Rochester's Holiday Light Displays: Sonnenburg Gardens to Festival of Trees

Holiday light displays in Rochester, New York, are enjoyed each holiday season by local residents and visitors alike. Rochester offers many different opportunities to catch some holiday spirit while visiting one of the city's holiday light displays and holiday events. The holiday light displays in Rochester, New York, are family-friendly, and many offer additional activities or events during the holiday season.

1. Park Avenue Holiday Open House

The Fourteenth Annual Park Avenue Holiday Open House takes place on Thursday, November 29th this year, from 5-9 pm. Holiday lights will be shining on local Park Avenue businesses, and Santa is due to make a stop. In addition to the holiday lights, there will be live entertainment, crafts, and holiday treats available. Horse-drawn carriage rides, costumed holiday characters, and ice sculpture demonstrations will be a part of the celebration.

The official lighting to start the holiday season takes place on November 29th, but visitors may come and view the festive area anytime during the holidays. Sponsored by the Park Avenue Merchants Association, the display is officially titled, "The Spirit of the Holidays." Parking is available on nearby streets.

2. Festival of Trees

The 1816 Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum is the setting for the Festival of Trees. Holiday trees are decorated with unique holiday ornaments and there are a variety of trees in all shapes and sizes to view. Other holiday decorations, wreaths, and displays compliment the festive Christmas trees.

The Festival of Trees at the Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum takes place from November 16 through December 2, 2007. For more details, please phone (585)394-1472, or visit the website at www.grangerhomestead.com.

3. Strong Museum Christmas Tree

The Strong Museum is the perfect place to take children to see the holiday displays and the Victorian Christmas tree. Admission is $9 for adults and $7 for children, but the Strong National Museum of Play offers families a full day of fun.