Christmas in the Finger Lakes: Festive Activities, Scenic Beauty, and Holiday Cheer

Nestled in Upstate New York, the Finger Lakes region is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, charming towns, and unique experiences waiting to be discovered. From picturesque vineyards to crystal-clear lakes, there’s an incredible array of activities for every season. I recently had the chance to visit for a Christmas trip, and if you’re looking for a spot that brings holiday magic to life with unique activities and charming small-town festivals, this is the perfect trip for you! Here’s everything you can’t miss on a Christmas trip to the Finger Lakes:

Finger Lakes Christmas: Downtown Canandaigua

Experience the magic of Downtown Canandaigua as it transforms into a whimsical ‘Whobilation,’ inspired by the beloved Christmas celebration from The Grinch! Stroll along the main street, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and delightful tributes to Dr. Seuss’ iconic characters. From festively decorated shops and window fronts to the enchanting Grinch Village, where a playful Grinch-themed Christmas tree awaits, you’ll be swept away in a world of holiday cheer. The local business community has truly outdone themselves. I loved seeing how each business captured the spirit of The Grinch with creative displays, from a skiing Grinch to a skateboarding Grinch!

But the joy doesn’t stop at the dazzling lights and festive décor! Downtown Canandaigua has over 100 unique specialty shops and restaurants, perfect for tackling your Christmas shopping list. Immerse yourself in the local charm and find one-of-a-kind gifts while enjoying the joyful atmosphere.

A few highlights:

• The Dalai Java – warm up with a festive beverage and panini from this local coffee shop. They roast certified organic, fair trade coffee beans in-house. 
• F. Olivers – has an excellent selection of classic and unique oils and vinegars
• Wildflowers – this gift shop is full of fun finds, from home decor to self-care items
• Sweet Expressions – satisfy your sweet tooth with their selection of chocolates, fudge, and other gourmet treats

Finger Lakes Christmas in Clifton Springs, NY

Tucked in the Finger Lakes region, Clifton Springs, NY, is a delightful town with a rich history and natural beauty and charm. Once a 19th-century spa retreat, it now offers unique shops, cozy eateries, and serene mineral springs that you’ll see flowing through town.

Visit the Festival of Lights for Christmas fun. See Clifton Springs transformed with thousands of twinkle lights and Christmas decorations. The festival kick-off includes horse-drawn wagon rides, a preview of the Nutcracker Ballet performance, meeting Santa in an enchanting garden, and more.

This town had so much Christmas charm, and I loved seeing the obvious joy and merriment in everyone enjoying the festivities. There were lots of local shops to pop into that were offering discounts. I couldn’t resist getting a holiday ornament to remember our trip from Flowers by Sandy.

Warm up with a cozy dinner inside Warfields, which is beautifully decorated for the holidays. We couldn’t resist getting their pasta, the perfect tasty dish to warm up with. Go with the Arrabiata Pasta if you want a kick of spice, and the Shrimp Tagliatelle is one of their most popular dishes. Even the bread and sauce selection that came before our mains was delicious. Wonderful atmosphere, service and delicious food to be enjoyed here.

Stay at the Lakehouse on Canandaigua

The Lakehouse on Canandaigua is a lakefront luxury resort offering an idyllic home base for your getaway. Immerse yourself in stunning views and direct lake access, unwind in cozy accommodations, and indulge in delightful dining, cocktail lounges and artisan coffee shops. Rejuvenate with spa amenities, including a tranquil garden sauna, a heated lakeside pool, and a hot tub.

From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into the heart of your very own Hallmark movie. During our check-in, I was immediately captivated by the festive Christmas decorations and the joyful reunions overheard in the lobby as friends and family gathered for an upcoming wedding and to partake in the Christmas festivities.

It was a special moment for my Mom and me because we stayed here years ago on a family vacation, and it was wonderful to return and see all the upgrades and special touches. I instantly thought this would be an excellent spot for an annual Christmas tradition.

I love how much open space the Lakehouse on Canandaigua has from the library to the main Lobby. The rooms are super cozy, and I loved looking out at the water and the snow-covered trees. There’s even the opportunity to add a Christmas tree and ornament to your room.

Every stay comes with a welcome glass of Riesling and a complimentary s’mores kit to use at one of their outdoor fire pits. It was the perfect way to end the night.

Finger Lakes Christmas at the Lakehouse on Canandaigua

We arrived on the night of their annual tree lighting ceremony full of Christmas celebrations. Countdown to the lighting of their Christmas tree and then enjoy the festivities, including meeting reindeer from Shortsville Reindeer Farm, and meeting Santa and Mrs. Claus. 

In the Main Lobby, we heard carol singers while admiring the decorations, including the gorgeous gingerbread house. It was a gingerbread version of the Lakehouse on Canandaigua. Grab a warm drink in the library by the fire and admire the Christmas tree.

The main Lobby was adorned with quotes and scenes from It’s A Wonderful Life. I learned that Seneca Falls is said to be the inspiration for Bedford Falls, where the movie takes place. There’s even a Wonderful Life museum and festival in the Finger Lakes. I already felt all the holiday magic in the region, and it was made even more special with a beloved Christmas classic.

Finger Lakes Christmas in Geneva, NY

Breakfast at Monaco’s Coffee

Kickstart your day with coffee and breakfast at Monaco’s Coffee in Geneva. I recommend getting their delicious breakfast burrito. The cafe is full of greenery and games. I also picked up some world traveller vibes with their maps and photos. Monaco Coffee was named after the Monaco family, who travelled the world before opening Monaco Marketplace in the Finger Lakes over 100 years ago. Monaco Coffee is in that same building that has a lot of history.

Finger Lakes Welcome Center & Jingle Market

Soak in the scenic lake views, snap a photo in front of the I❤️NY sign and then step inside for the Geneva Winter Farmers Market, which runs from 10 am to 1 pm from November to April. It is a great spot to find unique items, from candles to mitts. For Christmas, they host a Jingle Market on select dates where you can discover many local artisan items, festive decor and unique gifts.

Geneva Lakefront State Park

Enjoy serene views of Seneca Lake in the winter. I loved watching the ducks floating on the waves in the water. There were lots of locals out for a scenic winter walk.

Deck the Halls on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail

The Seneca Wine Trail runs along the shores of Seneca Lake and is packed with fantastic wineries waiting to be explored. Each spot has its own vibe and delicious wines to try. The views along the way are stunning, too—think rolling hills and gorgeous lake scenery.

Every December, they host Deck the Halls, a Christmas event you can’t miss in the Finger Lakes. For the event, you will receive a passport of participating wineries you can visit throughout the weekend, and you’ll receive a wreath as well. For every winery you visit, you’ll collect a unique ornament to add to your wreath, a food sample paired with a 1-ounce wine tasting and then three additional ½ ounce wine tastings. You’ll also receive a digital recipe book of all the samples you’ve tried.

Visit up to 19 participating wineries around the lake. It’s a beautiful drive, with spectacular views along the lake as you make your way between wineries.

It was exciting to see what ornament and food pairing was waiting for us at each winery, trying excellent local wines and seeing how each winery was decorated for the holidays. We tried to get to as many as we could and were able to hit twelve! What added to the fun and spirit of the season, was seeing so many participants, guests and staff alike dressing up in their favourite Christmas attire!  How fun would this be to do with a big group of friends? We could tell for some this was an annual event. The wineries provided beverages such as coffee, or hot chocolate or grape punch for designated drivers.  Others booked transportation for the day.

A few of my favourite stops:

• Fox Run Vineyards – I first noticed the cozy area of decorated barrels and a Christmas tree for the tasting. Their pairing was a holiday rib eye mac n cheese, which was delicious!
• CK Winery was a popular spot! We headed upstairs for their soup pairing that tasted like Christmas in a bowl! I loved all the decorations they had set up and their festive wine labels.
• Tabora Winery – as soon as we arrived, the building reminded me of some place you would see in Italy. We stepped inside, and they had gorgeous decorations throughout the winery. We were sitting by their giant Christmas tree. They had the cutest gingerbread cookie ornament that we collected.
• Glenora Winery was beautifully decorated and also had excellent views of Seneca Lake. The cherry on top was their delicious apple pie cheesecake paired with apple wine. It was my first time trying it!
• Lakewood Vineyards, this winery won in my eyes for best decorations. We walked through an ornament-decorated hallway to a wine room with a speakeasy feel. They had wine tanks decorated with lights, a cozy fireplace photo-op, and a special bar tucked away. They made this secret spot feel inviting and made you want to stay a while.

Finger Lakes Christmas in Downtown Watkins Glen

Downtown Watkins Glen is a lively gateway to the Finger Lakes, known for its stunning gorge, vibrant shops, and delicious local eats. Whether chasing waterfalls, savouring wine country vibes, or exploring its racing history, this charming hub has something for everyone!

For Christmas, see the numerous lights illuminating the street at night. Catch the classic British Telephone booth or the motion-sensor Grinch in front of Guono Crazy, a fun gift shop worth popping into.

Graft Wine and Cider Bar

Cozy up in this local restaurant with a menu focusing on local ingredients. They have a superb selection of wines and ciders. We couldn’t resist their mulled wine. We shared the special monkfish and tofu bowls, which were both full of flavour and nourishing. I loved relaxing over dinner and watching the light snowfall outside.

Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel

Nestled in downtown Watkins Glen on the shores of Seneca Lake, Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel is the perfect place to spend the night. As soon as you arrive for your Christmas trip, you’ll notice the decorations from poinsettias by the fireplace in the lobby, nutcrackers, lights, Christmas trees and more.

The rooms are spacious and offer beautiful views of the lake. The comforter felt like a weighted blanket, and we rested very comfortably! Enjoy complimentary coffee and tea in the morning to jumpstart your day as you enjoy and savour it while you soak in the lake views from your room.

The hotel backs onto Harbour Park, so we went for a winter stroll to see the Seneca Pier House in the morning. The views are incredible in winter, so I can only imagine what the other seasons offer.

Breakfast at The Grill at Hotel Laurel

Enjoy breakfast with a panoramic view of Seneca Lake  at The Grill at Hotel Laurel. I recommend getting the tasty and filling Seneca Sunrise breakfast. It was a peaceful start to the morning, fuelling up while admiring the lake.

Montour Falls at Shequaga State Park

Watkins Glen is home to many waterfalls, including Montour Falls, which are easily accessible in the winter. You’ll find this powerful 156ft waterfall right in town. Imagine waking up to this view from your house every morning! We took a few moments to experience and soak in its beauty. I want to return to explore the other nearby waterfalls, including Watkins Glen Gorge, which is open in the warmer months.

Ithaca, NY

Ithaca, NY, is where natural beauty meets vibrant culture. Famous for its stunning waterfalls, lush gorges, and the scenic shores of Cayuga Lake, it’s also home to a buzzing downtown, eclectic eateries, and two prestigious colleges. There is plenty to explore, whether you’re chasing cascading falls, exploring unique shops, or taking in the artsy vibe. It’s no wonder they say, “Ithaca is gorges!”

Ithaca Commons

One of our last stops before heading home was Ithaca Commons, a pedestrian-only shopping destination with shops and restaurants to explore. While you’re here, visit Home Green Home, which is full of fabulous finds from books, plants, decor, and more.

Ithaca Falls

Ithaca Falls is a stunning natural landmark surrounded by dramatic rock formations. Winter is the perfect time to see a mix of ice and rushing water from this 150 ft waterfall. This waterfall is right in town, making it easily accessible. You’ll be instantly mesmerized by its splendour as you watch the dramatic or roaring cascade of water plunging into a pool at the bottom of this majestic waterfall.

This was a fantastic trip, and the Christmas Spirit came to life in the Finger Lakes. From the charming small-town celebrations to seeing elaborately decorated Victorian houses as you drive around, to participating in a variety of Christmas-themed events like Christmas at the Lakehouse in Canandaigua or Deck the Halls on Seneca Lake, there is so much to do for Christmas in the Finger Lakes.

Thank you to Visit Finger Lakes and the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce for sponsoring this post and hosting me. I loved exploring and can’t wait to return. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own. I hope you have as much fun exploring the region as I did. I’d love to see your adventures. Feel free to tag me on Instagram and TikTok.

Find more fun Christmas Ideas here.