13 great things to do in the Adirondacks this weekend

Holiday parades, an exclusive tour of holiday homes in Bolton Landing, the start of ski season, a jingle bell snowshoe race, fireworks, and a reindeer run are just a few of the exciting events this weekend.

We want people to have the best time possible in the Adirondacks. That’s why each week, we meticulously curate a list of exciting outdoor adventures, live performances, living history experiences, and great ways to enjoy local food and beverages for everyone, visitors and locals.

Want to know what’s coming up beyond this week? Check out our events page. And to stay in the loop on all things ADK, subscribe to our weekly newsletter, In Good Taste.

Here’s what’s happening this weekend.

The Adirondacks’ pre-eminent fine arts museum, The Hyde Collection in Glens Falls, delivers a must-see exhibit that offers a unique and insightful glimpse into Edgar Degas, one of the most well-known and influential artists of his time.

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Find the ultimate shop local experience at the Lake Placid Center for the Arts Holiday Craft Show.

By purchasing from Adirondack artisans, you can support your favorite non-profit organizations while also supporting the talented craftspeople in your own community.

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The Harrietstown Town Hall will shine bright during the first weekend of December for the 38th annual Sparkle Village Craft Show & Sale, beginning on the evening of December 1 and continuing on Saturday, December 2.

Looking for that perfect, unique gift for someone special? The show is renowned for the high quality and variety of products over 45 artisans and vendors created.

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The holiday season has arrived in the Adirondacks, and it’s time to celebrate with the Saranac Lake Volunteer Fire Truck Parade and Tree Lighting beginning at 6 pm on December 1.

This charming event has been a local tradition for the past 10 years, bringing together the community in the spirit of unity and celebration.

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Get in the holiday spirit in the picturesque Adirondack town of Essex on Lake Champlain. The annual lighting of the Essex Town Hall Christmas Tree takes place at 6 pm on Friday, December 1st. Local businesses will be open, serving food and drink, and opportunities for holiday shopping.

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The fun continues on Saturday, December 2, in the picturesque village of Essex, when they host their annual holiday festival with a slate of fun activities, delicious food and an excellent craft market featuring local artisans.

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The 19th Annual Christmas in the Forks will surely bring everyone in the family into the holiday spirit. Event organizers have planned a full slate of activities over two days, including a Christmas Parade, fireworks, Jingle Bell fun run, pancake breakfast with Santa, and more.

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The Adirondack Runners will host their annual Reindeer Run on Saturday morning, December 2, 2023, at SUNY Adirondack in Queensbury, NY.

Proceeds from this year's race will benefit Wait House, a worthy cause providing services to runaway and homeless youth in Upstate NY. Register online now.

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Visit Warrensburgh, NY, for their 35th annual Christmas celebration. Watch this charming Adirondack town come alive with holiday cheer and nostalgia.

This year's theme, "There's No Place Like 'Gnome' for the Holidays," will delight both young and old.

From handmade ornaments to horse-drawn sleigh rides, there's no shortage of old-fashioned Adirondack charm, family fun and excitement at this year's celebration.

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The holiday season is a magical time of the year in the Adirondacks, and what better way to enjoy it than by touring Bolton Landing's lovely homes, all adorned in shimmering gold and sparkling silver?

Whether you're a local or visiting the Adirondacks, the Bolton Landing Holiday House Tour is an enchanting must-see event that will inspire and delight you.

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The Paul Smith’s College Striders are hosting the 29th Annual 5K Jingle Bell Snowshoe Race at Paul Smith’s Visitor Interpretive Center. This is a perfect opportunity to challenge yourself on this early-season snowshoe race.

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Attending a performance of Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker" ballet is a magical and unforgettable holiday experience. You will have two opportunities to enjoy this year's performance featuring dancers from all over the North Country. The ballet will take place at the Strand Center for the Arts in Plattsburgh on December 2 and 3.

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The North Country singers will perform their annual Holiday Celebration concert at Tannery Pond Center in charming North Creek, NY. In addition to the North Country Singers, the concert will feature the Guiding Steps Dancers and several soloists. A festive reception at Tannery Pond Center will follow the concert.

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It’s a great time to be in the Adirondacks.

In addition to these special events, ski season has begun in the ADK. Both Gore and Whiteface are open, and recent snowfall and cold temperatures are helping to get the 2023/2024 ski season off to a great start.

Other upcoming events include:

Warren Miller’s “ALL TIME” — December 8 and 9. Don’t miss another Warren Miller ski masterpiece, “ALL TIME,” at Tannery Pond Center in North Creek.

Book tour: “God Save Benedict Arnold: The True Story of America’s Most Hated Man” — December 9. Meet author and historian Jack Kelly in Lake George and hear him discuss his new book.

Oak Mountain Holiday Fair — December 9. Celebrate the season at Oak Mountain’s annual Holiday Fair in Speculator, NY.

Holiday Lighted Tractor Parade — December 9. Granville lights up the holiday season at their annual lighted tractor (and other vehicles) parade.

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