At holiday time, Cayuga County snaps, crackles and pops with good cheer. It's a wonderful place to be for visitors and residents alike.

Here are a few ways to make the season merry and bright the Cayuga County way:

Deck the halls

Christmas trees, holly and pinecones are all easy pickings in Cayuga County. Visit a tree farm and cut down your own tree or shop at one of our many nurseries where the work is all done for you. Some even deliver.

For unique decorations with a Finger Lakes flair, explore the Lake House on Route 20 between Auburn and Skaneateles. Curious Moon on Main Street in Fair Haven and MacKenzie-Childs in Aurora offer ornaments that are not just decorations but are also pieces of art that are sure to become collectibles.

Great gifts

You can shop 'til you drop but you don't have to. There are gifts galore from Cayuga County that will be sure to please even the most challenging person to buy for on your Christmas list.

A locally made birdhouse from Cedar Craft Wild Bird Center is a great gift for nature lovers of any age. A hand-decorated lamp from Home Again in King Ferry or stained glass work of art from Cherene's Stained Glass in Weedsport also make beautiful gifts crafted by some of Cayuga County's many talented artists. Or how about a 2008 season subscription to the Merry-Go-Round Playhouse? The options are endless.

Natural beauty

The holidays are a wonderful time to take in the natural beauty of Cayuga County. Drive our scenic byways around Cayuga Lake and along Lake Ontario. Enjoy the sparkling Holiday Lights by the Lake at Emerson Park through Dec. 31. You'll see why visitors find Cayuga County and the Finger Lakes one of the best places to visit.

Let it snow

Outdoor enthusiasts can't wait until the snow flies. The Cayuga County Erie Canal Recreational Trail with its carved stone locks, is popular among the snowmobile set. Cross-country skiers take to the Hojack Trail, and hikers enjoy the woodlands along the North Trail. For those that like to snowshoe, Bear Swamp State Forest provides a beautiful 13-mile trail.

Seasoned greetings

Local food gifts are the perfect way to say thank you and to make someone's holidays easier. A case of Finger Lakes wine from one of Cayuga County's award-winning wineries can be savored throughout the year. From Rieslings to Merlots to ice wines, there is a wine to please anyone's palate.

Bet the Farm in Aurora offers a selection of quality Finger Lakes wines and gourmet foods from around the state. Give one of its themed gift baskets such as Breakfast at Home and you're sure to be a hit.

For friends with a sweet tooth, a box of Fly-By-Night Cookies is a must. A Cookie Mailing Service is even offered.

Holiday happenings

There is so much happening this time of year that you'll definitely have to make choices. If you've got children, Breakfast with Santa at Emerson Park can't be missed. Kids get to have breakfast with St. Nick from 9 to 11 a.m. Dec. 8 and 15. Be sure to get tickets first at the Cayuga County Office of Tourism, 131 Genesee St.

Also on Dec. 8, you'll want to be in Weedsport for the Old Tyme Christmas Craft Fair. Then on Dec. 9, Auburn's historic and cultural sites will be all dressed up for the Holiday Traditions annual open house with entertainment, refreshments and special activities.

So, don't let the tourists be the ones that have all the fun. Share in all that makes Cayuga County the best place to be for the holidays.

For more on things to see and do, places to shop and eat, call the Cayuga County Office of Tourism at 255-1658 or visit www.TourCayuga.com.

Meg Vanek is the executive director of the Cayuga County Office of Tourism