Winter Guide 2022–2023: Explore Winter in Upstate New York

EE FR

Explore Winter in Upstate New York

2022–2023 INSIDE

CLIMBING THE HIGH PEAKS IN WINTER SNOWPHILES: LOCALS WHO LOVE THE WHITE STUFF BEST BETS FOR THE WINTER

www.CNYWINTER.com

Winter Events Calendar

WINTER IN OSWEGO COUNTY Winona Forest Try-It 10K Classical and Skate/ Freestyle Ski Races 1/23 Salmon River Winter Festival 1/28 - 1/30 Great Eastern Whiteout Snowmobile Show 2/11 Tug Hill Challenge Sled Dog Races 2/18 - 2/19 Winona Forest Festival of Flakes 3/4 - 3/5

WINTER TRAIL REPORT CALL US AT:

1.800.248.4386

visitoswegocounty.com

ORDER YOUR FREE GUIDE! CALL US AT:

315.349.8322 ® I LOVE NEW YORK is a registered trademark and service mark of the New York State Department of Economic Development; used with permission.

Contents

Upstate Winter Guide 2022-2023 | www.cnywinter.com

BETS 08 BEST FOR WINTER PLANETARIUM OFFERS 10 SHINEMAN PROGRAMS DURING WINTER SNOWPHILES: LOCALS WHO LOVE 12 THE WHITE STUFF THE HIGH PEAKS 16 CLIMBING IN WINTER IT'S TIME TO 21 WINTER: EAT ICE CREAM FIVE LUXURY WINTER 29 WISHLIST: RESORTS TO CHECK OUT WINTER GUIDE'S 32 UPSTATE CALENDAR OF EVENTS Editor & Publisher: Wagner Dotto Calendar Editor: Deborah J.Sergeant Contributing Writers: Deborah J. Sergeant, Margaret McCormick, Mary Beth Roach, Ken Sturtz Advertising: Peggy Kain, Kimberly Micca, Roxanne Seeber, Secretary: Ahme Cruz Layout & Design: Angel Campos-Toro

54 SNOWTIME: 'BRING IT ON' TO MAKE THE PERFECT 56 HOW SLEDDING HILL FOR 58 PASSION SNOW SCULPTURE PARKS ABOUND 60 SCENIC IN UPSTATE NEW YORK OF GETTING A HOT TUB THIS WINTER? THINGS TO KNOW 62 THINKING 10 SURPRISING THINGS ABOUT 66 GOUNDHOG DAY

The Winter Guide is published annually

by Local News, Inc. P.O. Box 276, Oswego, NY 13126 Phone: 315-342-8020 Email: editor@cnywinter.com © 2022 Local News, Inc.

FR EE er in Upstate

Explore Wint

the call of the wild Tug Hill Challenge sled dog race at Winona State Forest in northern Oswego County in 2018.

The event was organized by the Pennsylvania Sled Dog Club.

New York

2022–2023 INSIDE

THE HIGH CLIMBING WIN TER PEAKS IN : SNOWPHILES LOVE LOCALS WHOSTUFF TE THE WHI FOR BEST BETS THE WINTER

All rights reserved.

www.cnywinter.com

Photo by Brad Smith. Courtesy of Oswego County Tourism Office. dar nts Calen Winter Eve R.com

www.CNYWINTE

11/14/22

dd 1

COVER-2.in

4 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

3:31 PM

o you t e r fav m o H orite winter fun!

ICE FISHING | X-C SKIING SNOWMOBILING | DINING LODGING | EVENTS FREE ICE SKATING RINK

mylonglake.com

518.624.3077 2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 5

Advertiser Index Thanks to our advertisers for making this publication possible.

3 Sisters Gift Shop..........................................7 Associated Dental Arts..................................51 Berkshire Farm Center & Services for Youth..................................33 Boy Scouts of America...................................63 Brantling Ski Center......................................38 Builder’s First Choice....................................39 Burgers and Brew.........................................44 Burkes Home Center......................................63 Canale Insurance and Accounting................36 Century 21- Galloway....................................35 Christ Our Light Catholic Church..................35 Christy’s Motel...............................................50 Clifton Springs Chamber...............................47 CNY Living History Museum..........................33 Colonial Laundromat.....................................11 Colosse Cheese.............................................36 Cortland County Historical Society..................6 Cosentino’s Ristorante..................................45 Dailey’s Pour House.......................................37 Early Owego Antique Center............................6 Elemental Management Group......................28 Finger Lakes Garage Door.............................34

Flamingo Bowl................................................7 Fulton Taxi.....................................................41 Green Planet...................................................7 Grist Mill Restaurant.....................................38 Harbor Hotel..................................................53 Hazlitt Winery................................................49 I Ski NY.........................................................67 Inspire Moore................................................46 Johnston’s Gas..............................................38 Ken’s Body Shop............................................38 Krell Distributing.............................................6 Lakeshore Hardwoods...................................34 Local Utopia/Leonardo’s Wine Bar...................6 Long’s Cards and Books................................44 Longley Dodge...............................................39 Make Sense Shop..........................................34 Mill House Market.........................................41 Mimi’s Diner..................................................34 Muranda Cheese Company............................44 Nolan’s On Canandaigua Lake......................45 North Country Storage Barn..........................15 Oswego County Federal Credit Union.............37 Oswego County Mutual Insurance ................67

Oswego Printing............................................39 Red Fox Run..................................................33 Regenerations...............................................33 Scriba Electric...............................................41 St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce..............................51 Strigo Vineyards............................................27 SUNY Upstate................................................68 The Roof Top Lounge.......................................2 TJMaxx...........................................................13 Town of Inlet..................................................50 Town of Long Lake...........................................5 Tug Hill Real Estate.......................................51 Tug Hill Vineyards..........................................49 Tully Hill Treatment & Recovery.....................41 Unique Toy Shop............................................45 Vashaw’s Collision........................................37 Vineyard Inn..................................................47 VisitOswegoCounty.com..................................3 Weis Winery...................................................46 White’s Lumber & Building Supply................36 Zugibe Vinyards............................................49

Cortland County Historical Society

Wednesdays–Saturdays 12:00–5:00p.m.

25 Homer Ave., Cortland NY 13045 607-756-6071 • info@cortlandhistory.org

HEATING EQUIPMENT • Radiant Floor Heat • Boilers • Air Conditioners • Duct Work

• Baseboard Heaters • Furnaces • Registers

• Pipe & Fittings • Air Cleaners • Chimney Pipes

90+ Vendors • 21,000 Sq. Ft. Open Daily 10-5 • Closed Tuesdays earlyowego.com • Owego, NY Exit 64 off I-86 607-223-4723 LOCAL

Utopia Shop our Apparel • Local products • Fashion Accessories • Skin care and more

Join our “waste free movement” 607-240-9829 • 32 Lake St., Owego, NY

315-471-7553

www.krelldistributing.com

211 Herald Harold Place Syracuse 13202

6 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

Leonardo’s Wine Bar Mediterranean Style Wine and Tapas bar Spend $25 or more at Local Utopia and get 10% off at our bar 607-321-4443 • 34 Lake St., Owego, NY

R070490

• Suggett House Museum • Kellogg Memorial Research Center • Gift Shop • Then & Now Children’s Room

GREEN PLANET GROCERY

Oswego County’s Finest Health Food Store

Truly Your Mind, Body & Spirit Gift Shop

Specializing in Organic & All-Natural Products • Thousands of Grocery items • Vegetarian/Vegan Food Selections • Gluten-Free/Dairy-Free Foods • Shampoos, Soaps, Lotions, & Skin Care Products

• Highest Quality Supplements, Multi-Vitamins & Sports Nutrition Items • BIGGEST Selection of pay-byweight bulk foods, herbs & spices

HILLSIDE COMMONS, OSWEGO, NY 250 West Seneca Street · 315-207-0016 Mon.–Sat., 9am–7pm · Sun., 11am–7pm GreenPlanetGroceryOswego

3 Sisters Gifts 116 W 2nd St Oswego, NY 13126

(315)216-4481

www.3sistersgifts.com 3_sisters_gifts

3 Sisters Gifts

2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 7

Best Bets for Winter

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

W

ith the change of seasons comes a change in activities to enjoy with friends and family. Try these “best bets” for a winter of fun.

Attend a traditional holiday event.

View a holiday light show.

Whether it is Liverpool’s Lights on the Lake, Fairgrounds Festival of Lights in Hamburg or a well-lit neighbor rivaling the decorated home of Clark W. Griswold from National Lampoon’s “Christmas Vacation,” lights make the season festive and bright.

Regardless of what you celebrate, a traditional holiday event feels warm and nostalgic. Most houses of worship host faith-based celebrations and municipalities — like Skaneateles — host communitywide events like Dickens Christmas. Check what your local college, theater or other performing arts venue has planned. Many museums and historic points of interest such as the Everson Museum of Art in Syracuse, Genesee Country Village and Museum in Mumford and George Eastman House in Rochester, host special events and erect holiday displays. Or perhaps you can explore a tradition outside of your own to better appreciate another culture. Check the Winter Guide calendar for events to enjoy.

Try a new winter sport.

In this issue, learn about the Native American game of snow snake and snowkiting, which combines snowboarding with parasailing. Or try another little-known activity, such as curling. Trying a new recreational activity can help you shake off winter doldrums and get your blood flowing. Or revisit an activity you enjoyed as a child or teen. Many venues and outfitters rent equipment if you do not want to invest in gear.

Explore maple sugaring.

Attend a winter festival or expo.

Centering on winter activities, warm foods and community, winter festivals provide a good reason to socialize instead of holing up at home. Syracuse Winterfest, Snodeo in Old Forge, New York Farm Show in Syracuse, Saranac Lake Winter Carnival, and Winter Fair in Syracuse are a few examples. The events calendar provides numerous more.

Take a winter vacation.

New York offers plenty of terrific resorts and lodgings to enjoy the season, whether you want to indulge in a romantic, pampering getaway, an adventuresome ski trip or anything in between.

Did you know New York ranks second in the nation for maple syrup production behind Vermont? Maple sugaring is a big part of New York’s rural heritage. Visit sugarhouses to see how farmers make the sticky stuff, sample products and snap up sweet gifts for family and friends—and maybe something special for yourself. Typically, farms host Maple Weekends the last two weekends of March and include attractions such as pancake breakfasts, children’s activities and educational exhibits and demonstrations. Some sugar houses offer a gift shop open year-round. Visit https://nysmaple.com to find participating sugarhouses.

MAIN: Planet Jupiter (with stripes); its moon Io (the small orb) and another moon, Europa foreground RIGHT: Natalia Lewandowska, Shineman Planetarium director and assistant professor of physics at SUNY Oswego, and Scott Roby, former director of the planetarium who recently retired and is still on the faculty part-time.

SHINEMAN PLANETARIUM OFFERS PROGRAMS DURING WINTER MONTHS

By Mary Beth Roach

T

hose who are fascinated by the skies won’t want to miss the shows being offered at the Shineman Planetarium, located at the Shineman Center on the SUNY Oswego campus.

Every Friday and Sunday at 6 p.m. (with the exception of Christmas weekend, Dec. 23-25, and New Year’s weekend, Dec. 30 – Jan. 1), the planetarium staff offers free shows, each one ranging from 45 to 60 minutes with a question-and-answer session afterward. The Friday shows have a different theme each week, and the subject matter for the Sunday programs changes each month, according to Natalia Lewandowska, planetarium director and assistant professor of physics at SUNY Oswego.

It’s that Q&A session that Lewandowska finds especially enjoyable.

“The community has great questions about what’s happening in the

sky,” she said, but sometimes they might be little intimidated to ask.

However, she has found that after the shows, that trepidation breaks “After the shows, you see so many smiles,” she said.

While the specific themes for the winter program had not been developed by the time of publication, Lewandowska anticipated that the shows will focus on winter skies.

The planetarium programs are very popular, she believes, because they help people understand what’s going on in the universe and answer many questions, including whether there are other life forms out there and how humans evolved on this planet.

“I think a planetarium attracts so many people because it helps them with the power of visualization to understand seemingly complex processes that are happening in space,” she said. Astronomy is actu-

10 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

ally physics, and physics is “highly stigmatized as being hard to understand,” she explained further, and a planetarium helps people to better comprehend.

The planetarium is located on the second floor of the Shineman Center and opened with the rest of the facility in 2013. The shows are projected onto its dome, which measures 24 feet in diameter and about 12 feet high. The facility has 39 very comfortable chairs that recline to a certain angle, allowing guests to truly appreciate the full effect of the shows. Additional floor space is available. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis, and because the programs are popular, guests should plan on getting there a little early.

The Shineman Center is located next to the Marano Campus Center, and parking is available at the C8 lot off of Washington Boulevard.

35

2685 Erie Dr. • Weedsport

834-9386 2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 11

Jim Teske, the chief meteorologist at WSYR-TV, grew up in Central New York. “I was always fascinated by snow — especially lake effect — more than any other weather phenomena,” he says MAIN: Winter photos taken by Jim Teske, chief meteorologist at WSYR-TV Channel 9.

SNOWPHILES: LOCALS WHO LOVE THE WHITE STUFF

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

I

nstead of dreading and avoiding the snow, these locals embrace and enjoy it.

“Snow is great to have around Christmastime to add to the energy and excitement of the holiday spirit,” said Oswego mayor William Barlow, Jr. “Nothing beats driving around looking at decorations, going to tree lighting ceremonies, holiday shopping, and Christmas eve than a nice, pretty snowfall.”

Beyond the holiday connection, Barlow likes engaging in physical recreation in snow, including snowshoeing on wooded trails throughout Oswego County.

“Here in the City of Oswego, we hold community snowman building contests, have great sledding at Fallbrook and the Country Club golf

course, and of course, some of the best snowmobiling opportunities in the country,” Barlow added.

As a kid, he always enjoyed sledding at Fallbrook Recreation Center.

“Fallbrook has a massive hill where you can really build up some speed and sled quite a ways for coasting to a stop,” he said.

“The walk up wasn’t always as fun, though.”

Jim Teske, chief meteorologist at WSYR-TV in East Syracuse, grew up in Central New York.

“I was always fascinated by snow — especially lake effect — more than any other weather phenomena,” he said. “I was just so amazed about how it could be sunny one minute then the next we couldn’t see our neighbors house

12 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

across the street because of blinding snow.”

He recalls a snowstorm on December 24, in 1978. Instead of the 1 to 3 inches of snow forecast, a foot and a half dumped overnight.

“It was a white Christmas in a big way,” Teske said.

He enjoys the snow by cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Since an empty lot backs up to his house, he can go out his back door to do some laps. He also lives near Green Lakes State Park.

“In the heart of winter on a clear, crisp winter day, we love to put on the skis and just glide across the golf course,” Teske said. “It is great exercise and clears the mind and allows you to just slow down.”

Fulton author Jim Farfaglia



Find the brands you love at the prices that work for you

Need directions?

Vist tjmaxx.com and we can help 2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 13

Author Jim Farfaglia reads from his recently launched book, “Historic Snowstorms of Central New York.” "I loved all the things you could do with snow. You can’t do anything with rain,” he says.



recently launched his latest book, “Historic Snowstorms of Central New York.” In addition to writing about snow, Farfaglia is a big fan, beginning with the Blizzard of ’66 when he was 10 years old.

“We were snowed in for a week,” he said. “I remember loving it because my dad was home from work and we were playing in it. I loved all the things you could do with snow.

You can’t do anything with rain.”

An avid outdoorsman, Farfaglia walks year-round, using shoe treads on his footwear to avoid falls during the winter. He also loves getting into the woods during winter for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

“There’s always snow forts and snowball fights with my grandkids,” he added.

As for those who do not like snow, he encourages them to try an outdoors hobby such as ice skating to “get out and enjoy it. There are

Lindsay Raychel, media and content strategist for Visit Syracuse, pauses during one of her winter outings. “There really is something so special about Central New York in the winter,” she says.

ways to enjoy it, so find a hobby for it.”

Lindsay Raychel, media and content strategist for Visit Syracuse, worked as a meteorologist and reporter for television stations in Binghamton and Syracuse between 2014 and 2022.

“Growing up, I was always interested in weather,” she said. “It’s something that impacts everyone, every day. I knew whatever career I chose, I wanted to help people; at the time, becoming a broadcast meteorologist seemed like the logical fit for me.”

She thinks that winter can get a bad rap, which has fostered in her a “soft spot” for the maligned season.

“There really is something so special about Central New York in the winter,” she said. “You just might need to look through a different lens to see it.”

Raychel enjoys the sparkle and

14 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

the peaceful hush of a snow-covered landscape.

“During the pandemic, one of the safest things to do was to get outside and get some fresh air,” she recalled. “The weather was something positive to highlight during a difficult time. Every time it snowed, I got outside — or was put there by my producers — and I found snow piles. I climbed them, jumped in them, and slid down them. I felt like a 10-year-old again. I shared that with people on TV and on social media, to hopefully make them smile or laugh.”

She enjoys skating in downtown Syracuse, cross-country skiing at Highland Forest, snowshoeing at Beaver Lake Nature Center and watching hockey at Skaneateles Lake.

“Syracuse and Central New York is exceptional,” Raychel said. “Let’s celebrate and highlight what makes us special.”

Quality You Can Rely On HANDCRAFTED | FAMILY-OWNED

In 1993, North Country Storage Barns started as a family-owned and operated shed business. Today, we have three locations in New York State and service dealers across the Saint Lawrence River in Canada.

If you visit, you’ll be able to take a stroll outdoors to look through our many sheds, vehicle storage units, gazebos, playsets, outdoor furniture, birdhouses & feeders, lawn ornaments, and more! Our Philadelphia location is also home to a cabin display model you will enjoy touring through at your own pace.

Inside all three of our locations, you can browse through and order from any of our many catalogs if you don’t see just the perfect item in the showroom. And feel free to sit down with a friendly salesperson who’s ready to guide you through designing your next custom-made structure!

OUR THREE LOCATIONS

32660 US Rte. 11 Philedelphia, NY 315-642-0209

317 Oriskany Blvd Yorkville, NY 315-793-0726

5780 US Rte. 11 Pulaski, NY 315-387-2092

ncsbarns.com ∙ facebook.com/ifyouneedmeillbeinmyshed North Country Storage Barns is Premier source for North Country Lifestyle & Living.

Climbing the High Peaks in Winter Most people hike the Adirondacks in summer, but going during winter can be fun too

By Ken Sturtz

Photo Courtesy of Jon McDonald 16 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 17

Photo courtesy of Jon McDonald

A

bove the tree line on Mount Haystack — elevation 4,960 feet — snow swirled around Jon McDonald and his friend and 50 mph winds battered them with each step. They discussed turning back, but decided to press on, trudging the final few tenths of a mile to the summit.

Each year hikers flood the Adirondacks, eager to enjoy its seemingly endless trails and mountains.

Many set a goal of becoming “46ers” by climbing the 46 High Peaks originally thought to have an elevation of at least 4,000 feet. Far fewer become winter 46ers.

Climbing the High Peaks in win-

ter can be “an incredibly worthwhile endeavor,” said McDonald, who has worked as an outdoor instructor and hiked the 46ers in summer and winter. It’s important, however, to have significant hiking experience before attempting them.

“If you’re looking to do that it should not be your first hiking challenge,” he said. “You should not be starting with that because it’s such a beast.”

McDonald had plenty of experience before he got into winter hiking. He also made it a point to climb each of the 46ers at least once in warmer weather so he was familiar with the terrain.

Beginners should spend signifi-

18 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

cant time hiking before attempting winter hiking. Talking with other hikers, researching the trails and joining one of the online forums devoted to Adirondack hiking can give novices a better understanding of what they’re getting into.

Even experienced hikers with no winter experience should start slow with small outings, McDonald said. Something as simple as a long walk on a bad weather day will help you figure out your layering system and get used to being in the cold for extended periods of time.

While it’s easy to imagine winter hiking as little more than teeth-chattering drudgery, that’s hardly the case.

Jon McDonald hiking the Adirondack Mountains' High Peaks. Photo provided

On many days the weather is quite pleasant. And with fewer people on the trails, hikers can feel like they have the forest to themselves, allowing them to soak up the breathtaking winter landscapes and bask in the tranquility.

Winter hiking also bestows more practical benefits, said Mary Glynn, an education program manager with the Adirondack Mountain Club, who has hiked the 46ers and is attempting to hike the 140-mile Northville-Placid Trail in winter.

“The Adirondacks are known for their bugs and their mud and for the most part the bugs are dead in the winter and the mud is covered in a deep blanket of snow,” she said.

Winter hiking does present additional challenges and significantly lowers your margin for error, Glynn said. For example, in summer a hiker who is unexpectedly outside overnight can survive the elements. In a winter setting an unexpected night outside can be far more serious.

“So, if you have an emergency in the backcountry, it’s not going to be your broken leg that kills you,” Glynn said. “It’s going to be the hypothermia that sets in before rescuers can arrive.”

That’s why preparedness is key.

Hikers should bring plenty of extra clothing and equipment.

Even if she’s doing a less challenging day hike, Glynn brings extra

clothing, a sleeping bag, sleeping pad, hand warmers and a thermos with a hot drink. Taking that gear can be extremely important if you need to keep yourself warm while waiting for help.

Other equipment is specific to winter hiking. Micro spikes are generally recommended for winter as well as late fall and early spring.

That’s because snow and ice can occur at higher elevations even in mild weather.

It’s also important to realize that weather conditions in the mountains can turn on a dime and that hypothermia can sneak up on someone before they realize anything is wrong.

2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 19

Photo courtesy of Jon McDonald

McDonald said he’s been on hikes when it felt pleasant while hiking, but the cold crept in when his group slowed down and stopped.

“Or you’re so cold so you keep moving and go beyond your energy level and make a mistake because you’re tired,” he said.

Hypothermia can occur in seemingly beautiful, sunny weather.

Glynn was hiking on a 50-degree day in October when she encountered two hikers. They were wearing cotton, had sweated through their clothes and one had stopped to rest.

He was shivering and in the early stages of hypothermia.

Hypothermia is one of the reasons Glynn doesn’t hike alone in winter. It’s much easier to spot the

warning signs in someone else than in yourself. And if someone does get into trouble, there’s a small group on hand to help.

It’s wise to be mindful that the days are shorter in winter and there’s less daylight. Winter hikes tend to take much longer than in summer, Glynn said. Breaking trails takes time and to avoid sweating or getting chilled it’s necessary to stop and add or remove layers of clothing.

Glynn recommends starting early, choosing shorter hikes and setting a turnaround time based on your pace. It’s a good idea to discuss it with your group so you can adjust accordingly and reach your destination on time.

20 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

“It’s easy to just keep climbing and climbing and then all of a sudden you’re seven miles from the car, the sun is setting and you didn’t think about it,” she said.

While safety should be front of mind, it’s also important to give yourself permission to enjoy winter hiking.

McDonald said the 46ers represent a fraction of the hiking trails and mountains available in the Adirondacks and people can become so focused on trying to cross each mountain off their list that they forget to have fun.

“There are so many beautiful hikes that people just completely miss out on if all they’re worried about is hiking the 46,” he said.

Winter: It’s Time to Eat Ice Cream A dish of creamy, delicious ice cream can be comforting and hit the spot, too

By Margaret McCormick

2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 21

and remember there are year-round frozen dessert options.

I

scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream — even during wintertime.

Sure, this is the season when sales of soups, stews, chili and mac and cheese heat up. But a dish of creamy, delicious ice cream can be comforting and hit the spot, too.

There are many reasons to eat ice cream in winter. The line for service at your preferred parlor will be much shorter and your cone or quart to-go won’t melt before you get to

your car. Still not convinced? Oncea-year flavors like Pumpkin Pie, Caramel Apple Cheesecake, Peppermint Candy and Eggnog might lure you out of your cozy seat by the fire.

And an embellishment of ice cream makes some seasonal desserts even better: What’s a slab of apple pie, apple crisp or bread pudding without a mound of vanilla ice cream melting through it? Have you ever sipped a hot chocolate or espresso with a scoop of vanilla ice cream in it? Put

22 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

that on your winter to-do list.

Ice cream gets a lot of warm weather love, and it’s sad when our favorite parlors and stands post their final flavors for the season and close for a couple months. They’ll be back in mid-March, when thoughts turn to shamrocks and St. Patrick’s Daythemed flavors (like the soft-serve Irish Mint and hard-pack Bailey’s Chip and Guinness Stout that Gannon’s in Syracuse is known for). In the meantime, put on your parka

Ice Cream and Cayuga Lake Views Jeff Kostick, owner of Cayuga Lake Creamery, on Route 89 in Interlaken (and in downtown Ithaca), takes pride in being open for ice creamcravers in all seasons.

The creamery specializes in small-batch, homemade ice cream in flavors that utilize local ingredients, like raspberries, peaches and other seasonal fruits. The parlor’s best-seller is Seneca Salt Caramel: Caramel ice cream with a caramel swirl and a touch of flake salt harvested from Seneca Lake.

The ice cream for both shops is produced at the creamery on Route 89, as are waffle cones and waffle dishes (plain or dipped in chocolate). Business typically slows starting in November, Kostick says, but at the same time, interest in seasonal flavors like Spiced Apple, White Russian, and Cinnful (cinnamon) picks up. People who love ice cream still want their fix, but when it’s dark early and temperatures drop, they don’t necessarily want to bundle up and leave the house for it.

“What we find is that we sell more takeout pints and quarts later in the day because people who like their ice cream after dinner will stop on the way home and take it to go,’’ Kostick says.

The thing that brings in business during the off-season is sunshine — which can be elusive during winter in Central New York.

“It’s interesting to me that people are much more driven by sun than temperature,’’ Kostick explains. “We could have a 40- or 45-degree day, but if it’s cloudy, no one will show up, or very few people. We could have a 10-degree day and if it’s sunny, many more people show up.’’

IF YOU GO Cayuga Lake Creamery is at 8421 state Route 89, Interlaken, and 215 N. Cayuga St., Ithaca (in the DeWitt Mall). The Route 89 location is usually open Friday to Sunday during the winter months and other times “by chance.’’ The Ithaca shop is open Wednesday to Sunday. Check the website and social media for details. Information: https://cayugalakecreamery.com

Ice Cream on the Tug Hill Plateau Boonville, in the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains, is a remote and snowy place. It’s the birthplace of Adirondack Cup Snowmobile Racing and calls itself the “Snowmobile Capital of the U.S.’’ Most years, Boonville hosts the Boonville Snow Festival (canceled last year due to COVID-19 concerns and lack of significant snowfall).

Boonville is also the home of Mercer’s Dairy and Mercer’s Wine Ice Cream. The wine-infused ice cream, in flavors like Riesling, Chocolate Cabernet and Lemon Sparkling, is shipped all over the country, as is Mercer’s regular ice cream.

The dairy produces many traditional ice cream flavors, like Mint Chip, Maple Walnut and Chocolate Almond, available by the pint and quart, and makes ice cream for other companies.

You might think there’s no audience for ice cream in the snow belt, but think again. Winter warriors love ice cream, and the shop at Mercer’s is open year-round, serving up scoops, sundaes, milkshakes, ice cream cakes and other treats.

“I’m actually drawing a flamingo on an ice cream cake right now,’’ manager Amanda Phelps said recently. “People have some interesting requests.’’ Favorite seasonal flavors at Mercer’s include Pumpkin, Peppermint Frost, and Apple Crisp.

Phelps says the ice cream shop closes earlier in the off-season (7 p.m.), and around 6 p.m. when the snow really starts to fly. It’s not unusual for kids to stop in for a scoop or a soft-serve cone or dish after school.

IF YOU GO Mercer’s Ice Cream and Dairy is at 13584 state Route 12, Boonville. Information: www.mercersdairy.com

No Winter Break at Carvel

yee Carvel DeWitt emplo n. er sk ee Kn da Aman

If you attended any of the food truck roundups and other festivals in Central New York this summer, you might have enjoyed a frozen treat from the Carvel DeWitt trailer. Festival season has come and gone, but you can satisfy your Carvel cravings all winter in DeWitt (and at the Carvel shop in North Syracuse).

Fun fact: All Carvel locations are independently owned and operated. The DeWitt shop has been making ice cream for more than 75 years and has the distinction of being the oldest Carvel franchise in the country.

Carvel DeWitt owner Jay Cartini says that 30 or 40 years ago, the season for ice cream was Memorial Day to Labor Day. No longer. There might not be customers three-deep at the counter, but there’s enough demand for soft-serve, hard-pack ice cream, frozen novelties, and ice cream cakes (think the iconic Fudgie the Whale, as well as custom cakes) to extend the season and stay open year-round.

There’s also a sales-driven promotion for every day of the week, including buy one, get one half off Flying Saucers on Tuesdays and buy one, get one free soft-serve sundaes on Wednesdays.

“We are fortunate because of ice cream cakes,’’ Cartini says. “Really, the custom cakes carry us through the winter. You’ve got things like Johnny’s birthday or Grandpa’s birthday, and there’s a major holiday every month: Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Super Bowl, Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day. Around here, the weather starts changing in March and April. We dream of May.’’ In the meantime, Cartini says, there’s paperwork and payroll to manage, supplies to be ordered and ice cream to be made. All ice cream is made on site, and in addition to classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate, butter pecan and chocolate chip, there are seasonal flavors like hot chocolate and peppermint to work in.

Cartini encourages his staff to be creative and come up with new flavors. “It gives them a vested interest,’’ he says. “They get to say, ‘I made that up.’”

IF YOU GO Carvel DeWitt is at 4322 E. Genesee St., DeWitt. The shop is open daily (closed on Christmas). Information: www.facebook.com/CarvelDeWitt Carvel North Syracuse is at 3780 Brewerton Road, North Syracuse. The shop is open daily (closed on Christmas).

Information: www.facebook.com/northsyracusecarvel Margaret McCormick is a food writer and food blogger in Syracuse.

Craving for Ice Cream?

W

ho says ice cream (and frozen yogurt) wear out their welcome when summer’s over? Here are 10 places that cater to ice cream cravings year-round. Note: This list is not intended to be comprehensive. It’s a good idea to check the weather forecast and confirm business hours before heading out.

• Bailiwick Market and Cafe Café, Elbridge: The café on Route 5 in Elbridge serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, but save room for Field of Creams ice cream for dessert. Ice cream in a variety of regular and seasonal flavors is made on site.

Open daily.

• www.bailiwickmarket.com

Try these locations, which are open year-round

• ChuckleBerries, Liverpool: Get exactly as much fro-yo as you want (and fruit, nuts, sprinkles and other toppings) at this weigh-andpay frozen yogurt and ice cream shop. “Great staff, great dessert and a load of toppings,’’ notes one TripAdvisor review. “We have even gone there during a snowstorm.’’

Open daily. 7567 Oswego Road (Route 57), across from Bayberry Plaza.

• www.facebook.com/people/Chuckleberries/100057154762349/ • Cold Stone Creamery, Destiny USA, Syracuse: The chain

is known for fresh ice cream made in each store, which can be customized as you like. Pick a flavor, add on your favorite ingredients (fruit, nuts, chips, candy, cookies, etc.), and watch it come together on a frozen granite slab. Open daily.

• www.coldstonecreamery.com/index. php

• Byrne Dairy and Deli: A few Byrne Dairy stores keep their ice cream windows open in the off season. To be sure, call ahead and ask. Meanwhile, you can always pick up Byrne’s “Mighty Fine’’ ice cream by the pint and half-gallon — as well as Cookiewiches.

• Cornell Dairy Bar, Itha• https://byrnedairystores.com ca: The Dairy Bar, in Stocking Hall at Cornell University, offers soups, • Charlee’s Ice Cream, sandwiches, grab-and-go fare and Camillus: Charlee’s is an ice cream ice cream made on campus – you parlor (with a drive-thru) featuring can even watch it being produced. dozens of flavors of soft-serve and Hours vary seasonally, especially on Perry’s hard ice cream, plus related weekends and when school isn’t in treats. Ice cream drive-thru: What a session. concept in the winter months. You • https://scl.cornell.edu/cornell-dairy-bar don’t even have to get out of the car.

The shop hosts private parties but • FiFi’s Ice Cream and is closed for retail during the holiSweets, Syracuse: This busy shop day season. Look for it to reopen in at the corner of James Street and mid-January with limited days and Midler Avenue in Eastwood serves a hours. 112 Kasson Road, Camillus. long list of Perry’s ice cream flavors • https://charleesicecream.com and ice cream treats. The shop typi26 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

cally stays open through the holiday season, then takes special orders for pints, quarts, ice cream cakes, pastry cakes and catering.

• www.fifisicecream.com • Friendly’s, Liverpool: Friendly’s has been serving ice cream since 1935, but there’s just one Friendly’s location left in the Syracuse area. Go for a Retro Royal Banana Split – or something uncomplicated, like a cone or dish of ice cream. Open daily. 3873 Route 31, Liverpool.

• https://locations.friendlysrestaurants. com/ll/US/NY/Liverpool/3873-State-Route31*-Suite-100 • Shtayburne Farm Creamery, Rock Stream: Homemade ice cream and farm-fresh cheese (15 blends of cheddar and Monterey Jack) is available all winter long at this Finger Lakes dairy destination.

Open Monday to Saturday. 2909 Chase Road, Rock Stream.

• https://fingerlakesdairyfarm.com

• Stewart’s Shops: Stewart’s Peanut Butter Pandemonium earned top honors at the World Dairy Expo earlier this year, but if that doesn’t float your boat there are many other flavors to choose from. Enjoy a scoop, shake or sundae on site, or take home a hand-packed or prepackaged pint. Open daily. Multiple locations in Central New York.

• www.stewartsshops.com

Compiled by food writer and food blogger Margaret McCormic.

2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 27

WE CARE LIKE FAMILY

We are growing and have exciting career opportunities in the health care industry.

To join our talented, professional team, please visit one of our care facilities career pages for available positions.

Become a part of Our Family!

Life in balance.

A company philosophy that speaks to a continual process of individual and collective development to improve our well-being, quality of life and personal relationships.

17 Sunrise Drive Oswego, NY 13126 315-342-4790 | www.MorningstarCares.com

Our Mission.

To provide people in our community with healthcare, customer services, support & employment to achieve their individual best quality of life.

Our Vision.

RESIDENTIAL CARE CENTER

To redefine skilled nursing care through successful team development, use of technology, progressive service and being a strong community partner.

Our Team.

Registered Nurses Licensed Nurses Certified Nursing Assistants Physical Therapists Occupational Therapists Speech Therapists Social Workers Recreational Therapists Dietitians

Waterville

Nurse Aides Housekeeping Laundry Finance Maintenance Medical Records

220 Tower Street, Waterville, NY 13480 315-841-4156 | www.WatervilleCares.com

Assisted Living Community

132 Ellen Street, Oswego, NY 13126 315-343-0880 | www.TheGardensByMorningstar.com

Aaron

Manor

Rehabilitation and Nursing Center

100 St. Camillus Way, Fairport, NY 14450 585-377-4000 | www.AaronManor.com

WISH LIST: Five Luxury Winter Resorts to Check Out

W

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

hether you enjoy cocooning by a fire with a warm beverage and watching the snow fall from indoors or you want to gear up to engage in thrilling winter sports, New York’s luxury winter resorts have just the locales you need for a decadent getaway. Most are near top ski venues and offer numerous on-site activities as well.

1

Mohonk Mountain House

New Paltz. Tucked in 40,000 acres of forest, this Victorian-styled National Historic Landmark checks all the boxes, with close on-site winter sports, a day spa, fitness and special events. Enjoy skating, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, winter hiking, snow tubing and special events. Through the month of December, experience holiday events such as Victorian costumed carolers performing. www.mohonk.com

2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 29

2

The Sagamore Resort

Bolton Landing. It is perfect for a family that wants to go out and also enjoys staying in sometimes. Guests can explore its 70 acres of wooded terrain or stay in to enjoy the fitness center and family-friendly rec center, which offers ping pong, table games, video games, wiffle ball, and indoor basketball court and mini-golf course.

The Sagamore includes a mobilityaccessible room with features such as a lowered peephole and grab bars. www.opalcollection.com/sagamore

3

Whiteface Lodge

Lake Placid. It is conveniently located in a top-shelf ski area but for when staying in sounds better, also includes all the luxury appointments such as three-course dining in its upscale dining room, on-site bowling alley, movie theatre and ice-skating rink and day spa. Conde Nast Traveler ranked the resort’s spa as among its top 100 in the nation.

www.thewhitefacelodge.com

4

Lake Placid Lodge

Lake Placid. It is where rustic meets luxury with its tasteful lodge aesthetic in the heart of the Adirondacks. Snuggle in a carved wooden bed in front of a stone fireplace or head outdoors for snowshoeing, downhill and crosscountry skiing, skating, and ice fishing.

Olympic experiences also await history and adventure buffs. Downtown Lake Placid is also home to a variety of quaint shops and eateries. www.opalcollection.com/lake-placid-lodge

30 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

5

The Point

Saranac Lake. It offers numerous winter sports including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, skating, curling, and ice fishing. Guests can wind down in front of a crackling fireplace, play games and take a dip in the indoor pool. The four log buildings offer 11 rooms with lake views and fireplaces. Oriented toward guests 21 and older, The Point offers numerous complimentary bars. Its variety of fine dining options include an elegant seven-course evening meal with formal attire required. https://thepointresort.com

2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 31

Upstate Winter Guide

Events Calendar 2022-2023 Although most events managers have lifted COVID-19 restrictions, it is still advisable to stay aware of public health notices and in general check with a venue’s social media page and website to stay abreast of any changes before making plans.

DECEMBER DAILY Auburn.More than 100 decorated trees on display indoors until Dec. 24. Vote for your favorite. Saturdays and Sundays 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., weekdays 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. Free.

Ward W. O’Hara Agricultural & Country Living Museum, 6880 E. Lake Road. http://wardwoharaagriculturalmuseum.org.

Binghamton. Broome County Festival of Lights. In its third year, the Festival of Lights is bigger than ever with more displays and with out-of-the-car experiences. Fireworks on 12/17 and 12/31. On select nights, enjoy food and drinks from vendors and meet Santa, or ride the train around the park. More details on the Facebook page and website.

5 p.m. to 9 p.m. $25 per car or $50 season pass. Otsiningo Park, 1 Otsiningo Road. www.bcfestivaloflights.com. https://www. facebook.com/BroomeCountyFestivalofLights. 607-761-2475.

Liverpool. Lights on the Lake. A two-mile drive through light show featuring largerthan-life displays celebrating the holidays.

Themed sections include the Fantasy Forest, Under the Sea, North Pole Station, The Land of Oz & Emerald City and the Fairytale Magic Grand Finale. Hundreds of icicle laden trees,

towering displays, a giant poinsettia arch and animated scenes, all viewed from the warmth of your vehicle, round out the show.

Check the website for special nights for benefiting charities and discount tickets. 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. $10 to $75 per vehicle. Onondaga Lake Park, 106 Lake Drive. https://events. visitsyracuse.com/events/site/lights-on-thelake22769. 315-453-6712. olp@ongov.net.

New York City. Radio City Christmas Spectacular: Radio City Rockettes. The classic Christmas extravaganza high steps back onto the stage for another year of this unparalleled live show. Check the website for tickets and show times all month long and Jan. 1 and 2. $75 to $225. Radio City Music Hall, 1260 Avenue of the Americas. www. radiocity.com. 800-475-7085.

Syracuse. 37th Annual Gingerbread Gallery at the Erie Canal Museum. View more than 30 original creations by amateur and professional bakers throughout the region.

Proceeds support the Museum’s educational programs, exhibits, research, and collections management. Runs daily through Jan. 8 (closed 12/25/22 and 1/1/23). 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 24 and 31).

Admission to the Museum, which includes the Gingerbread Gallery, is $10; $7 seniors (65+), $4 children 3-17, and free for children 2 and younger. Museum members receive a family pass good for admission for up to six people. Erie Canal Museum, 18 Erie Blvd. E.

32 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

. https://eriecanalmuseum.org/gingerbread.

315-471-0593. vicki@eriecanalmuseum.org.

SUNDAYS, TUESDAYS, WEDNESDAYS, THURSDAYS, FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS Syracuse. Disney’s "The Little Mermaid."

Dive into musical family fun with Ariel, Sebastian, and all the watery gang from this beloved tale. With aerial acrobatics provided by 2 Ring Circus, this production promises enough thrills and delights for landlubbers of all ages. No show on 12/6, 12/25 and 1/3.

Times vary. $35. Syracuse Stage Complex, 820 E. Genesee St. www.syracusestage.org.

315-443-3275. info@syracusestag.org.

SUNDAYS, TUESDAYS, FRIDAYS and SATURDAYS Oswego. Public Ice Skating. Bring your own skates or rent for $2. Family skate time requires an adult with all youth under age 18.

Public skate is free for city residents. Ice rink rental is available for private events for $150/ hour. James P. Cullinan Rink is open Sundays 5:30 to 7 p.m. for families and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. for the public; Tuesdays 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. for families; Fridays 8:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. for the public; Saturdays 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. for families; 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. for the public. 281 W.Fifth St. 315-342-8167.

SUNDAYS, THURSDAYS, FRIDAYS and SATURDAYS

Come Walk Through History With Us …

Visit Three Unique Museums for One Price!

Brockway Trucks  Military Memorabilia Trains & Railroad History  Local History Agricultural History  Vintage Tractors and More!

A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Central NY

Offering a Spacious and Clean, Family Friendly Facility!

Something for Everyone & Plenty of Parking, too!

Coming in 2023 ~ ANTIQUE FIREHOUSE & 1st RESPONDER MUSEUM

We will be Open January - April Modified Hours or by Appointment Please contact us: 607-299-4185 or info@cnylivinghistory.org Our Regular Hours will resume May 2, 2023 Visit our Website or Facebook Page for More Information

Romantic Winter Getaway in The 1854 Farmhouse Suite Complimentary Package with Reservation Nightly Rates

Weekend $200

Midweek $170

Groups Welcome by Appointment  Meeting Room & Venue Rentals

Two Night Minimum Stay

4386 US Route 11  Cortland, NY

Cazenovia, NY

607-299-4185  www.cnylivinghistory.org

Make your reservation at: www.redfoxrunbb.com

Evans Mills. Northern Lights. Experience the region’s newest drive-through lights show in its second year. 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. 28412 Steinhelber Road. http://evansmillsracewaypark.com/ 315-658-8019.

Utica. The Polar Express Train Ride. Live the magic of the classic Polar Express train ride story with the Adirondack Scenic Railroad.

This trip is approximately two hours roundtrip. Depart from Utica’s Union Station and travel north while being served hot chocolate and cookies. Children and parents are encouraged to come in pajamas. Ask in advance for groups. Those with fewer than four may share a table with other parties.

Train will run through Dec. 19. Make reservations to ensure a seat. 4:30 and 7 p.m. $39 to $47. Children 2 and younger free but must sit in a parent’s lap. Utica Union Station, 321 Main St. www.adirondackrr.com/utica/ polar-express. 800-819-2291.

SUNDAYS, FRIDAYS and SATURDAYS Arcade. Santa’s Wonderland Express Train Ride. The Wonderland Express train ride features six runs daily on a heated, vintage train.

Enjoy a round-trip train excursion to Curriers Station (the halfway point), aka the North Pole. Children receive a wish list from Santa’s elf to complete during their journey. Upon

for the weather. However, there are plenty of places to stay warm at the North Pole including Santa’s House, the Elf House, the Pavilion, and our restrooms.This an indoor/ outdoor event, so dress for the weather.

Rides continue through Dec. 18. Limited seating. Reservations encouraged. Purchase all your tickets at once to better ensure your group can sit together. Check website for complete schedule of available rides and to purchase tickets or call to purchase. $34 ages 13-61; $32 ages 2-12, seniors 62+ and military with ID; free for children under age 2. www.aarailroad.com. 585-492-3100. arcadeandatticarr@yahoo.com.

Unique Consignment Boutique For every lifestyle

Home Furnishings • Home Décor • Women’s Clothing & more!

101 Genesee Street • Downtown Auburn, NY “Like” us out on Facebook!

315.406.0097 www.regenerations2.com

TUESDAYS THROUGH SUNDAYS arrival at the North Pole, engage in activities for the whole family to enjoy, including jumping on the lil’ elf sleigh, taking a family photo in Santa’s sleigh, mailing the wish-list, visiting the Elf House, and more. Visit Santa in his house with virtually no waiting line.

Souvenirs and food concessions (cocoa, cookies, chili, and more) are available for purchase at the Elf House and the Pavilion.

On the way home, all the children will receive a gift from Santa and the railroad as a thank you for riding the Wonderland Express. This an indoor/outdoor event, so please dress

Rochester. Sweet Creations. This annual display features dozens of cleverly designed and deliciously decorated gingerbread creations. Tues.–Sat. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free to view with museum admission: $20; seniors (65+) $18; students with ID $7; ages 5-17 $7; free for children 4 and younger and museum members. George Eastman House, 900 East Avenue. www. eastman.org. 585-327-4800.

MONDAYS Syracuse. Monday Night Salsa. Learn Latin

2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 33

LAKESHORE HARDWOODS PULASKI & VICTOR, NY ESHORE HARDWOODS PULASKI & VICTOR, NY

Kiln Dried Hardwoods n Dried Hardwoods • Kiln Dried Woodworking Supplies Hardwoods odworking Supplies Laser Engraving • Woodworking Laser Engraving Supplies Table Tops • Laser Engraving TableLAKESHORE Tops HARDWOODS Fabrication • Table Tops Fabrication • Fabrication PULASKI & VICTOR, NY

Kiln Dried Hardwoods Woodworking Supplies Laser Engraving Table Tops Fabrication

www.lakeshorehardwoods.com 315-298-6407 keshorehardwoods.com 315-298-6407 dance in a group setting. Take an hour-long Latin dance lesson led by experienced instructors. For the next hour, practice your moves and any skills you want to work on.

The evening concludes with an hour-long informal Latin dance social. Instructors lead for two consecutive weeks and then rotate.

6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Free. Epicuse, 330 S. Salina www.lakeshorehardwoods.com 315-298-6407 St. www.epicuse.net. 315-572-6231. RitmoFlow315@gmail.com.

4901 N. Jefferson St., Pulaski, NY

315-298-8694 M-F 8:30 am to 2 pm (Closed daily 10:30- 11)

CAFÉ & GIFT SHOP

Homemade Soups & Baked Goods, Fresh Made Wraps, Paninis & More

VISIT OUR STUDENT-PRODUCED GIFTS AREA Shop local: Unique, quality gifts at affordable prices.

AD GOOD FOR 1 FREE CUP OF COFFEE

A student run business “learning by experience” Participating Schools Include: APW, Camden, Pulaski, Sandy Creek

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner

Mimi’s Drive-In Route 481 N. • Fulton • 593-7400 7 DAYS A WEEK

Choice of Two Daily Specials -----------------Including----------------• Prime Rib - Reg. Cut ....................14.99 X-tra Cut .................18.99 • Seafood Platter .............................14.99 Shrimp, Fish, Scallops and Clams

TUESDAYS Auburn. Open Mic Night. Watch or perform music, comedy and spoken word art on Stage Right. Full instrument back line available. 7:30 p.m. $2. Auburn Public Theater, 8 Exchange St. auburnpublictheater.org.

315-253-6669.

The Make Sense Shop

• Fresh Haddock Dinner .................12.99

FAST SERVICE • AMPLE PARKING • FRESH COFFEE Sun.–Mon. 7:00 am–3:00 pm Tues.–Sat. 7:00am–8:00pm

GARA G E DOOR S

FRIDAYS Oswego. Planetarium show. 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Free. SUNY Oswego, Shineman 223, 7060 State Route 104. (No show 12/23 and 12/30.)

Finger Lakes Garage Door COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL

SATURDAYS Oswego. Planetarium show. 6 p.m. to 7 p.

Geneva. Live Music. Hear a variety of popular local acts live. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. White Springs Winery, 4200 Route 14. whitespringswinery. com/events. 315-781-9463. whitespringswinery@gmail.com.

WEEKDAYS Corning. Corning Museum of Glass Open House. Free admission to the museum, craft activities, seasonal fun, and special glassmaking experiences kick off the holiday season. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be making a special visit to the Museum to greet guests throughout the day. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free.

Corning Museum of Glass, One Museum Way. www.home.cmog.org. 607-937-5371.

Old Rte. 31, Clyde • 315-923-7202

WEEKENDS Medina. Polar Express Ride. One hour train ride to the “North Pole” to enjoy hot cocoa and a cookie, along with music from the movie, a storybook reading of the Polar Express

by Chris Van Allsburg, a “magic” bell for each

34 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

GIFT SHOP

OPEN SATURDAYS Special Christmas Hours 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Sat., Dec. 3 Sat., Dec. 10 Sat., Dec. 17

child and visit with Santa. Dress in your pajamas. Museum admission included with train ticket. Order in advance since many trips sell out. Trains board 20 minutes before departure. Last run is Dec. 18. Departures occur at various times, so check the website to verify times, availability and to order online. $40 to $55. Medina Railroad Museum, 698 Gwinn St. www.medinarailroadmuseum.org/polar-express-excursions-2022. 716-948-0505.

Skaneateles. Dickens Christmas in Skaneateles. An annual tradition, the celebration runs every weekend through Dec. 23, plus Dec. 24. Charles Dickens and his cast of over 50 costumed characters, including Father Christmas, will interact with residents and visitors. Live music, unique shopping, activities, food, and horse and wagon rides around the village. 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. (12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Dec. 24). Free.

Downtown Skaneateles. skaneateles.com/ visit/events-a-attractions/dickens-christmas. html. www.facebook.com/DickensChristmasSkaneateles. 315-685-0552.

Syracuse. Crafted Underground Series.

Shop an eclectic showcase of local talent in CNY located in the heART of Downtown Syracuse and give all sorts of entrepreneurs an opportunity to grow their brands. The event features a selection of pop-up handmade, homegrown vendors at the McCarthy Mercantile. No multi-level marketing, business-to-business or resale vendors, but only farmers, artists, makers, growers, vintage flea market, and crafters permitted. 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Free admission. 217 S. Salina St. Syracuse. www.mccarthymercantile.com.

DEC.

Auburn. The Calamari Sisters’ Christmas Carol. Auburn Public Theater presents The Calamari Sisters’ latest holiday escapades with music,

1

THE BEST OF WINTER IN CENTRAL NEW YORK mayhem, and morsels. The brassy sisters from Brooklyn perform favorite Christmas songs and holiday classics and wrap them up in a delicious culinary package. 5 p.m. $36.61-$39.70. Auburn Public Theater, 8 Exchange St. https://auburnpublictheater. org.

Auburn. Comedy Night at PCB North. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Prison City Brewing, 28 State St. 315-604-1277. info@prisoncitybrewing.com.

can change at any time. 6 p.m. $43 to $158.

Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St. https:// landmarktheatre.org. 315-475-7979. info@ landmarktheatre.org.

DEC.

2

Auburn. The Calamari Sisters’ Christmas Carol. See Dec. 1.

Saratoga Springs. 2022 Victorian Streetwalk Weekend in Saratoga Springs. Celebrate the 36th Anniversary of the Victorian Streetwalk with a whole weekend of activities in Saratoga Springs. Check the website for a complete schedule. Tree lighting at 6 p.m.; other events TBA. Free. Downtown Saratoga Springs. www.saratogaspringsdowntown. com/victorianstreetwalk.

Glens Falls. Adirondack Christkindlmarkt. Come celebrate the holidays at The Adirondack Christmas Market 2022 shopping among local artisans’ booths in this European-style Christmas festival. 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.; On Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. More details TBA. Glens Falls City Park, Maple Street. www.facebook.com/ADKChristkindlmarkt. https://glensfallscollaborative.com/adirondack-christmas-market.

Syracuse. CoComelon Live! Join JJ and his family in an interactive live musical adventure as they embark on a surprise journey in this Broadway style production which includes all the favorite characters and more than 20 songs and original music.

Any child who is 1 or older must have a paid ticket. Prices are subject to demand and

Mumford. Yuletide Buffet Dinner. Enjoy savory and sweet holiday dishes and plenty of holiday cheer on the festive Genesee Country Village & Museum. Tickets sold separately from Yuletide in the Country Tours.

9 a.m., 10:15 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 12:30 p.m. $32; $20 youth 3-12; free for children younger than 3. Genesee Country Village &

Associated Dental Arts of Oswego Complete Health Dentistry for the Entire Family

Museum, 1410 Flint Hill Road. www.gcv.org.

585-538-6822.

Mumford. Yuletide in the Country Tours.

Explore the wintry village bedecked in holiday splendor to step into vignettes that illustrate the link between today’s holiday traditions and the cultural customs of the 19th century. Highlights include a look at a Polish Christmas Eve Wigilia dinner, a Hanukkah celebration, and Watch Night festivities as presented by David Shakes and the North Star Players, and even a visit from St. Nick. Various times; check website to verify and buy tickets. $26 members; $30 nonmembers. Genesee Country Village & Museum, 1410 Flint Hill Road. www.gcv.org.

585-538-6822.

Newark. Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra Holiday Concert. Hear the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra play favorite holiday music.

The event is being hosted by the Newark Central School District in conjunction with Wegmans, Lyons National Bank and the Greater Newark Chamber of Commerce. 7 p.m. Ticket cost TBA. Newark High School, 625 Peirson Avenue. www.newarkcsd.org.

Oswego. Drosselmeyer’s "Nutcracker" by

Welcome to

Christ Our Light or St. Anne, Mother of Mary Catholic Churches 23 Niagara St. Pulaski, NY

3352 Main St. Mexico, NY

315-298-5350

315-963-7182

Sat. Mass 4 pm Sun. Mass 10:15 am

Sat. Mass 5:30 pm Sun. Mass 8:30 am

www.stannechristourlight.com for directions

Thomas P. Kearns, D.D.S. Travis T. Kearns, D.D.S. 327 West Seneca St., Oswego (Route 104 West at Gregory Street)

315-343-2450

www.associateddentalarts.com Always welcoming new patients

GALLOWAY REALTY

Oswego County’s #1 Real Estate Agency.

(315) 342-2111

www.Century21Galloway.com

335 W. First St. Suite 1B Oswego, NY

Each office is independently owned and operated.

2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 35

Ramonda Huff. The "Nutcracker" will be a full-length theatrical play with excerpts from the ballet performed by classical ballet students from Creation Studio in Oswego.

This fresh take on a classic story will bring to life the magic and fantasy of Christmas Eve through the eyes of Clara, whose love for her nutcracker toy brings it to life that evening.

7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. on Sundays. $15; $10 seniors and students.

Frances Marion Brown Theatre, E. Fourth St. https://oswegoplayers.org.

Penn Yan. First Friday. Every first Friday of each month, select businesses with red balloons in downtown will stay open late with promotions and unique offerings. 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Free. Downtown. Yates County Chamber of Commerce, 2375 Route 14A. 315-536-3111. info@yatesny.com.

Rochester. Roc Holiday Village Winter Festival. Family-friendly events including shopping, visits with Santa, free ice skating, tree lighting, Santa’s workshop, hand-crafted goods, pop-up restaurants, igloos, holiday celebrations, live music, private parties, nightlife, and more. 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturdays; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sundays. Free. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Park, 353 Court St. https://rocholidayvillage.com. www.facebook.com/rocholidayvillage. jolly@rocholidayvillage.com.

Saranac Lake. 37th Annual Sparkle Village Arts & Crafts Fair. Find special, handmade gifts by shopping among one-of-a-kind local makers and vendors. 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. On Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. $3; free children younger than 12. Harrietstown Town Hall, 39 Main St. www.adirondack.net/holiday/annual-events/sparkle-village. 518-891-1990. welcome@slareachamber.org.

Seneca Lake Wine Trail. December Deck the Halls. Eighteen Seneca Lake Wine Trail wineries will be decorated for the holiday season so come out for a weekend of fun and festivities. Check in at your assigned starting winery, pick up your tickets, wreath, recipe book and wine glass, sample your first food and wine tasting and collect an ornament at each winery visited. For wine tasters, each attendee will receive a food sample paired with a 1-oz. wine tasting, and then three additional .5-oz. tastings. In lieu of the wreath packet, glass and wine, the designated driver ticket holder will instead receive a souvenir travel mug and the food with a non-alcoholic beverage along the way. Ages 21 or older only. Check website for complete details.

12 p.m. to 5 p.m. On Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. $37.80 to $129.60, plus fees. Seneca Lake Wine Trail. http://www. senecalakewine.com. 877-536-2717.

Syracuse. Holiday Nights presented by Ama-

Winter Project?

We can help.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

PULASKI

3704 STATE RT 13 315-298-6575

or visit us in: Watertown, Gouverneur & Clayton www.whiteslumber.com

Your Home Improvement Experts!

36 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

zon. Enjoy a festive and fun after-hours stroll amid sparkling displays of holiday lights that transform the zoo into a winter wonderland.

Warm up by the fire pits and enjoy hot chocolate, s’mores, live performances of holiday music, ice carving, roving entertainers and animals on evening exhibit. 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. $8 members; $9 nonmembers. Rosamond Gifford Zoo, 1 Conservation Place. www. rosamondgiffordzoo.org. 315-435-8511 x8526.

Syracuse. NYS Indoor Kart Racing Championship. View fierce wheel-to-wheel action in 6 second laps on the 100-foot diameter track. With 12 karts on the track, just to watch it is a challenge. The karts pull 1.4 lateral G’s in the corners, and because the track is inside a building, it’s all turns. There are no straights on which the drivers can momentarily relax. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. On Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. $30; free children 5 and younger. New York State Fairgrounds Center of Progress Building, 581 State Fair Blvd. www.syracuseindoor.com. 315-6760227. syrindoor@gmail.com.

Syracuse. Syracuse City Ballet Presents Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker.” The classic seasonal story delights children and adults.

6 p.m.; 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. on 12/3; and 2 p.m. on 12/4. $20 to $75. The Oncenter Crouse Hinds Theater, 421 Montgomery St.

FREE QUOTES www.ciasvcs.com

Colosse Country Craft Corner Country • Nautical • Wicker •

Colosse Cheese Store Colossal Ice Cream Shop 3844 Rome Rd. NY • 315-298-2141 www.colosse.com

ICE CREAM CAKES

CHEESE to Please!

STOP IN FOR A NIBBLE...

n Fresh Cheese Curd. n XXXX NYS Super Aged Cheddars. n Imported & Domestic Cheeses.

315-435-8000.

State-of-the-art Repair Facility

Return to pre-accident condition

DEC.

Alexandria Bay. 18th Annual Kris Kringle Market. Shop among craft vendors, sample wine and find special holiday gift sets, with an emphasis on local artisans and small businesses. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thousand Islands Winery, 43298 Seaway Ave Ste 1. www.thousandislandswinery.com. 315-482-9306. info@ thousandislandswinery.com.

3

Auburn. Holiday Craft Fair & Market. Find seasonal décor, Christmas gifts, and holiday cheer with live music, Christmas tree sales, vendors, a visit from the Grinch, and holiday-themed competitions and raffles. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; on 12/4, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fingerlakes Mall, 1579 Clark Street Road. www. fingerlakesmall.com/holiday-craft-fair-market?t=1667332490. 315-255-1188. marketing@fingerlakesmall.com.

Buffalo. The Nutcracker Ballet. Neglia’s Nutcracker production has been recognized for its spectacular production value. “From the opening curtain’s rise to the dancer’s final bows, the much-talked-about production showcased a mix of tradition and wonder that few productions of the ballet achieve” (-The Buffalo News). The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra performs Tchaikovsky’s Christmas masterpiece. 7 p.m. On Sunday, 1 p.m. $36 to $200. Shea’s Performing Arts Center, 646 Main St. www.sheas.org/performances.

Clayton. 60th Annual Christmas Parade.

Shop, dine and enjoy family activities downtown, plus a fireworks show. 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Downtown. 315-686-3771. www.1000islands-clayton.com/christmasparade.

Glens Falls. Adirondack Christkindlmarkt.

See Dec. 2.

Lake Ontario Wine Trail. Christmas Around the World 2022. Travel the Lake Ontario Wine Trail on a self-guided tour to sample festive pairings of wine, spirits and ciders with foods from around the world. Each

Dent and scratch removal 269 West 2nd Street Oswego, NY 13126 Phone (315) 343-7406 Fax (315) 343-0820 www.vashaws.com

Glass replacement Free estimates Enterprise rental vehicles

John A. Vashaw • John M. Vashaw

We’re Rising To Serve Phoenix We’re growing to serve you better in Phoenix!

Our newest location is now under construction on Rt. 264, right across from Emerson J. Dillon Middle School.

They’ll enjoy:

• ‘Picture It’ Mobile Check Deposit • Home Equity Loans and Mortgages • ‘My Card Control’ debit card management & more!

Opening December 2022 ON ATI OC L NEW

9686 US Route 11 Brewerton, NY

(315)676-1095

Open 365 Days

A Year

Oswego – East 90 E. Bridge St. 315-343-7822

Oswego – West 262 W. Seneca St. 315-326-0138

Mexico 5828 Scenic Ave. 315-963-2722

Fulton 7087 s. 4th St. 315-887-1030

www.oswegofcu.org

2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 37

e to Welcom

Brantling is a small family owned and operated ski area located in Sodus, NY, just ten minutes from Route 104.

Brantling is known for our family atmosphere and great lesson programs with options for children and adults of any ability level.

Brantling Ski Slopes, 4015 Fish Farm Rd Sodus, New York 14551

Check for hours programs & rates at www.brantling.com Or Call: (315) 331-2365

GristMill GristMill

Restaurant Restaurant INTERSTATE 81 - EXIT 33

INTERSTATE 81•- Daily EXIT Special 33 Soft Ice Cream

Soft Ice Cream Daily Special OPEN 7•DAYS A WEEK 6:30A.M. - 9P.M.

OPEN 7 WE DAYS A WEEK 6:30A.M.DO- TAKE-OUT 9P.M. DIESEL • GAS WE DO TAKE-OUT

625-7691 DIESEL • GAS

625-7691

vendor participant represents a different country, pairing traditional holiday dishes with local wines, spirits and ciders. Due to limited space in tasting rooms, reservations for groups of 6 or more are required. Not all locations can accommodate large groups.

11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Cost TBA. www.lakeontariowinetrail.com. contactus@lakeontariowinetrail.com.

Mexico. Oswego County Holiday Farmers’ Market. CCE Oswego will host the event featuring Oswego County-based vendors selling local agriculture-related gifts such as cheeses, honey, maple syrup, milk soaps and lotions, wreaths, boughs, wood-carved items, and more. Free coffee and hot chocolate offered at the event. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Free. Mexico VFW, Scenic Ave. 315-963-7286 ext. 203 or ejk247@cornell.edu.

Dependable Propane Gas Service

FOR HOME • FARM • INDUSTRY Since 1937 913 Phillip St. Fulton 315-592-5450

Service... Quality...

exceeding your expectations Collision Work • Regular Maintenance

315-343-6611

www.kensbodyshop.com

ROUTE 104 E • OSWEGO

FULL MECHANICAL SERVICE & COURTESY CARS!

Saranac Lake. 37th Annual Sparkle Village Arts & Crafts Fair. See Dec. 2.

Mumford. Yuletide Buffet Dinner. See Dec. 2.

Seneca Lake Wine Trail. December Deck the Halls. See Dec. 2.

Mumford. Yuletide in the Country Tours.

See Dec. 2.

Syracuse. Holiday Nights presented by Amazon. See Dec. 2.

Naples. The Pickle Mafia. Ring in the holiday season with a visit from The Pickle Mafia, Rochester’s high energy piano power instrumental trio, as they deck Bristol Valley Theater’s halls with their own take on Vince Guaraldi’s Charlie Brown Christmas music and other songs of the season. 7 p.m. $20; $18 seniors; $10 children. Group discounts.

Bristol Valley Theater, 151 S. Main St. https:// bvtnaples.org/the-pickle-mafia. 585-3749032.

Syracuse. North Pole Pajama Parties. Enjoy the hot cocoa bar, activities involving many aspects of the Arctic, and the new National Grid Exploradome for a specially created planetarium program, “Night in the Arctic.”

Wearing pajamas is encouraged. The Dec. 17 event will be sensory-friendly. Tickets include museum admission, party, activities and 7:15 planetarium show. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. $12; $10 for members. Museum of Science & Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St. www.most.org. 315-426-9068. sherbert@ most.org.

Oswego. Drosselmeyer’s Nutcracker. See Dec. 2.

When the electricity goes out… your heat won’t!

the Cayuga Lake Wine trail to find gifts and treasures for friends and family. Participants receive a souvenir wine glass, a souvenir ornament, wine and food pairings, a digital recipe book, and $5 off a $35 wine purchase at every single winery. Check the website for more details. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. $60 single Saturday; $110 couple Saturday; single designated driver Saturday $30; single Sunday $50; couple Sunday $90; single designated driver Sunday $25; single full weekend $90; couple full weekend $170; single designated driver full weekend $45. Taxes and service fees are extra, and tickets are only good for the chosen dates. Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, 2770 Ernsberger Road, Suite 200. www. cayugawinetrail.com.

Rochester. Lightwire Theater: A Very Electric Christmas. Lightwire has been featured as semi-finalists on NBC’s America’s Got Talent and winners of Tru TV’s Fake Off. The group combines theater and technology to bring stories to life with neon puppet creatures.

They perform in complete darkness and are internationally recognized for their signature brand of electroluminescent artistry. Lightwire Theater’s A Very Electric Christmas is the story of a young bird named Max and his family as they begin their journey south for the winter. When Max gets blown off course and ends up at the North Pole, his adventure begins. 7 p.m. $36 to $61. Kodak Center, 200 W Ridge Rd. www.kodakcenter.com/events. john@tellemgrodypr.com.

Rochester. Roc Holiday Village Winter Festival. See Dec. 2.

Rochester. The Holiday Soul Jam. ARH Music Group, Inc. presents The Holiday Soul Jam hosted by Chubb Rock. The event features Loose Ends, Klymaxx, Lakeside, Cherrelle and Big Bub. 7:30 p.m. $89.50. Rochester Broadway Theatre League, 885 E. Main St. www.rbtl.org. 585-222-5000. mail@rbtl.org.

Romulus. 2022 Holiday Shopping Spree. Hit

38 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

Syracuse. NYS Indoor Kart Racing Championship. See Dec. 2.

Syracuse. Messiah. Symphoria performs Handel’s classical Christmas masterpiece, “Messiah,” celebrating the birth of Christ. 8 p.m. $30; senior $25; college student with ID $5; free children 18 and younger. Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 259 E. Onondaga St. http://experiencesymphoria. org. 315-299-5598.

Syracuse. Syracuse City Ballet Presents Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker.” See Dec. 2.

Verona. Saving Abel. Experience Saving Abel, a Southern rock band with catchy hooks and heavy riffs. Their self-titled debut album charted on Billboard’s Top 50 and became RIAA-certified multi-platinum. 8 p.m. $34 to $60. Turning Stone Event Center, 5218 Patrick Rd. www.turningstone.com. 877833-7469.

DEC.

Albany. Great Train Extravaganza 2022. Eastern New York’s largest model railroad and toy train hobby show offers dozens of vendors offer new and used trains for sale, plus parts, clothing,

4

memorabilia, photographs, and accessories.

The event also features numerous exhibitors showing off all kinds of pieces of railroad history and artifacts, and several operating model railroads in N, HO, and O gauges, LEGO, and larger. Ride a Roaming Railroad around the Empire State Plaza Concourse. $7 adults; free children 12 and younger with an adult.10 a.m. to 4 p.m. New York State Convention Center, Empire State Plaza. 518-668-9892. trains@gtealbany.com.

St. https://larac.org/festivals.

200+ tables of sports cards, non-sports cards, supplies and other collectible items, models and toys of numerous sorts. Cash admission only. 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. $5 p.m.; Free children 10 and younger. New York State Fairgrounds Horticulture Building, 581 State Fair Blvd. cnypromotions.com.

607-753-8580. collectorsfest@cnypromotions.com.

Lake Ontario Wine Trail. Christmas Around the World 2022. See Dec. 3.

Mumford. Yuletide Brunch Buffet. Get in the holiday spirit and enjoy savory dishes and sweet treats on the festive grounds of the historic Genesee Country Village & Museum. Tickets sold separately from Yuletide in the Country Tours. 11 a.m., and 1:15 p.m. $25; $15 youth 3-12; free children younger than 3. Genesee Country Village & Museum, 1410 Flint Hill Road. www.gcv.org.

585-538-6822.

Auburn. Holiday Craft Fair & Market. See Dec. 3.

Auburn. The Calamari Sisters’ Christmas Carol. See Dec. 1.

Buffalo. The Nutcracker Ballet. See Dec. 3.

Fulton. The History of Jazz. Enjoy dinner with the music of Joe Cortini’s Jazz Mafia Trio. 5:30 p.m. cash bar; 6:30 p.m. dinner. $30. Tavern on the Lock, 24 S. First St. friendsofhistoryfulton@gmail.com.

Syracuse. Syracuse City Ballet Presents Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker.” See Dec. 2.

DEC.

Mumford. Yuletide in the Country Tours.

See Dec. 2.

5

Oswego. Drosselmeyer’s Nutcracker. See Dec. 2.

DEC.

Elmira. The Lightning Thief: Percy Jackson. Based on the best-selling Disney-Hyperion novel by Rick Riordan, the presentation is an action-packed theatrical adventure. Recommended grades: 2-6. 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. $6. Clemens Center, 207 Clemens Center Parkway. www.ClemensCenter.org. 607-735-2777.

6

Pulaski. Light Up Pulaski Christmas Parade.

Join Santa and Mrs. Claus to celebrate the season with a parade. 10 a.m. Free.

Downtown. 315-559-5200. lightuppulaski@ gmail.com.

Glens Falls. Adirondack Christkindlmarkt.

See Dec. 2.

Rochester. Roc Holiday Village Winter Festival. See Dec. 2.

Glens Falls. LARAC Winter Arts Festival.

Formerly Fall Festival, the Winter Arts Festival is hosted by the Lower Adirondack Regional Arts Council (LARAC). Shop among 40 regional artisans to find unique gifts or something special for yourself. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free. The Queensbury Hotel, 88 Ridge

Romulus. 2022 Holiday Shopping Spree.

See Dec. 3.

Rochester. Come From Away. A Best Musical winner across North America, this New York Times Critics’ Pick takes the audience into the heart of the remarkable true story of 7,000 stranded passengers and the small

Seneca Lake Wine Trail. December Deck the Halls. See Dec. 2.

Syracuse. Collectors Mega Show. Peruse

Professional digital printing services

Auburn. Comedy Night at PCB North. See Dec. 1.

We service all

Free Pick-up & Delivery within Dodge /Chrysler/Jeep/Ram models no matter where 5 mile radius

you bought them!!!

412 West 1st Street • Oswego, NY 13126 315 343-0680 brian@oswegoprinting.me A full range of printed products to enhance today’s business and personal world

www.oswegoprinting.me

NEW STORE! OPEN NOW

BUILDING MATERIALS SUPPLIER

8011 Brewerton Rd., Cicero

315-915-6030

5818 Scenic Ave., Mexico

(315) 963-7293

STOP IN OR CALL TODAY!

1698 Co. Rt. 57 • Fulton • 315-598-2135 Shop us online @ www.Longleybros.com SERVICE HOURS: MONDAY-FRIDAY 7:30 a.m. -5:00 p.m.

SATURDAY 8:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m.

SALES HOURS: MONDAY-THURSDAY 9:00 a.m. -7: p.m.

FRIDAY 9:00 a.m. -6:00 p.m.

SATURDAY 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

30

$

00 OIL CHANGE with purchase of 4 Oil Change Pkg. (up to 7 qts.)

Synthetic blends extra

Oil Changes must be used within 2 years of purchase.

Expires 4/21/23

10% OFF

PARTS & LABOR

Can not be combined with any other coupon or discount. Expires 4/21/23

99

$

95

Exterior BUFFING EXTRA Expires 4/21/23

Refresh Your Ride COMPLETE Interior & Exterior DETAIL

5995

$

2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 39

town in Newfoundland that welcomed them. Written by Tony® nominees Irene Sankoff and David Hein, and helmed by Tony-winning Best Director, Christopher Ashley. 7:30; On Friday 8 p.m.; Saturday 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; and Sunday 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. $38 to $93. Rochester Broadway Theatre League, 885 E. Main St. www.rbtl. org. 585-222-5000. mail@rbtl.org.

Syracuse. Men’s Basketball. Orange vs.

Oakland. 6 p.m. The Dome at Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www.cuse.com.

Syracuse. Winter Choral Concert. The Le Moyne College Singers and Chamber Singers will perform a variety of choral music.

7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. $15; $10 seniors; $5 students, faculty and staff. Panasci Chapel at Le Moyne College, 1419 Salt Springs Road. www.lemoyne.edu/Arts. 315-445-4209. mckissj@lemoyne.edu.

DEC.

7

Rochester. Come From Away.

See Dec. 6.

Rochester. Roc Holiday Village Winter Festival. See Dec. 2.

Syracuse. Across the Pond: Le Moyne College Symphony Orchestra. Journey to England for the night with the Symphony Orchestra for favorites and classics of British origin. 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. $15; $10 seniors; $5 students, faculty and staff. Coyne Center for the Performing Arts at Le Moyne College, 200 Springfield Road. www.lemoyne.edu/ Arts. 315-445-4209. mckissj@lemoyne.edu.

Syracuse. ‘Tis The Season With The Beach Boys Featuring The Holiday Vibrations Orchestra. The Beach Boys are led by Mike Love, who, along with longtime member Bruce Johnston, musical director Scott Totten, Brian Eichenberger, Christian Love, Tim Bonhomme, John Cowsill, Keith Hubacher and Randy Leago continue the legacy of the iconic band. This concert will not feature Brian Wilson, Al Jardine or David Marks.

7:30 p.m. $83.50 to $394.10 The Oncenter Crouse Hinds Theater, 421 Montgomery St. 315-435-8000.

DEC.

8

Rochester. Come From Away.

See Dec. 6.

Rochester. Roc Holiday Village Winter Festival. See Dec. 2.

Rochester. The Temptations and the Four Tops. For more than 40 years, The Temptations have prospered with an avalanche of smash hits and sold-out performances throughout the world. The Four Tops were among a number of groups who established the Motown Sound heard around the world during the 1960’s. Their first Motown hit,

“Baby I Need Your Loving,” made them stars.

7:30 p.m. $59 to $99. Kodak Center, 200 W Ridge Rd. www.kodakcenter.com/events. john@tellemgrodypr.com.

Syracuse. Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis. A holiday tradition for more than 35 years, Mannheim Steamroller brings a holiday performance that includes multimedia effects and their distinctive sound and style. 7:30 p.m. $39 to $77.

Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St. https:// landmarktheatre.org. 315-475-7979. info@ landmarktheatre.org.

Waterloo. Nikki Glaser: "One Night with Nikki Glaser." Glaser is one of the funniest female voices in comedy today. For over a decade at clubs across the country, and as the host of three hit podcasts, she has been honing her shockingly honest, no-holdsbarred style of comedy. Her brand-new daily show, THE Nikki Glaser Podcast, launched March 2021 through iHeartMedia and Will Ferrell’s Big Money Players Network. VIP package includes excellent seat location, meet-and-greet with Glaser after the show, and photo op. Ages 21 and older only. 8 p.m. $35 to $185. Del Lago Resort and Casino, 1133 State Route 414. https://dellagoresort. com/entertainment. 315-946-1777.

Syracuse. Women’s Basketball. Orange vs.

Coppin State. 7 p.m. The Dome at Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www.cuse.com.

DEC.

Buffalo. ‘Tis the Season with The Beach Boys featuring The Holiday Vibrations Orchestra. Rock around the Christmas tree with Good Vibrations and holiday cheer. 7:30 p.m. $50 to $203. Shea’s Performing Arts Center, 646 Main St. www.sheas.org/performances.

9

Buffalo. The Soulball. Attend a holiday party and enjoy music, hors d’oeuvres, wine & beer, a basket raffle, photo ops, historic stories from the Corridor and holiday cheer.

All proceeds will directly support programs that integrate the African American cultural significance and impact into Buffalo’s history. 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. $100. The Buffalo Transportation Pierce Arrow Museum, 263 Michigan Ave. www.michiganstreetbuffalo. org/soulful-christmas.

Lake Placid. Lake Placid Holiday Village Stroll. Presented by the Lake Placid Business Association, the event is a family- and couples-friendly weekend full of events, entertainment, parties, dining specials and shopping in the winter wonderland of Lake Placid. The weekend includes many free activities for kids. Santa will be making an appearance in several locations throughout the weekend. Join events like a skating party, ugly sweater party, free movie showing,

40 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

and a Santa firetruck parade. For couples, there will also be dining specials and live entertainment into the late evening hours.

Free. 2445 Main St. http://www.holidayvillagestroll.com.

Mumford. Yuletide Buffet Dinner. See Dec. 2.

Mumford. Yuletide in the Country Tours.

See Dec. 2.

Old Forge. Annual Snodeo Weekend in Old Forge. The Annual SNODEO kicks off snowmobile season. All four manufacturers will display the newest snowmobile models.

Family activities all weekend, including raffles, races for all ages, performance shop modified runs, food, vendors, and swaps.

Hiltebrant Recreation Center Pavilion, 201 North St. www.Snodeo.com. 315-369-6983.

Oswego. Drosselmeyer’s Nutcracker. See Dec. 2.

Rochester. Come From Away. See Dec. 6.

Rochester. Handel’s "Messiah." Rejoice with Handel’s majestic setting of the greatest story ever told, conducted by Laureate Christopher Seaman. 8 p.m. $18 to $115.

Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, 255 East Ave. https://myrpo.org. 585-454-2100. patronservices@rpo.org.

Rochester. Roc Holiday Village Winter Festival. See Dec. 2.

Seneca Falls. It’s a Wonderful Life Festival.

Celebrate the classic Christmas film “It’s a Wonderful Life” in Seneca Falls, the town thought to be director Frank Capra’s inspiration for the film’s setting of Bedford Falls. The event includes special guests such as cast members from “It’s a Wonderful Life” Karolyn Grimes (“Zuzu Bailey”); Jimmy Hawkins (“Tommy Bailey”); Michael Chapin (“Young George’s Friend”); Donald and Ronald Collins (“Young Pete”) and Mary Owen (Donna Reed’s daughter) and Monica Capra Hodges (Frank Capra’s granddaughter). Tour the It’s a Wonderful Life Museum and experience presentations on the film and a film screening. See the website for a complete list of events’ times and locations throughout the three-day event. www. wonderfullifemuseum.com/2021-festival.

Syracuse. Christmas Craft & Holiday Market. Find Christmas decorating ideas, seasonal décor and gourmet delights. Find handmade decorative accents and artwork such as handcrafted furniture, framed artwork, lighting, architectural decorative pieces, textiles, candles, signs, metalwork, floral designs, wearable art, home and garden décor, jewelry, adult/children’s clothing and accessories, and more. More show information, advance purchase tickets, and $1 coupon online. Paid admission is good all three days and parking is free. 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. On Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.

to 4 p.m. $8; Free children 12 and younger.

New York State Fairgrounds Horticulture Building, 581 State Fair Blvd. Facebook. com/countryfolkart. www.countryfolkart. com/cgi-bin/shop/upcoming-shows.html.

248-634-4151. Rhondablakely@gmail.com.

Syracuse. Funny How? Tour with Vic DiBitetto & Eric D’Alessandro. One comes from a large Italian family in Staten Island.

The other comes from a large Italian family in Brooklyn, then moved to Staten Island (which is Brooklyn with a cover charge).

One is young enough to be the son. One is old enough to be the father. These two “Italian monsters” of comedy join forces on tour together. Age 21 and older only.

7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m.; on Saturday 7 p.m. and 9:35 p.m. $32 to $65. Funny Bone Comedy Club and Restaurant, Destiny USA, 306 Hiawatha Blvd. syracuse.funnybone. com/?t=1667334021.

Syracuse. Holiday Nights presented by Amazon. See Dec. 2.

Syracuse. Jazz Concert. Join the Le Moyne College Jazz Ensemble and Jazzuits for an evening of jazz standards. 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. $15; $10 seniors; $5 students, faculty and staff. Coyne Center for the Performing Arts at Le Moyne College, 200 Springfield Road. www.lemoyne.edu/Arts. 315-4454209. mckissj@lemoyne.edu.

Syracuse. Syracuse Crunch vs. Toronto Marlies Hockey. 7 p.m. Tickets vary. Upstate Medical Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial, 421 Montgomery St. syracusecrunch. com/index.aspx 315-435-8000.

Syracuse. Women’s Ice Hockey. Orange vs.

Vermont. 6 p.m. Tennity Ice Pavilion, 511 Skytop Rd. www.cuse.com.

Waterloo. Grand Funk Railroad. Originating from Flint, Michigan in 1969, Grand Funk Railroad is touring in 2022, marking a 53year milestone. After playing to millions of fans on the band’s tours from 1996 to 2021, Grand Funk’s 2022 Tour will continue to reach both new and long-time fans. Ages 21 and older only. 8 p.m. $30 to $75. Del Lago Resort and Casino, 1133 State Route 414.

Scriba

ELECTRIC INC.     

ELECTRIC CONTRACTING

Evaluations Detoxification Inpatient Rehabilitation Family Education Outpatient

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL

P.O. Box 1116  5821 Route 80 Tully, NY 13159 (315) 696-6114 or (800) 456-6114 www.tullyhill.com

3 Creamery Rd • Oswego

315-342-7681 www.scribaelectric.com

https://dellagoresort.com/entertainment.

315-946-1777.

DEC.

Auburn. Bob Piorun & Friends.

Bob Piorun and friends will perform live the original blues CD Bob recorded 10 years ago with the talents of Anne Adessa, Jimmy Chambers, Duke Shanahan, Mike Doyle, Ross Moe, Loren Miller, Larry Lehner, Robin Munn, and Sue Alexander. 7 p.m. $15. Auburn Public Theater, 8 Exchange St. https://auburnpublictheater.org/events/?t=1667334683. 315-2536669. info@auburnpublictheater.org.

10

Buffalo. Swan Lake. Swan Lake. The State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine performs Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet. 7:30 p.m. $44 to $96. Shea’s Performing Arts Center, 646 Main St. www.sheas.org/performances.

Clayton. A North Country Carol: Simple Gifts. Through music, the 10th Mountain Division Band will represent and champion, to the widest degree, the 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, and the U.S. Army throughout the North Country and surrounding

regions through music. Reserved seating available through the box office. 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Free. Clayton Opera House, 403 Riverside Drive. www.claytonoperahouse. com. 315-686-2200. director@claytonoperahouse.com.

Geneva. "The Polar Express." Enjoy watching the classic Christmas film at the historic Smith Opera House. On Christmas Eve, a young boy embarks on a magical adventure to the North Pole on the Polar Express, while learning about friendship, bravery, and the spirit of Christmas. 2 p.m. $10; $5 children 12 and younger; free children sitting in an adult’s lap; family four-pack $25. Smith Center for the Arts, Smith Opera House, 82 Seneca St. www.thesmith.org. 315-781-5483.

Lake Placid. Lake Placid Holiday Village Stroll. See Dec. 9.

Marcellus. Caroling in the Woods. Pick up a lantern and song sheet and enjoy singing in nature. Lanterns will be provided or bring your own flashlight. Pre-registration required. No walk-ins accepted. All ages are welcomed to join. 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Free; donations appreciated. Baltimore

2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 41

Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road. https://baltimorewoods.org/event/ caroling-in-the-woods-2/?t=1667334905.

315-673-1350. info@baltimorewoods.org.

Mumford. Yuletide Buffet Dinner. See Dec. 2.

Mumford. Yuletide in the Country Tours.

See Dec. 2.

Old Forge. Annual Snodeo Weekend in Old Forge. See Dec. 9.

Syracuse. Women’s Ice Hockey. Orange vs.

Vermont. 3 p.m. Tennity Ice Pavilion, 511 Skytop Rd. www.cuse.com.

Verona. Luminare Christmas. Drawing from his many years as keyboardist for Dennis DeYoung (STYX) and as the lead keyboardist for Mannheim Steamroller, John Blasucci and Luminare have created a new, high-energy holiday tradition. 8 p.m. $38 to $72.

Turning Stone Event Center, 5218 Patrick Rd. www.turningstone.com. 877-833-7469.

Oswego. Drosselmeyer’s Nutcracker. See Dec. 2.

Rochester. Come From Away. See Dec. 6.

Rochester. Roc Holiday Village Winter Festival. See Dec. 2.

Sackets Harbor. Christmas on the Farm. Old McDonald’s Farm will hold its annual Christmas on the Farm event with an opportunity to meet Santa, plus Olaf, Elsa and Ana, in the Gathering Barn. Visitors can also view the animals in their winter homes, including the farm’s two reindeer, Sven and Jingle Bells.

10 a.m. to 3 p.m. $8. 14369 County Route 145. https://oldmcdonaldhasafarm.com.

315-583-5737.

Seneca Falls. "It’s a Wonderful Life" Festival.

See Dec. 9.

Syracuse. Christmas Craft & Holiday Market.

See Dec. 9.

Syracuse. "Dasher’s Magical Gift." This one-hour, narrated ballet introduces young children to dance, live theater, and classical music through a heart-warming holiday story as Dasher and his friends save Christmas.

11 a.m. and 2 p.m. $10 (additional fees may apply). The Oncenter Crouse Hinds Theater, 421 Montgomery St. https://cnyarts.org/programs/dashers-magical-gift. 315-435-8000.

DEC.

Auburn. Loren Barrigar & Irv Lyons Jr. Guitarist Loren Barrigar and singer-songwriter Irv Lyons Jr. joined by LJ Barrigar and Kimberly Rossi play live. 5:30 p.m. $22. Auburn Public Theater, 8 Exchange St. https://auburnpublictheater.org. 315-253-6669.

11

Glens Falls. LARAC Winter Arts Festival.

See Dec. 4.

Lake Placid. Lake Placid Holiday Village Stroll. See Dec. 9.

Liverpool. Concert: Honky-Tonk Hindooz.

The Honky Tonk Hindooz (Terry Quill, guitar; Theresa Walsh, accordion; Taylor Price, bass) of Auburn play an eclectic mix of psychedelic garage country and weirdo rock-n-roll oldies.

Influences and styles can include the sounds of Johnny Cash, Pink Floyd, Hank Williams, The Kinks, Harry Nilsson, Joe Jackson, Merle Haggard, Tom Petty, The Clash, Neil Young, The Who, and Ernest Tubb. 2 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. Free. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St. https://lpl.libcal.com. 315-457-0310. deanna.mcgregor@lpl.org.

Mumford. Yuletide Brunch Buffet. See Dec. 4.

Syracuse. Holiday Nights presented by Amazon. See Dec. 2.

Mumford. Yuletide in the Country Tours.

See Dec. 2.

Syracuse. Men’s Basketball. Orange vs.

Georgetown. 1 p.m. The Dome at Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www.cuse.com.

Old Forge. Annual Snodeo Weekend in Old Forge. See Dec. 9.

Syracuse. North Pole Pajama Parties. See Dec. 3.

Syracuse. Nutcracker Twist: An Enchanted Journey. Symphoria, The Orchestra of Central New York, presents CirqOvation a new version of Tchaikovsky’s "Nutcracker" with aerialists, jugglers, acrobats, comedians, and other Cirq performers. Symphoria performs the music for this presentation. 3 p.m. $23 to $77, plus fees. Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St. https://landmarktheatre.org. 315475-7979. amasters@landmarktheatre.org.

Syracuse. Syracuse Crunch vs. Utica Comets Hockey. 7 p.m. Tickets vary. Upstate Medical Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial, 421 Montgomery St. https://syracusecrunch. com/index.aspx 315-435-8000.

Oswego. Drosselmeyer’s Nutcracker. See Dec. 2.

Rochester. Come From Away. See Dec. 6.

Rochester. Roc Holiday Village Winter Festival. See Dec. 2.

Sackets Harbor. Christmas on the Farm.

See Dec. 10.

Seneca Falls. "It’s a Wonderful Life" Festival.

See Dec. 9.

Syracuse. Champions of Magic. Enjoy an evening of live illusions and special effects.

Described by the press as ‘The Avengers of magic,’ catch the team of magicians presenting an original performance, including an escape from Houdini’s water torture cell, prediction tricks, levitation above the stage and a grand finale. 4 p.m. $25 to $65 (additional fees may apply). The Oncenter Crouse

42 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

Hinds Theater, 421 Montgomery St. www. championsofmagic.co.uk. 315-435-8000.

Syracuse. Christmas Craft & Holiday Market.

See Dec. 9.

Syracuse. Women’s Basketball. Orange vs. Wagner. 2 p.m. The Dome at Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www.cuse.com.

DEC.

Elmira. Click, Clack, Moo! “Cows that Type? Hens on strike! Whoever heard of such a thing!” All day long Farmer Brown hears “click clack moo, clickety clackety moo…” The cows are typing to protest their working conditions— and get the other farm animals to strike along with them. Join the hilariously “mooving” musical about the art of negotiation and compromise, based on the award-winning book by Doreen Cronin and Betsy Lewin. Age recommendation: Grades Pre-K–3. 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. $6. Clemens Center, 207 Clemens Center Parkway. www.

ClemensCenter.org. 607-735-2777.

12

Syracuse. Men’s Basketball. Orange vs.

Monmouth. 7 p.m. The Dome at Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www.cuse.com.

Syracuse. Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet. The acclaimed holiday tradition is live in theaters for the 30th Anniversary tour.

Presented with larger-than-life puppets, acrobatics and costumes. Experience the exquisite artistry of the international cast, featuring stars of Ukraine Ballet, performing at the highest level of classical technique.

7:30 p.m. $45.15 to $216.60. The Oncenter Crouse Hinds Theater, 421 Montgomery St. www.championsofmagic.co.uk. 315-4358000.

DEC.

Rome. Tuba Christmas. This event showcases the talents of tuba, euphonium, baritone, and sousaphone players from across the region, who perform timeless Christmas and holiday music. 7 p.m. Free. Capitol Arts Complex, 220 W. Dominick St. www.romecapitol.com. 315337-6277. submit@RomeCapitol.com.

13

DEC.

Geneva. Todd East, Jimmy Richmond and Mike “Woody” Woodward. Enjoy a buffet dinner and a show. Pre-sale tickets advised, as space is limited. 5:30 p.m.; show 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. $10 to $40. Ventosa Vineyards, 3440 Rt 96A. https://ventosavineyards.com. 315-4917770.

14

Mumford. Holiday Afternoon Tea & Village Tour. Enjoy the historic Genesee Country Village—festively appointed for the holidays

in period decorations—followed by tea in Davis Hall, including traditional cucumber or chicken tea sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam and sweet treats. The afternoon also includes a tea etiquette talk

by Lyn Somers and a mini tour of historic Hyde and Hamilton houses. Pre-purchase of tickets is necessary, as seating is limited.

Tickets sold separately from Yuletide in the Country Tours. 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. $45 non-member; $40 member. Genesee Country Village & Museum, 1410 Flint Hill Road. www.gcv.org. 585-538-6822.

Rochester. Roc Holiday Village Winter Festival. See Dec. 2.

DEC.

Clayton. Aaron Tippin Acoustic Trio. Tippin is a country music singer, songwriter and record producer who gained a recording contract with RCA Nashville in 1990. His debut single “You’ve Got to Stand for Something” is a popular anthem for American Soldiers and helped to establish Tippin as a performer with songs that catered to the American working class. He has charted more than thirty singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts. 7 p.m. $45 to $55. Clayton Opera House, 403 Riverside Drive. www. claytonoperahouse.com. 315-686-2200. director@claytonoperahouse.com.

15

Mumford. Holiday Afternoon Tea & Village Tour. See Dec. 14.

Rochester. Disney on Ice Presents Find Your Hero. Experience feats of strength and heart in Disney On Ice presents Find Your Hero, a medley of classic and modern tales including Moana, Tangled, and Frozen. Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy set the stage for an adventure filled with tales of heroism from your favorite Disney stories in Disney On Ice presents Find Your Hero. The performance brings beloved characters to life through figure-skating, and bright costumes and set designs. Time TBA. $20+. Blue Cross Arena, One War Memorial Square. www.bluecrossarena.com. www. disneyonice.com. 585-454-5335. info@ bluecrossarena.com Rochester. Roc Holiday Village Winter Festival. See Dec. 2.

DEC.

16

Mumford. Yuletide in the Country Tours. See Dec. 2.

Rochester. A Very Merry Christmas with Jim Brickman and Mat & Savanna Shaw. Jim Brickman, the multiple Grammy nominated songwriter and piano sensation is back with an evening celebrating music, love and family. Joining him this year will be the daddy-daughter duo Mat & Savanna

Shaw performing holiday favorites such as “The Gift,” “Sending You A Little Christmas,” “Angel Eyes,” and “If You Believe.” 7:30 p.m. $48 to $78. Rochester Broadway Theatre League, 885 E. Main St. www.rbtl.org. 585222-5000. mail@rbtl.org.

Rochester. Disney on Ice Presents Find Your Hero. See Dec. 15.

Rochester. Gala Holiday Pops. Celebrate with Jeff Tyzik, conductor of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, and vocalist Shayna Steele, on stage for this Rochester Holiday tradition with a sing-along. 8 p.m.; On Saturday, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; Sunday, 8 p.m. $18 to $118. Kodak Hall, 26 Gibbs St. https://myrpo.org. 585-454-2100. patronservices@rpo.org.

Rochester. Roc Holiday Village Winter Festival. See Dec. 2.

Syracuse. Dave Landau. Working the road nonstop since his 21st birthday, Dave Landau has grown into a true comedic juggernaut. Finding himself much in demand among audiences and club owners due to his deadpan demeanor and comedic timing, he has appeared on Comedy Central’s “Live At Gotham” and was a finalist on season 8 of “Last Comic Standing.” Ages 21 and older only. 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m.; on Saturday, 7 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. $22 to $37. Funny Bone Comedy Club and Restaurant, Destiny USA, 306 Hiawatha Blvd. https://syracuse.funnybone.com/?t=1667334021.

Syracuse. Holiday Nights presented by Amazon. See Dec. 2.

Syracuse. Syracuse Crunch vs. Springfield Thunderbirds Hockey. 7 p.m. Tickets vary.

Upstate Medical Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial, 421 Montgomery St. https://syracusecrunch.com/index.aspx 315-435-8000.

Utica. Live Improve Comedy with Bus Stop Robot. Bus Stop Robot performs a completely original, totally improvised comedic stage show based on a single audience suggestion. Each show is unique. 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. $10. The Uptown Theatre, 2014 Genesee St. www.utcany.org. briana@utcany.org.

DEC.

Alexandria Bay. River Santa Festival. Enjoy food and drinks, games, hayrides, face painting, activities, a visit from Santa and more. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free. Upper James St. www. facebook.com/1000IslandsRiverSantaFestival.

17

Verona. Brass Transit. Chicago tribute band plays some of their biggest hits and favorite holiday songs. 8 p.m. $29 to $56. Turning Stone Event Center, 5218 Patrick Rd. www. turningstone.com. 877-833-7469.

Clayton. "It’s a Wonderful Life:" Live from

WVL Radio Theatre. The stage is set. It’s Christmas Eve in 1945, and only a handful of WVL Radio’s actors have braved the blizzard to perform that evening’s broadcast of It’s a Wonderful Life and keep the station afloat.

This clever stage adaptation breathes new life into the poignant story of George Bailey and Bedford Falls. 7:30 p.m. $10 to $20.

Clayton Opera House, 403 Riverside Drive. www.claytonoperahouse.com. 315-6862200. director@claytonoperahouse.com.

Mumford. Breakfast with St. Nick. Celebrate the holiday season alongside family and friends with a pancake breakfast in the Museum’s holiday-decorated Meeting Center with St. Nick. Tickets sold separately from Yuletide in the Country Tours. 9 a.m., 10:15 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 12:30 p.m. $15; $10 youth 3-12; free for children younger than 3. Genesee Country Village & Museum, 1410 Flint Hill Road. www.gcv.org. 585-538-6822.

Mumford. Yuletide in the Country Tours.

See Dec. 2.

Rochester. Disney on Ice Presents "Find Your Hero." See Dec. 15.

Rochester. Gala Holiday Pops. See Dec. 16.

Rochester. Roc Holiday Village Winter Festival. See Dec. 2.

Rochester. "Sleeping Beauty." The State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine will present the full-length ballet "Sleeping Beauty" in four acts with one intermission. The evil fairy Carabosse curses Princess Aurora for 100 years of sleep with a single finger prick on her 16th birthday. Doomed by fate, only a sweet kiss from the prince can break the spell and wake up the Sleeping Beauty. 10% ticket discounts for seniors 65+, children 12 and younger, students and groups of 10 or more. 5 p.m. $48 to $78. Rochester Broadway Theatre League, 885 E. Main St. www.rbtl.org. 585-222-5000. mail@rbtl.org.

Rome. "It’s a Wonderful Life." View Frank Capra’s It’s a Wonderful Life seen in a restored 35mm film print from the Library of Congress. The perennial holiday favorite is about a man who has a chance to see what life in his small upstate New York town would have been like if he had never been born. James Stewart, Donna Reed, and Lionel Barrymore star in the film. 7 p.m. On Sunday, 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Ticket cost TBA. Capitol Arts Complex, 220 W. Dominick St. www.romecapitol.com. 315-337-6277. submit@RomeCapitol.com.

Syracuse. Bones East Concert. Enjoy a family-friendly holiday concert featuring popular Christmas music including "Jingle Bells," "The Twelve Days of Christmas" and "Silent Night" with soloist Dave De Ginerro.

Bones East, a 25- to 30-piece trombone ensemble, was founded by Howard Kelly in the early 1980’s and has performed at col-

2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 43

& BOOKS LONGS’ CARDS OFFICE SUPPLIES

Open Daily 10-5 www.murandacheese.com

Sun–Thur: 11:30am-8pm Fri & Sat: 11:30am-10pm 115 Main St, Beautiful Downtown Penn Yan, NY 14527 Ph 315-536-3131 • Fax 315-536-6743 shop@longscardsandbooks.com

leges, universities, churches and community events throughout Central New York. The ensemble includes a range of musicians mostly semi-professionals, retirees, and students who volunteer their time and talent.

11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Free. Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St. www.everson.org.

315-657-6558. dperry6102020@gmail.com.

ville Road. www.scholasyracuse. com/?t=1667348766. 315-446-1757. pianoem51@yahoo.com.

Syracuse. Holiday Nights presented by Amazon. See Dec. 2.

Rochester. Gala Holiday Pops. See Dec. 16.

Syracuse. Men’s Basketball. Orange vs. Cornell. 3 p.m. The Dome at Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www.cuse.com.

Mumford. Breakfast with St. Nick. See Dec. 17.

Rochester. Disney on Ice Presents "Find Your Hero." See Dec. 15.

Syracuse. Women’s Basketball. Orange vs.

Wake Forest. 12 p.m. The Dome at Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www.cuse.com.

Syracuse. North Pole Pajama Parties. See Dec. 3.

Syracuse. Symphoria Pops II: Holiday Pops.

Celebrate the season with holiday music.

American Idol finalist and country music star Brooke White and the Syracuse Pops Chorus join Symphoria. 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. $90 to $20; $5 college student; free 18 and younger. The Oncenter Crouse Hinds Theater, 421 Montgomery St. 315-435-8000.

Syracuse. Syracuse Crunch vs. Bridgeport Islanders Hockey. 7 p.m. Tickets vary. Upstate Medical Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial, 421 Montgomery St. https://syracusecrunch.com/index.aspx 315-435-8000.

Syracuse. Winter Bazaar. This family-friendly event promotes small businesses. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free. Aloft Hotel, 310 W Kirkpatrick St. 315-525-4854.

DEC.

Dewitt. Schola Cantorum presents: Nowell: English Music For The Season For Voices and Viols.

Schola Cantorum’s singers and instrumentalists performs anthems and carols by Byrd, Gibbons and Tompkins and dances by Holborne. 4 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. $20; $15 seniors.

Pebble Hill Presbyterian Church, 5299 James-

18

DEC.

Buffalo. "Elf the Musical." Elf is the humorous tale of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. Unaware that he is actually human, Buddy’s enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father. Based on the beloved 2003 New Line Cinema hit. Best suited for children aged 8 and older. Children 5 and younger will not be admitted. 7 p.m. On 12/28 and 30, an additional 1 p.m. performance; on 12/31, only a 1 p.m. performance. $40 to $100. Shea’s Performing Arts Center, 646 Main St. www.sheas.org/performances.

26

Syracuse. The Great Salt City Blues Concert 6. Each year features a different lineup of the area’s top performers, including Tas Cru, Morris Tarbell, Colin Aberdeen, Ava Andrews, Dave Liddy, Jes Sheldon, Jeff Stockham, Rod Zajak, Ronnie Leigh, Rob Spagnoletti, Jake Capozzolo, Garnet Grimm, Steven T. Winston

44 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

41 Shethar St., Hammondsport, NY 14840 607-246-4000 • HammondsportBurgers@gmail.com and more. 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. $30 advance; $40 at the door. Palace Theater, 2384 James St. https://bluewaverecords.com/thegreat-salt-city-blues-concert?t=1667349639.

315-638-4286. gspencer57@verizon.net.

DEC.

27

Buffalo. "Elf the Musical." See Dec. 26.

DEC.

28

Buffalo. "Elf the Musical." See Dec. 26.

DEC.

Buffalo. Elf the Musical. See Dec. 26.

Verona. Tony Orlando: Tie A Yellow Ribbon ‘Round The Ole Christmas Tree. Tony Orlando sings holiday music live.

8 p.m. $71 to $113. Turning Stone Event Center, 5218 Patrick Rd. www.turningstone. com. 877-833-7469.

29

Syracuse. Disney On Ice presents "Let’s Celebrate." Grab your Mickey ears and get ready for a party featuring 50 unforgettable Disney characters. Hosted

by Mickey and Minnie, go on an adventure through 14 of the greatest Disney stories ever told, including Frozen, Aladdin, Toy Story, The Lion King, and more. Times vary; check website. $18 to $115 (additional fees may apply). Upstate Medical Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial, 421 Montgomery St. www.disneyonice.com.

Waterloo. Tony Bennett Tribute Show: An Evening with Barbra Streisand, Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga. This tribute stars Sharon Owens as Barbra Streisand and Lady Gaga and Steve Leeds as Tony Bennett. Sharon is

THE BEST OF WINTER IN THE FINGER LAKES considered the country’s premier look alike and sound alike of Barbara and Steve’s vocal impression of Tony is so strong that the real Streisand and Tony Bennett praised him when they saw him perform in NYC. Ages 21 and older only. 8 p.m. $25. Del Lago Resort and Casino, 1133 State Route 414. https://dellagoresort.com/entertainment.

315-946-1777.

DEC.

30

Buffalo. "Elf the Musical." See Dec. 26.

Syracuse. Disney On Ice presents "Let’s Celebrate." See Dec. 29.

Syracuse. Jessimae Peluso. Syracuse native Jessimae Peluso has been seen and heard on "The Joe Rogan Experience," Andrew Santino’s "Whiskey Ginger," Doug Benson’s "Getting Doug with High," MTV’s "Girl Code and Safe", "World’s Funniest Fails," Kevin Hart’s "Laugh Out Loud Network, Comedy Knockout," "The Funny Dance Show," the late great Chelsea Lately, and more. Jessimae has been featured in the Moontower Comedy Festival, New York

Comedy Festival, Boston Comedy Festival, North Carolina Comedy; Arts Festival, and Just For Laughs. Ages 21 and older only.

7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. On 12/31, 7 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. $25 to $30. Funny Bone Comedy Club and Restaurant, Destiny USA, 306 Hiawatha Blvd. https://syracuse.funnybone. com/?t=1667334021.

Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www. cuse.com.

Verona. ZBTB. Zac Brown Tribute Band plays live. 8 p.m. $29 to $48. Turning Stone Event Center, 5218 Patrick Rd. www.turningstone.com. 877-833-7469.

SUNDAYS, TUESDAYS, FRIDAYS and SATURDAYS

DEC.

31

Buffalo. Elf the Musical. See Dec. 26.

Oswego. Men’s Hockey vs.

Adrian/Williams. Time TBA. Marano Campus Center Arena, 7060 NY-Rte. 104. https://oswegolakers.com/calendar.aspx?id=20553.

Syracuse. Disney On Ice presents Let’s Celebrate. See Dec. 29.

JANUARY Oswego. Public Ice Skating. Bring your own skates or rent for $2. Family skate time requires an adult with all youth under age 18. Public skate is free for city residents. Ice rink rental is available for private events for $150/hour. James P. Cullinan Rink is open Sundays 5:30 to 7 p.m. for families and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. for the public; Tuesdays 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. for families; Fridays 8:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. for the public; Saturdays 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. for families; 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. for the public. 281 W. Fifth St. 315-342-8167.

Syracuse. Jessimae Peluso. See Dec. 30.

TUESDAYS

Syracuse. Men’s Basketball. Orange vs.

Boston College. Time TBA. The Dome at

Auburn. Open Mic Night. Watch or perform music, comedy and spoken word art

Cosentino’s Ristorante

A specialty store where you’ll find Novelties and Classics • The usual and unusual

A LOCAL FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS SINCE 1996

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 585-394-2319

120 S. Main St., Canandaigua

AS SEEN ON FOOD NETWORK’S RESTAURANT IMPOSSIBLE

Authentic Italian Cuisine Offering dine in, take out, or delivery

(315) 789-1638 1 Railroad Place, Geneva, NY • www.cosentinosgeneva.com

2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 45

Fingerlakes Winery & Vineyard

rown & G ly b a in ta s u S ced Locally Produ Visit us today!

197 North Main Street, Naples, NY 585-374-5970 | inspiremoorewinery.com on Stage Right. Full instrument back line available. 7:30. $2. Auburn Public Theater, 8 Exchange St. https://auburnpublictheater. org. 315-253-6669.

JAN.

Broome County Festival of Lights. In its third year, the Festival of Lights is bigger than ever with more displays and out-of-the-car experiences. On select nights, enjoy food and drinks from vendors and meet Santa, or ride the train around the park. More details on the Facebook page and website.

5 p.m. to 9 p.m. $25 per car or $50 season pass. Otsiningo Park, 1 Otsiningo Road. www.bcfestivaloflights.com. 607-761-2475.

1

Liverpool. Lights on the Lake. See December Daily.

New York City. Radio City Christmas Spectacular: Radio City Rockettes. The classic Christmas extravaganza high steps back onto the stage for another year of this unparalleled live show. Check the website for tickets and showtimes. $75 to $225. Radio City Music Hall, 1260 Avenue of the Americas. www.radiocity.com. 800-475-7085.

Syracuse. Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Dive into musical family fun with Ariel, Sebastian, and all the watery gang from this beloved tale. With aerial acrobatics provided by 2 Ring Circus, this production promises enough thrills and delights for landlubbers of all ages. No show on 12/6, 12/25 and 1/3.

Times vary. $35. Syracuse Stage Complex, 820 E. Genesee St. www.syracusestage. org. 315-443-3275. info@syracusestag.org.

Syracuse. "Disney On Ice" presents Let’s Celebrate. See Dec. 29.

Syracuse. Monday Night Salsa. Learn Latin dance in a group setting. Take an hourlong Latin dance lesson led by experienced instructors. For the next hour, practice your moves and any skills you want to work on.

The evening concludes with an hour-long informal Latin dance social. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Free. Epicuse, 330 S. Salina St. www.

epicuse.net. 315-572-6231. RitmoFlow315@ gmail.com.

Syracuse. Women’s Basketball. Orange vs.

North Carolina State. 7 p.m. The Dome at Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www. cuse.com.

JAN.

2

Liverpool. Lights on the Lake.

See December Daily.

New York City. Radio City Christmas Spectacular: Radio City Rockettes.

See Jan. 1.

Syracuse. Disney’s "The Little Mermaid."

See Jan. 1.

Syracuse. Disney On Ice presents "Let’s Celebrate." See Dec. 29.

JAN.

3

Liverpool. Lights on the Lake.

See December Daily.

JAN.

4

Liverpool. Lights on the Lake.

See December Daily.

JAN.

Liverpool. Lights on the Lake.

See December Daily.

Oswego. Women’s Hockey vs.

Amherst. 5 p.m. Marano Campus Center Arena, 7060 NY-Rte. 104. https://oswegolakers.com/calendar.aspx?id=20553.

Syracuse. Disney’s "The Little Mermaid." See Jan. 1.

5

Syracuse. Disney’s The Little Mermaid. See Jan. 1.

Syracuse. Women’s Basketball. Orange vs.

Pittsburgh. 6 p.m. The Dome at Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www.cuse.com.

JAN.

6

46 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

Liverpool. Lights on the Lake.

See December Daily.

Penn Yan. First Friday. Every first Friday of each month, select businesses with red balloons in downtown will stay open late with promotions and unique offerings. 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Free. Downtown. Yates County Chamber of Commerce, 2375 Route 14A. 315-536-3111. info@yatesny.com.

Oswego. Women’s Basketball vs. Buffalo.

5:30 p.m.; Men’s Basketball vs. Buffalo 7:30 p.m. 7060 NY-Rte. 104. https://oswegolakers.com/calendar.aspx?id=20553.

Syracuse. Disney’s "The Little Mermaid."

See Jan. 1.

Syracuse. Ivan Decker. Originally from Vancouver and now Los Angeles-based, Ivan Decker is a writer, standup comic and actor, known for his sharp, polished, and multi-layered observational comedy. Decker has had numerous television performances filmed at the Just for Laughs Montreal festival, the Winnipeg and Halifax Comedy festivals for CBC Television and can be heard across North America on Sirius XM radio. Decker just shot a half hour comedy special for Netflix at the 2018 Montreal Just for Laughs Festival. Ages 21 and older only.

7:45 p.m. On 1/7 7 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. $20 Funny Bone Comedy Club and Restaurant, Destiny USA, 306 Hiawatha Blvd. https:// syracuse.funnybone.com/?t=1667334021.

Syracuse. Syracuse Crunch vs. Belleville Senators Hockey. 7 p.m. Tickets vary. Upstate Medical Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial, 421 Montgomery St. https://syracusecrunch.com/index.aspx 315-435-8000.

JAN.

7

Liverpool. Lights on the Lake.

See December Daily.

Syracuse. Disney’s "The Little Mermaid." See Jan. 1.

Syracuse. Ivan Decker. See Jan. 6.

Syracuse. Syracuse Crunch vs. Rochester Americans Hockey. 7 p.m. Tickets vary. Upstate Medical Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial, 421 Montgomery St. https://syr-

Small Business Saturday, Nov. 26 Specialty Restaurants ~ Services Enter toShops Win~$25 in Gift Certificates

Festival of Lights Friday, Dec. 2 5-8 pm Wagon Rides - Live Entertainment Specialty Shops – Restaurants – Peirce’s Gift Shop ~ Street Arts Services – Main Museum Sandy’s Floral Gallery ~ Sulfur Books Checkmates Preloved Home Accents CliftonSpringsChamber.com Dork Forest Comics ~ Parks ~ Labyrinth 315-462-8200 Foster Cottage Museum ~ Salons ~ Spa Warfield’s Restaurant, Lounge & Bakery acusecrunch.com/index.aspx 315-435-8000.

Verona. Led Zeppelin Tribute. An all-girl tribute band delivers legendary Led Zeppelin arrangements live. 8 p.m. $31 to $60.

Turning Stone Event Center, 5218 Patrick Rd. www.turningstone.com. 877-833-7469.

JAN.

8

Liverpool. Lights on the Lake.

See December Daily.

JAN.

Liverpool. Lights on the Lake.

See December Daily.

Syracuse. Disney’s The Little Mermaid. See Jan. 1.

9 JAN.

10

Liverpool. Lights on the Lake.

See December Daily.

JAN.

Liverpool. Lights on the Lake.

See December Daily.

Syracuse. Women’s Ice Hockey.

Orange vs. Colgate. 6 p.m. Tennity Ice Pavilion, 511 Skytop Rd. www.cuse.com.

11

Syracuse. Men’s Basketball. Orange vs.

Virginia Tech. 7 p.m. The Dome at Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www.cuse.com.

JAN.

LakePlacid2023.

Liverpool. Lights on the Lake. See December Daily.

Lake Placid. Lake Placid 2023 JAN. Lake Placid. Lake Placid 2023 FISU World University Games.

FISU World University Games.

Watch the largest winter multiSee Jan. 12. sport collegiate athletic event Just South ofinNYS Thruway, Borders Route 96 Liverpool.

Lights on the Lake. See Decemthe world. Collegiate athletes from more Near Canandaigua & Geneva than 50 countries will gather in the Adiron- ber Daily. dack Mountains at the CliftonSpringsChamber.com Olympic Alpine Village Syracuse. Brian Regan.

Having built his ~ 315.462.8200 to celebrate, compete, and enjoy a one-of- 30-plus year career on the strength of his a-kind winter festival experience. The 11-day material alone, Brian’s non-stop comedy international festival and competition com- tour continuously fills the numerous venues bines high-level sport with educational and across North America, visiting close to 100 cultural events, all taking place in Lake cities each year. 8 p.m. $50 to $368.15. The Placid and nearby towns. The 31st Winter Oncenter Crouse Hinds Theater, 421 MontWorld University Games will include compe- gomery St. 315-435-8000. titions in 12 winter sports. Collegiate athletes Syracuse. Steve Byrne. Steve Byrne has risen between the ages of 17 and 25 are eligible through the ranks of the comedy world to to enter, with teams selected by their nation- become one of the industry’s most innovaal university sports federations. Events in- tive and sought-after performers. Byrne has clude ice hockey, short track speed skating, performed to sold-out crowds around the speed skating, figure skating, ski jumping, world. Ages 21 and older only. 7:30 p.m. On snowboarding, freestyle & free ski, curling, 1/14 7 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. $20. Funny Bone Nordic combined, cross-country skiing, bi- Comedy Club and Restaurant, Destiny USA, athlon and alpine skiing. The website lists 306 Hiawatha Blvd. https://syracuse.funnythe complete schedule and ticket prices. bone.com/?t=1667334021.

Tickets available online. 608 Main St. www. lakeplacid2023.com. www.facebook.com/ Syracuse. Syracuse Crunch vs. Laval Rocket

12

13

2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 47

Hockey. 7 p.m. Tickets vary. Upstate Medical Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial, 421 Montgomery St. https://syracusecrunch. com/index.aspx 315-435-8000.

Syracuse. Women’s Ice Hockey. Orange vs. Cornell. 6 p.m. Tennity Ice Pavilion, 511 Skytop Rd. www.cuse.com.

JAN.

JAN.

Buffalo. Buffalo Wine Festival.

Choose from two sessions at this premier wine tasting event, which also includes food and product vendors. Participating wineries include Cooper’s Daughter Spirits at Olde York Farm, Four Fights Distilling, Montezuma Winery, Schulze Vineyards & Winery, Sprague Vineyards, and Thousand Island Winery. Buffalo Niagara Convention Center, Convention Center Plaza, 153 Franklin St. https://buffalowinefestival. com.

14

Lake Placid. Lake Placid 2023 FISU World University Games. See Jan. 12.

Syracuse. Men’s Basketball. Orange vs.

Notre Dame. 7 p.m. The Dome at Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www.cuse.com.

Syracuse. Steve Byrne. See Jan. 13.

JAN.

15

Lake Placid. Lake Placid 2023 FISU World University Games.

See Jan. 12.

Syracuse. Women’s Basketball. Orange vs.

Notre Dame. 2 p.m. The Dome at Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www.cuse.com.

JAN.

16

Lake Placid. Lake Placid 2023 FISU World University Games.

See Jan. 12.

Syracuse. Syracuse Crunch vs. Utica Comets Hockey. 7 p.m. Tickets vary. Upstate Medical Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial, 421 Montgomery St. https://syracusecrunch. com/index.aspx 315-435-8000.

JAN.

17

Lake Placid. Lake Placid 2023 FISU World University Games.

See Jan. 12.

Syracuse. "Anastasia." Inspired by the beloved films, the romantic and adventure-filled new musical "Anastasia" is by the Tony Award-winning creators of the Broadway classic Ragtime. Experience the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past.

The Saturday, Jan. 21 matinee performance will be ASL interpreted. Times and ticket costs TBA. Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St. https://landmarktheatre.org. 315-4757979. info@landmarktheatre.org.

18

Lake Placid. Lake Placid 2023 FISU World University Games.

See Jan. 12.

Oswego. Women’s Swimming and Diving and Men’s Swimming and Diving vs. SUNY Cortland. 4 p.m. 7060 NY-Rte. 104. https:// oswegolakers.com/calendar.aspx?id=20553.

Syracuse. "Anastasia." See Jan. 17.

JAN.

19

Lake Placid. Lake Placid 2023 FISU World University Games.

See Jan. 12.

Syracuse. "Anastasia." See Jan. 17.

JAN.

Chenango Forks. Binghamton Pond Festival. Watch or join hockey games for all ages, obstacle race, snowshoe race, trail race and a hockey trivia competition. Fireworks shows on two nights. The festival features mechanical refrigeration for the 220-foot by 110-foot outdoor ice rink to manage warm weather issues. 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. $10 suggested parking fee per car. Chenango Valley State Park, 153 State Park Road. http://bingpondfest.com. www.facebook.com/bingpondfest.

607-205-0365. bingpondfest@gmail.com.

20

Lake Placid. Lake Placid 2023 FISU World University Games. See Jan. 12.

Rochester. Gershwin, Berlin and Friends.

The toe-tapping, finger-snapping program shines the spotlight on the music of great early 20th century composers, including George Gershwin ("Fascinating Rhythm"), Irving Berlin ("Alexander’s Ragtime Band"), and Isham Jones ("It Had To Be You"), that have the timeless melodies and rhythms that continue to lift our spirits today. Bassist and jazz vocalist Nicki Parrott who has garnered over 5 million views on Youtube, joins Byron Stripling to create a musical portrait of how these songs shaped the Great American Songbook. 8 p.m. $18 to $118. Kodak Hall, 26 Gibbs St. https://myrpo.org. 585-454-2100. patronservices@rpo.org.

Syracuse. Anastasia. See Jan. 17.

JAN.

21

Chenango Forks. Binghamton Pond Festival. See Jan. 20.

Lake Placid. Lake Placid 2023 FISU World University Games. See Jan. 12.

Syracuse. Anastasia. See Jan. 17.

Syracuse. Syracuse Crunch vs. Utica Comets

48 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

Hockey. 7 p.m. Tickets vary. Upstate Medical Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial, 421 Montgomery St. https://syracusecrunch. com/index.aspx 315-435-8000.

Rochester. Gershwin, Berlin and Friends.

See Jan. 20.

Verona. "Dancing with the Stars" Live.

America’s favorite dance show is back on tour. See the ballroom brought to life in this brand-new production featuring your favorite "Dancing with the Stars" pros, plus special guest stars. 8 p.m. $49 to $169.

Turning Stone Event Center, 5218 Patrick Rd. www.turningstone.com. 877-833-7469.

JAN.

22

Chenango Forks. Binghamton Pond Festival. See Jan. 20.

Lake Placid. Lake Placid 2023 FISU World University Games. See Jan. 12.

Rochester. Fun Frozen Favorites. Warm up with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra with musical highlights from Disney’s "Frozen" and other frigid favorites. 2 p.m. $20 adults; $10 children. Hochstein Performance Hall, 50 N. Plymouth Ave. https://myrpo.org.

585-454-2100. patronservices@rpo.org.

JAN.

Buffalo. Dancing with the Stars Live. 7:30 p.m. $450 to $215.

Shea’s Performing Arts Center, 646 Main St. www.sheas.org/performances.

24

Syracuse. Men’s Basketball. Orange vs.

North Carolina. 9 p.m. The Dome at Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www.cuse.com.

JAN.

Buffalo. Disney On Ice presents "Into The Magic." Hosts Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse bring audiences on an expedition across raging seas, snow covered mountains and the marigold bridge in Disney On Ice presents "Into The Magic." This action-packed performance, produced by Feld Entertainment, Inc., features Disney’s "Moana," "Frozen," "Coco" and "Beauty and the Beast" with other beloved Disney characters. 7 p.m.; On 1/28, 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.; on 1/29, 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. $26.95 to $76. KeyBank Center, 1 Seymour H Knox III Plaza. www. keybankcenter.com.

26

Syracuse. Women’s Basketball. Orange vs. Virginia. 7 p.m. The Dome at Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www.cuse.com.

Watkins Glen. Fire & Ice. More than 20,000 lbs. of ice is meticulously carved into ice sculptures, martini luges, and even bars.

After enjoying the chilling experience on the patio, head inside to warm up the live music, light hors d’oeuvres, chili and chowder. The

Bold Reds Crisp Whites Breathtaking Views

Open Daily 11 am – 5 pm

Join us in our cozy tasting room for a flight of our award winning wines & a bite from our Phoenician Bistro overlooking the beautiful Seneca Lake.

Choose to upgrade to an innovative, handcrafted food and wine paring for an elevated experience like no other!

315-585-6402 www.zugibeyards.com 4248 East Lake Rd., Geneva

Home of Tug Hill Vineyards, Spirits, Orchards & Event Center Tastings – Sunday Brunch - U-Pick Pairing Dinners - Wine Down Public & Private Events 4051 Yancey Road Lowville, NY 13367 315-376-4336

www.tughillvineyards.com

Facebook and Instagram @TugHillEstate

evening concludes with fireworks over the harbor. Limited space, so make reservations early. Time and admission TBA. Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, 16 N. Franklin St. www. watkinsglenharborhotel.com/watkins-glenny-ice-bar. www.facebook.com/watkinsglenharborhotel. 607-535-6116.

JAN.

27

Buffalo. Disney On Ice presents "Into The Magic." See Jan. 26.

Chenango Forks. Binghamton Pond Festival. See Jan. 20.

Syracuse. Syracuse Crunch vs. Utica Comets Hockey. 7 p.m. Tickets vary. Upstate Medical Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial, 421 Montgomery St. https://syracusecrunch. com/index.aspx 315-435-8000.

Syracuse. Women’s Ice Hockey. Orange vs.

RIT. 6 p.m. Tennity Ice Pavilion, 511 Skytop Rd. www.cuse.com.

Verona. Chris Young. Famous Friends Tour.

With a hit-packed set list including “Famous Friends,” “Losing Sleep,” “Sober Saturday Night,” “Think of You” and “I’m Comin’ Over,” Grammy- and ACM-nominated country star, Chris Young, will perform live. VIP packages available. 8 p.m. $49 to $225. Turning Stone Event Center, 5218 Patrick Rd. www.turningstone.com. 877-833-7469.

Watkins Glen. Fire & Ice. See Jan. 26.

JAN.

28

Buffalo. Disney On Ice presents Into The Magic. See Jan. 26.

Chenango Forks. Binghamton Pond Festival. See Jan. 20.

Verona. Satisfaction. The International Rolling Stones Tribute Show performs live, featuring the Stones’ classic songs. 8 p.m. $34 to $56. Turning Stone Event Center, 5218 Patrick Rd. www.turningstone.com.

877-833-7469.

Watkins Glen. Fire & Ice. See Jan. 26.

JAN.

29

Buffalo. Disney On Ice presents Into The Magic. See Jan. 26.

Chenango Forks. Binghamton Pond Festival. See Jan. 20.

Syracuse. Women’s Basketball. Orange vs.

Louisville. 7 p.m. The Dome at Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www.cuse.com.

JAN.

Syracuse. Men’s Basketball.

Orange vs. Virginia. 7 p.m. The Dome at Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www.cuse.com.

30

FEBRUARY SUNDAYS, TUESDAYS, FRIDAYS and SATURDAYS Oswego. Public Ice Skating. Bring your own skates or rent for $2. Family skate time requires an adult with all youth under age 18.

Public skate is free for city residents. Ice rink rental is available for private events for $150/ hour. James P. Cullinan Rink is open Sundays 5:30 to 7 p.m. for families and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. for the public; Tuesdays 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. for families; Fridays 8:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. for the public; Saturdays 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. for families; 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. for the public. 281 W. Fifth St. 315-342-8167.

TUESDAYS Auburn. Open Mic Night. Watch or perform music, comedy and spoken word art on Stage Right. Full instrument back line available. 7:30. $2. Auburn Public Theater, 8 Exchange St. https://auburnpublictheater. org. 315-253-6669.

WEEKENDS Lake George. Winter Carnival. This fami-

2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 49

Discover

InletNY.com

Inlet, NY

Saturday, February 25, 2023

Frozen Fire & Lights Inlet’s Winter Festival

Cardboard Sleds & Kites &Outhouses!

Ice Skating, Cross-country Skiing, Snowshoeing, Bonfires, Fireworks!

Fern Park & Arrowhead Park

FrozenFireandLights.com

Christy’s Motel • Efficiency • Spacious Rooms • Air Conditioning • Complimentary Coffee • Handicapped Accessible • Children’s Play Area • Heated Pool

Syracuse. Josh Blue. See Feb. 3.

FEB.

Alexandria Bay. 1000 Islands Pond Hockey Classic 2023. Play or watch 3-on-3 pond hockey with a maximum of four players per team (35+ age divisions have a five-player max).

Five co-ed divisions. Play on 100′ x 50′ rinks with 18″ high boards and lights for night games. Location is dependent on ice conditions/weather and is subject to change at any time. Register your team by January 21st.

9 a.m. $400 entry fee; free to watch. Bonnie Castle Manor, 31 Holland St. www.riverhockeyclassic.com.

3

Chenango Forks. Binghamton Pond Festival. See Jan. 20.

Lake Placid. Empire State Winter Games.

See Feb. 2.

Penn Yan. First Friday. Every first Friday of each month, select businesses with red balloons in downtown will stay open late with promotions and unique offerings. 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Free. Downtown. Yates County Chamber of Commerce, 2375 Route 14A. 315-536-3111. info@yatesny.com.

Saranac Lake. 2023 Saranac Lake Winter Carnival. See Feb. 2.

Old Forge, NY • 315-369-6138 www.ChristysMotel.com ly-friendly celebration includes wintertime favorite food samples, cookoffs, outhouse races, ATV races, Polar Plunge, fireworks, children’s activities, and more. Visit the website for a complete list of events and times. www.lakegeorgewintercarnival.com. www. facebook.com/Lake-George-Winter-Carnival-113179138694047.

FEB.

2

Chenango Forks. Binghamton Pond Festival. See Jan. 20.

Lake Placid. Empire State Winter Games. The 2023 Empire State Winter Games is a multi-day sports event. The Games bring together athletes from across New York State and beyond to compete in over 30 winter sports events. 2634 Main St. www.empirestatewintergames.com.

Saranac Lake. 2023 Saranac Lake Winter Carnival. Enjoy fun activities for all ages, including fun run, obstacle course, icicle contest, frying pan toss, downhill ski race, snow rugby and more. See the website for a complete schedule. www.saranaclakewintercarnival.com.

Syracuse. Josh Blue. Josh Blue has been a fast-rising star since first appearing on Comedy Central’s “Mind of Mencia” before gaining the attention and endearment of the country as a favorite on NBC’s “Last Comic Standing.” Ages 21 and older only. 7:30 p.m.

On 2/4 7 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. $30. Funny Bone Comedy Club and Restaurant, Destiny USA, 306 Hiawatha Blvd. https://syracuse.funnybone.com/?t=1667334021.

Syracuse. Syracuse Crunch vs. Charlotte Checkers Hockey. 7 p.m. Tickets vary. Upstate Medical Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial, 421 Montgomery St. https://syracusecrunch.com/index.aspx 315-435-8000.

Syracuse. Women’s Ice Hockey. Orange vs.

Penn State. 6 p.m. Tennity Ice Pavilion, 511 Skytop Rd. www.cuse.com.

Syracuse. Nat King Cole Songbook. Denzal Sinclaire, one of Canada’s most popular jazz vocalists, takes the stage with Symphoria to present the timeless music of Nat King Cole.

7:30 p.m. $43 to $73. Oncenter Crouse Hinds Concert Theater, 421 Montgomery St. http:// experiencesymphoria.org.

Syracuse. Syracuse Crunch vs. Charlotte Checkers Hockey. 7 p.m. Tickets vary. Upstate Medical Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial, 421 Montgomery St. https://syracusecrunch.com/index.aspx 315-435-8000.

Syracuse. Women’s Ice Hockey. Orange vs.

Penn State. 3 p.m. Tennity Ice Pavilion, 511 Skytop Rd. www.cuse.com.

Verona. Magic Rocks. Illusionist Leon Etienne rocks venues around the world with his critically acclaimed rock and magic show.

4 p.m. and 8 p.m. $34 to $56. Turning Stone Event Center, 5218 Patrick Rd. www.turningstone.com. 877-833-7469.

FEB.

5

Lake Placid. Empire State Winter Games. See Feb. 2.

Saranac Lake. 2023 Saranac Lake Winter Carnival. See Feb. 2.

Syracuse. Women’s Basketball. Orange vs. Boston. 2 p.m. The Dome at Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www.cuse.com.

FEB.

6

Saranac Lake. 2023 Saranac Lake Winter Carnival. See Feb. 2.

FEB.

Saranac Lake. 2023 Saranac Lake Winter Carnival. See Feb. 2.

7 FEB.

FEB.

4

Alexandria Bay. 1000 Islands Pond Hockey Classic 2023. See Feb. 3.

Chenango Forks. Binghamton Pond Festival. See Jan. 20.

Lake Placid. Empire State Winter Games.

See Feb. 2.

Saranac Lake. 2023 Saranac Lake Winter Carnival. See Feb. 2.

50 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

Chenango Forks. Binghamton Pond Festival. See Jan. 20.

8 FEB.

Saranac Lake. 2023 Saranac Lake Winter Carnival. See Feb. 2.

Rochester. Rooted in Rochester.

Jeff Tyzik, principal pops conductor, makes a guest appearance in the Philharmonics series to conduct this special concert, a celebration of the rich history of black Rochesterians. Internationally acclaimed Rochesterians Kearstin Piper Brown and Thomas Warfield join the RPO

9

THE BEST OF WINTER IN THE NORTH COUNTRY for this program, featuring works with direct ties to Rochester by Adolphus Hailstork, Nkeiru Okoye, Duke Ellington, and an RPO Co-comission by James Lee III. A highlight of the night will be William Grant Still’s Afro-American Symphony, which was premiered in Rochester by the RPO in 1931.

Pre-concert talk will start 1 hour before the show. 7:30 p.m. On Saturday, 8 p.m. $18 to $89. Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre, 26 Gibbs St. https://myrpo.org. 585-454-2100. patronservices@rpo.org.

Saranac Lake. 2023 Saranac Lake Winter Carnival. See Feb. 2.

Syracuse. Women’s Basketball. Orange vs.

North Carolina State. 7 p.m. The Dome at Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www. cuse.com.

FEB.

Rochester. Valentine’s Soul Jam. Enjoy an evening featuring live performances from The Whispers, Heat Wave and Howard Hewett. 8 p.m. $62.50 to $128.50. Rochester Broadway Theatre League, 885 E. Main St. www.rbtl. org. 585-222-5000. mail@rbtl.org.

10

Saranac Lake. 2023 Saranac Lake Winter Carnival. See Feb. 2.

Syracuse. Women’s Ice Hockey. Orange vs.

Mercyhurst. 6 p.m. Tennity Ice Pavilion, 511 Skytop Rd. www.cuse.com.

FEB.

Fulton. The Great Eastern Whiteout: Antique & Vintage Snowmobile Show/Swap-Meet & Vintage Trail Ride. Vendors available indoors. 8 a.m.

Fulton War Memorial, 609 W Broadway. 315592-4892 or 315-652-9603. Jlatino@twcny. rr.com or snomoman@aol.com.

11

Rochester. Rooted in Rochester. See Feb. 9.

Saranac Lake. 2023 Saranac Lake Winter Carnival. See Feb. 2.

Lacona. Winona Forest Tourathon.

Snow-making and professional grooming equipment keeps the terrain pristine for the Tourathon’s Nordic skiers. Post-race festivities include hot soup and hot chocolate, top finisher awards and a bonfire. Bib pick-up and sign-in begins at 7:30 a.m. $30 to $60 registration, depending upon the

race and age. CCC Camp in Winona Forest, Center Rd. www.winonaforest.com. info@ winonaforest.com.

Syracuse. Women’s Ice Hockey. Orange vs.

Mercyhurst. 3 p.m. Tennity Ice Pavilion, 511 Skytop Rd. www.cuse.com.

FEB.

Fulton. The Great Eastern Whiteout: Antique & Vintage Snowmobile Show/Swap-Meet & Vintage Trail Ride. See Feb. 11.

12

Saranac Lake. 2023 Saranac Lake Winter Carnival. See Feb. 2.

Syracuse. Syracuse Crunch vs. Rochester Americans Hockey. 7 p.m. Tickets vary. Upstate Medical Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial, 421 Montgomery St. https://syracusecrunch.com/index.aspx 315-435-8000.

FEB.

Rochester. "Beetlejuice: The Musical." Based on Tim Burton’s beloved film, this comedic musical tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose whole life

14

Only 2 hours from Syracuse!

Discover

Cindy Mears Lic RE Broker/Owner

CindyTugHill@gmail.com

315-387-5801

Four Seasons of Trails

On New York’s Northern Border!

For more information call 315-454-4700 1844-4BRKSHR or visit

Berkshirefarm.org today!

GREAT Riverside Run

GREAT Nature Nuts

rence County, N Y Law St.

ST

LC T R AILS

ST

LC T R AILS

GREAT WATERFALL CRAWL rence County, NY St. Law

TLC

S

Become a Foster or Adoptive Parent Today!

T R AIL

Explore the Great 8 Trail Challenge at:

STLCtrails.com

S

THERE ARE HUNDREDS OF CHILDREN IN FOSTER CARE THAT NEED YOUR LOVE!

®NYSDED

View all area listings at www.TugHillRealEstate.com

For more info.: VisitSTLC.com | 1-877-228-7810

Ber

Fo call 1

2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 51

Par

changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes. 7:30 p.m. each night through Thursday. On Friday, 8 p.m.; Saturday 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Ticket cost TBA. Rochester Broadway Theatre League, 885 E. Main St. www.rbtl.org. 585222-5000. mail@rbtl.org.

Syracuse. Men’s Basketball. Orange vs. NC State. 7 p.m. The Dome at Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www.cuse.com.

Syracuse. Pat DaBiere. This high-energy comedian delivers the laughs in rapid-fire succession. He has toured comedy clubs, casinos, theaters, and entertainment resorts since 2012 and has recorded two albums, “Displaced Aggression” (2014) and “What time is that show?” (2018). Ages 21 and older only. 7:30 p.m. $20. Funny Bone Comedy Club and Restaurant, Destiny USA, 306 Hiawatha Blvd. https://syracuse.funnybone. com/?t=1667334021.

FEB.

15

Rochester. "Beetlejuice: The Musical." See Feb. 14.

FEB.

Rochester. "Beetlejuice: The Musical." See Feb. 14.

16

Syracuse. Syracuse Winterfest 2023. From the center of downtown Syracuse to surrounding areas throughout Onondaga County, the celebration includes children through adults. With more than 100,000 people attending dozens of indoor and outdoor events, parties, cook-offs, various competitions plus an abundance of other activities, Syracuse Winterfest draws the second largest audience in all of Central New York. P.O. Box 578. www.syracusewinterfest.com. wacooper@twcny.rr.com.

315-243-2500.

FEB.

Oswego. Darrah Carr Dance Ceilidh: An Evening of Irish Music and Dance. The Bessie Award-nominated company Darrah Carr Dance brings a new twist to conventional Irish dance to create a high-energy, rhythmically based work accessible to a broad audience through dance, music, songs and storytelling. Tickets available at https://oswego. universitytickets.com. 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Cost TBA. SUNY Oswego, Waterman Theatre,7060 State Route 104.

17

Rochester. Andreas on Broadway. Director Andreas Delfs leads the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra down the Great White Way. Enjoy classic and popular Rodgers & Ham-

merstein tunes well-known from some of the most outstanding productions ever to hit the stage. 8 p.m. $18 to $107. Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre, 26 Gibbs St. https://myrpo. org. 585-454-2100. patronservices@rpo.org.

Rochester. "Beetlejuice: The Musical." See Feb. 14.

Syracuse. Pat McGann. A quickly rising star in the stand-up comedy world, McGann began stand up at the age of 31 after realizing he was not very good at selling packaging.

He has performed on The Late Show with David Letterman, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Montreal’s famed Just For Laughs Festival, Gilda’s LaughFest, The Great American Comedy Festival and the Nashville Comedy Fest. Ages 21 and older only. 8 p.m.

On 2/18, 7 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. $20. Funny Bone Comedy Club and Restaurant, Destiny USA, 306 Hiawatha Blvd. https://syracuse. funnybone.com/?t=1667334021.

Syracuse. Syracuse Winterfest 2023. See Feb. 16.

FEB.

Fairport. New York State Ice Wine and Culinary Festival. The 14th annual festival showcases wineries from across the state that produce the delicacy called ice wine in the traditional manner. Ice wine and its creator—winter-are at the forefront of all the activities: from tastings and infused cuisine pairing to horsedrawn sleigh rides though the vineyards and tastings. Enjoy s’mores and hot beverage station around the fireplace area. Take home Casa Larga glasses. Casa Largo is within the service areas of Lyft and Uber. Tickets are good for either 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. or 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Ticket cost TBA. Casa Larga Vineyards Inc., 2287 Turk Hill Road. www.casalarga.com. www.casalarga.com/events/ ny-ice-wine-culinary-festival. 585-223-4210. info@casalarga.com.

18

Rochester. Andreas on Broadway. See Feb. 17.

Rochester. "Beetlejuice: The Musical." See Feb. 14.

Syracuse. Men’s Basketball. Orange vs.

Duke. 6 p.m. The Dome at Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www.cuse.com.

Syracuse. Pat McGann. See Feb. 17.

Syracuse. Syracuse Winterfest 2023. See Feb. 16.

Syracuse. Women’s Ice Hockey. Orange vs.

Stonehill. 2 p.m. Tennity Ice Pavilion, 511 Skytop Rd. www.cuse.com.

FEB.

19

52 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

Rochester. "Beetlejuice: The Musical." See Feb. 14.

Syracuse. Syracuse Winterfest 2023. See Feb. 16.

Syracuse. Women’s Basketball. Orange vs.

Miami. 1 p.m. The Dome at Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www.cuse.com.

FEB.

20 FEB.

21

Syracuse. Syracuse Winterfest 2023. See Feb. 16.

Syracuse. Syracuse Winterfest 2023. See Feb. 16.

FEB.

Syracuse. Men’s Basketball.

Orange vs. Clemson. 7 p.m. The Dome at Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www.cuse.com.

22

Syracuse. Syracuse Winterfest 2023. See Feb. 16.

FEB.

Syracuse. "Much Ado About Nothing. William Shakespeare’s play about love versus the interference of cynicism, short tempers and sly brothers. Presented by The HWS Theatre and directed by Associate Professor of Theatre Chris Hatch. 7:30 p.m. On 2/25, additional 2 p.m. performance. Ticket cost TBA. Hobart and William Smith Colleges, 233 E. Washington St. www.hws.edu/HWSTheatreBoxOffice.

315-781-4581. cwoodworth@hws.edu.

23

Syracuse. Syracuse Winterfest 2023. See Feb. 16.

FEB.

24

Syracuse. Much Ado About Nothing. See Feb. 23.

Syracuse. Syracuse Crunch vs.

Wilkes Barre Scranton Penguins Hockey. 7 p.m. Tickets vary. Upstate Medical Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial, 421 Montgomery St. https://syracusecrunch.com/index. aspx 315-435-8000.

FEB.

Inlet. Frozen Fire & Lights. Join in sledding, ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing all day. Bring your own equipment or rent skates, skis, or snowshoes from Pedals & Petals in downtown Inlet. Watch or join the Outhouse Race and Cardboard Sled Race. Warm up at the bonfire with free hotdogs and watch the fireworks. 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Fern Park Recreation Area, 11 Loomis Road. http://www.frozenfireandlights.com. 315-357-5501.

25

Syracuse. PAW Patrol Live! “Heroes Unite.”

The PAW Patrol is yelping for help as they face their greatest challenge yet. It’s up to the pups to save the day. 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

On 2/26, 10 a.m. only. $20 to $90. Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St. https://landmarktheatre.org. 315-475-7979.

Syracuse. "Much Ado About Nothing." See Feb. 23.

Syracuse. Syracuse City Ballet Presents Prokofiev’s “Cinderella.” A fairy godmother, a noble prince, hilarious stepsisters, and enchanting fairies: Syracuse City Ballet brings Cinderella back to the Crouse Hinds Theater after 2020’s canceled production. 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. On 2/26, 2 p.m. performance only; $20 to $75. The Oncenter Crouse Hinds Theater, 421 Montgomery St. 315-435-8000.

Syracuse. Syracuse Crunch vs. Hartford Wolf Pack Hockey. 7 p.m. Tickets vary. Upstate Medical Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial, 421 Montgomery St. https://syracusecrunch.com/index.aspx 315-435-8000.

FEB.

26

Syracuse. PAW Patrol Live!

“Heroes Unite.” See Feb. 25.

Syracuse. Syracuse City Ballet Presents Prokofiev’s “Cinderella.” See. Feb. 25.

FEB.

Syracuse. Men’s Basketball.

Orange vs. Georgia Tech. 7 p.m.

The Dome at Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave. www.cuse.com.

28

MARCH SUNDAYS, TUESDAYS, FRIDAYS and SATURDAYS Oswego. Public Ice Skating. Bring your own skates or rent for $2. Family skate time requires an adult with all youth under age 18.

Public skate is free for city residents. Ice rink rental is available for private events for $150/ hour. James P. Cullinan Rink is open Sundays 5:30 to 7 p.m. for families and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. for the public; Tuesdays 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. for families; Fridays 8:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. for the public; Saturdays 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. for families; 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. for the public. 281 W. Fifth St. 315-342-8167.

TUESDAYS Auburn. Open Mic Night. Watch or perform music, comedy and spoken word art on Stage Right. Full instrument back line available. 7:30. $2. Auburn Public Theater, 8 Exchange St. https://auburnpublictheater.org. 315-253-6669.

MAR.

Oswego. Saakumu Dance Troupe. The award-winning Saakumu Dance Troupe is one of the leading traditional/contemporary dance and music group in Ghana, W. Africa. Created by musician Bernard Woma, the group repertoire includes a range of spiritual, ceremonial, recreational genres to contemporary African dance forms. 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Cost TBA. Oswego, Waterman Theatre, 7060 State Route 104.

8

MAR.

Syracuse. Anthony Rodia. A first-generation Italian, comedian Anthony Rodia rose to fame in comedy through his social media platform’s skits, song parodies, his weekly “Road Rage Wednesday” with character “Uncle Vinny.” Ages 21 and older only. 7:30 p.m. On 3/11, 7 p.m. $37 to $47. Funny Bone Comedy Club and Restaurant, Destiny USA, 306 Hiawatha Blvd. https://syracuse.funnybone. com/?t=1667334021.

10

MAR.

Inlet. Let’s Get Crocked. Bring one large pot or Crock Pot full of homemade soup to share and, to benefit the local food pantry, $10. You may also wish to bring bread, crackers, beverages. Coffee, tea, soda, and table service will be provided. Inlet Town Hall Senior Room, 160 Route 28. http://inletny.com.

315- 357-5501.

11

MAR.

Statewide. Maple Weekend.

Visit any of numerous participating maple farms across the state for their annual open house. Tour the farm, see educational exhibits, witness tapping and boiling demonstrations, listen to maple producer presentations, shop and sample maple wares. Most farm stores include items such as maple candy, cream, cotton candy, popcorn, and syrup in a variety of functional and decorative containers. Many include other local products for sale. Some farms provide pancake breakfasts for purchase.

Wear appropriate clothing, outerwear and footwear for visiting a farm. Many activities are outdoors and on uneven ground and not all facilities are accessible. Call participating farms listed on the New York Maple Producers website before visiting to check times, dates, and acceptance of cash or credit card. https://mapleweekend.nysmaple.com.

18

Syracuse. Syracuse Crunch vs. Wilkes Barre Scranton Penguins Hockey. 7 p.m.

Tickets vary. Upstate Medical Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial, 421 Montgomery St. https://syracusecrunch.com/index.aspx 315-435-8000.

Luxury Accommodations River Views Casual & Fine Dining Outdoor Patios & Fire Pits Indoor Pool with Hot Tub Extraordinary Service Don’t Forget Fire & Ice February 6-8, 2020 Make Your Reservations Today Luxury Luxury Accommodations Accommodations

River Views Views 315.686.1100River 1000IslandsHarborHotel.com 200 Riverside Drive, Clayton, New York 13624 Casual Casual && Fine Fine Dining Dining Outdoor Outdoor Patios Patios && Fire Fire Pits Pits Indoor Indoor Pool Pool with with Hot Hot Tub Tub Extraordinary Extraordinary Service Service Don’t Don’t Forget Forget Fire Fire && Ice Ice February February 6-8, 6-8, 2020 2020 Make Make Your Your Reservations Reservations Today Today

Luxury Accommodations River Views Casual & Fine Dining Outdoor Patios & Fire Pits Indoor Pool with Hot Tub Wedding and Conference Space Extraordinary Service

315.686.1100 315.686.11001000IslandsHarborHotel.com 1000IslandsHarborHotel.com 200 200 Riverside Riverside Drive, Drive, Clayton, Clayton, New New York York 13624 13624

Luxury Accommodations Experience Luxary with our River Views Four-Diamond Casual & Fine Dining Service on Outdoor the St.Patios Lawrence River & Fire Pits Indoor Pool with Hot Tub

Make YourService Extraordinary Reservations Don’t Forget Fire & Ice Today February 6-8, 2020 Make Your Reservations Today

315.686.1100 1000IslandsHarborHotel.com 200 Riverside Drive, Clayton, New York 13624

2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 53

Undated photo showing Carol Yerdon celebrating 200 inches of snow in North Red Creek.

SNOW TIME: ‘BRING IT ON’

weather watcher Carol Yerdon in Redfield [Tug Hill],’’ former WSTM3 chief meteorologist Wayne Mahar noted on Twitter in early November last year. “Here she is breaking out the shovel for their first 1-2 inches of snow of the season.’’

Yerdon grew up in Memphis, a

By Margaret McCormick rural hamlet west of Syracuse, where the winters were relatively tame compared to what she has experihis is the time of year measuring snow and sharing her enced in Oswego County. She moved many Central New Yorkers data with the newspapers. Soon afto North Redfield in 1993 and quickdream about trading snow ter, the local TV stations called, and ly became a fan of the thick blanket and cold for sunshine and sandy Yerdon started providing snowfall in- of snow that settles over the region beaches. formation to WSYR-TV (Channel 9) and of the winters that can begin as Carolyn (Carol) Yerdon isn’t one and WSTM-TV and WTVH-TV (Chan- early as October and end as late as of them. nels 3 and 5). She later completed May. Yerdon, 59, of North Redfield, training and started measuring snow Once it starts snowing, she is a special education aide for the and recording snowfall information measures snow every 4 to 6 hours Sandy Creek Central School District. for the National Weather Service. following National Weather Service She’s best known for her role as a Yerdon isn’t a meteorologist, guidelines. Her weather station is Tug Hill weather observer. and like the rest of us, she isn’t sure an open area of her property, out In 1994, Yerdon saw a notice in when the first measurable snowfall of the way of drifting snow. Her The Syracuse Newspapers seeking or significant “snow event’’ will take primary tools are a shovel, yardstick weather watchers in Oswego County, place this season. But her attitude is and snow board (a heavy plastic which sometimes ranks as one of one of “bring it!’’ board placed on the ground). She the snowiest regions in the country.

“NOBODY, and I mean nobody, pokes the measuring stick through She answered the notice and started gets more excited about snow than the snow, until it reaches the snow

If it’s winter, it’s time for Carol Yerdon of North Redfield to shine

T

54 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

board, and records measurements.

The board is cleared of snow between measures, which are recorded to the nearest tenth of an inch.

Yerdon sometimes measures snow every hour or two during major snow events so she can give the National Weather Service and the Syracuse TV stations a better idea of the intensity of snowfall. “I really enjoy how they predict the snow and then I feel like I complete them by showing them, ‘you’re right, here it is,’’’ Yerdon says.

“I don’t usually have to get up in middle of night. If we get a significant storm, I might measure at 10 at night and I might get up at 2 in the morning and see if it’s still snowing.

I do like to sleep a little bit,’’ Yerdon adds with a laugh. “If it’s a significant per-hour event, where we get 4 to 6 inches an hour, I do measure and report to the National Weather Service by phone. They like to know what’s happening right when it’s happening.’’

In more than 25 years of observing and measuring snow, Yerdon has experienced some highs and lows.

The most snow she’s measured in a season: 424 inches during the winter of 1996-1997. The least snowfall she’s measured: 150 inches in 20112012. The last “really significant weather event’’ was in December of 2017, when the Tug Hill got 62.2 inches of snow in 48 hours. “That was a big one for us,’’ Yerdon notes.

“It was considered a record.’’

Yerdon (@cyerdon) uses Twitter to bring sparsely populated North Redfield and its winters to a wider audience. She has more than 5,000 Twitter followers and uses the platform to amplify the white stuff.

“I quickly learned there was a huge interest from truly around the world to see our snow,’’ she says.

The Associated Press and The New York Times have called her for snow reports and updates.

Jim Cantore, a meteorologist for the Weather Channel, has broadcast from the roof of Yerdon’s house.

A French film crew visited several years ago to record footage for a documentary called “The Future of Snow’’ (Yerdon would like to see it but hasn’t been able to). Scroll through Yerdon’s Twitter feed and you’ll see her enjoying a mug of coffee or glass of wine in the win-

Yerdon leans on a tree in snowy weather in this undated photo.

ter wonderland outside her door or standing next to a snowman she made in April.

Significant snows mean snow days, and Yerdon has fond memories of schedule-free time spent at home with her son during his school-age years. With an average of five or six snow days annually, she considers she got more than 60 bonus days with him. “A snow day is whatever you make it,’’ Yerdon says. “You don’t have any plans. You’re forced to just sit back and stay home. In my case it’s not always staying inside.

We’d go outside and play in snow

and shovel and come in and bake cookies. The year he graduated, I realized it was his last snow day forever.’’

Keeping tabs on snowfall (and rain in the off-season) occupies a lot of her time, but Yerdon prioritizes other activities, like getting out with her dog, snowshoeing at the Winona State Forest Recreation Area, and photographing the region’s snow-covered landscape.

“Measuring is one thing,’’ Yerdon says, “but I really like to be outside.

I’ve always been an outdoor person.

I find snow exhilarating.’’

2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 55

HOW TO MAKE THE PERFECT SLEDDING HILL

By Ken Sturtz

Z

ooming down a snow-covered hill on a sled can be exhilarating. If you want to be a sledding hero this winter follow these tips to create a firstrate sledding hill.

Think Safety First Parental supervision is a must, especially for younger children. Stay away from sledding near roads as well as frozen lakes, streams and ponds. If you’re going to be sledding on some big hills and getting some serious speed, it’s worth thinking about wearing a helmet. At the very least you’ll want to make sure your sled is in good working order. Sleds that can be controlled with a steering device are a good idea.

Selecting the Hill Unless you know someone with construction equipment, building your own hill probably isn’t feasible.

Look for a hill on your property (or, if you have permission, a neighbor’s) that is open and gently sloping. Too

steep and you’ll lose control, too flat and you aren’t going anywhere. A level area at the bottom is helpful for safely stopping. You may have to cut down a few trees to make room. Before it snows check for any holes or obstructions, such as rocks or fence posts, that might be an issue

might try L.L. Bean’s Sonic Snow Tube, which is highly rated. It features a hard-shell bottom that cuts down on drag and performs well on all kinds of snow. It even comes with a tow handle. The downside, other than the price, is that it’s difficult to steer.

Snow and Sleds

Add a Tow Rope

It’s possible to sled on all kinds of snow, but for best results wait until it snows when it’s warmer out, preferably just below freezing. That tends to produce wetter, heavier snow. This kind of snow is good for sledding because it reduces friction by releasing water when under the pressure of a heavy sled. That helps you speed down the hill. Plus, who wants to go sledding when it’s bitter cold out?

From the classic to the modern, there are sleds of every variety available and most of them can provide a good experience under the right conditions. Experiment with several kinds to find one you prefer. If you’re looking for speed (and don’t mind plunking down some cash) you

Call it laziness, but it can get tiring trudging back up a hill after each ride down. Remedy this problem by installing a tow rope. If you’re not mechanically inclined, you’ll need to recruit some help but the basics are fairly straightforward. You need an electric or gas motor at one end of the hill and a return pulley at the other. The system turns a long rope and gives everyone a free ride up the hill. The system needs to be anchored at each end, which is something to think about before cutting down trees on your hill. How much rope and exactly what kind of motor you’ll need depends on the individual circumstances. Given the amount of tinkering involved you’ll want to start well before the snow flies.

56 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

Ron Jardin of Mexico has been building snow sculptures for 30 years. “Now if there’s snow and I feel good I’m out there,” he says.

PASSION FOR SNOW SCULPTURE Ron Jardin, a retired teacher, has built snow sculptures on his front lawn each winter for 30 years. He shares tips for making a stunning looking snow sculpture.

By Ken Sturtz

E

ach fall when the first snowfall is still months away people begin quizzing Ron Jardin about his snow sculptures.

“Neighbors and friends to this day ask me ‘What are you going to make?’ but I never tell them,” he said. “It’s always a secret.”

For 30 years now, Jardin has created snow sculptures in his front yard each winter. They’ve become neighborhood attractions, growing

more elaborate over time.

Jardin, 71, taught physical education and coached track and cross-country for more than 40 years, so many former students also drive by his house in the village of Mexico to glimpse his creations.

Crafting snow sculptures is actually one of Jardin’s more orthodox hobbies. He joined the rodeo team in college and for several years after becoming a teacher he spent breaks riding broncos with the rodeo. He

and his family were involved in historical reenacting. And he’s constructed several authentic full-size tipis.

An avid outdoorsman, Jardin spends as much time as possible outside during winter, enjoying activities such as camping and skiing.

“I love winter,” he said. “There’s no bugs, your food doesn’t spoil and the bears are sleeping.”

He got the idea to build his first snow sculpture when his daughter, Annie, was less than a year old. Unbeknownst to his wife, Jardin played hooky from shoveling the driveway and built a snow woman in the yard.

“She thought I was outside enjoying my shoveling,” he said.

He gave the snowwoman a carrot nose, drank two bottles of lemonade to use the caps for eyes and added a scarf. He added a decorative bonnet swiped off a closet door. His plan was to set the baby in a pocket in the snow so it looked like the

2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 57

snowwoman was holding her and snap a photo.

He asked his wife if he could take the baby outside. She agreed and bundled her up. Outside Jardin set the camera up and placed his daughter in the pocket in front of the snowwoman.

“And I went to focus and she rolled out,” he said. “And I caught her probably a foot from the ground.”

She was fine, but each time Jardin tried to take her picture she’d roll out again. He eventually managed to snap a few photos. He’s

Story” and Carl and talking dog Dug from “Up.” Jardin usually takes a couple days to build his sculptures. Rolling the snow into giant balls — as someone might to make a snowman — leaves a giant snow boulder too heavy to lift, Jardin said. Instead he shovels snow onto sleds and dumps it into garbage cans. There’s usually enough snow in his front yard, but he sometimes has to borrow snow from neighbors. He packs the snow like he’s building a sand castle. Then he pours in about five gallons of water.

“And you make snow cement,” Jardin said. “It packs just like cement.”

If the snow isn’t good packing snow, he adds even more water. He flips the garbage can over and lets the concoction freeze overnight. The result is something not as hard as ice but much denser than what could be achieved by just packing snow.

If the sculpture he’s building needs to be wide at the base, he’ll put garbage cans side-by-side. If it needs to be taller, he’ll stack them.

He fuses everything together with a mixture of snow and water. Jardin usually tries to build the sculptures as high as he can.

Using an axe, a saw and a steel shovel, Jardin hacks away snow, roughing out the basic shape. He goes back later and carves the details. He paints the sculptures with an acrylic latex spray paint that is easily cleaned up when it deteriorates and comes off in sheets. For areas that need to be white he uses a saw to file down the snow until it’s a crisp white.

For the details he uses a variety of items. The bow tie, glasses and made at least one snow sculpture dog’s tongue for “Up” were cut out each winter since. of colored pieces of foam. The pupils His creations have included of Carl’s eyes were 3-inch deck Abraham Lincoln, Paul Bunyan and screws. For Buzz Lightyear he bent Goofy. a piece of rebar and painted it silver He’s constructed a giant chocolate bunny for an early Easter, made to create the helmet. His eyes were milk jug caps. The dimple on his a replica of Donald Duck and built chin was made from a piece of carda man-sized snowman waterskiing. board cut into a spiral. And his laser Once he built an entire snow family beam was a surveyor string that ran holding sticks around a campfire with real marshmallows and hotdogs from his arm and was staked to the ground. on the sticks. Everything went fine Some sculptures have proven until a neighbor’s dog pilfered one of the hotdogs. Last year his sculptures easier to build than others. Once the snow sculpture Jardin was workincluded Buzz Lightyear from “Toy ing on toppled over and he had to

58 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

Snow sculptures built by Ron Jardin, a retired teacher who has built snow sculptures on his front lawn each winter for 30 years.

start over from scratch. When he made Abraham Lincoln, he had to pound a 12-foot piece of rebar into the ground to keep the tall, narrow sculpture stable.

The sculptures typically only last a few days before they begin to turn to mush. One year late in winter Jardin built a giant chocolate bunny and when the ears began melting he shaped it into a giant Easter egg. A few days later he turned the melting egg into a giant yellow Peep.

For “Up” he clustered four garbage cans in a giant square and then built upward. When it came time to lift the 40-pound block of snow for the head into place he recruited his wife and daughter. They used a 2x6 like a ramp and walked the block up, being careful not to let it slide off the other side, and secured it in place with snow cement.

Aside from having help stacking the snow, Jardin mostly prefers to work alone. He enjoys spending long hours outside chipping away at each sculpture. When he’s in the middle of working on a sculpture his wife often brings his dinner out on a paper plate for him. He sits in a folding chair, eats and goes right back to work.

Jardin uses props in his sculptures to make them appear more lifelike. For his snow family that meant real wood and a red floodlight for the campfire, as well as real hotdogs and marshmallows on sticks. For his water-skiing snowman that meant real water skis and a tow rope.

For “Up” Jardin used several dozen real balloons and a piece of garden hose for the string. The balloons and hose were supported

by a camouflaged piece of white PVC pipe.

After years of building snow sculptures and learning from one sculpture to the next the actual construction doesn’t take long and is the fun part, Jardin said. It’s coming up with an idea and planning out the process to build it that takes the most time.

The first year when he built a snowwoman to take a picture with his daughter Jardin didn’t think about making any other snow sculptures that winter. Over time he began making several each winter.

He still enjoys building snow sculptures so much that even after all these years it’s typical for him to construct three or four in a season if the weather cooperates.

“Now if there’s snow and I feel good I’m out there,” he said.

2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 59

THIS PAGE Beaver Lake Nature Center in Baldwinsville is open for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and winter hiking on its nine miles of trails.

SCENIC PARKS ABOUND IN UPSTATE NEW YORK

OPPOSITE PAGE People snowshoeing at the Beaver Lake Nature Center in Baldwinsville.

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

E

xploring New York’s parks and trails need not be a summer-only pastime.

Many of the state’s parks are not only accessible during winter but provide stunning vistas while sparkling with fresh snowfall and glittering waterways.

• Taughannock Falls State Park (Trumansburg) offers gorgeous views of the falls from its overlook, as does Chittenango Falls State Park. Cross-country ski, snowshoe or

winter hike in the park to enjoy the sights.

— https://parks.ny.gov/ parks/62 • Considered the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park (Castile), offers hiking trails and a 400-foot-deep gorge and three waterfalls up to 600 feet high.

— https://parks.ny.gov/ parks/79/details.aspx

60 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

• Hiking the Catskills Scenic Trail (Roxbury to Bloomville) offers 26 miles of moderately easy hiking, with a gentle grade and a broad trail for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. The year-round trail was built over an abandoned railway. Enjoy spectacular views of the Catskills enroute.

— http://catskillscenictrail.org • Bring along the camera to take snaps at Glimmerglass State

Park Covered Bridge Trail (Cooperstown). The picturesque Hyde Hall Covered Bridge is thought to be the oldest covered bridge in the nation. The park overlooks Otsego Lake. Hike, snowshoe or cross-country ski. Bring along your skates to try out Beaver Pond (weather permitting).

— https://parks.ny.gov/parks/ glimmerglass/details.aspx • Hike the Genesee Riverway Trail (Rochester) to enjoy views of a gorge and three waterfalls. The 24-mile trail includes portions going through historic landmarks in Downtown Rochester and runs along the Genesee River. As a National Recreation Trail, the Genesee Riverway Trail connects to the statewide Erie Canal Heritage Trail, and the Genesee Valley Greenway Trail (south to Pennsylvania).

— www.cityofrochester.gov/grt/ • Beaver Lake Nature Center (Baldwinsville) is open for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and winter hiking on its nine miles of trails. Equipment rentals are available. Observe numerous species of birds and other wildlife in and around the lake. Check the website for children’s programming and other special events. Stop at the Beaver Lodge Gift Shop for unique finds and educational toys.

— https://onondagacountyparks.com/parks/beaver-lake-nature-center • Buck Mountain Trail, Lake George Wild Forest (Lake George) is ideal for more experienced winter hikers and snowshoers. The terrain can be rough, and the trail is three miles each way. Reaching the summit rewards hikers with views of Lake George, Bolton Landing and the Adirondacks.

— www.lakegeorge.com/hiking/ buck-mountain Before heading out to the parks, check the websites for trail closures, as maintenance and weather issues can affect what is open. Most parks require a modest per-vehicle parking fee. Check the park’s policies before making plans. Always stay on the trails and take back with you everything you bring.

2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 61

Hot tubs at home, a great way to have fun the winter. Photo courtesy of Tarson Pools & Spas.

THINKING OF GETTING A HOT TUB THIS WINTER? HERE’S WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

By Ken Sturtz

O

ne of the most enjoyable ways to beat the cold is soaking in a hot tub.

If you’re looking for tranquility it’s hard to beat watching snowflakes fall while steam rises around you.

“The winter is without question my favorite time to use my hot tub,” said Allen Jerabeck, a pool and spa specialist with Central New Yorkbased Tarson Pools & Spas. “It’s really just magical.”

If you’re considering investing

in a hot tub there are a variety of brands and models on the market with a range of prices and features.

It’s smart to find a dealer that has a good reputation and does its own service work.

With Central New York’s frigid winters, however, one of the biggest considerations is choosing a hot tub that’s energy efficient.

Jerabeck said a typical hot tub might cost $30-40 a month to heat in winter. That can easily double

62 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

with a poorly insulated model or a cover that doesn’t stay on tight.

Remember that hot tub systems are programmed to maintain a set temperature.

“And it’s going to keep pumping heat into that until it hits that temperature,” Jerabeck said.

Two of the best ways to keep energy consumption low is by choosing a model that’s well insulated inside and that comes with a quality cover.

Premium hot tubs will have a

fully sealed and well insulated cover Home of the Guaranteed Free Same Day Delivery! –For all Orders Called in by 10:00 am to keep the heat in. It’s best to avoid vinyl covers because they tend to get brittle in the cold. It’s also wise to replace an existing cover if it has become old or damaged. High-quality tubs will have a fully sealed plastic HomeHome of the Free Same of Guaranteed the Guaranteed Free SameDay DayDelivery!

Delivery! base rather than rubber sheeting - For all Orders in by 10:00 am –For all Orders Called in by 10:00 am stapled to the bottom. A sealed base helps keep the elements out and heat in, Jerabeck said.

Another consideration is deciding where to locate the hot tub.

38 East 2nd St. Oswego 343-6147 | 65 North 2nd St. Fulton 592-2244 Hours: Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.; Saturday 7:00 a.m.-4:00 Fulton Store only: Sunday 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

Some people partially enclose them Free p.m.; Delivery! with gazebos or pergolas to help shield them from the elements.

“Those things are great but they aren’t always able to be close to the house,” Jerabeck said.

It’s generally best to place the hot tub so you have the shortest path to and from your house, he said.

The biggest deterrent to using a hot tub during winter is the prospect of Lifetime Warranty Limited shoveling a path through the snow.

To address that, Jerabeck said his favorite spa accessory is heated walk-FREE way mats that can melt up to two Boom It feet of snow, eliminating the need to to the top! clear a path to the hot tub.

Another accessory worth considering is a wireless monitoring system available with many hot tub brands.

A smart tub can notify you and your dealer if there is a power failure, for example. That can come in handy if you’re traveling out of town and haven’t drained your tub, Jerabeck said, saving thousands of dollars in 38 East 2nd St. Oswego 343-6147 65 North 2nd St. Fulton 592-2244 damage.

Hours: Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.; Saturday 7:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.; Sunday 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

The good news is that even if your tub loses power, a well-insulated unit can go as long as a week before freezing becomes a serious concern.

Serving your Home in Every Season

TJ

Everest Architectural Shingles The Summit of Protection

The Best Warranty in the Business!

How much?

Hot tub prices can vary widely. The national average is around $6,000, but an inflatable hot tub can be purchased for less than $1,000.

Hard-sided entry-level hot tubs typically start at a few thousand dollars and go up in price depending on size, quality, type of materials used, features and where it’s being installed. It’s easy to spend upwards of $15,000 on a large, higher-end hot tub. Some ultra-luxurious hot tubs can cost about as much as a car.

Scouts BSA

Serving Oswego for over 50 years!

For Boys and Girls ages 10 – 17

Adventure Awaits!

Find out more at beascout.org 2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 63

10 MOVIES WORTH WATCHING AGAIN THIS WINTER

By Ken Sturtz

E

ven the biggest outdoor lover can find themselves stuck inside on a cold day and looking for some entertainment. Here are 10 movies you should watch on a boring winter day. Five are set in wintry locations and five will thaw you out with decidedly warmer settings.

“Groundhog Day” (1993) OK campers rise and shine and don’t forget your booties… you know how it goes. “Groundhog Day” celebrates its 30th anniversary in February and even if you’ve seen this classic Billy Murray comedy a million times, it’s always worth another watch. It’s easy to miss some of its funnier moments in the first few viewings.

“Snow Day” (2000) While it isn’t exactly great cinema, “Snow Day” successfully captures the excitement we all experience when we get a surprise day off from school or work. The movie is set in Syracuse, although it was shot in Wisconsin and Canada. For many Millennials “Snow Day” will serve as a nostalgic flashback to Nickelodeon’s days of making fun movies of questionable quality.

“The Bridges of Madison County” (1995) If the Iowa summer wasn’t hot enough there’s the steamy onscreen romance between Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood. She plays a farm wife whose family is on a trip when

64 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

Eastwood’s character, a photojournalist with National Geographic who is photographing historic covered bridges, shows up looking for directions. They share a brief but intense love affair while pondering a future together.

“Happy Feet” (2006) Even if animated children’s movies featuring singing, dancing animals aren’t your thing, it’s hard not to fall for these cute penguins.

Every emperor penguin in Antarctica attracts a mate by singing a heart song. If the male penguin’s song matches the female’s, they mate.

Enter Mumble, a penguin who is unfortunately a terrible singer and unable to attract a mate. But he can tap dance brilliantly.

“Everest” (2015) Jon Krakauer wrote about the

“Miracle” (2004)

“Three Kings” (1999)

1996 Mount Everest disaster — during which eight climbers died – in his bestseller “Into Thin Air.” The same basic story is told but with a great ensemble cast and hair-raising cinematic scenes that will make it feel like you’re clinging to the side of Everest. Tip: Consider watching with a hot beverage to counteract the scenes where everyone is suffering in the bitter cold.

Kurt Russell stars as Herb Brooks, the inspiring coach who led the American hockey team to a gold medal at the 1980 Winter Olympics held in Lake Placid. The Americans won a game in the medal round against the heavily favored professional Soviet team, which became known as the “Miracle on Ice.”

“Dr. No” (1962)

“Volcano” (1997)

This is the film that started it all, bringing Ian Fleming’s James Bond to the big screen. A suave Bond is dispatched to sunny, carefree Jamaica to investigate the disappearance of a British agent and uncovers a plot to disrupt a space launch with a secret weapon. Although filmed on a small budget and with a production value lacking compared to later films, “Dr. No” has gained a reputation as one of the best Bond films.

Tommy Lee Jones and Anne Heche star as an emergency management director and seismologist fighting to stop and divert the lava flow from a volcano that erupts in Los Angeles and wreaks havoc on the city. The big budget movie makes use of CGI, miniatures and a nearly full-scale replica of Wilshire Boulevard to create some incredible lava-filled scenes.

The film features George Clooney, Mark Wahlberg, Ice Cube and Spike Jonze as American soldiers who discover a map at the end of the 1991 Gulf War detailing the location of a fortune in gold bullion that Iraq stole from Kuwait. They set off to steal the gold for themselves. This heist movie is set in the middle of a desert, perfect for wintertime.

“Cast Away” (2000) Just about everyone has probably seen the blockbuster “Cast Away” several times. Tom Hanks plays a FedEx employee whose plane crashes in a storm, stranding him on a small island in the South Pacific. On a cold winter day, however, it is still satisfying to watch as he attempts to survive in and escape from his tropical prison.

2022-2023 | Explore Winter in Upstate New York 65

6 SURPRISING THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT GROUNDHOG DAY

By Ken Sturtz

An ancient tradition, sort of The modern celebration traces its origins to the early Christian holiday Candlemas, which commemorates the presentation of Jesus at the Temple. On that day – Feb. 2 – it became common to bless and distribute candles. Over time celebrators of the holiday adopted the belief that sunny skies meant a stormy, cold second half of winter. Roman legions brought the tradition to Germanic tribes, who expanded on the superstition: if the sun appeared on Feb. 2 a hedgehog would cast a shadow, predicting six more weeks of bad weather. German immigrants brought the folktale to America and replaced the hedgehog with the groundhog.

Groundhog Day, Feb. 2, 2014, in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Photos courtesy of Ken Sturtz.

Phil comes to Central New York Punxsutawney Phil has traveled around the country and even made appearances on national talk shows.

But in 1994 Phil actually made the 300-mile trip to Central New York.

By a coincidence, three teachers who were either born or raised in Punxsutawney — a town of less than 6,000 — all came to work at the Mexico Middle School in Oswego County. The teachers had staged Groundhog Day celebrations for years and one of them convinced her cousin, a member of the Inner Circle, to bring Phil for a visit. Hundreds of children got to meet the fury forecaster.

Groundhog Day goes Hollywood

The weather capital of the world

Nothing has done more to Groundhog Day has become synonraise the holiday’s profile than ymous with Punxsutawney, Pennsyl- the 1993 blockbuster “Groundhog vania., but it wasn’t until 1886 that a Day.” The film stars Billy Murray group of groundhog hunters dubbed as mean-hearted weatherman Phil themselves “The Punxsutawney Connors who reluctantly journeys to Groundhog Club.” The local newspa- Punxsutawney to cover Groundhog per issued a proclamation declaring Day and becomes trapped in a time Punxsutawney Phil to be the only loop. The film’s immense popularity weather prognosticating groundhog. fueled greater turnout at Gobbler’s Newspapers around the world began Knob. In the past it was typical for reporting Phil’s annual predictions. a few hundred people to show up.

Each year on Groundhog Day memToday as many as 20,000-30,000 bers of the Inner Circle, who care for people descend on Punxsutawney on Phil, don tuxedos and top hats and Feb. 2. Even the phrase “Groundhog trek to Gobbler’s Knob to coax Phil Day” has entered the lexicon as a from his stump. common way of describing something that happens again and again.

66 Explore Winter in Upstate New York | 2022-2023

“Groundhog Day” wasn’t filmed in Punxsutawney Although set in Punxsutawney, the movie was actually shot in and around Woodstock, Illinois., about 50 miles northwest of Chicago.

Director Harold Ramis was from Chicago and enjoyed shooting in Illinois, but the movie’s producers were also looking for a location that could pass for a quintessential, but nonspecific, American town. They chose Woodstock after scouting more than 60 places. One advantage to Woodstock was that it had a town square that allowed filmmakers to put the groundhog ceremony at Gobbler’s Knob in the center of town. The real Gobbler’s Knob is a couple miles outside of Punxsutawney.

Expect disappointment if you’re hoping for an early spring Punxsutawney Phil may be the prognosticator of prognosticators, but his track record of predicting an early spring is enough to give you the winter blues. According to records dating to the 1880s, Phil has seen his shadow (predicting six more weeks of winter) more than 100 times. Phil has reported not seeing his shadow and predicted an early spring just 20 times, most recently in 2020. Of course, Phil isn’t the only weather-forecasting rodent. Several other groundhogs make annual predictions, including Staten Island Chuck, who resides at the Staten Island Zoo.

Ski and Ride at More Than 25 New York Ski Areas FREE.*

So Ready For This.

The Ski+Ride Passport is available to any 3rd or 4th grader, so get out and enjoy winter this year!

Some participating resorts have NO BLACKOUT DATES!

Visit ISKINY.com To Learn More.

*41 processing fee applies. Restrictions apply. See iskiny.com for details

Are You Covered?

Oswego County Mutual Insurance Co. Home and Business Insurance at Affordable Prices.

Call (315) 625-7066 for our agent nearest you

Policyholder-Owned Since 1878

2975 West Main St. Parish, NY 13131 w ocmic.com