Ithaca, NY -- Spend the Holiday season in Downtown Ithaca with special events including the annual Holiday Parade of Ice, Santa's arrival, a community gingerbread house competition, and of course, great dining, shopping and entertainment.

The season swings into high gear, Dec. 11, with annual Parade of Ice Illumination night. The event marks the unveiling of ice sculptures throughout the Downtown Commons with strolling carolers, musicians and more. It's a perfect night to sample downtown's great shopping, dining and nightlife.

On Dec. 12, the fun continues with an ice sculpture carving competition. Watch as competitors create sculptures before your very eyes and vote for your favorite. Santa arrives at noon, repelling onto the Commons from the rooftop of Center Ithaca. Kids activities, entertainment and photo ops with Santa follow in Center Ithaca.

For family entertainment, the Ithaca Ballet and the Finger Lakes Symphony Orchestra present the classic Nutcracker, Dec. 11-13 at the State Theatre.

Ice sculptures and the holiday gingerbread houses remain on display throughout the season. For more information, visit www.downtownithaca.com.