Hidden Gems: Exploring Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations for National Tourism Week

The blog was created after the adventure in 2010.
Do you love having a real Christmas tree to decorate?
Every January, Holiday Valley Resort in Ellicottville, NY, hosts a special event known as Canadian Friendship Week, celebrating the strong bond between the United States and Canada.
Do you enjoy the magic of a real Christmas tree?
Randolph’s Country Christmas is an annual event that takes place during the first full weekend of December. Starting off the day is Randolph Holiday Arts & Crafts Show.
Looking for a great opportunity to pick up the perfect one of a kind gift for the holidays? Randolph Central School is excited to announce the annual RCS Arts and Crafts Show will take place at the High and Elementary School GYMS of Randolph Central School District on Saturday, December 2nd from 10am until 4pm. Browse the vendors along with a concession stand and bake sale.
This is the third night of Christmas In Allegany at the Allegany Santa House. This is a free event to come visit Santa in his beautifully decorated Santa House with Elf Shack behind selling basket raffle tickets to help support this yearly tradition.
It's Christmas In Allegany Santa House season!
Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus at their house in Allegany.
Town of South Valley is located in the southwest of Cattaraugus County, New York State. Part of the Seneca Nation of Indians Allegany Territory, Allegany State Park and the Allegheny Reservoir are in the Town of South Valley. It is home to Onoville Marina Park, and Pine Hill State Forest.
Spring is here! Join an Allegany State Park Naturalist for a "Signs of Spring Evening Walk" explaining Allegany State Park's blossoming spring critters on Wednesday, April 23rd from 6:300-8:00pm. Participants will be treated to some early signs of spring that may include display flight of American Woodcock, chorusing amphibians, newly emerged spring plants and much more. Come early and celebrate Earth Day with making bird feeders using recyclable materials. Earth Day is allk about environmental stewardship, and this activity is a meaningful way to reduce waste and support local wildlife.
Gowanda is a a beautifully quaint community nestled among the hills surrounding Cattaraugus Creek and is coming together for a Christmas Celebration. Come help start off the holiday season downtown with local merchants, train rides all day, Annual tree lighting ceremony, Holiday Spirit Parade and a festive atmosphere for the whole family. Of course we can not forget that Santa and all his helpers will be there to help us celebrate this joyous time of year! Mark your calendars!
Looking for some unique gifts for the holiday season? Check out the Small Business Saturday Vendor Event on November 25th, 10:00am - 3:00pm.
Over 30 vendors, chinese auction, chicken BBQ, and much more!
Celebrate the Holiday Season with a Living Nativity, complete with a camel, all in the Village. The Ellicottvilles Christmas Stroll was created in 1987 by a group of citizens who wanted to organize such an event in the village. After brainstorming over coffee, it was decided that they wanted a live nativity scene with children dressed as angels and shepherds, who walked around the village and met at the gazebo. There, the baby Jesus was presented and caroling presided.
Celebrate the Holiday Season with a Living Nativity, complete with a camel, all in the Village. The Ellicottville A Christmas Stroll was created in 1987 by a group of citizens who wanted to organize such an event in the village. After brainstorming over coffee, it was decided that they wanted a live nativity scene with children dressed as angels and shepherds, who walked around the village and met at the gazebo. There, the baby Jesus was presented and caroling presided. The tradition has continued on for the past 36 years.
Village of South Dayton in Cattaraugus County, New York
Gowanda is a a beautifully quaint community nestled among the hills surrounding Cattaraugus Creek and is coming together for a Christmas Celebration. Come help start off the holiday season downtown with local merchants, train rides all day, Annual tree lighting ceremony, Holiday Spirit Parade and a festive atmosphere for the whole family. Of course we can not forget that Santa and all his helpers will be there to help us celebrate this joyous time of year! Mark your calendars!
Get ready to raise your glass and indulge in the ultimate celebration of craft beverages at the Holiday Valley Beer and Wine Festival 2024! Join them on November 8th and 9th for a weekend brimming with exceptional brews, fine wines, and unforgettable fun. Nestled in the picturesque beauty of Ellicottville, NY, this festival is the perfect blend of amazing flavors, live entertainment, and scenic views.
Kick off the weekend with the "Crawl Outta Fall" event.
Photo credit: Holiday Valley Resort
In honor of Native American Heritage Month, visit the Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino where they will be celebrating Indigenous history, traditions and culture throughout the month of November.
Visit the Seneca Market in the Hotel Lobby on the following dates:
Visit the Bus Lobby to see Haudenosaunee Dancers on the following dates: