Princeton is gearing up for the holiday season with a mix of traditional celebrations and exciting new cultural additions. While many regular events are taking a break during this holiday week, the town is buzzing with festive activities, including the annual Trinity Church 5K Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day and the much-anticipated tree lighting ceremony along with the return of The Nutcracker on Friday, November 28.
A significant highlight of the week is the grand opening of the Adriana Groza Art Gallery & Studio, which is bringing new life to an underutilized space on Spring Street. The gallery has taken residence in the former Kopp's Cycle shop, a property that will eventually be redeveloped as a multi-family housing project as part of Princeton's plan to meet its fourth round affordable housing obligation.
Award-winning artist Adriana Groza will host her ribbon cutting ceremony at 38 Spring Street on Tuesday, November 25, from 5:25 to 7:25 p.m. The event holds special significance as it celebrates the 21st anniversary of Adriana and her husband's arrival in the United States. "This is a day of many firsts," says Groza. "It represents the moment I stepped onto new soil with hope in my heart and dreams in my spirit. To now open my own gallery in the heart of Princeton, surrounded by community and purpose, feels like full circle."
Since 2021, Groza has maintained an active working studio at Princeton Makes, the artist cooperative in the Princeton Shopping Center founded by Jim Levine. She credits Levine as an instrumental mentor and supporter of her growth. "Princeton Makes gave me a home, a creative family, and the confidence to expand into this next chapter," she explains.
The gallery opening has garnered strong support from local business leaders and officials. Aubrey Haines, CEO of Princeton Property Partners and president of Experience Princeton, has played an important role in making the gallery possible. "At Princeton Property Partners, we believe art strengthens local economies and public life; that's why we're thrilled to welcome Adriana Groza to the historic Kopp's Cycle building—precisely as the Princeton University Art Museum reopens and the nation marks its 250th anniversary in 2026," said Haines. "Adriana's presence will amplify cultural value, spur foot traffic, and deepen community engagement, aligning with our commitment to human-centered destinations where innovation and culture thrive."
Princeton Councilwoman Michele Pirone Lambros, a strong advocate for local business growth, has also been a key supporter of Adriana's quest for a permanent home in town. "Adriana's new gallery is a wonderful addition to Spring Street, showcasing her beautiful artwork that brightens the corner and brings new vibrancy to the entire downtown," Pirone Lambros said.
The new gallery will serve multiple purposes beyond simply displaying Groza's original paintings. It will function as a creative hub for workshops, exhibitions, and community engagement activities. Gallery hours are designed to be flexible and accessible: weekdays are available by chance or by appointment, while Saturday and Sunday hours are set from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For visitors planning to drive into downtown Princeton this week, parking information is readily available through various resources. The town offers more parking options than most people realize, and Palmer Square provides useful information about its two parking garages on its website.
The week's entertainment offerings extend beyond the gallery opening. The Garden Theatre at 160 Nassau Street is featuring several films including "Wicked: For Good," "Jay Kelly," and "Wake Up Dead Man," starting Wednesday. Other weekly events include Quizzo with Bob E Luv at the Ivy Inn on Tuesday evening, and Tuesday Night Folk Dance at Christ Congregation, where no partner is necessary.
Thanksgiving Day brings multiple outdoor activities despite municipal offices being closed. The Trinity Church Turkey Trot 5K race starts at 8:30 a.m. from 33 Mercer Street, while the Hopewell Valley 5K Turkey Trot begins at 9 a.m. at Rosedale Park in Pennington. For nature enthusiasts, a special Thanksgiving Day nature walk called "Nuts, Seeds & Whirligigs" will take place at Mapleton Preserve, led by Karen Linder and the Friends of Princeton Nursery Lands.
Friday's festivities include the Arts Council of Princeton's Artist Winter Village at Hinds Plaza from noon to 6 p.m., featuring pop-up shops by regional artists offering unique gifts. The day culminates with the annual Holiday Tree Lighting at Palmer Square from 5 to 6 p.m., preceded by live ice carving of pianos and performances by The Flying Ivories, Epic Soul Band, and Princeton High School Choir, with a special visit from Santa Claus to help light the tree.
