SPECIAL EVENTS: Holiday Season Begins

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As we swing into December and toss the turkey scraps behind us, this week a variety of festivities will take place to help us ring in the holiday season. On Thursday, November 29, the 19th Annual Park Avenue Holiday Open House will run 5-9 p.m. Enjoy holiday decorations, holiday music, horse-drawn wagon rides, hot roasted chestnuts, holiday characters, and more as you peruse shops from Alexander Street to Culver Road. The opening ceremony takes place at the green at Barrington Street with the lighting of the Christmas tree and Menorah. From 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. you can also visit Santa at 600 Park Ave. The street will not be closed to traffic, so be cautious and responsible. For more information, visit park-avenue.org/events.html.

Take part in Rochester's traditional Liberty Pole Lighting on Saturday, December 1, 4:30-5:10 p.m. As Mayor Richards switches on the lights of the Liberty Pole outside of the Sibley Building (corner of East Avenue and East Main Street), listen to holiday favorites from School No. 54 and Prime Time Brass. Santa and holiday characters will be available for photos. Then, continue the holiday spirit with a parade to Manhattan Square Park Ice Rink for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, complete with free open skate 5:30-8:30 p.m. (limited skate rental, $3/person), free horse-drawn wagon rides, and other activities. 428-7992. cityofrochester.gov/libertypolelighting.

On Tuesday, December 4, experience Pittsford Village Merchants and Pittsford Chamber of Commerce's Candlelight Night 4-9 p.m. in the Village of Pittsford. This annual holiday celebration includes live music, carolers, horse-drawn wagon rides, visits with Santa, and the lighting of village Christmas trees. Various merchants will offer holiday treats and specials. For more information visit townofpittsford.org.