaas (outside on the porch) and a Pop-up Shop on the Porch featuring hand-made wreaths, ornaments and more. Select dates from December 5 to December 20.
Santa Speedo Sprint
For the 15th year of the Santa Speedo Sprint, it is going virtual! Dress up in a festive outfit (speedos not required) and run 800 meters. Participants are encouraged to share videos of their 800 meter sprint on Facebook. Presented by the Albany Society for the Advancement of Philanthropy (ASAP), in association with the Albany All-Stars and the Hellions of Troy, the event proceeds benefit the Albany Damien Center and the HIV/AIDS program at Albany Medical Center. Sign up on Eventbrite and purchase a commemorative t-shirt, hoodie or mask. December 5.
St. Sophia's Holiday Drive-Thru Bake Sale
Go Greek this holiday season! St. Sophia's Holiday Drive-Thru Bake Sale has you covered with delicious Greek pastries such as baklava, kourambethes, almond cookies and spanakopita. These treats are perfect for gifting or as a decoration for your holiday table as the pastries come packaged in beautiful holiday gift boxes. Quantities are limited, so place your order online ASAP and select your pick up time. Pick up items on December 11 & December 12.
