Saratoga Clay Arts Center has announced the participating restaurants for its 13th Annual Chili Bowl Fundraiser, taking place Saturday, January 31, 2026, at the Saratoga Springs City Center. Five beloved local restaurants will compete for the coveted title of “Best Chili 2026,” with the winning chef receiving a handmade ceramic trophy crafted by artists from Saratoga Clay Arts Center. This year’s confirmed lineup includes: Thorn + Roots — returning 2025 Best Chili winner, 9 Miles East, Morrissey’s Restaurant, Noah’s Restaurant, The Olde Bryan Inn. Proceeds from the event benefit three local organizations: Saratoga Clay Arts Center, To Life!, and Wilton Food Pantry. Registration is now open. Tickets may be purchased online at www.saratogaclayarts.org.
Recently Engaged?
Let us assist you in your Wedding Plans! The Daily Gazette is hosting our 26th Annual Capital Region’s Premier Wedding Show! This event is held at the Saratoga City Center on February 1 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Register to win thousands of dollars’ worth of door prizes from our attending exhibitors. Plus…. The Daily Gazette gives away a $1,000 gift certificate to put towards your big day with any of the participating exhibitors. Don’t miss out on our Backyard Experience that we once again bring to you. Food trucks, picnic area, wine and beer sampling along with live music during the day. Registration is free – Capital Region’s Premier Wedding Show 2026. The Daily Gazette looks forward to assisting you with planning your big day!
6 Hour Defensive Driving Course
Saturday, February 07, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church, 175 Fifth Ave., Saratoga Springs. Cost is $40 prepaid, $45 at door (a donation is given to the church). Call: 518-784-5009.
A used book sale in the program room at Galway Public Library, located at will be held on Friday, January 23 from 2 – 5 p.m. and Saturday, January 24, from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Fill your bag for any monetary donation!
Chili Dinner
The Ballston Spa United Methodist Church, 101 Milton Ave, will be having a Chili Dinner with chili from various restaurants competing for top prize. The event will be held from 5-7 p.m. on January 23. Adults $8, children 10 and under $5. Beverages and home-made desserts will also be available.
Saratoga Film Showcase
Now in its second year, the weekend-long showcase on January 23 – 25 will feature 31 short films, nearly double last year’s lineup – with all but on filmmaker attending in person. The Saratoga Film Showcase offers a dynamic mix of film screenings, panels, live programming, and social gathering s designed to foster connection between artists and audiences. Tickets and additional information are available at: https://saratoga-arts.org/event-6473240
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 a.m. – 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/
Recently Engaged?
Let us assist you in your Wedding Plans! The Daily Gazette is hosting our 26th Annual Capital Region’s Premier Wedding Show! This event is held at the Saratoga City Center on February 1 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Register to win thousands of dollars’ worth of door prizes from our attending exhibitors. Plus…. The Daily Gazette gives away a $1,000 gift certificate to put towards your big day with any of the participating exhibitors. Don’t miss out on our Backyard Experience that we once again bring to you. Food trucks, picnic area, wine and beer sampling along with live music during the day. Registration is free – Capital Region’s Premier Wedding Show 2026. The Daily Gazette looks forward to assisting you with planning your big day!
Snowshoe Races
The Saratoga Winterfest 5K Snowshoe Run/Walk will be held on Sunday, February 1 at 11 a.m. in the Saratoga Spa State Park. There will be no indoor facilities, and we will meet in the quadrangle near the restrooms.
The Camp Saratoga 8K Snowshoe Race will be held on Saturday, February 7 at 10:30 a.m. at Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park.
Registration for both events can be done online through www.runsignup.com with day-of onsite. A limited supply of Dion snowshoes is available to rent for $10 on a first come/first serve basis. For more information about the above events visit www.saratogastryders.org. Questions? Call Laura at 518-581-1278 or laura@saratogastryders.org.
6 Hour Defensive Driving Course
Saturday, February 07, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church, 175 Fifth Ave., Saratoga Springs. Cost is $40 prepaid, $45 at door (a donation is given to the church). Call: 518-784-5009
Lung Cancer Benefit for Kurt Haas Sr.
Hosted by Gansevoort Volunteer Fire Department, located at 1870 Rte. 32 N. Gansevoort, on Saturday February 21, 2026, from 4 – 7 p.m. All you can eat Spaghetti Dinner, $10 Adults, $5 Kids (4-12), Free for children 3 and under. Raffle baskets and 50/50 Raffle. Kurt has been serving the community for 51 years as a Fire Department Member. Help us as a community give back to Kurt. Every Dollar raised will help Kurt and his family with medical bills and expenses. For questions or pickup arrangements, please text/call Jonna Freeman 518-598-2804 or Stephanie Rosa 518-502-4325.
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.
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/
Recently Engaged?
Let us assist you in your Wedding Plans! The Daily Gazette is hosting our 26th Annual Capital Region’s Premier Wedding Show! This event is held at the Saratoga City Center on February 1st from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Register to win thousands of dollars’ worth of door prizes from our attending exhibitors. Plus…. The Daily Gazette gives away a $1,000 gift certificate to put towards your big day with any of the participating exhibitors. Don’t miss out on our Backyard Experience that we once again bring to you. Food trucks, picnic area, wine and beer sampling along with live music during the day. Registration is free – Capital Region’s Premier Wedding Show 2026. The Daily Gazette looks forward to assisting you with planning your big day!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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
