Holiday Magic Returns to Cross County Center with Winter Fest

By Josefa Paganuzzi
Nov. 4, 2026: Winter Fest returns to Cross County Center, bringing the sparkle and spirit of the holiday season to the heart of Yonkers with festive lights, outdoor skating, Santa visits, holiday shopping, seasonal food and family-friendly entertainment.
Kicking off with the Holiday Tree Lighting on Friday, November 13, Winter Fest transforms Westchester’s premier outdoor shopping center into a winter wonderland through Sunday, January 3, 2027. The seasonal celebration brings together the excitement of a classic New York holiday experience with the convenience of celebrating close to home, featuring a towering 40-foot walk-through holiday tree, the return of the pop-up skating rink, Santa photos, food trucks, and special events throughout the Christmas, Hanukkah and New Year’s season.
“Winter Fest has quickly become a special part of the holiday season at Cross County Center, bringing together traditions families have come to know and love,” said Kayli Tarcy, Marketing Director, Cross County Center. “We’re excited to welcome everyone back for another season of shopping, entertainment and time together, right here in Westchester.”
With its outdoor setting, free up-close parking and family-friendly amenities, Cross County Center offers a convenient destination to shop, dine and celebrate throughout the holiday season. The Winter Fest lineup includes:
Holiday Tree Lighting: Friday, November 13, 6:30-8pm
The holidays are lighting up at Cross County Center! Gather the family and join us for a magical evening as we officially kick off the holiday season with the lighting of Westchester’s largest holiday tree, a spectacular 40-foot, walk-through tree illuminated by more than 20,000 sparkling LED lights! Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand to spread holiday cheer, and there may even be a certain grumpy green guest making an appearance! Enjoy an evening packed with festive fun, including live holiday entertainment featuring New Directions Dance Studio of Bronxville, a DJ, strolling characters, food trucks, festive selfie spots and FREE electric train rides. The festivities begin at 6:30 p.m., building up to the magical moment when we light the tree at 7:45 p.m. Bring the family, grab your friends and get ready to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year at Cross County Center!
Santa Photos: November 13 - December 24
Visit Santa in his cozy holiday house, located near Gap by the tree. Families can capture magical photo memories, with special pet photo nights, sensory-friendly sessions, and Cowboy Claus themed photos. Reservations are strongly recommended and can be made through the center’s website, https://www.crosscountycenter.com/event/44169-santa-photos
Holiday Food Truck Market: November 13 - January 3, Wed-Sunday from 12-8pm
Shoppers will enjoy tasty treats and savory snacks from Westchester’s best food trucks! Trucks will be parked on The Green, in the center of the mall, and will be open for lunch and dinner. New lineup includes: El Patio (Dominican), On the Go Matrix (Jamaican), YumBro (Asian-Fusion) and Grey’s Taco Fusion. For those that want to eat in style, or simply chill out in a cool seating area, pop-up igloos will be available throughout the center, available on a first come first served basis.
Pop-Up Holiday Ice Skating Rink: November 18 - January 3
The synthetic-surface rink returns for another season, ideal for young or beginner skaters. $12 admission includes skates and a one-hour session. Themed character nights and private rentals are available.
Menorah Lighting: Monday, December 7 at 6-7:30 pm
Celebrate Chanukah with a traditional menorah lighting hosted by Chabad of Yonkers. Rabbi Mendy Hurwitz will light the menorah in celebration of the festival of lights, and guests will enjoy live music, cultural dancing, and delicious treats. The event will take place near Macy’s.
Holiday Shopping & Center Updates
Store hours will be extended during the shopping season, beginning on Friday, November 27 when the center will open from 7am to 10pm. Extended shopping hours leading up to the holidays will be listed on the center’s website.
Winter Fest comes as Cross County Center continues its ongoing redevelopment, including the transformation of the North Lot with new retail and public green space. Throughout construction, stores and restaurants remain open and free parking continues to be available for shoppers and visitors. For more information, visit www.crosscountycenter.com










