It’s the most wonderful time of the year in Syracuse as the holidays take over and spread winter cheer. There’s no shortage of things to do this season as the city celebrates the winter like no other. This weekend, the streets of Downtown Syracuse will come alive with holiday happenings which you won’t want to miss out on. Here’s what holiday fun to expect Downtown this weekend:

1.Santa is Everywhere
Get in the true holiday spirit and have a jolly good time with the Santapalooza Bar Crawl that’ll feature six Downtown bars. Rock your best Santa suit, “Hanukkah Harry” outfit or ugly sweater and have a jolly good time. Complete the crawl and win an official bar crawl shirt with chances to win other Santa swag! There’s not just fun for the adult crowd though, the Galleries will have a “Smart Santa” that’ll know your child’s name and wish-list, with the help of pre-registration questions- making it a Christmas your kids won’t forge!

2.A Giant Menorah and Christmas Tree
Make sure to take in the views of the giant menorah and Christmas tree that call Clinton Square “home” every holiday season (hint: great photo op). The fun doesn’t stop there though. These two holiday staples overlook an ice skating rink where you can partake in a classic winter activity. Definitely a Syracuse holiday bucket list staple. 

3.Gingerbread Masterpieces 
Every year the Erie Canal Museum features a gingerbread exhibit composed of creations by professional and amateur gingerbread “architects.” Guaranteed to not only give you a strong craving for gingerbread but a holiday experience you won’t forget. Want to try your hand at gingerbread artistry? The Erie Canal Museum is also hosting a gingerbread Build & Sip event Thursday, December 14, where you can create your own masterpiece while enjoying their cash bar. 

4.Endless Entertainment
If you’re looking to catch a show or sporting event this weekend, then you have PLENTY of options. Choose from a Syracuse Crunch hockey game, a WWE Live Holiday Tour experience, a Polar Express screening, the Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker and so much more. With a diverse selection of events happening this holiday season, there are plenty of ways for everyone to do their thing.

5.Reindeer
Yup, you read that right. Two of Santa’s reindeer, Comet and Prancer, will be in Hanover Square this weekend. Make sure to take a picture with these two famous North Pole icons while having the opportunity to pet them.

6.Holiday Deals and Steals
Make sure to take advantage of all the deals across Downtown this weekend. Enjoy a free hot chocolate with any purchase at Sweet Praxis, 20% of items at the Changing Room, half-off wine on tap at Eleven Waters, free fireball tastings at select bars and so much more. Make sure to check the times and dates for the deals here. Take a stroll down Armory Square, amongst trees strung with Christmas lights and storefront windows decked out with deals and decorations. It’s never too late to get some holiday shopping done or treat yourself to something special!

With so much to see and do this weekend, you’re guaranteed to make holiday memories that you’ll never forget. Pick up a new tradition and liven up your winter with Syracuse this holiday season. For more information on holiday happenings in the city, click here.