As the air around the Finger Lakes turns crisp and clear, there is a spirit of holiday cheer as people get busy with shopping and prepare to celebrate with family and friends. Visitors to the region notice how picture postcard perfect the scenery looks. There may be a sprinkling of fresh snow on the ground and in the trees. Homes and towns are filled with bright lights and seasonal decorations. If you are lucky enough to be staying in one of our Finger Lakes vacation rentals near the lake, you’ll get to see the crystal shimmering expanse of water that has turned to ice.

An Evening to Remember: Alzheimer Awareness Gala – Ithaca, NY

If you know someone with Alzheimer’s disease, come out and enjoy a delightful gala and fundraiser for this cause. This annual event takes place in the Grand Ballroom of the Trip Hotel. Guests are treated to fabulous food and wine from area restaurants and wineries. Beer lovers can stroll through the beer garden featuring specially brewed craft beer.

Live local musicians will provide the evening’s entertainment. A live auction is also part of the festivities. The event begins at 6pm. All proceeds go to the Alzheimer’s Association of Central New York.

Deck the Halls Weekend on the Seneca Wine Trail – Various Locations

Have a great time sampling local wines and food while enjoying your journey along this popular wine trail. Wineries are all decked out with holiday decorations. Receive goodies and collect ornaments along the way. Participants get a free recipe book and handmade wreath. Tickets are selling out fast. If you want to go, grab yours quickly.

20th Annual Cayuga Lake Wine Trail’s Holiday Shopping Spree – Romulus, NY

Tis the season to taste exquisite wines while shopping during this gorgeous wine trail holiday shopping spree. Have a blast while enjoying your complimentary Shopper’s Card, handmade wreath and cookie cutter ornaments. The discount card is good at all wineries along the trail during this weekend. A total of 16 wineries are participating. Along the way indulge in scrumptious holiday themed wine and food pairings.

17th Annual Tru-Ulysses Winterfest – Trumansburg and Ulysses, NY

Have lots of fun in a picturesque setting at this winter festival. See local artists and entertainers perform while you enjoy food and music. Stroll through the stalls and check out vendors offering handmade crafts. These make wonderful gifts. The festival concludes with an amazing display of fireworks at the Trumansburg Fair Grounds.

Prohibition Era Cocktail Party – Aurora, NY

It seems hard to imagine there was a time when alcohol was banned in the U.S. Those were years when people went to a speakeasy to share a drink with friends. Fortunately, the ban was lifted and everyone could once again drink legally. Come out and enjoy a swinging good time at this party that celebrates the 80th year of the end of Prohibition.

There will be classic cocktails, crafted liquors, hors d’oeuvres and live music. The reception begins at 7pm.

Annual Downtown Ithaca Chowder Cook-off – Ithaca, NY

For fans of hot, creamy chowder and hearty stews it doesn’t get any better than this. Cooks from all over descend on downtown Ithaca to face off for the title of Chowder Cup Master. From 10am to 5pm you can sample delicious chowders that include meat, seafood and vegetarian versions. Cast your vote for the best chowder.

While there check out the fantastic ice sculptures created by local artists.

Fingerlakes Luxury Rentals has luxury rentals close to many of the events around the Finger Lakes. Call one of our customer service associates who can help plan your stay in our beautiful region.