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Category - Holidays

Snowmen figurines surround a gazebo covered in garland in string lights

From grabbing a festive beverage to outdoor winter adventures to holiday markets, here are 12 ways to launch you and your loved ones into the spirit of the season, New York State style.

Santa's Workshop - Photo Courtesy of Santa's Workshop

Thoughts unavoidably turn to the North Pole this time of year, and the lesser-known North Pole sits in the shadow of Whiteface Mountain in New York's Adirondack Park. It's a real town (hamlet, actually, in the town of Wilmington) in the state's northeast corner, just about 12 miles from Lake Placid. Appropriately, it's home to Santa's Workshop, believed to be the nation's oldest theme park.

Aerial view of shops and a church in Lake Placid covered in snow with the Adirondack Mountains in the distance

Thanksgiving is a special time for family, friends, and celebration, so why not spend the holiday in the Empire State? There’s truly something for every type of traveler, whether you’re spending Thanksgiving solo on a self-care getaway to the Catskills, indulging in a delicious turkey dinner from a decadent dining room in Lake George, or admiring dazzling floats at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Gobble up this guide and plan an unforgettable Thanksgiving in New York State. 

Macy's at Herald Square during the Holidays (Christmas)

‘Tis the season of scenic shopping splendor! New York State transforms into a shopper’s paradise during the holiday season, offering everything from luxury boutiques to charming, decked-out main

Fireworks erupt in the sky during a New Year's Eve celebration in Buffalo's downtown

It’s time to celebrate New Year’s in New York State! Welcome 2025 with a First Day hike at a state park or trail, explore a wildlife refuge, or drive through an amazing light display. Want to stay home while you toast to the new year? Enjoy virtual ball drops, and home-based family-friendly activities courtesy of New York attractions. 

A transparent ornament hangs from a Christmas tree with shops in the background

What do you buy for the person who has everything? Holiday markets are sprouting up across New York, where local art, specialty crafts, and food and drink make the gift-giving season a breeze. Here are the markets to hit before the season's over!

Massive Christmas tree covered in hand-blown glass ornaments in Centerway Square in Corning

New York State is full of charming towns that will have you feeling like you’ve stepped into a Hallmark movie. Have a holly jolly time as you take an enchanting ride in a vintage train car on the

The Statue of Liberty and other landmarks made of plant material at the New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show

Experience the magic of the season this December in New York State with an event for each day of the month to get you into the holiday spirit. Travel back to the Gilded Age in the Hudson Valley,

Stationary military aircrafts on display with NYC skyscrapers in the distance

November is National Veterans and Military Families Month, with Veterans Day on November 11, a time to honor the service and sacrifice of those who have served. To recognize their invaluable

Glowing yellow lights decorate trees

As the days grow shorter with winter's approach, the night skies are getting brighter with holiday cheer across New York State! So put on your favorite sweater and have your hot chocolate at the ready, because you won’t want to miss these magical winter lights festivals, holiday light spectaculars, and dazzling drive-thru experiences.