Explore the must-see holiday attractions in Ithaca! Discover all the top events with our guide. From seasoned residents to curious newcomers, this guide reveals the festive wonders of Ithaca.
Popular events this season include the charming Village Christmas, where local artisans showcase their crafts and festivities fill the air with cheer. Additionally, the Parade of Lights dazzles spectators with its breathtaking floats and glowing displays that illuminate the night sky. And the enchanting Twinkle Town is something you definitely don't want to miss, featuring whimsical light displays and delightful holiday treats. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around Ithaca
- Twinkle Town (Elmira)
- Village Christmas (Watkins Glen)
- The Nutcracker (Elmira)
- StarShine 2023 (Penn Yan)
- Parade of Lights (Corning)
- Holiday Shopping Spree (Cayuga Lake)
- Factory Holiday Art Market
- Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes Holiday Concert (Elmira)
- Trumansburg's Winterfest (Trumansburg)
- Winter Wonderlights at Zoo New York (Watertown)
See these and even more events listed below!
Ithaca Holiday Light Displays
Twinkle Town
What to Expect:
Holiday light show with individually lit scenes and holiday music.
Description:
Drive through Twinkle Town in Elmira, NY, and enjoy over 200 individually lit scenes along a one-mile, two-lane road while listening to the Holiday Channel on your radio. Rudolph and his friends will help get you in the holiday spirit.
Where: Elmira | More Info: Twinkle Town
Parade of Lights
What to Expect:
Synchronized lighting of historic buildings in downtown Corning.
Description:
The Parade of Lights in Corning's Gaffer District is a spectacular display of holiday lights and decorations that illuminate the downtown area, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.
Where: Corning | More Info: Parade of Lights
Winter Wonderlights at Zoo New York
What to Expect:
Holiday celebration in a zoo setting
Description:
At Winter Wonderlights at Zoo New York, immerse yourself in a dazzling display of holiday lights and interactive exhibits, celebrating the beauty of nature and the season.
Where: Watertown | More Info: Winter Wonderlights at Zoo New York
Ithaca Holiday Markets and Shopping
Factory Holiday Art Market
What to Expect:
Showcase of local artisans and handmade holiday crafts.
Description:
The Factory Holiday Art Market is a vibrant celebration of local art and holiday spirit, featuring a diverse array of handmade crafts, unique gifts, and seasonal items.
Where: Ithaca | More Info: Factory Holiday Art Market
Holiday Shopping Spree
What to Expect:
Unique wine and food pairing experience with souvenir gifts.
Description:
The 2024 Holiday Shopping Spree at Cayuga Lake Wine Trail offers a delightful weekend of wine and food pairings, souvenir wine glasses, whimsical ornaments, and digital recipe books. Visit 10 participating wineries, each offering unique tasting experiences, from standard bar tastings to sit-down experiences. Enjoy the scenic trail while shopping for gifts and treating yourself.
Where: Cayuga Lake | More Info: Holiday Shopping Spree
Ithaca Holiday Shows and Entertainment
StarShine 2023
What to Expect:
Community-driven Christmas celebration with local music, lights, and entertainment.
Description:
StarShine is a beloved community Christmas celebration in Penn Yan, featuring a variety of music, entertainment, colorful lights, treats, historic displays, elf school, special sales, and the arrival of Santa. The event culminates with the crowning of Miss Penn Yan.
Where: Penn Yan | More Info: StarShine 2023
The Nutcracker
What to Expect:
World-class ballet performance with elaborate sets and costumes.
Description:
The Nutcracker is a classic ballet performance featuring elaborate sets and costumes, celebrating the 25th anniversary of Nutcracker Motion.
Where: Elmira | More Info: The Nutcracker
Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes Holiday Concert
What to Expect:
Classical music performance by the Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes.
Description:
The Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes presents a holiday concert featuring classical music and festive tunes, celebrating the season with elegance and tradition.
Where: Elmira | More Info: Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes Holiday Concert
Lorenzo’s Christmas Celebration
What to Expect:
Holiday celebration with historical mansion tours and horse-drawn rides.
Description:
Lorenzo's Christmas Celebration features a tour of the decorated mansion, refreshments, live music, and horse-drawn sleigh/wagon rides. Holiday crafts for kids of all ages will be available at the Rippleton Schoolhouse.
Where: Cazenovia | More Info: Lorenzo’s Christmas Celebration
Ithaca Other Holiday Activities
Village Christmas
What to Expect:
Community-driven holiday celebration with festive activities and local vendors.
Description:
The Village Christmas in Watkins Glen is a free family event featuring vendors, great food, music, Santa and Mrs. Claus, and fireworks off the pier. The festivities start at 5 pm, with the Visions of Christmas parade beginning at 6:30 pm.
Where: Watkins Glen | More Info: Village Christmas
Trumansburg's Winterfest
What to Expect:
Free community event with horse-drawn carriage rides and Santa visits.
Description:
Trumansburg WinterFest is a community celebration on Main Street featuring horse-drawn carriage rides, street performances, visits with Santa, and local food and beverages.
Where: Trumansburg | More Info: Trumansburg's Winterfest
Moore Tree Farms Christmas Tree Shopping
What to Expect:
Pesticide-free trees with free tree shaking and baling services.
Description:
Moore Tree Farm offers a variety of Christmas trees, including Fraser Fir, Canaan Fir, and Concolor Fir, available for both pre-cut and cut-your-own options. The farm also features a gift shop with dried floral arrangements, ornaments, and other festive items. Free tree shaking and baling services are provided, along with delivery options and tree stands.
Where: Ithaca | More Info: Moore Tree Farms Christmas Tree Shopping
Clinton Square Ice Rink
What to Expect:
Open-air ice skating facility in downtown Syracuse.
Description:
Clinton Square Ice Rink is a popular downtown destination in Syracuse, NY, offering open-air ice skating from late November to mid-March. The rink is part of a historic gathering place that hosts various events throughout the year.
Where: Syracuse | More Info: Clinton Square Ice Rink
Festive Fun in Nearby Cities!
Discover Holiday events in hundreds of cities worldwide. Check out these nearby locations for more festive fun!
- Elmira (29 miles)
- Vestal (33 miles)
- Auburn (34 miles)
- Binghamton (38 miles)