Nov. 24 lighting of the greens, caroling ring in the holiday season

The Hudson greens will light up for the holidays for the 75th year on Friday, Nov. 24th, the day after Thanksgiving. What started in 1948 as one string of lights has become over 10,000 lights, and 100 light poles trimmed with greenery and bows.

For the second year, the day after Thanksgiving also has been declared Hudson’s Ugly Holiday Sweater Day. As families gather for the Caroling on the Green, prizes will be given out for ugly, amazing and creative sweaters, beginning at 4:30 p.m. at the Gazebo. A group of Hudson Community Chorus carolers sing their way from Heinen’s starting at 4:30 p.m., and caroling begins promptly at 5 p.m. at the Gazebo. The lights will come on during the caroling and, thanks to the city of Hudson, will light up daily through Jan. 31st. 

Holiday lantern kits, sponsored by Hudson League for Service, will again be available at Destination Hudson/Visitor Center in early November. 

The next day, Nov. 25, is Shop Small Saturday, a day to support local independent merchants and restaurants. These are the businesses that sponsor local ball teams and contribute to Hudson’s many events.

Santa’s Mailbox will again be at the corner of Main Street (state Route 91) and Church Street shortly before Thanksgiving, ready to send letters from children up to the North Pole. 

Christ Community Chapel is sponsoring Tinsel and Tidings, a free event on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 1 & 2, from 5-8 p.m. There will be an outdoor trail of trees decorated by local groups and organizations.

On Saturday, Dec. 2, Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive at the restored Boy Scout Cabin on the Green via fire truck. Line tickets for the 9 a.m.-3 p.m. appearance are required and are handed out at the Gazebo starting about 7:30 a.m. 

At 7:30 that evening, Dec. 2, will be the annual Winter Fireworks. Find your favorite spot to watch. The show is visible from much of downtown.

Sunday, Dec 3, brings the Annual Holiday Walk with Live Nativity, carriage rides, children’s activities, refreshments, entertainment and, at 4 p.m., the annual Holiday Concert of the Hudson Community Choruses, held at Christ C downhurch Episcopal. Tickets online at hudsonsings.org. 

Friday through Sunday, Dec 8-10, is the Annual ChristKindlMarkt on the Clocktower & Gazebo Greens. This German streetfair features crafts, food, music and more.

Finally, race to great family fun, on Sunday, Dec. 24, at 8 a.m., for the Frosty Five & Mistletoe Mile. Outrageous holiday attire is encouraged, and dogs and strollers welcome. If you don’t want to run or walk, you can volunteer as a course marshal! ∞