The first week of December in Central New York is packed with festive performances, seasonal music and holiday traditions.
Theater highlights include Cirque Dreams Holidaze, “Wicked” and “The Nutcracker,” each delivering dazzling performances filled with holiday magic. Music fans can enjoy “Christmas at Downton Abbey,” Handel’s “Messiah,” and a variety of local choral and brass concerts celebrating the season.
Community events bring holiday cheer to all ages, from Breakfast with Santa and Ugly Sweater Brunches to Nordic Yule celebrations and family-friendly craft fairs.
Across art, music, theater and community gatherings, the week sets the stage for a joyful start to the holiday season.
Monday, December 1 Cirque Dreams Holidaze
Cirque Dreams Holidaze returns with a reimagined 2025 production that blends Broadway-style spectacle with breathtaking cirque artistry. This high-energy holiday show brings larger-than-life characters, soaring acrobatics, and dazzling costumes to the stage in a festive experience for all ages. With original music and new twists on classic holiday favorites, it’s a magical seasonal celebration the whole family can enjoy.
Where: 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse
When: Monday, December 1 at 7:30 p.m.
How much: Tickets start at $47.10 and are available online.
Tuesday, December 2Sister Bear Bookstore — 50th Anniversary Commemoration
Fifty years after it first opened its doors, Syracuse’s pioneering feminist bookstore Sister Bear is being honored with a special anniversary gathering. The commemorative event invites the community to remember the shop’s legacy as more than a bookstore, it was a hub for connection, activism, and women’s voices. Attendees can share stories and enjoy a specially created Sister Bear drink in tribute to the space’s history. The event will also pay tribute to Sharon Tompkins and Chrys Ingraham who founded the bookstore.
Where: 403 1st St., Liverpool
When: Tuesday, December 2 from 2 to 4 p.m.
How much: Free to attend.
Associated Artists of CNY Exhibit
The Associated Artists of CNY return with “’Tis the Season,” a month-long exhibition showcasing paintings, drawings, photographs, fiber art, fused enamel and sculpture created by local artists. The exhibit will be on display in the Emma Beard Room at the Fayetteville Library and is free and open to the public during regular library hours. Visitors are also invited to a special reception on December 13, featuring light refreshments and one-day-only artwork sales.
Where: 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville
When: Tuesday, December 2 through Tuesday, December 30 during library hours
How much: Free to attend.
Wednesday, December 3‘Wicked’ at the Landmark Theatre
The beloved, Tony award-winning musical returns to the Landmark Theatre from Dec. 3-14, perfect to see after the theatrical release of “Wicked: For Good.” Based on Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel, “Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West,” the show promises the untold story of the witches of Oz.
Where: 362 S Salina St., Syracuse
When: Dec. 3-14; See the full schedule online.
How much: Tickets start at $58.30 and are available online.
Zoe Jensen as Glinda and Jessie Davidson as Elphaba in the National Tour of “Wicked.”Joan MarcusThursday, December 4 Festival of Trees and Light
The Everson Museum of Art celebrates a milestone year with the 40th annual Festival of Trees & Light, a beloved holiday tradition returning this December. For four decades, families have gone to the museum for dazzling tree displays, live performances, and festive hands-on activities that fill the galleries with seasonal magic.
Where: Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St.
When: Thursday, December 4 through Saturday, December 13
How much: Tickets are $15 for adults, $5 for children and $10 for members and are available online.
Liz Herrick puts finishing touches on a tree at the Everson Museum of Art.Friday, December 5 Merry Everything
As the days grow shorter, winter holidays bring light, music, and warmth to the season. Syracuse Gay & Lesbian Chorus’ “Merry Everything” concert highlights that spirit with a program celebrating the many ways people brighten the darkest days of the year. Performances take place Friday, Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 6 at 2 p.m. at May Memorial UU Society, with discounted online tickets available and free admission for children under 16.
Where: 3800 E. Genesee St., Syracuse
When: Friday, December 5 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, December 6 at 2 p.m.
How much: Ticket prices vary and are available online.
Holiday Concert by the MasterWorks Chamber Choir
The MasterWorks Chamber Choir presents a festive holiday program featuring traditional favorites and classic sing-along carols. The choir will offer two short performances at 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., with seating available on a first-come basis and no tickets required. Light snacks and beverages will be provided, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for this seasonal celebration.
Where: 205 Genesee St., Auburn
When: Friday, December 5 from 5 to 7:30 p.m.
How much: Free to attend.
Holiday Nights at Rosamond Gifford Zoo
The Rosamond Gifford Zoo is sparkling with holiday cheer for its festive after-hours event. Stroll among dazzling light displays, visit Santa and friends, and enjoy fire pits, hot chocolate, s’mores, live music, carolers and entertainers. New this year, explore the indoor holiday market at the Animal Health Center, crafts in the Amur leopard corridor, and a Holiday Village in the amphitheater featuring special guests like the snow queen and her friends.
Where: 1 Conservation Pl., Syracuse
When: Fridays and Saturdays, from Dec. 5-20 from 5-8 p.m.
How much: Tickets are $8 for guests and free for children 24 months and under, with reservations, and available online.
Learn about the snow leopards at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo.Katrina Tulloch | ktulloch@syrac‘A Night in the Theater’
“A Night in the Theater” brings laughter and chaos as Margaret and Stanley Locker, along with friends Donna and Walter Pace, attend a performance of “Hamlet.” The evening unfolds with their nonstop chatter about family, friends, and even the play itself, revealing secrets and testing friendships amid audience amusement. The shows include a Friday dinner with a Middle Eastern menu, a Saturday costume competition honoring a longtime costumer, and a Sunday concert by the Magical Musical Squad.
Where: 819 Madison St., Syracuse
When: Friday, December 5 at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, December 6 at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, December 7 at 1:30 p.m.
How much: Ticket prices vary and are available online.
‘The Best Christmas Pageant Ever’
The Oswego Players’ December production of “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” will feature festive carols performed by the cast under the direction of Kathryn Donovan, adding a musical bonus to the holiday fun. In addition, audiences are encouraged to support the USMC Reserve Toys for Tots campaign by bringing new, unwrapped toys to the Marion Brown Theater lobby.
Where: Francis Marion Brown Theater, Barbara Donahue Dr., Oswego
When: Show times are 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, December 5, 6, 12, and 13, and 2 p.m. Sundays, December 7 and 14.
How much: Tickets are $17.82 for adults, $13.66 for seniors and $12.62 for students and are available online.
Directed by Temar Underwood, “Guys and Dolls” comes to Syracuse’s Redhouse Arts Center this December, kicking off the holidays with the classic “oddball romantic comedy.” Fourteen performances are schedule from Dec. 5-21. See the full show schedule on redhouse.org.
Where: 400 S. Salina St, Syracuse.
When: December 5 at 7 p.m. through December 21 at 2 p.m.
Revisit Christmas episodes of the iconic show through a live experience at the CNY Playhouse. The two-act performance will feature classic caroling and Christmas music, but still give audiences the horror twist they know and love from “The Twilight Zone.”
Where: 116 W. Glen Ave., Syracuse
When: Friday to Sunday from Dec. 5 through Dec. 20. See the full schedule online.
How much: Tickets are $22 for general admission, $15 for children 12 and under, $17 for seniors and are available online.
Saturday, December 6Breakfast with Santa at Apex Syracuse
Apex Entertainment is hosting a festive Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, December 6. Guests can enjoy a hearty breakfast of pancakes, eggs, sausage and more, take a photo with Santa, and children will receive a swag bag plus a 30-minute arcade card. Children under 2 may attend free.
Where: 9090 Destiny Usa Dr., Syracuse
When: Saturday, December 6 from 9 to 10:45 a.m.
How much: Tickets are $15 per person and are available online.
Holiday Bazaar
Browse unique gifts and one-of-a-kind creations from local crafters and artists at this free holiday event. Kids can enjoy making their own ornaments at the dedicated craft table. It’s a perfect outing for finding special treasures and festive fun for the whole family.
Where: 9660 Brewerton Rd., Brewerton
When: Saturday, December 6 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
How much: Free to attend.
Santa Paws Fundraiser
Recycle-A-Bull Bully Breed Rescue is hosting its Santa Paws Fundraiser at Drivers Village in Cicero. The free-entry event features unique gifts from new and returning vendors, rescue groups, raffles, and photos with Santa. It’s a festive opportunity to find holiday treasures while supporting a good cause.
Where: 5885 E. Circle Dr., Cicero
When: Saturday, December 6 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
How much: Free to attend.
A Nordic Yule Celebration
Experience the magic of the season at the Fayetteville Senior Center’s Nordic Yule Celebration. The day features a Viking Butik gift shop, a Scandinavian bake sale, and traditional Nordic refreshments, along with carols around the Yule tree. Highlights include a Sankta Lucia parade for children and a visit from Jule Nissen (Father Christmas), creating festive fun for the whole family.
Where: 584 E. Genesee St., Fayetteville
When: Saturday, December 6 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
How much: Tickets are $5 per person or $15 per family at the door.
‘Christmas at Downton Abbey’
Step back in time with “Christmas at Downton Abbey,” a festive concert featuring music from the beloved TV series alongside English, classical and traditional American holiday favorites. Audiences will enjoy a seasonal journey through the early 20th century, set against a Downton holiday retrospective.
Where: 308 W. Bloomfield St., Rome
When: Saturday, December 6 at 7 p.m.
How much: Free to attend.
St. Lucy’s gift giveaway
On December 6, St. Lucy’s will run its annual Christmas gift give-away program in the gym across the street from the church. This event has been happening for more than 20 years and keeps the spirit of Christmas alive for over 300 families on the Near West Side.
Where: 425 Gifford St., Syracuse
When: Saturday, December 6 from 9 a.m. -12 p.m.
How much: Free to attend.
‘The Nutcracker’
Experience the whimsical journey led by Clara, a young girl who receives a nutcracker doll for Christmas, filled with a classic Tchaikovsky score, beautiful choreography and holiday magic for the whole family. The Syracuse City Ballet show will run at The Oncenter Crouse Hinds Theater.
Where: 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse
When: Saturday, December 6 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Sunday, December 7 at 2 p.m.
How much: Tickets start at $41.20 and are available online.
A scene from the sensory friendly Nutcracker by Syracuse City BalletFinal Fight ‘25
Ring in the action at 1UP Wrestling’s year-end event, Final Fight ’25, on December 6. Fans can anticipate an epic showdown between Mike Skyros and David Coles, with high stakes and intense rivalries. The evening also partners with the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, giving attendees a chance to spread holiday cheer while enjoying high-stakes wrestling action.
Where: NYS Fairgrounds, Horticulture Building, Syracuse
When: Saturday, December 6 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
How much: General admission tickets are $23.18 and ringside tickets are $44.52 and are available online.
Handel’s ‘Messiah’
The Syracuse Orchestra returns with a beloved holiday tradition, performing Handel’s “Messiah” alongside the Syracuse University Oratorio Society and talented soloists at Most Holy Rosary Church. The performance blends the grandeur of Handel’s masterpiece with the stunning beauty of the venue, offering a memorable start to the winter season. Audiences can enjoy a festive and uplifting experience amid the holiday bustle.
Where: 111 Roberts Ave., Syracuse
When: Saturday, December 6 at 7:30 p.m.
How much: Ticket prices vary and are available online.
Sunday, December 7A Very UGLY (Boozy) Brunch & Shop Local Gift Exchange
Celebrate the season at Talking Cursive Brewing Company. Guests are invited to wear their most delightfully ugly holiday sweaters for a festive brunch filled with boozy cheer and seasonal treats. The event also features an optional Shop Local Gift Exchange, where participants can swap wrapped gifts from favorite local businesses and discover new community treasures.
Where: 301 Erie Blvd. W Syracuse
When: Sunday, December 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
How much: Reservations are required.
Family Holiday Brass and Bells Concert
The United Church of Fayetteville Handbell Choir joins the award-winning 35-piece Syracuse University Brass Ensemble for a festive concert perfect for the whole family. Under the direction of Jonathan Bergman, the Handbell Choir will perform music featuring handbells, tone chimes, and creative sound effects. Audiences will experience a resonant tones, echoes and vibrant rhythms celebrating the season.
Where: 310 E. Genesee St., Fayetteville
When: Sunday, December 7 at 3 p.m.
How much: Free to attend. Guests are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items for the F-M Food Pantry.
Dorothy Cotton Jubilee Singers
The Dorothy Cotton Jubilee Singers present their Winter Concert, “Feast of Carols,” with special guest Limmie Pulliam at Ithaca College’s Ford Hall. Pulliam brings his electrifying voice and commanding stage presence to a program of sacred and seasonal music. The performance showcases powerful choral traditions that celebrate hope, resilience and community.
Where: Ford Hall, Ithaca College – 953 Danby Rd., Ithaca
When: Sunday, December 7 at 4 p.m.
How much: Free to attend.