SCHENECTADY, N.Y. — Discover Schenectady is pleased to announce the opening of the Schenectady Winter Village, kicking off this Friday, November 22, 2024 at Frog Alley Brewing Co. The new attraction brings the successful outdoor Christmas market theme, held in many cities around the country, to the Capital Region for the first time. Admission is free for all ages.
“The new Winter Village is another exciting attraction for downtown Schenectady and the perfect complement to the holiday season and happenings, including this Saturday evening’s annual Holiday Parade,” said Todd Garofano, Executive Director of Discover Schenectady. “The patio at Frog Alley is all decked out to host this event and we hope to make this an annual tradition on lower State Street.”
The Winter Village outdoor/indoor holiday marketplace is being produced by Danny Pigliavento of Capital Sweat Productions with support from Discover Schenectady and the Schenectady County Metroplex Development Authority.
“The Schenectady Winter Village is all about celebrating the heart of our community,” said Danny Pigliavento, founder of Capital Sweat Productions. “This event was created for the community, by the community and is a space where families, friends, and neighbors can come together to connect, celebrate, and support local businesses during the holiday season. It’s a reminder of the magic we can create when we come together.”
“Frog Alley is thrilled to be hosting the first Schenectady Winter Village, as our goal is always to encourage a sense of community and gathering and be able to showcase what the city of Schenectady has to offer,” said JT Pollard, President and Founder of Frog Alley Brewing. “We immediately fell in love with Danny’s idea as it’s another great opportunity to engage with other local businesses and bring more people downtown to have fun during the holidays.”
The Schenectady Winter Village runs from November 22 to December 22, 2024:
- Fridays: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
- Saturdays: Noon – 6 p.m.
- Sundays: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Located on the expansive Frog Alley Brewing patio, local vendors will be showcased in beautifully decorated and heated greenhouses featuring unique gifts, crafts, and holiday-inspired products.
Featured Vendors Include:
- Avenue Rose – Thoughtfully curated women’s clothing.
- Ballston Spa Supply Co. – Quality goods inspired by nature.
- Bee Wild – Seasonal blooms and bouquets.
- Bend and Zap – Permanent jewelry.
- Breakout Press Co. – Small prints, greeting cards, and more.
- Cole and Kamp – Handmade jewelry and malas.
- Fix Wellness and Beauty – Clean beauty products and supplements.
- Flaco’s Tacos – Tacos and Mexicali fare.
- Novel – A curated collection of books, gifts, and toys.
- Sweet Sprig – Artisan soaps, candles, gifts, and florals.
The Winter Village will also offer delicious gourmet hot chocolate for guests of all ages.
Winter Village Event Highlights:
Friday Nights:
- Holiday Classic Movie Nights – Enjoy family-friendly holiday films in a cozy setting.
Saturday Afternoons:
- Story Time with Mrs. Claus – Starting November 30, kids can gather for enchanting holiday tales and magical moments.
Sunday Afternoons:
- Craft & Cheer Workshops – Rotating craft activities from Noon to 3 p.m., including:
- Holiday cookie decorating
- Paint and cheer sessions
- Jewelry-making workshops
- Ornament crafting
Plenty of FREE parking is available at the Frog Alley parking lot.
Information about the Schenectady Winter Village, along with details on where visitors can eat, drink, play and stay in Schenectady County, is available at Discover Schenectady’s dedicated web page located here.
About Discover Schenectady
Discover Schenectady is a non-profit organization responsible for promoting travel, tourism, conference and convention assets and opportunities throughout Schenectady County. Discover Schenectady inspires visitors to experience and enjoy that Schenectady County has to offer, from its vibrant communities with dining, entertainment and shopping to its gorgeous waterfront and outdoor activities. For more ways to Discover Schenectady County all year long, visit www.discoverschenectady.com