Last updated: November 11, 2024
See the best of the festive season in Rotterdam with our comprehensive overview guide. Discover all the key holiday events. From Rotterdam experts to novices, our guide showcases the best of the city's yuletide offerings.
Popular Events: Experience the magic of the New York State's Holiday Tree Lighting, where the town gathers in unison to illuminate a grand tree, signalling the beginning of the holiday season. With charming Victorian decorations, the Troy Victorian Stroll invites you to step back in time and stroll through beautifully adorned streets, complete with carolers and festive lights. And the Schenectady Holiday Parade is something you definitely don't want to miss, as it features vibrant floats and community spirit. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Rotterdam Holiday Light Displays
New York State's Holiday Tree Lighting
- What to Expect
- Special skating performance and synchronized fireworks display.
- Description
- The New York State Holiday Tree Lighting at the Empire State Plaza features a special performance by the Hudson Mohawk Figure Skating Club, followed by the official tree lighting ceremony and fireworks display. Enjoy free family activities, including holiday-themed arts and crafts, meet and greets with Santa, and live music performances.
- Where
- Albany | More Info : New York State's Holiday Tree Lighting
Schenectady Festival of Trees
- What to Expect
- Community-driven holiday celebration with artistically decorated trees.
- Description
- The Schenectady Festival of Trees is a holiday event featuring over 70 artistically decorated fir trees, showcasing local artists' and businesses' creativity. Visitors can vote for their favorite trees in various categories and enjoy a festive atmosphere.
- Where
- Schenectady | More Info : Schenectady Festival of Trees
Town of Rotterdam Tree Lighting
- What to Expect
- Community tree lighting with festive decorations.
- Description
- The Town of Rotterdam Tree Lighting event is a community celebration featuring beautifully decorated trees and festive atmosphere.
- Where
- Rotterdam | More Info : Town of Rotterdam Tree Lighting
Rotterdam Holiday Markets and Shopping
Troy Victorian Stroll
- What to Expect
- Victorian-themed holiday celebration with live music and shopping.
- Description
- The Troy Victorian Stroll is a festive holiday event in downtown Troy, featuring live music, shopping discounts, and family-friendly activities. Visitors can explore local shops, boutiques, and galleries while enjoying seasonal attractions and entertainment.
- Where
- Troy | More Info : Troy Victorian Stroll
Rotterdam Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Santa's Magical Express
- What to Expect
- Interactive Christmas adventure with a bus ride to save Santa's hat.
- Description
- Join Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the elves on a 90-minute quest to save Christmas. Board a bus to help Santa retrieve his stolen hat from Jack Frost, enjoying holiday fun and special guests along the way.
- Where
- Rensselaer | More Info : Santa's Magical Express
Rotterdam Other Holiday Activities
Schenectady Holiday Parade
- What to Expect
- Largest nighttime holiday parade in the Northeast.
- Description
- The Schenectady Holiday Parade is the Northeast's largest nighttime holiday parade, featuring sparkling floats, glittering firetrucks, marching bands, dance troupes, and a special visit from Santa Claus. The event celebrates the holiday season with a variety of festive activities and performances.
- Where
- Schenectady | More Info : Schenectady Holiday Parade
Christmas in the Air at Empire State Aerosciences Museum
- What to Expect
- Aviation-themed holiday celebration with restored aircraft and educational exhibits.
- Description
- Explore the Empire State Aerosciences Museum's festive atmosphere with aircraft displays, educational programs, and interactive activities.
- Where
- Glenville | More Info : Christmas in the Air at Empire State Aerosciences Museum
Christmas Land LLC
- What to Expect
- Unique blend of holiday activities and charitable initiatives.
- Description
- Christmas Land in Altamont, NY, offers a holiday attraction with various activities, including horse-drawn sleigh rides, local author readings, and a Christmas-themed train ride. The event features a festive atmosphere with live music, delicious food, and a chance to visit Santa.
- Where
- Altamont | More Info : Christmas Land LLC