Here are some suggestions for events and activities happening this weekend in the Capital Region and Hudson Valley, and the weather report to help with planning.
MJ
The acclaimed musical about Michael Jackson, which focuses on the 1992 Dangerous World Tour, is premiering at Proctors in Schenectady this week and weekend. Shows are scheduled for 8 p.m. Friday, 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday.
Created by Director/Choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and Lynn Nottage, MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a look at the creative mind and spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into the "King of Pop."
Recommended for ages 8 and up, MJ runs two hours and 30 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission. The show includes theatrical haze, fog and a significant amount of strobing effects.
For information and tickets, check here.
Troy Victorian Stroll
The 42nd edition of the Victorian Stroll is 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday in downtown Troy, offering visitors a chance to enjoy a seasonal celebration with live music, visits with Santa Claus and more.
With its vibrant atmosphere and unique blend of history, culture, and holiday spirit, the Victorian Stroll has become a beloved event for families and visitors alike, celebrating the warmth and magic of the season in one of the Capital Region’s most picturesque settings.
While in Troy, consider a stop at the Hart Cluett Museum for the 68th Annual Holiday Greens Show, presented by the Van Rensselaer Garden Club.
This year's show, "Deck the Halls with Music," opened Thursday and goes through Sunday. Garden club members “transform 13 rooms of the historic 1827 Hart-Cluett Mansion into a rare holiday display inspired by seasonal music using only fresh seasonal greens, flowers and more.”
Click here for additional information about the show and tickets.
A Christmas Carol
The Ulster Dance Company returns with the holiday production of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol.
Performances are scheduled for 7 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday in the Ulster Performing Arts Center, 601 Broadway, Kingston.
The annual performance of "A Christmas Carol" is an interpretation in ballet of the well-known Charles Dickens novel. It has been performed at UPAC for the past 25 years and continues to entertain and inspire audiences during the holiday season.
For additional information and tickets, check here.
Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting
The city of Newburgh rocks its annual Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting on Saturday.
The citywide parade begins at 3 p.m. at the Public Works Department and ends at lower Broadway at City Hall. Department vehicles and decorated floats will transport Santa and friends through city neighborhoods.
At City Hall, there will be music, hot chocolate and the tree lighting, scheduled for about 6 p.m.
The city designated Delano Hitch Park and the Newburgh Armory Unity Center along South William Street as viewing areas to enjoy the parade.
For live updates on the route and timing, follow here.
Latino Business Extravaganza
The Latino Business Extravaganza takes place from 1 to 6 p.m. Saturday at S.T.E.A.M. Garden, 279 Central Ave., Albany.
Organized by Latin Bazaar518, the event features more than 30 vendors offering locally produced products and gifts, Latin cuisine, music and more.
Entry is free.
Holiday Lights in the Park
The fifth Holiday Lights in the Park event is 5-9 p.m. Saturday at Elm Avenue Park in Bethlehem.
The free event benefits local residents. Donations of non-perishable food items, unwrapped toys and pet care items will be distributed throughout the community to families that need them.
Cohoes Tree Lighting
The city of Cohoes flips the switch on its community Christmas tree on Saturday. Here's the event flyer.
Repair Cafe
The Saratoga Springs Public Library and Sustainable Saratoga are hosting the 12th Repair Café from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday in the library at 49 Henry St. in the city.
Coaches will assist visitors in fixing lamps, small appliances, computers, leather, jewelry, or sew/hem your favorite item of clothing.
The event is free. For additional information, check here.
Holiday Concert
The Northern Dutchess Symphony Orchestra performs its annual Sounds of the Season holiday concert, lead by guest conductor William Stevens and joined by local choruses.
The show takes place from 4-6 p.m. Saturday in the Franklin D. Roosevelt High School, Hyde Park.
For tickets and information, click here.