Stay up-to-date on the latest holiday happenings and news from the Saratoga community. Downtown Saratoga is alive with festive events, Santa Claus is returning to Wilton Mall, and holiday gift shopping is underway.
Enjoy Holiday Events & Celebrations All Weekend Long
Saratoga Festival of Trees
Don’t miss the 25th Annual Saratoga Festival of Trees, which is taking place now through Sunday, December 6, at the Saratoga Springs City Center. This popular fundraiser features beautifully decorated trees, wreaths, and other holiday decor that’s available for viewing or purchase. And, new this year, you can buy trees online if you can’t make it to the event.
Victorian Streetscapes
The new Victorian Streetscapes in downtown Saratoga has officially kicked off, and the holiday celebration will continue until the end of the month. Plan a visit to Saratoga to see all the Christmas trees and lights displayed throughout the community, and while you’re there, shop local for the holidays.
Ladies of Charity Poinsettia Sale
On Saturday, December 5, the Ladies of Charity will host a Poinsettia Sale at the Saratoga Senior Center from 10:00am-3:00pm. The cost is $12 per plant or 2 for $20, and there will be a variety of unusual and breathtaking colors to choose from.
2020 Ballston Spa Tree Lighting + Neighborhood Parade
Due to restrictions on large gatherings, the tree lighting in Ballston Spa will be held with limited in-person attendance and virtually on Friday, December 4. After Santa lights the tree around 6:15pm, he will participate in an abbreviated version of the annual holiday parade through local neighborhoods.
Santa Claus Is Coming to Wilton Mall
Are those jingle bells in the air? Starting Friday, December 4, Santa Claus will make his return to Wilton Mall for the holiday season. He and his elves have worked hard to provide visitors with a memorable and contact-free experience this year. Reservations to visit Santa are strongly encouraged, but walk-up visits will be available as social distancing requirements allow during the day.
Donate a Toy and Receive a Free Beer at Unified Beerworks
In the spirit of giving, Unified Beerworks in Malta is hosting a Holiday Toy Drive from now through December 10. If you bring in a new, unopened, and unwrapped gift, you’ll receive one free beer at the brewery. This Holiday Toy Drive will benefit CAPTAIN Community Human Services.
NYRA Bets Gift Cards Now Available at Stewart’s Shops
The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) has announced that NYRA Bets Gift Cards will be available at participating Stewart’s Shops for a limited time this holiday season. NYRA Bets Gift Cards are available in $50 denominations and can be used to fund new/active NYRA Bets accounts, allowing users to bet on thoroughbred horse races online. See a list of participating Stewart’s Shops here: https://www.stewartsshops.com/nyra-bets-cards-available-at-these-shops-for-holiday-shopping-2020/
Saratoga’s Broadway Deli Gives Back to the Community
As a way to say thank you to the community for all their support during this difficult time, Saratoga’s Broadway Deli in Saratoga Springs is offering a free roasted chicken to families who need one for the holidays, no questions asked. All you have to do is call the deli, leave your name and number, and let them know when you need it by. This offer will be available until December 31, 2020.
Here’s What’s Coming Up Next Week
Mark your calendar for the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation’s Virtual Holiday Homes Tour on Friday, December 11. The virtual tour will feature the architecture of two private homes on Union Avenue and include holiday music from local musicians. Tickets must be purchased by 5:00pm on December 11.