When the gorges freeze over, the decorations go up and the mittens are broken out, that’s how you know it’s the holiday season. It might be getting cold out, but Ithaca isn’t one to put the good times on hold so we’re taking you through some upcoming events in Ithaca during the holiday season! Slip on your jacket and join us at any of these festive happenings.

A Christmas Carol by the Hangar Theater
The Hangar Theater
Shows running from December 10th through December 24th.

Come see local professional actors join together to perform this timeless masterpiece of hope, redemption, and self-discovery. A Christmas Carol is the perfect way to get the whole family in the holiday spirit. Adapted by Ithaca native Aoise Stratford, this production is filled with wonderful music, impressive acting, stunning costumes, and holiday magic! A Christmas Carol runs until Christmas Eve so don’t miss your chance to see this show.

 

Ithaca Ice Festival
December 7th-9th
Ithaca Commons

Celebrate and embrace the chilly weather and all things winter at Ithaca’s annual Ice Festival.You can view breathtaking sculptures comes to life as the nation’s most talented ice carvers face off in the ice carving competition. Don’t forget to pay a visit to the ice bar, where Bacchus Beer, wine, and hot cocoa will be served throughout the weekend.

 

Chowder Cook-off
December 9th
Ithaca Commons

As the last leg of the Ice Festival, the Chowder Cook-off is the perfect way to enjoy the holiday season while also staying warm and full. The cook-off features over 20 types of delicious chowders ranging from classic traditional to exotic and even gourmet. Come and sample all 20 chowder choices to see who gets crowned the winner of the 8th Annual Chowder Cook-off! Tickets are available in advance or in the Commons the day of.

 

Press Bay Holiday Market
December 21st at 4:30-7:30pm
Press Bay Alley

Beat the holiday shopping rush and support local business by visiting Press Bay Alley for the Holiday Market! Over a dozen farmers will be set up to sell fresh produce just in time to make your holiday feast. Don’t forget to also visit Press Bay Alley businesses like Amuse, Press Café, and Life’s So Sweet Chocolates to pick up some gifts for your loved ones.

 

Ithaca Ballet’s Nutcracker at State Street Theater
December 8th-10th
State Street Theater, 107 West State Street

What would a holiday season be without seeing a performance of the Nutcracker Ballet? The Ithaca Ballet will fill the State Street Theater with Tchaikovsky’s beautiful score and Lavinia Reid’s graceful choreography from December 8th – 10th. Join them on opening night and enjoy special guests Finger Lakes Symphony Orchestra as they provide the live accompaniment for this holiday classic.

Ithaca is a great place to be during the holiday season. And if you are looking for a new place in the new year, view our apartment selections here. We wish you and your family a great holiday, filled with joy.

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