Charming Cooperstown could serve as a model for a Currier & Ives painting as the town lights up for the holiday season. Join the excitement by taking in all sorts of color and beauty provided by members of the Cooperstown Art Association as they display and sell their works at the Holiday Member Show & Sale (11/6-7) held in the Village Library Building. Enjoy a sidewalk stroll. Bring your camera and create your own nostalgic postcard.

“There’s no place like home for the holidays…” unless it’s a tour of artist’s homes! The Christmas Country Tour in Indian Lake rings in the holiday season in glorious Adirondack style on 11/27-28. Several area crafters and artisans open their homes to display their works and offer them for sale for the holiday season. Enjoy fabulous creations, meet new friends, take your photo with Father Christmas, and revel in the quintessential Adirondack holiday scene.

You’ll find all the holiday magic as the Adirondack Christmas on Main Street lights up the quaint town of Old Forge on 11/27-29. Bundle up the gang and snuggle together on a classic horse-drawn wagon ride. Visit Santa’s Village and greet the busy reindeer. Sing along with the carolers, and marvel at the tree lighting and parade. Oh, and you’ll find plenty of treats and gifts, too!

Head north to the Thousand Islands-Seaway region and save money at Duty Free Americas, shops on the New York/Canadian border. Although spirits and tobacco offer the biggest savings, great prices are also available on luxury gifts and accessories, perfumes, cosmetics, candy and chocolate.

Remember, you must be leaving the country to make purchases at the duty-free shop. And, since June, 2009, to travel in and out of Canada you must have a passport or approved alternate secure identification such as the new enhanced driver’s license or a Trusted Traveler Program Card (FAST, NEXUS or SENTRI).

For more information on border crossing and customs, click here.