The Heart of the Season: Colonie Christmas Market
Experience the warmth of a European-style Christmas market right here in Colonie, featuring a curated selection of local vendors, seasonal food, and festive music. Step into a cozy early-winter atmosphere where tradition comes alive, offering an inviting space to gather and celebrate the spirit of the community.
Experience the warmth of a European-style Christmas market right here in Colonie
Experience the Heart of the Season
Market Schedule
Saturday and Sunday, November 28-29, 2026
Use our schedule to plan your visit and experience the best of our performances and peak festive hours.
4:00 PM | Gates Open
The Colonie Christmas Market opens its gates as live music fills the air, with local musicians and choir performances setting the tone for the evening ahead. As the first hour unfolds, the sound of fanfare announces the arrival of fully armored knights, marching in procession through the market grounds.
5:00-5:45 PM | The Knights Walk Among Us
The knights take to the market paths, moving through the stalls and mingling with visitors young and old. Stop for a moment, share a word, or simply watch as history walks beside you in this rare and immersive experience of medieval grandeur.
5:45 PM | A Celebration of European Culture
The main area comes alive with vibrant cultural performances celebrating the rich and diverse European traditions that gave birth to the Christmas market centuries ago. Join us for music, movement, and heritage.
6:30-7:30 PM | The Night Watchmen of Dresden
As darkness settles over The Crossings, four robed lantern-bearing Night Watchmen emerge in solemn procession through the market and pond-side paths, illuminating the way in a timeless tradition that transforms the grounds into something magical. Meet with them on the paths and take pictures for the whole family.
6:30-7:30 PM | The Prague Plague Doctor
Keep your eyes open and your coins close — the Prague Plague Doctor is among us. Cloaked in black and masked in the unmistakable long beak of old Europe, this mysterious figure wanders the market grounds with a mischievous eye and a playful spirit. He answers to no stall and answers to no schedule — appearing without warning, vanishing just as quickly. Cross his path for a memorable encounter, a dramatic pose, and a photo the whole family will be talking about long after the market closes.
7:00-7:30 PM | The Lutzelfrau Hag
Keep an eye on your husbands, ladies — the Lutzelfrau is walking the market tonight. This ancient hag of the Black Forest has one thing on her mind: checking the hands of every wife she meets. Follow the sound of her bell and hold out your hands — she's been doing this for centuries, and she always knows the truth.
7:45 PM | A Grand Finale
The evening closes with music as live performers and the choir fill the night air one final time. Gather with family, raise a cup of mulled cider, and let the music carry you into the night.
The Christmas Passport
A Magical Scavenger Hunt for Young Adventurers
Every young adventurer who visits the Colonie Christmas Market can stop by the COSOS welcome stand to receive their very own Christmas Passport. Inside its pages you will find each of the market's wandering characters — their names, their countries, and the history and tradition they carry with them across the centuries. Read about the knights of medieval Europe, learn the legend behind the Prague Plague Doctor, and discover the ancient roots of the Lantern Watchmen before you seek them out on the grounds.
When you find a character, show them your passport and receive their official stamp — sealed with the mark of the country and character they represent. Fill every page, return to the COSOS stand with a completed passport, and receive a free cookie voucher redeemable at participating market vendors.
The Christmas Passport turns a single evening into an adventure your children will ask to repeat every year.
Noble Knights
Witness the grand presence of armored knights as they march through the market, bringing history and chivalry to life.
Night Watchmans
Follow the glowing warmth of the Lantern Wardens as they process through the night in a magical candlelit ritual.
Christmas Market Wonders
Explore the unique traditions and enchanting sights of our Christkindlmarkt.
Stage & Tradition
Be captivated by traditional European performances and choir groups sharing the iconic songs of old-world heritage.
Festive Delights
Savor authentic seasonal flavors and warm mulled cider while enjoying the cozy charm of our village-style setting.
Old World Artistry
Peruse a collection of handcrafted treasures and traditional gifts that reflect the finest European craftsmanship.
Holiday Atmosphere
Soak in the festive energy with cozy lights, seasonal music, and a warm holiday spirit that fills every corner of the market.
Venue Details
Plan your visit to the heart of the holiday spirit. Our central location at The Crossings ensures a warm and accessible journey for all.
Location
The Crossings Center Pavilion, Colonie, New York.
Spaces
Indoor pavilion plus outdoor paths and pond area.
Accessibility
Family-friendly, stroller-friendly, and welcoming to all ages and backgrounds.
Parking
On-site parking available with ample space close to the pavilion.
Weather
The pavilion provides shelter, with outdoor areas to explore if the weather allows.