Press Release

“Elves Day Out” to Transform Canajoharie into Christmas Wonderland for All Ages

Day-Long Holiday Celebration Will Feature Activities for Kids, Crafts, Food, Musical Performances and More
Montgomery County Tourism, Canajoharie-Palatine Bridge Chamber of Commerce Partnering to Increase Visitors to the Historic River Community

(CANAJOHARIE, NY) – Santa and his elves will make a stop in one of upstate New York’s most picture-perfect river villages on December 3. The Village of Canajoharie, known for its historic storefronts, the Arkell museum and two-story Christmas shop, will welcome visitors for “Elves Day Out,” starting at 8:30 a.m. 

The event is being made possible through an exciting partnership between Montgomery County and the Canajoharie-Palatine Bridge Chamber of Commerce.

“When you walk through Canajoharie it feels like you’ve stepped into a scene straight out of a Hallmark Christmas movie. It’s a feeling I always enjoy sharing with others and this event will enable people across our region to experience the magic of the Christmas season,” said Montgomery County Executive Matthew Ossenfort. “We’re excited to partner with the Chamber to make this year’s festivities even more memorable. Having the event on a Saturday will open it up for people beyond the County’s borders, something we think is important as we try to attract new visitors to our community.”

“Elves Day Out” will feature musical performances, story time with Mrs. Claus, a scavenger hunt with stops at local businesses, Christmas craft vendors, a tree lighting and, of course, the ability for children to meet Santa and share their Christmas wishes. There will be additional activities for kids of all ages hosted by the Canajoharie Youth Center, and other local organizations.

“I envision our little village becoming a Christmas season destination; something right out of a Norman Rockwell painting! I’ve always looked at Canajoharie as a hidden gem. It’s time to show our sparkle to the world and build this great event with the help of our friends at the County,” said Canajoharie-Palatine Bridge Chamber of Commerce President Janet Stanley.

The event kicks off with a 5K Ugly Sweater fun run to benefit the Canajoharie Youth Center. A Parade of Lights will be held at 5 p.m.  – with the tree lighting immediately preceding across from Lee’s Shops, the renowned year-round Christmas store.

Story time with Mrs. Claus will be held at the Canajoharie Library at 11 a.m.  and lunch with some very special surprise guests will be at 1p.m.  hosted by the Boiling Pot Eagles. Children will be able to visit with Santa between 3 and 4 p.m., and again following the tree lighting. A complete schedule of events and other details will be available on the “Elves Day Out” Facebook event, which can be found at https://fb.me/e/2SiHCpVsS. Additional activities and sponsorships will be announced going forward.

The Village of Canajoharie is located along the historic Mohawk River, just off Exit 29 of the New York State Thruway, nestled between Albany and Syracuse.

Businesses wishing to be a sponsor or interested in being part of the event should contact the Chamber of Commerce by calling 518-673-0292 or the County by emailing mmcclary@co.montgomery.ny.us.