365. First Night CNY

This is a bitter sweet moment for me. As this is my last post for 2013 and for 365 Things Syracuse, I want to thank all of the supporters and friends I have had throughout this process, It’s been quite the ride.

I’m not going to lie, this blog has become a mixed bag of emotions for me. Some days, it felt as if this year would never end, there were moments of weakness when I wanted to throw in the towel. But, then I’d received a thank you email or a new like on Facebook and I’d remember why I even started this blog.

I had so much fun participating in events that I otherwise would have never gotten the chance to be a part of. It’s been a rewarding experience, and I will look back on 2013 as a very pivotal year. So, thank you for that!

Now…moving on.

I don’t know any better way to kick off the new year than to spend it listening to HANSON.

YES, you heard me right!! Girls in your mid to late 20s, stop screaming..it’s true!!! The first boy band of our time, the Mmmmbops of mmmmbops are coming to Syracuse and they’re performing for us ON NEW YEARS EVE!!!

Now I know you’re probably thinking, “WHY DID YOU NOT TELL ME THIS SOONER?!” Well, it’s probably because a) there was SO much to do in December and b) I quite literally saved the best for last!

HOW FREAKING EXCITING IS THIS!!!!

This event is for people of all ages, there will be laser tag, crafts, a dance party and the evening will end with Hanson performing their classic hits. Ohmygodohmygodohmygod.

Okay, but seriously…this event is probably one of the best ones put on all year. The parking is in the village of Liverpool…you just have to show up between 7pm-Midnight & if you stop into Dunkin Donuts…YOU GET A FREE DRINK!

I hope you find this in time, cancel all your plans and head to the Parkway this evening…because that is where I will be.

Tip: IT’S FREE!!

Location: Onondaga Lake Parkway

364. Noon Years Eve

The second to last post for this blog is upon us…there are only 2 days left in 2013…I really truly can not believe this is over!

New Years Eve has never really been my thing…I don’t know what it is, but I’m just not one to get all dolled up and go somewhere really expensive. I also usually have to work on the 31st (lame!). But, I’m only one person, and a lot of people know that NYE is a huge celebration where they buy glittery dresses and pay $100 for open bar and listen to live music… which is awesome! I’m all about having fun! This year, I’m definitely going out!

For those people with families, who don’t have to work on the 31st or who are going to call in sick and take the family somewhere special… I think you should check out The Zoo!

There will be fun and games and animals and crafts and more! All with just the admission to the zoo. It’s Tuesday, December 31st from 10:30am-noon

This almost sounds as much fun as the 40-below party….almost!

Tip: Tickets to the zoo range from $4-6

Location: Rosamond Gifford Zoo

360. Noexcuses Tours

When I first started this blog, I was approached by an individual who wanted to help me in whatever way he could.  He had mentioned he was trying to start his own company here in Syracuse, which offered distinctive tours in three distinctive locations throughout the city.

Immediately, I thought it was a brilliant plan. How great to get to know Syracuse from someone who is passionate about this place!

As time went on, he included 365 Things Syracuse on his blog, featuring something to do every Tuesday.  It was not only great exposure, but it was also a reminder that I was doing the right thing with 365 Things Syracuse. It was and still is, an honor to have a little link on his blog!

He has finally started to put the finishing touches on the tours, and just launched a new website, which is awesome because now I can feature him on this blog before it’s too late! (5 days…people!)

I went on a sort of “mock tour” this summer as part of a test-group and loved every second of it. We went to all the hot spots in Armory Square, we got to taste some AMAZING scallops at BC, delicious irish liqueur shots at Kitty Hoynes and even a sample of Empire Brews…we learned about the history of the buildings and walked the streets of Armory Square learning about the family and relationships the restaurants, bars and stores have created.

Afterwards, I immediately told all of my friends that when these tours launch they HAVE to go on one!

The tours range from $40-85 dollars, and they’re well worth it! You have to sign up

Tip: Like NOexcuses on facebook to learn about fun happenings in Syracuse!

Location: Armory Square, Hawley-Green or Tipp Hill

352. Sledding at Onondaga Lake Park

On the other side of Onondaga Lake Park more technically known as Long Branch Park…away from the parkway, beyond the Lights on the Lake spectacular, sits a hill.

This hill has been home to some of the best sledding in Syracuse for years.

When I was younger, the neighbor kids would pile into the car and head to the “sledding hill” at Onondaga Lake Parkway…it’d be dotted with tons of kids exactly like us — barely able to move in our confining snow suits.  However, once you got to the top of that hill and your friend pushed you forward…it was freedom for 30 seconds!

I don’t know if it’s just because I grew up in Syracuse and I’ve grown accustomed to the snow and the freezing…but I don’t think that cold weather should stop you from having fun.

This is an “unofficial” hill, there’s no check-in guy, no one to help you up (except a friendly fellow sledder), no tube or sled rentals…it’s just…original. And that’s what I love about it! (Unlike other tubing)

Tip: The sledding hill is open from 10am-5pm daily.

Location: 3813 Long Branch Rd, Liverpool, NY 13088

349. Snowshoeing and Cross Country Skiing at Beaver Lake

The snow dumped on us yesterday…and while it’s freezing cold outside and all I’d like to do is warm up by the fire today, I know that it’s just not the most practical thing to do.

It’s time to get outside, and really enjoy the snow…if that’s even possible.

At the beginning of this year, I noted that there were a lot of things to do outdoors, including ice skating in Clinton Square and Sledding and Tubing (that was actually #1!).

Now we’ve got almost 15 days left in the year, and we’re still finding things to do outside when it’s snowing…how awesome, right?!

Today I suggest you head on over to beaver lake nature center & try out snowshoeing for the first time. We’ve got a nice amount of snow on the ground, perfect for a stroll with some snowshoes on.

So far this year, we’ve really noticed that Beaver Lake has a lot to offer, from maple syrup breakfasts to enchanted jack o lanterns and harvest fest, Beaver Lake is a spot that should be recognized as a park that’s got it all.

Their snowshoeing and cross country skiing is no different.  They’ve got over 7 miles of trails to explore. I think it’s the perfect thing to do on this chilly snowy Sunday.

Tip: Don’t own any gear? That’s alright! They rent snowshoes out for $3 an hour

location: Beaver Lake, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville NY

348. Chengerian’s Tree Farm

Rumor has it we’re supposed to get bombarded with snow… but, that’s just a rumor.

We’re really narrowing down the days until Christmas, but for me…I haven’t gotten a tree yet…OOPS!!

So, today I’ll be headed to Chengerian’s to pick out a beautiful fir.

I love Chengerian’s…they make it real easy to to pick out a tree.  Wander down the aisles of homegrown local christmas trees, cut one down… you’re good to go!

They’re open daily from Noon-6 on weekdays and 10am-6pm on Saturday & Sunday

Tip: If you don’t own a saw, don’t worry…they’ve got pre-cut trees there as well.

location

 

 

347. Caroling at Baltimore Woods

Guys, it’s really cold…like, really cold.

No one wants to be outside when it’s that cold…but I challenge you to try it!

Every year, Baltimore Woods holds a special caroling party that involves nature, song, and nostalgia.

Baltimore Woods is located near Marcellus and it’s got some pretty amazing nature views. Combine that with caroling, snow and lanterns and it’s a scene straight out of a Dicken’s novel.

It’s tomorrow from 7-8:30pm. Bring some cookies & your singing voice!

Tip: This is free to attend!

location: Baltimore Woods

345. Highland Forest

Guys, it’s cold out.

26 degrees with the threat of snow on the horizon…winter is coming.

However, grab your winter jackets & go outside to Highland Forest! There are tons of winter-esque activities at that park, which is awesome!

They’ve got cross country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding and the famous sleigh rides! How fun!

It might not be the time to go cross country skiing just yet….but, don’t worry…it will be soon. Highland Forest has tons of trails and you can even rent skis there!

Doesn’t make the pending snow storm sound all that bad, huh?

Tip: Sleigh rides run from December 14th-March 16th from 11am-4pm, $6 per person.

Location: Highland Forest, 1254 Highland Forest Rd, Fabius

 

344. Syracuse Pepper Market

Everyone is always coming to me, “What should I get my brother for christmas? “What should I get my sister-in-law for Christmas?” It may be because I’m always browsing the blogs or pinterest but I’ve usually got a great vault of ideas and options waiting for when someone comes at me with the “I need to spend $50 or less on someone who likes ___________.”

Next time someone asks me I’ll promptly say, “Check out the Pepper Market.”

The Pepper Market is the sister event to the Salt Market (which, sadly, I missed in October.)

What is it? Well… it’s kind of a real life Etsy. Etsy is great, it’s a really popular spot to get Christmas gifts…however, since 99.9% of the things sold on Etsy are handmade, you typically need to get your Christmas orders in somewhere around last Friday….

With the Pepper Market, the vendors are out of control crazy talented and artsy and amazing and you’re bound to find something really fun and funky there for your “friend who has everything but just started a blog…”

The Pepper Market takes place this Saturday December 14th from 10am-4pm. I hope to see you there!

Tip: It’s all $30 or under!

location: On the corner of E. Onondaga and S. Warren Street

341. Holiday Happenings

It’s that time of year, and when you’re not frequenting the Dickens Christmas or Lights on the Lake head to Armory Square for the Holiday Happenings.

Throughout the month of December, there will be carolers walking around Armory Square and live performances at some establishments downtown.

This is just to get everyone in the holiday spirit.

December 7th, 12th, 14th and 21st during the afternoons from 1-5pm there will all be outdoor and indoor performances and it’s free to observe!

Tip: Check out the Armory Square website for more details

location: Armory Square