Events in Saratoga, NY
Saratoga County is known for more than just horse racing. Year-round programming, like live performances, exhibitions, and seasonal events, gives visitors plenty of reasons to explore and linger!
Live Music Events
The Saratoga music scene features a diverse range of events, spanning cutting-edge music to classical concerts. A particular favorite is the Saratoga Jazz Festival, which celebrates the best of jazz and all its offshoots. Taking place over two days and two stages at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC), the event features acclaimed artists from various genres, including jazz, roots, funk, blues, pop, and indie. Another standout is the Mostly Modern Festival at Zankel Music Hall at Skidmore College, which showcases contemporary classical music by living composers, performed by world-class musicians and ensembles.
Each year, The Philadelphia Orchestra takes up residence at SPAC for a series of unique performances, among other excellent seasonal programs. Live Nation also brings an exciting lineup of concerts to SPAC throughout the summer, featuring major artists like Dave Matthews Band, Phish, The Doobie Brothers, Jason Aldean, and more.
Art and Culture
Saratoga is a vibrant hub for arts and culture year-round, offering something for every interest. SPAC has been the New York City Ballet’s summer home since 1966. Literary enthusiasts will appreciate the Saratoga Book Festival. This annual event features authors, workshops, and a literary marketplace across various venues. If pop culture piques your interest, Saratoga Comic Con brings together comic book dealers, artists, vendors, and guest stars from television and movies.
Equestrian Sports
It’s no secret that Saratoga County is synonymous with horse racing, with several iconic events taking place throughout the year. One notable occasion is the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival, a multi-day event famous for its high-stakes betting.
Beyond the Belmont, the summer racing meet at Saratoga Race Course, running annually from mid-July to Labor Day, features some of the sport's most prestigious races. Among these are the Travers Stakes, often called the Mid-Summer Derby, and the Whitney Stakes.
Food and Drink Events
Food and drink enthusiasts can look forward to Discover Saratoga's Annual Restaurant Week, an annual event that showcases prix-fixe menus from local restaurants. Year-round, the Saratoga Farmers' Market offers fresh, local products for those seeking a gourmet fix. Another highlight of Saratoga County's family-friendly food calendar is Chowderfest, where local restaurants come together to offer samples of some of the finest chowder on the East Coast.
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