Artisanal Brew Works' Trail of Lights
Free event cleverly raises money for a mix of local charities.
[Click on the above video for an inside peek of this festive, charitable event.]
After nailing the Halloween game in October, Artisanal Brew Works (617 Maple Ave.) is again transforming its forest trail behind the taproom (where the full food and bar menu are available) into a holiday sight-to-see. This time, instead of spooky thrills, the Trail of Lights boasts festive sparkle in an array of shining colors along a path of trees draped in pinks, purples, blues and whites. “It was magical to see them all light up for the first time,” says Saratoga photographer and entrepreneur Nellie Ackerman, who attended the event’s Tree Lighting Ceremony Saturday night. “Each tree is decorated by a sponsor and tagged with a QR code for donations to a charity close to their hearts,” Ackerman says of the free event that is open through the end of the year. “This benefits so many great charities!” (Think Saratoga Children’s Literacy League, Wilton Food Pantry and Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga, to name a few.)
Trail of Lights hours: Mon: closed; Tues & Weds: 3 p.m. - 9 p.m.; Thurs & Fri: 12 p.m. - 9 p.m.; Sat: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.; and Sun: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.