Tupper Lake Holiday Stroll includes a number of activities for residents, visitors, and their families. Local businesses, retailers, organizations, and attractions will offer special events throughout the weekend including a community tree lighting, a living nativity scene, horse-drawn sleigh rides, restaurant specials, dance recitals, a craft fair, concerts, ugly sweater contests, and activities at local businesses and retailers. Santa will be making appearances throughout the weekend; even the Grinch will be taking part in the festivities.

Tupper Lake Holiday Stroll kicks off with a tree lighting ceremony on the Dec. 6 evening, beginning at 5 p.m. at Waterfront Park, marking the first time in a number of years that there has been a community tree. Sleigh rides, a living nativity, and s’mores over the campfire will continue the celebration throughout the evening.

Tupper Arts will also be hosting its Festival of Lights Art Show and reception beginning at 6 p.m. on Friday. The exhibit will feature unique works by artists that present various interpretations of illumination. According to Tupper Arts Executive Director Evie Longhurst, Tupper Lake Holiday Stroll is poised to gain momentum each year through a shared community vision. “We are excited that so many people, organizations, and businesses are embracing the Holiday Stroll and are certainly hoping that our art show becomes an annual tradition that complements this event.”

According to Tupper Lake Holiday Stroll Organizing Committee Member Laura LeBarge, the group is planning for a bigger and better event each year. “Our vision is that, within the next year or two, the event will be embraced by the entire community, with all businesses, organizations, attractions, and residents taking part,” she said. “We envision a true town-wide event that involves every organization and community member, attracting visitors wishing to take part.”

One of the most notable aspects of the event will be the number of holiday lights adorning the community. Park Street businesses will be festooned with thousands of lights, lamposts will be adorned with holiday decorations, and holiday-themed storefronts offer the perfect welcome for shoppers.

The Wild Center will be hosting its Wild Lights event each night, allowing visitors to wander through the forest immediately surrounding the Wild Center, which is illuminated by thousands of LED lights, transforming the campus into an immersive experience. Visitors can also experience another section of forest that includes music curated specifically for the trail.

Holiday stroll participants will also have the opportunity to visit St. Alphonsus Church, along with Beth Joseph Synagogue to learn about the different holidays and associated traditions. The synagogue will open its doors on Friday evening and Saturday morning, inviting everyone to explore the rich history and traditions of Chanukah. The weekend also features a performance and community singing by High Peaks Opera of Handel’s Messiah, punctuated by the iconic “Hallelujah Chorus” at St. Alphonsus Church on Sunday, Dec. 8.

On Saturday, the Holiday Craft Fair and Vendor Fest, taking place at the Holy Ghost Academy building, will offer items made by regional artisans and craftspeople ready to help shoppers finalize their holiday shopping.

Sunday brings the Kids Row Vendor Fair at Spruce and Hemlock, showcasing the young, talented artisans in the region. The vendor fair features jewelry, photography, candles, baked goods, and more, offering the perfect opportunity to find unique, one-of-a-kind gifts. That evening, join Raquette River Brewing for its pajama-clad tree decorating party, featuring hot cocoa for the kids and an appearance by Santa.

A complete list of Tupper Lake Holiday Stroll activities and events can be found at https://www.tupperlake.com/holiday-stroll