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Week of January 2 – January 8, 2026  

Winter Food Drive

The Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum is hosting a Winter Food Drive to benefit LifeWorks Community Action. As the temperatures turn colder, SCHC seeks to support our community by raising funds and gathering food items to support those facing food insecurity. Please join us in generosity this holiday season. Non-perishable food items can be dropped off during museum hours. Most needed items include canned fruit and vegetables, pasta, rice, oatmeal, mac and cheese, canned tuna, canned chicken, and peanut butter.

4-H Party for a Cause 

The Winter’s Edge Party for a Cause fundraiser will be held on January 17, from 6 – 10 p.m. at The Hideaway at Saratoga Lake Golf Course. Tickets for this event are $20 and include music by Electric Rodeo, 5 Raffle tickets & Light Refreshments (veggies, cheese, crackers, pepperoni). There will be a Silent Auction, Raffle Baskets, and a whole lot of fun. We will also have an open cash bar and a limited menu for additional purchases. Additional raffle tickets will be available as well. Many thanks to Harmony Veterinary Center for being our signature sponsor.  For tickets, visit https://cce.sc4h.org/party/ If you have any questions, contact Greg Stevens at the 4-H office at 518-885-8995 or grs9@cornell.edu.

Beginner Maple Syrup Course

Have you ever wanted to make your own Maple Syrup? Join the Milton Grange and Corell Cooperative Extension of Saratoga County on January 24 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Located at the 4-H Training Center, 556 Middle Line Rd., Ballston Spa, NY 12020. We will be teaching the basics on how to make maple syrup on a small scale geared toward beginners. This hands-on class will cover identifying trees to tap, how and when to tap a tree your trees, a basic at home set up, syrup grades and products, including a taste test. 

Class size is limited, and early registration is encouraged. Total cost is $30, $45 for two people, which includes a pancake lunch with your choice of meat and beverage along with a sample size bottle of syrup to go home with you. Contact Jessica Luse at jmh452@cornell.edu for more information or questions. Registration is due on January 16.

Monthly Indoor Craft and Garage Sale

Sunday, January 25, from 11 – 3 p.m. the popular Saratoga Wilton Elks Indoor Craft and Garage Sale will be held at the Lodge at 1 Elk Lane, Saratoga Springs. Admission is free with over 40 vendors, great parking and lunch available too.  Just about anything you can imagine might be offered.  There are lightly used children’s toys available and craft items too; as well as anything garage sale.  It’s a fun activity the entire family enjoys.  All proceeds go to the Elks Scholarship Fund.   An 8’ table with chairs is $15.   Email Debbie @ deborahozolins@gmail.com or call 518-226-5595 for information or to sign up for a table(s).  Applications are available in the Elks Lobby after 3 pm Monday through Saturday.  Next sale is February 22, 2026, March 15, 2026, and April 26, 2026.

Sow You Want to Be an Ecological Gardener?! 

Join us for this free workshop and leave with the tools to plant your own native plant garden come spring. Thursday, January 29, 5 – 7 p.m. Come by any time between 5 and 6:30 p.m. Skidmore College Center for Integrated Sciences. Plant seeds this winter and have seedlings to plant or pot on in spring. Knowledgeable volunteers will be on hand to answer questions and guide you in winter sowing best practices. To register: https://forms.gle/aTT2CD632AufXcX4A. Visit, https://sustainablesaratoga.org/event/community-winter-sowing-workshop/

Call for Local Folk or Irish Performers  

Come audition for an opportunity to showcase your talent during “Café Malta”, an intimate coffee 

house at the Malta Community Center on Friday evening, March 13. It’s lucky Friday the 

13th right before St. Patrick’s Day! We are looking for talented musicians, vocalists, and small acoustic 

bands, storytellers and/or dancers. Each acoustic act selected will play a short 10–15-minute set. 

Auditions are by appointment only.  Contact Elyse Young, Artistic Director, at 518-899-4411 x 305 or 

theater@townofmalta.gov for more details or to schedule an audition.

December 19 – December 25 , 2025

Holiday Hours at the Tang

We have special holiday hours during Skidmore’s winter break, a great opportunity for families and visiting friends looking for indoor things to do over the holidays. It’s also the last chance to see See It Now: Contemporary Art from the Ann and Mel Schaffer Collection before it closes January 4. From December 16 through January 18, the museum will be open Tuesday–Sunday, noon–5 pm. The museum will be closed December 23–25 and December 30–January 1. With free admission and warm galleries full of contemporary art, the Tang has become a go-to-spot for families and visiting friends looking for an indoor outing over the holidays. For more information, call the Tang Visitor Services Desk at 518-580-8080 or visit https://tang.skidmore.edu.

Christmas Trees and Wreath Sale

The Town of Greenfield Lions Club are selling fresh Christmas trees and wreaths at the corner of Route 9N and Wilton Road. Trees are $55 each, Plain wreaths $20 and wreaths with a bow $25. Lions are on site each weekend until Christmas. On weekdays tree sales are self-serve. A card reader will be available on the weekends for your purchases. Cash and checks also accepted.

Winter Food Drive

The Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum is hosting a Winter Food Drive to benefit LifeWorks Community Action. As the temperatures turn colder, SCHC seeks to support our community by raising funds and gathering food items to support those facing food insecurity. Please join us in generosity this holiday season. Non-perishable food items can be dropped off during museum hours. Most needed items include canned fruit and vegetables, pasta, rice, oatmeal, mac and cheese, canned tuna, canned chicken, and peanut butter.

4-H Party for a Cause 

The Winter’s Edge Party for a Cause fundraiser will be held on January 17, from 6 – 10 p.m. at The Hideaway at Saratoga Lake Golf Course. Tickets for this event are $20 and include music by Electric Rodeo, 5 Raffle tickets & Light Refreshments (veggies, cheese, crackers, pepperoni). There will be a Silent Auction, Raffle Baskets, and a whole lot of fun. We will also have an open cash bar and a limited menu for additional purchases. Additional raffle tickets will be available as well. Many thanks to Harmony Veterinary Center for being our signature sponsor.  For tickets, visit https://cce.sc4h.org/party/ If you have any questions, contact Greg Stevens at the 4-H office at 518-885-8995 or grs9@cornell.edu.

Call for Local Folk or Irish Performers  

Come audition for an opportunity to showcase your talent during “Café Malta”, an intimate coffee 

house at the Malta Community Center on Friday evening, March 13. It’s lucky Friday the 

13th right before St. Patrick’s Day! We are looking for talented musicians, vocalists, and small acoustic 

bands, storytellers and/or dancers. Each acoustic act selected will play a short 10–15-minute set. 

Auditions are by appointment only.  Contact Elyse Young, Artistic Director, at 518-899-4411 x 305 or 

theater@townofmalta.gov for more details or to schedule an audition.

December 12 – December 18 , 2025

Christmas Trees and Wreath Sale

The Town of Greenfield Lions Club are selling fresh Christmas trees and wreaths at the corner of Route 9N and Wilton Road. Trees are $55 each, Plain wreaths $20 and wreaths with a bow $25. Lions are on site each weekend until Christmas. On weekdays tree sales are self-serve. A card reader will be available on the weekends for your purchases. Cash and checks also accepted.

Shop & Sip at The Artisan’s Market

The Saratoga County History Center presents a special evening of sipping. strolling and shopping at our 25th Annual Artisan’s Market. This holiday event will be held on Friday, December 19 from 4 – 6 p.m. Shop the creations of local artisans while enjoying sparkling water, hot cocoa, or soft drinks, and treating yourself to some complimentary sweets. Enjoy the opportunity to meet some of our amazing artisans, complete your holiday shopping, and see historic Brookside Museum decorated for the holidays. Shop a wide variety of handmade goods, including ceramics, soaps, jewelry, knitwear, holiday ornaments and more! Find something special for everyone on your list this holiday season and savor this special night at Brookside! 

Winter Food Drive

The Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum is hosting a Winter Food Drive to benefit LifeWorks Community Action. As the temperatures turn colder, SCHC seeks to support our community by raising funds and gathering food items to support those facing food insecurity. Please join us in generosity this holiday season. Non-perishable food items can be dropped off during museum hours. Most needed items include canned fruit and vegetables, pasta, rice, oatmeal, mac and cheese, canned tuna, canned chicken, and peanut butter.

Winter Solstice Sunrise Walk

Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park, 80 Scout Rd., Wilton | 8 a.m. Get ready for the shortest day of the year! Come for a walk to learn about how celestial movements impact the natural world. Register on our website or by calling the office at 518-450-0321. Our programs are weather dependent and may be cancelled due to inclement weather or poor trail conditions. 

Paws 2 Read 

The Ballston Spa Public Library, located at 21 Milton Ave., Ballston Spa is delighted to announce a special holiday-inspired event on Saturday, December 20 at 11:30 a.m., featuring Georgie, the therapy dog. Children in grades K – 4 and their families are invited to celebrate the season while strengthening reading skills. Georgie, a certified therapy dog, will be available to listen as young readers share their favorite books or choose from a festive selection. The program helps build confidence, encourages a love of reading, and creates memorable moments. Participants will also be treated to a winter themed take ‘n make craft and special holiday goodie bag! First come first served. Free and open to the public. For more information, call 518-885-5022 or visit bspl.sals.edu.

SAVE The DATE

There’s a lot going on in the Capital Region this holiday season!

Here are a few more of our faves… 

Saratoga Voices, “A Choral Christmas” 

In celebration of the 55th anniversary of the organization, the Saratoga Voices choir is putting together a concert featuring classic and seasonal favorite Christmas carols on Sunday, December 7th at 3 p.m. This event will take place at St. Edward the Confessor Church in Clifton Park and includes a Holiday Reception following the concert! To learn about ticket prices and to purchase tickets, visit Saratogavoices.org for more information.

A Night To Remember at Proctors Theater!

Festivities are about to be amped up this holiday season with two treasured traditions returning to Proctors Collaborative stages in December! The Schenectady-Saratoga Symphony Orchestra’s “Poinsettia Pops” are partnering with the Northeast Ballet Company’s production of “The Nutcracker” to create a magical performance like no other that will radiate the joy that we all need this winter. Performances by the “Poinsettia Pops” will take place on December 6th at 7 p.m. and December 7th at 3 p.m. in the Universal Preservation Hall in Saratoga Springs, featuring classics like “Let it Snow” and “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen,” as well as selections from “The Nutcracker.” Performances of “The Nutcracker” will take place on December 13th at 7 p.m. and December 14th at 2 p.m. in the Main Stage at Proctors Theater. Tickets for both events are available through the Box Office at Proctors in-person from Tuesday-Saturday at 12-6 p.m., as well as online at sssony.org or AtProctors.org.

Brookside Museum’s Annual Holiday Artisan’s Market 

Celebrating 25 years, the Saratoga County History Center at the Brookside Museum in Ballston Spa is once again hosting their annual Artisan Market, which is set to open on November 29th and last through December 24th, 2025. On opening day, holiday music performed by the Ballston Spa High School Orchestra will be featured from 12-1:30 p.m., and items featured to purchase include but are not limited to soaps, lotions, ornaments, jewelry, syrups, scarves, ceramics, hats and much more, and each item sold will support the SCHC at the Brookside Museum as well as local artisans. Shopping hours are Tuesdays-Thursdays from 12-4 p.m., Fridays 12-5 p.m., and Saturdays/Sundays from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.. For more information, visit Brooksidemuseum.org.

The 39th Annual Victorian Streetwalk

December 4th

Come Downtown & experience why Saratoga Springs was voted… 

#1 Most Festive Christmas Town in the USA!

Saratoga Portrait Studio

As dusk falls, downtown Saratoga Springs transforms into an enchanting winter scene for the 39th Annual Victorian Streetwalk. 

On the evening of Thursday, December 4, from 6 to 9 p.m., Broadway becomes a pedestrian-only holiday promenade.

PLEASE NOTE: Broadway will be closed to traffic from 5–9 p.m. between Broadway at the Saratoga Springs City Center through Washington Street heading South. 

The evening begins with a festive Tree-Lighting Ceremony at 6 p.m. in front of Putnam Market,
preceded by Santa & Mrs. Claus’ arrival with a… 

Trolley Parade accompanied by the Saratoga Springs Police Department, Saratoga Springs High School Cheerleaders, The Dance Lab performers and more! 

Then the magic unfolds…

Nearly Two Dozen Entertainment Sites along Broadway feature live music, choral performances, dance showcases, carolers in Victorian dress, and wandering street entertainers. Highlights include the Road Soda Pop band (at the Washington Street Stage), Lennox performing at Santa’s Cottage and the Abundant Life Church just outside City Center. Additional acts: Racing City Chorus inside the Adirondack Trust Co., St. Paul Lutheran Church Choir on the City Hall steps, John & Orion Kribs on Celtic Treasures, Tumblin’ Gap Trio and more. 

Storefronts become stages too—look for Ballerinas by Saratoga City Ballet in the windows of Caroline and Main, Piper, Petal + Hive, Gilded and Encounter; and a showcase by the Saratoga Springs Youth Ballet at Lex & Cleo. 

Other experiences include Photos at Santa’s Cottage beside the tree (cottage open hours listed online), Festive Food and Treats (kettle-corn, hot cocoa, cotton candy), and… the “Festival of Trees” by Catholic Charities of Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties inside the City Center, Face-Painting, Balloon Artists, Crafts, Photos with Noel the Peppermint Pig at Saratoga Candy Co. and a cheerful Toys for Toga Toy-Drive Table in front of G. Willikers.

Revelers watch live ballerinas in the window of Violet’s during the 38th Victorian Streetwalk hosted by the Downtown Business Association on Thursday, Dec. 5, 2024, in Saratoga, NY. (Jim Franco/Times Union)

Please check back to our website as details are updated daily!  

www.SaratogaSpringsDowntown/Victorianstreetwalk

Major Supporters & Sponsors:

This event is brought to life by the generous support of the Saratoga Springs Downtown Business Association and a strong roster of sponsors, including:

Santa Sponsor: 4 Pillar Funding 

Gingerbread Sponsors: Adirondack Trust Co.; On Call Plumbing and Heating, and
European Wax Center Saratoga Springs

Additional Supporting Sponsors:
Saratoga Candy Co.; Impressions of Saratoga; Lifestyles of Saratoga, LLC; Caroline & Main; Union Hall Supply Co.; Celtic Treasures; Scallions; G. Willikers Toys; Saratoga Springs City Center; Cudney’s Launderers & Dry Cleaning; Violet’s of Saratoga, Samantha Nass Floral 

In-kind sponsors: D.A. Collins; High Peaks Event Production; Munter Enterprises; Saratoga Springs Police Dept.; Saratoga Springs Dept. of Public Works, NYRA, Saratoga TODAY

November 28 – December 4 , 2025

Upcoming Events

Fall Food Drive

The Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum is hosting a Fall Food Drive to benefit Lifeworks Community Action. As winter approaches, SCHC seeks to support our community by raising funds and gathering food items to support those facing food insecurity. Please join us in generosity this holiday season. Funds can be donated directly to Lifeworks Community Action at their website, https://www.lifeworks.org/. Non-perishable food items can be dropped off during museum hours, Tuesdays-Sundays, from 12-4 p.m. Most needed items include canned fruit and vegetables, pasta, rice, oatmeal, mac and cheese, canned tuna, canned chicken, and peanut butter. Donations will be accepted through January 1, 2026.

Stretch Your Budget Sale

On Friday and Saturday December 5 and 6, the Old Stone Church will hold its Stretch Your Budget sale from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 159 Stone Church Road (town of Milton) Ballston Spa. New and next to new items will be available for a cash donation.  Some new items will be priced.  For additional information call the church number 518-583-1002.  A parking lot is available behind the church.

Tang Baazar

Held at The Frances Young Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery at Skidmore College, 815 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs. This event brings student creativity into the marketplace, with more than 50 students selling wares, including art, jewelry, clothing, and pottery. Friday, December 5, 3:30 to 6 p.m. Free to attend and open to the public. While each student vendor will have their own payment system, visitors should expect most students to accept payments via Venmo. Tang publications will also be discounted for in-person sales. The book sale runs Tuesday-Friday, December 2–5; discounts apply to purchases made in the Museum, with no shipping available. For more information, contact the Visitors Services Desk at tang@skidmore.edu or 518-580-8080, or visit the Tang website at https://tang.skidmore.edu.

Holiday Opera “La bohème”

Celebrate the holidays with the original RENT — a story of young artists in love, from first blush to dying breath. This holiday season, Opera Saratoga invites you to be swept away by the romance, laughter, and heartbreak of Puccini’s timeless masterpiece, “La bohème.” In this special staged concert, the Skidmore Chorus and members of the Excelsior Vocal Ensemble joins forces with the most exciting rising stars from the Juilliard School and the Metropolitan Opera to bring to life the unforgettable arias, soaring ensembles, and rich choral moments that have enchanted audiences for generations. Single tickets are on sale now. The concert will be held on December 5 at 7 p.m. at Universal Preservation Hall 

25 Washington Street, Saratoga Springs. Single tickets are on sale now at www.atproctors.org. 

Annual Holiday Market

Join us for our Annual Holiday Market at Balet Flowers & Design on Saturday & Sunday, December 6 and 7. Start your holiday shopping at our festive open house featuring local artisans, tastings from area vendors, snacks, and hot cider. Our holiday arrangements are handmade including wreaths, kissing balls, and boxwood trees. There will be local pottery, jewelry, soaps, gifts, sale items and so much more! Please bring a canned good to donate to a local food pantry. The event will be held in our Flower and Arts Barn as well as in our heated greenhouse. 5065 Nelson Ave Ext, Malta. Call 518-584-8555 or email baletflowers@gmail.com with any questions! We are open every day 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Welcome to the Annual Saratoga Festival Of Trees

30th Anniversary

Photos provided by Catholic Charities

let the season begin!

December 3-7  

Saratoga Springs City Center


Dear Friends,

It’s hard to believe another year has passed and we are quickly approaching the 30th Annual Festival of Trees. We are excited to once again present all the wonderful activities this magical holiday event has to offer.

The Preview Reception on opening night, December 3, will showcase the usual display of beautifully decorated trees, wreaths and centerpieces.

Tinsel and Tonic, a Happy Hour for a Cause, will be Friday, December 5, offering specialty cocktails from local establishments, along with the regular Festival offerings.

The Family Day Activities on Saturday, December 6, will offer two Breakfasts with Santa. Children attending can participate in the crafting activities as well. The Holiday Store and raffle items will also be available throughout the Festival. We are delighted to welcome you back to truly celebrate the holiday season together.

The Festival of Trees is the major fundraiser of Catholic Charities of Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties. Funds raised help to support the crucial services so needed in the tri-county communities in these challenging times. The needs of our neighbors have grown dramatically in recent years and will continue to do so in the future. The current state of funding for human services presents enormous challenges to providers and the people we are privileged to serve. Please know that while you are enjoying this year’s Festival of Trees, you are simultaneously helping the most vulnerable among us.

Thank you in advance for supporting the mission of Catholic Charities and the Festival of Trees. 

Pre-registration for all events can be found at:
https://givebutter.com/c/ccswwfot
OR scan the QR Code!

Now more than ever our communities need us —
and we need you!

Jolene Munger, Executive Director

Sharon and Stanley Drosky, Kimberly Pacheco, and
Kaitlyn Cameron, Event Principals



Schedule of Events 


Wednesday

12/3/2025

6–8 p.m.

Preview Reception: 

$100/ticket Reservation required.
Call 518-587-5000 x101 or
scan the QR code below.


Thursday

12/4/2025

4–9 p.m.

Victorian Streetwalk:

$5/ticket 


Friday

12/5/2025 

General Admission • 3-8 p.m.

Tinsel and Tonic:
A Happy Hour for a Cause • 5-7:30 p.m.

Offering specialty cocktails from local establishments. Reservations recommended. Call 518-587-5000 x101 or scan the QR code below.


Saturday

12/6/2025

General Admission • 11–7 p.m.

Breakfast With Santa: 

8:30-9:30 a.m. • 10-11 a.m.

$10/ticket, 2 & under free. Adults must accompany children. Reservations required. Call 518-587-5000 x101 or scan the QR code below.


Sunday

12/8/2025 

General Admission • 11-2 p.m.


Scan Me to make
a reservation!

(all events listed)


2025
Festival of Trees Board of Directors

President

Jim Norton

Vice President

Kim Pacheco

Treasurer

Peter Quinlan

Secretary

Paul von Schenk

Board Members

Elizabeth Chartrand 

Susan Cortes
Fran Dingeman
Christin Mason
Carol Raike

Pam Stiansen


Programs & Services offered by
Catholic Charities

Each year Catholic Charities of Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties serves over
3,000 people in the tri-county region through the following programs 

Counseling

Individual, couple and family counseling – Intake, assessment and treatment of a range of individual and interpersonal issues provided by Licensed Clinical Social Workers. 

Domestic Violence Project of Warren & Washington Counties 

Full range of services to victims of domestic violence and their children. 

Mary’s Haven

A community home for the dying serving persons with irreversible illness who no longer can remain safely in their homes. Holistic hospice care is provided to address the resident’s physical, spiritual, emotional and social needs.  

Saratoga Mentoring program
Prevention/diversion program impacting youth’s academic, social and emotional milieu. Mentors commit to a minimum of two hours a week with their mentee. Family support services are also available.  

Nutrition Outreach Education Program
(NOEP)
serving Warren and Washington Counties, assisting families to apply for SNAP (formerly food stamps), recertification, advocacy with DSS and outreach. Public presentations are available.  

Emergency Services

Assistance with concrete basic needs (food, rent, medication, automobile expenses, etc.) where needed and feasible.

Programs and services are available to anyone in Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties, always accompanied by information, referral and advocacy as needed. Individuals are never refused services because of their inability to pay.

Catholic Charities, a ministry of the Catholic Diocese of Albany, is committed to active witness on behalf of the Scriptural values of mercy and justice. 

Catholic Charities, recognizing human need at all stages of life, responds to all persons regardless of race, creed or lifestyle, with special emphasis on the economically poor and the vulnerable.

Catholic Charities serves and empowers persons in need, advocates for a just society, calls forth and collaborates with women and men of good will in fulfillment of its mission.

Providing Help… Creating Hope…


Administrative Offices:

Saratoga County Office:
142 Regent Street
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
518-587-5000

Warren & Washington County Office:

35 Broad Street, Glens Falls, NY 12801
518-793-6212

Week of November 21 – November 27 , 2025

Fall Food Drive

The Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum is hosting a Fall Food Drive to benefit Lifeworks Community Action. As winter approaches, SCHC seeks to support our community by raising funds and gathering food items to support those facing food insecurity. Please join us in generosity this holiday season. Funds can be donated directly to Lifeworks Community Action at their website, https://www.lifeworks.org/. Non-perishable food items can be dropped off during museum hours, Tuesdays-Sundays, from 12-4 p.m. Most needed items include canned fruit and vegetables, pasta, rice, oatmeal, mac and cheese, canned tuna, canned chicken, and peanut butter. Donations will be accepted through January 1, 2026.

Art Exhibition – A Brush with Magical Realism 

Kelly Jean Smith has created a new series of oil paintings made possible by a 2025 Saratoga Arts Regrant which explores narrative illustration, the singular female image, and the space between joy and sorrow through expressive color and playful composition. Future prints will be made available to benefit Pitney Farm Food Insecurity Program.  November 28, 4 – 8 p.m. Artist Talk 6 p.m. and November 29 and 30 at 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. 79 Beekman St., Saratoga Springs. 

Pet Photos with Santa

Saturday, November 29 from 10 am to 1 pm, Gateway House of Peace, 479 Rowland Street, Ballston Spa. The event is open to pets, children and families. A $25. donation covers the sitting fee, digital downloading and printing rights. Services are being donated by Ashley Wilbur Photography. Photos will be sent within one week via email. Appointments strongly encouraged.  Walk-ins cash or check only. Register online. Gateway House of Peace is an end-of-life facility for those who have been diagnosed as terminally ill and have less than three months to live and who cannot stay comfortably at home. Twenty-four care is provided at no cost. Gateway receives no insurance reimbursements or public funding and relies on fundraising and community support.

Winter Wonderland Art Market

The event takes place on November 29 at 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Holiday Inn, 232 Broadway, Saratoga Springs. This event is free and open to the public. There will be over 50 artists participating in this year’s event. Shop small this holiday season and find one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list, all while supporting local artists and artisans. The market has everything from pottery to jewelry to paintings to candles. There will photo ops with the Grinch and the chance to have your gifts wrapped by Saratoga Arts’ staff. Check out the artists below who will be joining us on the day!

Brookside Museum Holiday Market 

The Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum is celebrating the 25th year of our annual Artisan Market, which will be open between November 29 and December 24, 2025. The opening of the market, on Small Business Saturday, will feature holiday music performed by the Ballston Spa High School Orchestra, from 12-1:30 p.m. This annual market features exclusively handmade and handcrafted products created by local artisans. Items featured at the market will include soaps, lotions, ornaments, jewelry, syrups, scarves, ceramics, hats, and much, much more! The 2025 hours are: Tuesdays-Thursdays, 12 – 4 p.m.; Fridays 12 -5 p.m., Saturdays & Sundays, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Holiday Concert

Historic First Baptist Church, 45 Washington Street, Saratoga Springs.  Sunday, November 30, at 2 p.m.  

As part of our new organ dedication concert series, experience classical and holiday favorites performed by a thrilling Horn Quartet accompanied by Organ. Featuring Gustav Holst’s Chorale from Jupiter from The Planets, G.F. Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus from The Messiah, J.S. Bach’s Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring and C.M. von Weber’s Overture to Der Freischutz. Holiday favorites include Angels We Have Heard on High, Arranged for Horn Quartet and Organ by Farrell Goehring, Joy to the World and O Come, O Come, Immanuel. Patrice Malatesttinic, Amy Baker, Sam Kennedy and Mallorie Meyer in concert with Organist, Farrell Goehring. Presented without charge to the public.  Donations gratefully accepted toward the Bell Tower Restoration.

Concert – Mozart & More 

Saratoga Chamber Players Concert will take place at the Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church on Sunday, November 30 at 3 p.m. Featuring cellist Ashley Bathgate, violinist Jill Levey and violist David Rose. Tickets can be purchased at the door on the day of the show or visit, saratogachamberplayers.org. 

Holiday Opera “La bohème”

Celebrate the holidays with the original RENT — a story of young artists in love, from first blush to dying breath. This holiday season, Opera Saratoga invites you to be swept away by the romance, laughter, and heartbreak of Puccini’s timeless masterpiece, “La bohème.” In this special staged concert, the Skidmore Chorus and members of the Excelsior Vocal Ensemble joins forces with the most exciting rising stars from the Juilliard School and the Metropolitan Opera to bring to life the unforgettable arias, soaring ensembles, and rich choral moments that have enchanted audiences for generations. Single tickets are on sale now. The concert will be held on December 5 at 7 p.m. at Universal Preservation Hall 

25 Washington Street, Saratoga Springs. Single tickets are on sale now at www.atproctors.org. 

Upcoming Events

Week of November 14 – November 20 , 2025

Famous Brown Bread & Bake Sale

Leaves are falling, the temperature is dropping, and Thanksgiving is rapidly approaching.  This means it’s time for Simpson United Methodist Church’s to hold our semi-annual Brown Bread & Bake Sale.   Cost is $8 per loaf. Pick-up dates: Friday, November 21 between 4 – 6 p.m. and Saturday, November 22 between 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.  Bake sale on Saturday.  Our address is 1089 Rock City Road, Rock City Falls, NY.  Call 518-885-4794 to place your order.  Please leave your name, telephone number and the number of loaves you would like to reserve; and if possible, let us know if you will be picking up on Friday or Saturday.  A representative from Simpson will call back to confirm your order.  Thank you. 

6 Hour Defensive Driving Course

Saturday, November 22, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church, 175 Fifth Ave., Saratoga Springs. Cost $40 prepaid, $45 at door. A portion of the fee is donated to the church. 518-784-5009 or www.facetofacecourses.com. 

Annual Holiday Craft & Vendor Fair 

Held at Middle Grove United Methodist Church, 429 Middle Grove Rd., Middle Grove on Sat., November  22 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Homemade pies and lunch available for purchase.  To sign up for space ($25 donation) call Lisa at 518-779-9141. 

Saratoga Comic Con

Saratoga Springs will host its 11th year on its pop culture comic con platform on November 22-23. Growing larger, also expanding into the Hilton Hotel attached to the Saratoga Springs City Center! Tickets are on sale now. For more information on Saratoga Comic Con please visit http://www.saratogacomiccon.com.

November 7 – November 13 , 2025

Upcoming Events

Holiday Craft Fair and Bake Sale

Trinity United Methodist Church, 155 Ballard Road (Exit 16 off the Northway), Wilton, November 15, 

10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Featuring artisan crafted items and homemade baked goods. Direct sale vendor representatives in attendance also.

Genealogy and Local History

Heritage Hunters will meet Saturday, November 15, at 1 p.m. at the Town of Saratoga Town Hall, 12 Spring St. in Schuylerville. Kathy Craine, a former National Park Service employee, will offer a visual walk-through of the immigration processing at Ellis Island with images from the National Archives, the Library of Congress and the National Park Service. Kathy will guide us through changes made to both the island and buildings to accommodate the flow of immigrants at the busiest port of entry in the United States. About 12 million people arrived between 1892 and 1954. Public is welcome to the program. For info call 518-885-9309. 

Operation Toy Train

Operation Toy Train will be arriving to Greenfield for an official kick-off to the holiday season and this year’s Greenfield “TOGether Gift Drive.” Santa & Mrs. Claus will be joined by Buddy the Elf, some local leaders and other friends on a Saratoga Corinth & Hudson holiday train that will make a stop at 101 Canty Rd. in Greenfield at 2 p.m. on November 15. The event is free and should last approximately 45 minutes. Cocoa and cookies will be distributed and there will be plenty of opportunities to take photos. When the train arrives, a boxcar will open to reveal the local band Rustic Spirit and a short concert. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets.

Veterans Stand-Down

Free haircut, medical/dental screening, veterans’ benefits, food, clothing, toiletries, housing assistance, financial assistance and much more. Sunday, November 16 at Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge, 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs, from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. This event is for all veterans, veteran networking and the community that supports veterans. For more information, call Dom Dominguez, 808-352-6477. 

Saratoga Bridges to Host Blood Drive

Saratoga Bridges will be hosting a blood drive with the American Red Cross on Wednesday, November 19, from Noon to 5 p.m. Donations will take place in the second-floor conference room at their administrative building at 16 Saratoga Bridges Blvd., Ballston Spa. For more information about the blood drive and to register for a timeslot, please visit www.redcrossblood.org/give and use the sponsor code “SARATOGABRIDGES.” Every successful blood donor will receive free A1C testing and an exclusive pair of Red Cross x PAC-MAN socks (while supplies last)!

Soroptimist International of Saratoga 

Community members are invited to an Information Hour to learn how the organization empowers women and girls through education and opportunity. Attendees will meet members, hear about local and global projects, and discover ways to get involved. The event will take place on Wednesday, November 19, at 5:30 p.m. at the Holiday Inn, 232 Broadway, Saratoga Springs. All are welcome to attend this informal session and explore how Soroptimist Saratoga makes a positive difference locally and worldwide. For more information email connectsisc@gmail.com. 

6 Hour Defensive Driving Course

Saturday, November 22, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church, 175 Fifth Ave., Saratoga Springs. Cost $40 prepaid, $45 at door. A portion of the fee is donated to the church. 518-784-5009 or www.facetofacecourses.com. 

Saratoga Comic Con

Saratoga Springs will host its 11th year on its pop culture comic con platform on November 22-23. Growing larger, also expanding into the Hilton Hotel attached to the Saratoga Springs City Center! Tickets are on sale now. For more information on Saratoga Comic Con please visit http://www.saratogacomiccon.com 

Holiday Opera “La bohème”

Celebrate the holidays with the original RENT — a story of young artists in love, from first blush to dying breath. This holiday season, Opera Saratoga invites you to be swept away by the romance, laughter, and heartbreak of Puccini’s timeless masterpiece, “La bohème.” In this special staged concert, the Skidmore Chorus and members of the Excelsior Vocal Ensemble joins forces with the most exciting rising stars from the Juilliard School and the Metropolitan Opera to bring to life the unforgettable arias, soaring ensembles, and rich choral moments that have enchanted audiences for generations. Single tickets are on sale now. The concert will be held on December 5 at 7 p.m. at Universal Preservation Hall 

25 Washington Street, Saratoga Springs. Single tickets are on sale now at www.atproctors.org.