November in Syracuse
As the crisp autumn air makes way for the first hints of winter, Syracuse and Onondaga County continue to buzz with excitement.
November is a time of transition. From cozy fall moments to the start of holiday cheer.
November is here, and Syracuse and Onondaga County have plenty to keep your calendar full! As we say goodbye to fall and start welcoming the holiday season, there's no shortage of ways to get out and explore. From local events and seasonal favorites to the first signs of holiday magic, November brings a little bit of everything. Whether you're looking to make the most of the last few fall weekends or get a head start on holiday festivities, here's what's happening in Central New York this November.
CNY Veterans Parade & Expo | NYS Fairgrounds
November 7
Hosted annually at the NYS Fairgrounds, the purpose of the Veterans Day Parade and Expo is to thank Veterans for their Military service and to recognize the importance of our communities. This parade is very family friendly. The day begins at 9 am and runs until 2 pm. This year, they introduce the inaugural Battle of the Branches 5k. Choose which Branch (Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard or Space Force) team you want to run with. Each of the 6 teams will have its own unique headband. All participants will receive the same custom shirt.
Hell's Kitchen | Landmark Theatre
November 10 -15
Welcome to Hell’s Kitchen! The hit musical from 17-time Grammy Award winning artist, Alicia Keys. This is a story that shares Ali’s desire to find her place in the world by using some of Key’s hit songs and a mix of brand new music to tell the story. Kicking off November 10th, the shows run through November 15th so plenty of chances to see this performance. Interpreters will be available during certain showtimes.
The Great New York State Model Train Fair | NYS Fairgrounds
November 14 - 15
Get excited because the 51st Annual Great NYS Model Train Fair returns to the NYS Fairgrounds in the Exposition Center. This is the oldest and largest model train show and sale in New York State. There will be over 300 vendors, 25 + operating train layouts, and a miniature children’s train ride. So whether you’re already a conductor of your own train or just along for the ride, don’t miss this fun and unique fair.
Lights on the Lake | Onondaga Lake Park
November 21 - January 4
Central New York’s # 1 Holiday Tradition is back on the Lake beginning November 21st and running through the holiday season. Lights on the Lake is a two-mile drive-thru experience filled with towering holiday displays, a giant Land of Oz, a sparkling fantasy forest, vibrant arches, animated scenes, and a magical fairy tale finale! As visitors drive through, they can enjoy festive tunes on Sunny 102.1 to complete the experience. Tickets must be purchased online.
Les Miserables | Syracuse Stage
November 27 - January 2, 2027
Experience the legendary hit musical like you’ve never seen it before. This production of Victor Hugo’s sweeping tale of romance, rebellion, and redemption will bring you closer to the agony, the ecstasy, and the action than ever before. Experience the operatic heights of this grand, Tony Award-winning musical adaptation from Claude-Michel Schönberg and Alain Boublil as Jean Valjean, a former convict, is relentlessly pursued by Javert, an unforgiving police officer, while he struggles to lead an honorable life and care for the orphan Cosette amidst the growing revolution of 19th century France. Featuring scores of classic and beloved songs, including “I Dreamed a Dream,” “Master of the House,” “Bring Him Home,” “Empty Chairs at Empty Tables,” and “One Day More.”
Gingerbread Gallery | Erie Canal Museum
November 20 - January 10, 2027
Each year, the Erie Canal Museum is transformed into a charming 1800s canal town, with gingerbread creations displayed in storefront windows. The Gingerbread Gallery typically attracts over 4,000 visitors! They are currently accepting registrations for this year’s Annual Gingerbread Gallery. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place ribbons are awarded for all categories and will be announced the week of December 14th, with a cash prize awarded to all 3 ribbons. Registration will close November 4, 2026.
Dickens Christmas | Skaneateles, NY
Nov 27 - Opening Day
Each year, the lake town of Skaneateles turns into a winter wonderland with authentic reenactments of Charles Dickens' famous A Christmas Carol. The day after Thanksgiving, you can step back into 1842 and walk around shops and the lake, meeting and interacting with Dickens' characters. After that, Dicken’s Christmas runs on weekends through December 24th.
Clinton Square Tree Lighting Ceremony | Clinton Square
Nov 28 - Dusk
Don’t miss the annual tree lighting ceremony in downtown Syracuse by the Clinton Square ice rink on Friday, November 27th (The day after Thanksgiving). Enjoy one of the season's first skates, live DJs and musical acts, treats, and most importantly, seeing the 40+ foot tree burst into color when the sun goes down. It’s a time-honored tradition for many Syracuse locals. However, we invite out of towners to visit Syracuse to bask in this lovely tradition as well.
Craft Brewers Festival | The Landmark Theatre
November 21
The 13th annual New York State Craft Brewers Festival returns to the historic Landmark Theatre in downtown Syracuse on Saturday, November 21st, 2026. The renowned event brings together 45+ breweries from every region of the state offering enthusiasts, both novice and seasoned, a rare opportunity to relish in unique and award-winning beer. Discover new styles, flavors, and brands, and meet the masters behind the craft you love! Brewery owners & representatives pour at the events, not volunteers.
Syracuse Wine & Chocolate Festival | Horticulture Building NYS Fairgrounds
Nov 28 | 1 pm - 4 pm & 5 pm - 8 pm
Wine lovers from all over will come together to sample a wide variety of exceptional New York State wines. After tasting, guests can purchase their favorites at discounted prices. Distilleries and cideries will also be offering free samples and bottles for sale. Admission includes all tastings and a complimentary souvenir wine glass, while food will be available for purchase.
Indulge in delicious snacks, sweets, and chocolates, and enjoy shopping at mini boutiques offering everything from purses to jewelry and clothing for a fun retail experience.
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