Chowderfest 2023

The 26th Annual Chowderfest returns Saturday, February 8, 2025! 

Read More

Annual Events in Saratoga County

Saratoga County offers residents and visitors an impressive number of exciting events throughout the calendar year. Whether you’re here in the winter, spring, summer, or fall, you’ll have the chance to participate in food and beer festivals, scenic walks, arts and music performances, athletic activities, and much more!

Winter

Winter in Saratoga County may be chilly and snowy, but locals have no intention of letting the cold slow them down!

The Victorian Streetwalk takes place on the first Thursday after Thanksgiving, featuring a magical tree lighting ceremony, live entertainment, and special appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus. Guests can stroll through the enchanting Festival of Trees, which showcases a stunning collection of beautifully decorated trees and wreaths. Commemorate the daunting, courageous, and successful winter 1775 journey of Henry Knox & patriots who delivered vital cannon during Henry Knox's Noble Train of Artillery, Dec 13 - 14. Then, ring in the New Year at the Saratoga New Year’s Eve, where you can enjoy dazzling fireworks and live entertainment!

In January, Saratoga County celebrates the annual Dr. King Celebration Weekend with musical events, art activations, lectures, and parties. Then, in February, you can join the fun at Chowderfest, a celebration of all things chowder, or check out the Flurry Festival, which is packed with folk music, dance, and cultural activities.

Spring

When the winter chill finally subsides in Upstate New York, Saratoga County celebrates springtime by hosting several lively happenings.

Health enthusiasts eagerly anticipate Healthy Saratoga Weekend in April, a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in wellness activities, savor nutritious food options, and take part in fitness challenges that promote a healthier lifestyle for all ages.

Fans of outdoor excursions regularly flock to the Adirondack Sports Expo, a super-sized event that showcases top athletic gear and gives avid bikers, rowers, campers, and climbers plenty of new items to add to their wishlists. If you’re more into holistic wellness, yoga, and meditation, then the Mind Body Soul Expo may be the perfect event for you. The annual Saratoga Comic Con welcomes comic lovers, gamers, anime enthusiasts, and everyone in between to meet, mingle, and check out exciting new releases from their favorite artists and creators.

Late spring in Saratoga is also a time of festive holidays, and the area is known to host various celebrations for holidays like Flag Day and Juneteenth.

Summer

When the days are long, the temperatures are warm, and the kids are out of school, Saratoga County kicks into high gear with engaging summer events.

Of course, no list of summer activities in Saratoga would be complete without a mention of Saratoga Race Course, which brings millions of visitors to Saratoga County from July through September to watch exhilarating horse races, including the Belmont Stakes, which will be hosted at Saratoga again in 2025.

But races in Saratoga aren’t just horse-related. The Firecracker 4 Road Race attracts over 2,000 runners annually, and the community comes out in full force to show their support. And while there’s no actual racing at the Cars on Union event, it’s a perfect chance for car enthusiasts to admire stunning vintage and luxury vehicles up close.

Summer in Saratoga is filled with its share of lively festivals and parades. Highlights include the Saratoga Pride Festival, 4th of July festivities (like the All-American Celebration in Saratoga Springs and the Clifton Park July 4th Celebration), and the Turning Point Parade honoring the Battles of Saratoga. Beer lovers can enjoy Saratoga Brewfest, where they can sample brews from all over New York State, and the Saratoga County Fair offers plenty of entertainment for the whole family.

Another staple of a Saratoga summer? Live music and performance. Saratoga Springs hosts a number of acts throughout the summer season. Whether you’re catching a Live Nation show or enjoying the New York City Ballet or The Philadelphia Orchestra at Saratoga Performing Arts Center, you’re in for a great evening. If you’d rather enjoy some tunes outdoors, don’t miss the free Summer Concert Series at Congress Park that runs from July to August.

Fall

Saratoga County’s stunning fall foliage is a major draw for tourists in the Empire State during this season, but it’s far from the only reason autumn is an ideal time for a Saratoga getaway.

Each September, the Waterford Tugboat Roundup draws visitors to celebrate the maritime heritage of the Northeast Inland Waterways. This lively festival features a parade of tugboats, workboats, and barges, along with tug tours, boat rides, competitions, fireworks, children's activities, vendors, and more.

As the leaves change, the region comes alive with vibrant festivals and unique events. Residents and visitors alike can revel in the excitement of the Saratoga Fall Festival, Clifton Park Farm Fest, and “The Way We Were” Car Show. Plus, Halloween festivities abound with “Ghosts of Saratoga” Guided Trolley Tours and the enchanting Saratoga Witch Walk. And don't miss the Christopher Dailey Foundation’s Annual Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving day!

Fall also brings a culinary celebration to Saratoga. The Saratoga Wing Off showcases local chefs and their best chicken-wing creations, Saratoga International Flavorfeast highlights diverse dishes and ingredients from around the globe, and Discover Saratoga’s Restaurant Week invites food lovers to savor special meals and exclusive menus from the area’s top restaurants.

Looking for more things to do in Saratoga? Visit our events calendar for the latest happenings around town!