As the winter chill sets in, we're here to guide you to the most magical local events and shows that Onondaga County has to offer. From the enchanting Lights on the Lake at Onondaga Lake Park to the timeless Dickens Christmas celebration in Skaneateles, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Check out our curated list of beloved holiday happenings and make the most of this festive season!

Lights on the Lake Extravaganza

Where: Onondaga Lake Park, Liverpool

 When: Every day from 5-10 p.m. through Jan. 12

Cost: $10 (Mon-Thurs) / $20 (Fri-Sun) per carload

Details: Immerse yourself in a two-mile drive-thru light show with towering displays, a Land of Oz, fantasy forest, and more. Purchase tickets online at www.lightsonthelake.com.

Dickens Christmas in Skaneateles

Where: Village of Skaneateles

When: Nov. 24, every Sat & Sun through Christmas Eve from noon to 4 p.m.

Cost: Free

Highlights: Experience the charm of Charles Dickens' holiday story with street theater, caroling, Father Christmas, and chestnuts roasting on an open fire.

Downtown Syracuse Tree Lighting

Where: Clinton Square, Syracuse

When: Nov. 24, starting at 6 p.m. Tree lighting at 7 p.m.

Cost: Free

Entertainment: Join the Home for the Holidays celebration with musical performances, including indie/pop rock artist Sydney Irving, leading up to the tree lighting at 7 p.m.

Syracuse Stage Presents “A Christmas Carol”

Where: 820 East Genesee St., Syracuse

When: Nov. 24 – Dec. 31, various showtimes

Tickets: Starting at $40

Experience: The timeless tale of Ebenezer Scrooge's redemption with memorable performances and a two-ring circus. Tickets available at www.syracusestage.org/christmascarol.

"Elf in Concert" at the Landmark Theatre

Where: Landmark Theatre, 362 South Salina St., Syracuse

When: Nov. 24 at 7 p.m.

Tickets: Starting at $53.85

Event: Relive the heartwarming holiday film "Elf" with live music by John Debney's score.

"A Magical Cirque Christmas"

Where: 411 Montgomery St., Syracuse

When: Nov. 24 at 8 p.m.

Tickets: Starting at $52.80

Experience: A variety show full of nostalgia, charm, and awe-inspiring acts for all ages.

Baldwinsville Parade of Lights

Where: Village of Baldwinsville

When: Nov. 25, starting at 5:30 p.m.

Cost: Free

Highlights: Join the ninth annual Parade of Lights for a brighter and merrier celebration with fire departments, tree lighting, and a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus.

Syracuse City Ballet Presents Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker”

Where: 411 Montgomery St., Syracuse

When: Dec. 1-3, various showtimes

Tickets: Starting at $13

Event: Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of "The Nutcracker" with dazzling performances by the Syracuse City Ballet.

Everson Festival of Trees and Light

Where: 401 Harrison St., Syracuse

When: Dec. 2-13 during museum hours

Admission: $14 for adults, $10 for members, $5 for children 12 and under

Attractions: Explore a variety of pre-lit decorated trees and seasonal items, becoming a cherished holiday tradition.

Nutcracker Twist: An Enchanted Journey

Where: Landmark Theatre, 362 South Salina Street, Syracuse

When: Dec. 9 at 3 p.m.

Tickets: Starting at $23.20

Experience: Witness Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker” in a new light with aerialists, jugglers, and cirq performers.

Christmas at Lorenzo: A Historic Celebration

Where: 17 Rippleton Road, Cazenovia

When: Thursday and Friday, Dec. 7-8, from 7-9 p.m. | Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 9-10, from 1-4 p.m.

Cost: $5 per person, $4 for seniors and students; children 12 and under enter free.

Highlights: Join the annual Christmas celebration at the Lorenzo State Historic Site in Cazenovia. The splendid mansion will transport you to Christmases past with live music, refreshments, and enchanting horse-drawn sleigh or wagon rides. Dive into holiday crafts for kids at the Rippleton Schoolhouse on Sunday. Explore the mansion's festive spirit with guided Christmas tours from Dec. 5-8, 1-4 p.m.

Christmas at the Landmark with the DeSantis Orchestra

Where: Landmark Theater, 362 South Salina Street, Syracuse

When: Sunday, Dec. 10, at 6 p.m.

Cost: Tickets are $44.40 plus fees.

Highlights: Immerse yourself in Upstate New York’s quintessential holiday celebration featuring the DeSantis Orchestra, performing traditional Christmas classics and contemporary favorites alongside renowned entertainers like Joe Whiting, Ronnie Leigh, Nick Blaney, and more. Secure your tickets at Ticketmaster.

Jessica Lynn’s A Merry Country Christmas

Where: Syracuse Palace Theatre, 2384 James St., Syracuse

When: Monday, Dec. 11, at 7 p.m.

Cost: Tickets start at $25.

Event: Syracuse’s Palace Theatre hosts Billboard-charting country artist Jessica Lynn for her annual Christmas show. Enjoy a unique blend of traditional holiday classics, original songs, and local performances reminiscent of old-time Christmas variety specials. Participate in holiday game segments and contribute to Toys for Tots by bringing new, unwrapped toys.

Lindsey Stirling: Snow Waltz Tour

Where: 362 South Salina St., Syracuse

When: Wednesday, Dec. 13, at 8 p.m.

Tickets: Starting at $58.45 plus fees.

Experience: Join Lindsey Stirling's enchanting Snow Waltz Tour, where she brings her electric violin prowess to the Landmark Theatre. Revel in holiday favorites and original compositions from her latest album, "Snow Waltz." One dollar per ticket goes towards Stirling’s Upside Fund charity, aiding in relieving medical debt. Grab your tickets at Ticketmaster.