Good morning, Albany.

On Sunday, November 23, the Menands community held the 18th Mayflower food drive in partnership with Clark Moving and Storage to collect donations for families in need.

The event gathered about 2,000—3,000 pounds of food that will be delivered to five local pantries after Thanksgiving to support households during the holiday season.

Menands Saint Patrick’s Club is hosting the Festival of Trees today at Ganser-Smith Park where local families decorate Christmas trees to honor loved ones or represent organizations.

Participants pay $100 per tree and bring their own decorations to create a vibrant holiday display — marking the fifth year of the tradition.

Watervliet will host its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony on November 27th at 5 p.m. at Veteran’s Memorial park—residents will receive a free city ornament marking the 200th Anniversary of the Meneely Bell foundry and enjoy hot soup, desserts, buggy rides and a visit from Santa.

Universal Preservation Hall and WEXT announced the eighth class of inductees into the Capital Region Thomas Edison Music Hall of Fame — the group includes performers, producers, educators, and visionaries who have shaped local culture.

Tickets for the induction ceremony will go on sale on January 21, 2026 and the event will be held on March 23, 2026 at Universal Preservation Hall.

The Center for Disability Services will stop psychiatry services on December 31 due to a shortage of psychiatrists, frozen Medicaid payments, and high operating losses.

Over 1,100 clients must find new providers (including some using telemedicine) as other services at the center remain available.

The Music Company Orchestra held its benefit concert on Sunday, November 2 at Schenectady First Reformed Church to raise over $3,000 for the Center for Disability Services—supporting care for disabled individuals.

Conductor Gerald Lanoue led the program with classical pieces that honored loss and celebrated hope.

CHIODOS: 20 Years of All's Well That Ends Well

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Empire Live — $71+ — Celebrate 20 years of Chiodos with a vibrant live concert experience.

Nutcracker Magical Christmas Ballet

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Palace Theatre — Varies — Experience a magical Christmas ballet featuring world-class talent and stunning visuals.

NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Palace Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the cherished holiday classic in a magical ballet performance.

AMA Coffee and Connections – Albany

8:30-9:30 a.m. — Motor Oil Coffee Albany State Street — Free entry — Engage in meaningful conversations while sipping on delicious coffee with local professionals.

Adoption Clinic at Pet Supplies Plus

11 AM - 12:30 PM — Pet Supplies Plus East Greenbush — Free entry — Find your new furry friend and support local dog rescue efforts.

The Muppet Christmas Carol Screening

7-11 p.m. — Palace Theatre — Free entry — Enjoy a holiday classic with The Muppet Christmas Carol during the M&T Bank Holiday Movie Series.

Secret Star Acoustic Jam

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Palace Theatre Albany — Tickets required — Experience an intimate acoustic performance in a historic setting.

Bored Teachers Comedy Tour

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Palace Theatre — Ticketed event — An evening of laughter exploring the realities of teaching for educators and non-educators alike.

Albany Holiday Princess Ball

12-3:30 p.m. — Crowne Plaza Albany - the Desmond Hotel — Ticket required — Celebrate the holiday season with an enchanting afternoon of princess-themed fun and interactive activities for children.

Elf Movie Screening

7-11 p.m. — Palace Theatre — Free entry — Enjoy a classic holiday film with family-friendly fun at this festive movie night.