The Beat

Orange County, N.Y. - Orange County, N.Y., is a paradise for holiday shoppers to find unique, hand-crafted gifts – and to make some special memories of the season while they’re searching.

For hand-crafted finds, boutique clothes, antiques and more, Orange County is a treasure trove of discoveries. One-of-a-kind shops bring charm and wonder to downtowns bursting with history and character. From Sugar Loaf Arts & Crafts Village, an entire artisans’ hamlet with more than 20 shops, to family-owned stores in almost every downtown, you’ll find something special for everyone.

From WNY traditions like the popular Poinsettia Exhibit to their Thurs-Date Nights, there is something fun for everyone!

Buffalo, NY- The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens has filled their calendar with magical holiday experiences that will create unforgettable memories and bring holiday joy to all. Whether it’s a family activity or a date night, the seasonal plants and lights are a perfect way to make the most of this holiday season in the warmth of the conservatory. …

Albany, NY – The Saratoga Beer Summit is returning to the City Center in Saratoga Springs on Saturday, February 22nd, 2025. The beer summit will once again feature its traditional menu of delicious local and national craft beers, along with a robust selection of ciders, seltzers, and malt beverages!…

Saratoga Springs, NY – Catholic Charities of Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties invites the local community to unwrap the magic of the holiday season at their 29^th annual fundraiser – The Festival of Trees – on Wednesday, December 4, through Sunday, December 8, at the Saratoga Springs City Center.

Gloversville, N.Y. - Celebrate the season at the Fulton County Historical Society with Merry at the Museum! On Saturday, December 14th at 10:30am, Santa and Mrs. Claus are making a special stop to share some of their favorite stories while you enjoy sweet treats and hot cocoa. Then on Sunday, December 15th at 1:00pm, Cosby and Tom bring their World Holiday Songs concert, a family-friendly celebration of holiday songs from around the world!…

Calling All Playwrights, Poets, and Prose-Smiths!

Cooperstown, N.Y. — Fenimore Art Museum’s Glimmer Globe Theatre is pleased to announce its 2025 NEXT! Readings of New Works by Regional Playwrights and Write Out Loud performances, both planned to take place at the museum early next year. The museum is currently looking for submissions of plays, poems, prose and short stories for consideration. All submission guidelines can be found at fenimoreartmuseum.org/submissions. Deadline for submissions is January 19, 2025.

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Albany, N.Y. -- On Sunday, December 1st, 2024, the Albany Pine Bush Preserve Discovery Center Gift Shop is thrilled to participate in Museum Store Sunday, an annual holiday shopping day supporting cultural institutions and their stores. This year, more than 2,100 museum stores representing all 50 states and the District of Columbia, 25 countries, and five continents will celebrate Museum Store Sunday and offer unique gifts for the holiday season—with all purchases supporting its parent institution and the artisans and craftspeople who create many of the gifts found in museum stores.

Early-Bird Rate Available Now Through December 1

New York, NY (November 25, 2024) – Skip the crowds and celebrate New Year’s Eve in style aboard Circle Line’s spectacular New Year’s Eve Cruise!

Forget Times Square—the real party is on the Hudson River, where you’ll enjoy front-row views of New York City’s iconic fireworks display at the Statue of Liberty with the glittering skyline as your backdrop. This unforgettable 3-hour journey departs from Pier 83 and features passed hors d’oeuvres, an open bar with spirits, beer, and wine, a complimentary champagne toast at midnight, and a live DJ spinning nonstop hits to keep the energy high.