Wednesday, January 15, 2025
'Tis the season: so let’s get jolly! UBS Arena’s Northwell Park is just the place to do so — with a visit to the inaugural Great American Family Christmas Festival, now through Jan. 5.
Great American Media is partnering with UBS Arena and the New York Islanders to bring Christmas joy to new heights at what is one of the largest experiential holiday festivals in the country, according to the creative team.
It involves holiday movie world premieres, traditional Christmas tree lightings nightly, TikTok-worthy holiday experiences throughout — an immersive experience for the entire family. Also meet the stars of Great American Christmas movies, weekends, along with film screenings, Q&As, panels, and scheduled photo ops.
“Over the past decade, my team and I have envisioned a Christmas festival that will attract people and offer fans a chance to meet the stars of our movies and immerse themselves in a one-of-a-kind festive experience,” Great American Media President-CEO Bill Abbott says.
With almost 100 Christmas movies produced, Great American’s Christmas franchise has warmed the hearts of audiences since its start in 2021.
“Our Christmas movies are all about an experience,” Abbott notes.
The ‘experience’ has now evolved from the screen to a fully immersive event.
“You think about what you do as a family between Thanksgiving and Christmas, and there really isn’t a lot to do. So we wanted to create that experience — when you walk in, you smell, see and feel Christmas,” he explains. “It’s a dream come true on so many levels.”
Visitors will find an ideal winter wonderland filled with five whimsical villages to explore, each offering numerous activities for all ages.
Start your journey by walking through Candy Cane Lane’s red and white arches, where you can snap some stylish “eflies” (Christmas selfies!) to add to the family Christmas album.
Next, you might want to head over to Santa’s Craft Village, where you can create personalized decorations — wreaths, holly and ornaments — to ‘deck the halls.’ Or even craft a do-it-yourself gift for someone special.
If you’re in the mood to skate, you don’t have to be on the Islanders to enjoy the rink at Frosty’s Frozen Skate. And when you need a break after gliding on the sparkling ice, cozy up at one of the fire pits nearby to chase away the chill.
The holidays always involve food, of course, and you’ll find all sorts of treats at the Eat, Drink, and Be Merry Village.
Indulge in such classics as hot chocolate, giant candy canes, and gooey s’mores with peppermint twists. The village also offers private rentals of VIP igloos and firepits, by the way, creating an inviting atmosphere for corporate entertaining and socializing.
Much like Rudolph’s red nose, Rudolph’s Main Stage is a bright beacon, where the festival “community” gathers. Sing along to Christmas carols at “Carol-oke” or cheer on participants in the Ugly Sweater Contest. To add even more merriment to your day, screenings of 18 new Christmas films will be featured along with in-person meet-and-greets with many of the stars.
Among the movies, don’t miss “Home Sweet Christmas,” premiering on Nov. 23. It follows childhood friends — Sam and Sophie — who are brought back together by the unexpected shared ownership of a charming tree farm.
“This is a beautiful, sweet story. It’s about long-lost love that’s reconnected. It’s about second chances at life, and it’s about the magic and mystery of Christmas,” says Cameron Mathison, who stars as Sam.
His co-star, Candace Cameron Bure is no stranger to Christmas film magic either.
“It’s such a beautiful genre that I have been lucky enough to be a part of since it really took off,” Bure says.“People come to love these Christmas movies, and they tune in year after year. There’s something so comforting about them, and it’s a time you can gather with your family and just be together.”
Guests can join the festivities with Bure and Mathison during opening weekend. Other star appearances include husband-and-wife duo Mario and Courtney Lopez. Be sure to check the website for a complete list of all special guests and their scheduled appearance.
And, naturally, the holiday celebration wouldn’t be complete without a bright and beautiful Christmas tree lighting ceremony, where Candace Cameron Bure and Cameron Mathison will help usher in the festive season at the first lighting.
“For us, being involved in a project like this, and having the opportunity to put on something with partners who care so deeply is just fantastic,” Abbott says enthusiastically.
“And in New York. There’s no place like Christmas in New York.”
Whether you are going to take in the movies, meet the stars, or enjoy some family activities, the festival invites everyone to live their own Christmas story.
“What I’m most excited about is the essence of it. You’re almost in your own little version of a Great American Christmas movie,” Mathison adds.“You’re engulfed in Christmas.”
And who knows? While there, perhaps you’ll find your very own Christmas miracle.
