There is a feeling of anticipation in the air every May in Saratoga County, but this year, it feels a little more historic. In July 1966, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) opened its doors to the world, forever changing the cultural landscape of Upstate New York.
As we mark SPAC’s 60th anniversary season, they’re not just celebrating its past, but inviting you to be part of its future. This year’s theme is Seasons, and from a high-energy season kickoff to the return of one of SPAC’s original performances, here is what makes this diamond anniversary a must-visit this summer.
The Ultimate Kickoff: Summer SPACtacular
The anniversary celebrations officially move into high gear on Friday, May 29th with the 4th annual Summer SPACtacular, a perfect way to toast SPAC’s 60th and look ahead to a wonderful future. The evening includes:
- Party Tent: Enjoy food and cocktail tastings plus live music from Road Soda Pop and a high-energy dance party on the iconic SPAC stage with DJ Trumastr.
- Pavilion Lounge and Fireworks: The Pavilion Lounge will feature zero-proof drinks plus a silent auction and photobooth, capped off with a dazzling fireworks display over the SPAC grounds.
- SPAC Stage Dance Party: End the evening with a dance party on the historic SPAC stage with DJ Trumastr.
A Full Circle Moment: New York City Ballet
The heart of SPAC’s history has always been its resident companies, and this summer’s New York City Ballet residency (July 8-11) is a direct tribute to the origins of the campus.
- A Midsummer Night’s Dream: In a beautiful full circle moment, the residency will feature Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, which was a part of SPAC’s grand opening in July 1966.
- Innovators & Icons: The season will also feature signature works like Serenade and the return of Jerome Robbins’ Opus 19/The Dreamer, alongside a new premiere from NYCB Principal Dancer Tiler Peck.
- Family-Friendly Access: Be sure to take advantage of SPAC’s family offers, where kids 16 and under are free on the lawn and 50% in the amphitheater, or you can buy a Family Four Pack of amphitheater tickets for $99. And don't miss the $19.66 anniversary lawn tickets to the New York City Ballet and most Philadelphia Orchestra shows!
- Save on Tickets: Enjoy more SPAC with $19.66 Anniversary Lawn Tickets to New York City Ballet and most performances of The Philadelphia Orchestra.
The Soundtrack of a Saratoga Summer
The milestone energy extends to every corner of the schedule.
- Saratoga Jazz Festival (June 27-28): A summer staple for nearly 50 years, this year’s festival will be a major highlight of the anniversary season, with 22 artists across two stages.
- SPAC Live Nation: The 60th season is packed with legendary names and modern stars from the kickoff in early June with CAKE, and an incredible summer lineup including Dave Matthews Band, The Guess Who, Guns N’ Roses, Luke Bryan, Kesha and more.
- The Philadelphia Orchestra (August 5 - 22): This world-renowned orchestra continues its longstanding residency for a series of dynamic performances including Tchaikovsky Spectacular, Mozart & Mahler, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part I in Concert, and Josh Groban: Stage, Screen & Symphony.
Investing in the Future: The Spa Little Theater
The 60th anniversary also marks a major leap forward for year-round programming. The Four Seasons Campaign is currently revitalizing the historic Spa Little Theater with a $17.5 million renovation.
- What’s New: Visitors can look forward to enhanced accessibility, a brand-new stage floor, and a complete lobby transformation including a new café. These upgrades ensure that SPAC remains a year-round home for the arts, including dance, theater, jazz, classical, and world music performances.
Plan Your Anniversary Visit
Whether you’ve been attending since the 60s or you're planning your very first visit, there has never been a better time to experience SPAC.
Don't forget to check the SPAC 60th Anniversary page for the latest on this momentous anniversary including other special events, contests and offers. The season is just beginning, and the best way to celebrate 60 years of magic is to be right there to immerse yourself in .
Ready to be part of history?
Grab your blanket, book your tickets, and we’ll see you under the stars! Explore the full 60th Anniversary schedule now!
