This Iconic Holiday Event in New York Is the One Thing You Must Do This Season

Once the temperatures drop and the holiday spirit fills the air, there's no better place to celebrate the season than Roc Holiday Village in Rochester. This exciting holiday event in New York transforms Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park into a winter wonderland from Dec. 6 to 29, 2024. Think free ice skating under twinkling lights, a unique shopping village brimming with treasures, visits with Santa in his cozy workshop, and so much more.

One of the highlights of Roc Holiday Village is undoubtedly the rink, where you can glide across the ice to your heart’s content. The best part? It’s absolutely free, with skate rentals and helpers included. Whether you’re an experienced skater or a first-timer just getting the hang of it, you’re sure to have a blast on the ice.

And, of course, what would a holiday adventure be without a visit with Santa Claus? At Roc Holiday Village, you can meet the jolly man himself in his magical workshop. Kids can share their Christmas wishes, snap a photo with Santa, and even send letters straight to the North Pole. Want to make it extra special? Snag tickets to "Story Time with Santa" and enjoy a heartwarming session of stories, songs, and refreshments with old Saint Nick himself.

Looking for one-of-a-kind gifts and treasures? The Shopping Village is a must-visit. Browse a wonderful collection of vendors offering everything from handcrafted jewelry and artwork to cozy home decor and delicious treats. It's impossible not to find something special for everyone on your list (and maybe a little something for yourself, too).

But wait, there's even more holiday fun to be had! Cozy up by the fire pits, sip on a festive beverage at the Lodge, or set off on a scavenger hunt around the village. Tap your toes to live music, or catch a classic holiday movie screening. The little ones will love the free crafts and activities in the Simcona Gingerbread House, while adults can test their knowledge at trivia nights or unleash their creativity at a ticketed paint-and-sip event.

If all that merrymaking has you working up an appetite, head over to Frosty's Food Court. You'll find a rotating selection of food trucks offering diverse cuisines, with options ranging from pizza and tacos to donuts and gourmet grilled cheese.

More than just a holiday festival, Roc Holiday Village is a place where everyone feels welcome, with activities and entertainment designed to bring people together in the spirit of the season. The village is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, as well as Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. While admission to the village is free, some activities have associated costs. For a full schedule of events, hours, and vendor information, visit the official website of Roc Holiday Village. So grab your mitts, gather your friends and family, and prepare to make some epic holiday memories at Roc Holiday Village.

Planning a trip to Rochester this December? Check out this cozy vacation rental to make your getaway one for the books; there are still a few dates left for December. And if you're looking for even more festive fun in the area, be sure to explore the George Eastman Museum in New York - it gets all decked out for Christmas each year. Know of another must-visit holiday event in New York? Let me know by completing a nomination form so I can share it with fellow adventurers.