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. Whether you're looking to enjoy the last of the vibrant fall foliage, warm up with seasonal flavors, or get a jump start on your holiday festivities, there's no shortage of events to experience in our region this month. So, bundle up and get ready to discover what's happening in Syracuse and Onondaga County this November!

The Great New York State Model Train Fair | NYS Fairgrounds

November 1-2 

Get excited because the 50th 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.

CNY Veterans Parade & Expo | NYS Fairgrounds

November 8

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. 

Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet | Landmark Theatre

 November 9 

For one afternoon, the Landmark is celebrating America’s favorite Christmas tradition with an international all-star cast that blends world-class ballet with whimsical puppets and stunning acrobatics. Tchaikovsky’s timeless score with friends and family of all ages. Don’t miss this chance to create memories of a lifetime. Get tickets to see the Nutcracker at the Landmark Theatre today!

Lights on the Lake | Onondaga Lake Park

November 17 - January 12

Central New York’s # 1 Holiday Tradition is back on the Lake beginning November 17th 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.

A Christmas Story | Syracuse Stage

November 25 - December 28

Plenty of opportunity to see this classic show at the Syracuse Stage, but A Christmas Story kicks off in November. This holiday play, based on the 1683 film, A Christmas Story, features beloved moments including the leg lamp, grandma's bunny pajamas Orphan Annie's decoder ring and a serious triple-dog-dear. New audiences are invited to discover this family-friendly comedy that tells the story of 9-year old Raphie Parker's determination on receiving a Christmas gift.

Gingerbread Gallery | Erie Canal Museum 

November 21 - January 11

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 the 40th Annual Gingerbread Gallery. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place ribbons are awarded for all categories and will be announced the week of December 11th, with a cash prize awarded to all 3 ribbons.

Dickens Christmas | Skaneateles, NY

Nov 28 - 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. 

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 28th (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.

New this year, before and after the tree lighting, the corridor outside State Tower is being transformed into the Merry Mingle Market. From 4-8 pm, enjoy a hot cocoa bar and live entertainment while getting started on your Christmas shopping. Browse through different vendors as you shop for home decor, gourmet treats, craft spirits, handmade jewelry, and more. This event is by Wildflowers Armory.

Syracuse Wine & Chocolate Festival | Horticulture Building NYS Fairgrounds

Nov 29 | 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.