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Author: Saratoga TODAY

May 23 – May 29, 2025

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Calendar.

This Week’s Events:   

Friday, May 23 

Brooks BBQ Fundraiser

Saratoga Springs High School, 3 Blue Streak Blvd., Saratoga Springs | 2:30 – 5:30 p.m. The Saratoga Springs community is invited to enjoy a delicious take-out dinner while supporting the Saratoga Schools Education Foundation. Chicken Dinner (Pre-Pay Price: $16) – Includes ½ Chicken, Baked Potato, Coleslaw, and Roll, ½ Chicken Only: $10, Chicken Dinner (Pay On-Site): $20. Buy a Dinner for a Student: $16 – Donated meals will be distributed to students in our district. Proceeds benefit the Saratoga Schools Education Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the Saratoga Springs City School District. The Foundation awards grants to educators who demonstrate a passion for enhancing student achievement and learning through innovative and creative practices. 

Saturday, May 24

American Legion Monthly Meeting

Adirondack Post 70, 34 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs | 10 a.m. 

Art in the Park

Congress Park, Saratoga Springs | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (Rain date: Saturday, May 31). 

Join us for our annual art fair in Congress Park, located in beautiful downtown Saratoga Springs. The event features artists from near and far representing all genres of work in a beautiful park setting. Artists will be on hand selling and discussing their work with the public. The event will also feature live music, artist demos, and more! This event is free and open to the public! 

Community Compost Kickoff Apple Core Toss

Pitney Meadows, 223 West Ave., Saratoga Springs | Noon.  Pitney Meadows Community Farm, in partnership with Sustainable Saratoga, is proud to announce the launch of a new city-funded Community Compost Program. The kickoff will begin with a one-hour training session for program participants and tour of the composting site, and will conclude with our celebratory Apple Core Toss. For more information visit
www.pitneymeadows
communityfarm.org/community-compost. 

Sunday, May 25

I Gave Him My Thanks. It Was All I Had to Give

Grant Cottage, 1000 Mount McGregor Rd. Wilton | 1 p.m.  A Memorial Day Living History presentation by Steve Trimm. Grant Cottage tour guide Steve Trimm will portray Civil War Union soldier Rice C. Bull to share his harrowing, but ultimately inspiring tale. As part of our Literary Landmark Author Series, Trimm will be signing copies of his books Saving Grant Cottage and General Grant’s Supporting Players following the presentation. A limited quantity of the book Soldiering: The Civil War diary of Rice C. Bull, 123rd New York Volunteer Infantry also available. For full details about Grant Cottage Programs & Events visit grantcottage.org/events.

Monday, May 26

Annual Pie and Quiche Sale

Galway Village Park, Corner of Rte147 and CR 45, Galway | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. The Glenville Hills Garden Club of Saratoga County will hold its annual pie and quiche sale on Memorial Day. Proceeds will fund the garden club projects, including community beautification and the sponsorship of students at environmental camps.   

Memorial Day Ceremony 

American Legion Post Mohawk Post 1450’s Covered Pavilion, 275 Grooms Rd, Halfmoon | 11 a.m. 

Commander Charles LaFountain is pleased to invite the public to attend our Annual Memorial Day Ceremony. The public is urged to attend and participate in this patriotic event to honor those who made the supreme sacrifice in defense of our freedom. Refreshments will be served immediately following the ceremony.

Tuesday, May 27

Kids Build, Caregivers Connect

Saratoga Springs Public Library, Dutcher Community Room, 49 Henry St., Saratoga Springs | 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. Neurodivergent children in preschool through grade 6 who enjoy Legos, magna tiles, blocks, and more – join us to build and create in an environment that embraces and celebrates all neurodiverse identities! While kids build, parents and caregivers will have the opportunity to connect with each other. Co-Sponsored by SUNY Empire State University Center for Autism Advocacy: Research, Education, & Supports (CAARES). Please register online. sspl.org. 

Wednesday,
May 28

Chicken & Sausage Riggies Dinner

Saratoga Wilton Elks Lodge, 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs | 4:30 – 6 p.m. Take out only. Call Monday or Tuesday between 10 a.m. – noon to place an order at 518-584-2585. Menu: chicken, sausage, diced tomatoes in a pink sauce over spaghetti, tossed salad, garlic toast. $15 per dinner (cash only). 

In a Grove

Ferndell Pavilion, Spa State Park, Saratoga Springs | 5 and 7 p.m.  Opera Saratoga presents In a Grove. “Vividly immersive thriller!” raved the New York Times about this new 60-minute production. Speakers hidden in the trees provide surround sound as audiences enter the grove during this operatic adaptation of Akutagawa’s short story — which offers a searing investigation into the impossibility and elusiveness of truth. This exciting site-specific electronic opera was composed by Chris Cerrone with libretto by Stephanie Fleischmann. Also held May 29 at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets, go to OperaSaratoga.org.

Photography Club 

Galway Public Library, 2112 East Street, Galway | 6 p.m. For our meeting this month, club member Ray Sussmann will be speaking on the subject of Focal Length and Depth of Field. The theme of this month’s member Photo Challenge is: Clouds. Everyone is welcome to attend these relaxed and friendly gatherings. For more information, please contact Dave Waite at davewaitefinearts@gmail.com. 

Science on Tap 

Common Roots Brewing Company, South Glens Falls | 7 p.m. Science on Tap is a monthly series of informal talks led by scientists that explore current research topics and the importance of science in our daily life. Each talk takes place in a relaxed pub atmosphere where communication flows freely between scientists and the public. Co-presented by Skidmore’s Environmental Studies and Sciences Department and Sustainable Saratoga, these monthly opportunities for discussion reflect the unique intellectual culture of the greater Capital Region and promote scientific literacy. Admission is free and all ages are welcome. Come early to get a bite to eat. https://sustainablesaratoga.org/event/science-on-tap-6/.

Thursday, May 29

Authentic Hispanic Cuisine Fundraising Dinner

45 Washington Street, Saratoga Springs | 4 – 8 p.m. Take out only. Walk ins welcome. Call or text to order 518-879-3491. $15 per order.

An Evening with Mychal the Librarian

Shenendehowa High School, West Auditorium, 970 Route 146, Clifton Park | 7 p.m. A discussion with librarian and social media star, Mychal Threets, followed by photo opportunities. All ages are welcome to attend this event. Mychal is a former children’s librarian and literary ambassador from northern California who shares his love for libraries, as well as his own mental health journey, on his social media channels. This February he was named PBS’ Resident Librarian. Mychal is known for spreading library joy and sharing stories about his positive interactions with library kids and library grownups. He is the self-proclaimed #1 fan of libraries! Participants are encouraged to register online at www.cphlibrary.org. 

Identifying Teenage Drug Use

Greenfield Community Center, 25 Wilton Rd., Greenfield, 7 – 8 p.m. The Prevention Council’s “Right Under Your Nose” program provides a nuts-and-bolts demonstration of how a parent can recognize signs of current drug culture and trends. Open to residents and non-residents. The program will be offered first-come first served to a maximum of 75 people (adults only), or to secure a spot you can register in advance by calling 518-893-7432 ext. 307.

May 23 – May 29, 2025

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Local Briefs.

Upcoming Events

2-Session Freshwater Fishing Instruction Class

The Academy for Lifelong Learning is offering a 2-session freshwater fishing course on Fridays, May 30 and June 6, 10 – 11:30 a.m. at the Knights of Columbus, 50 Pine Road, Saratoga Springs. The cost is $25 per person. Registration is open to everyone. Academy membership is not required. To view the flyer with more information and the registration form, go to www.allsaratroga.org.

Millers Backyard BBQ

Friday, May 30, 3 – 6 p.m. Include Brookside Museum in your dinner plans, order some delicious Millers Backyard Barbecue and pick it up from Brookside Museum. Chicken and pulled pork dinners are available for $15 and beef brisket dinners for $20 (beef brisket by pre-order only). All dinners include baked potato, coleslaw and cornbread. An 8 oz. serving of mac & cheese is also available for $5. Drive-thru pickup/take out only. Pre-ordering is highly encouraged. Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Ave Ballston Spa. For more information check www.brooksidemuseum.org.

Summer SPACtacular

Join us on Friday, May 30 at 5 p.m. for a magical evening under the stars and on the SPAC stage at our summer season kickoff fundraiser. The 3rd annual Summer SPACtacular promises to be the best yet, all to celebrate and support SPAC’s mission to serve the Capital Region and beyond through artistic excellence, educational programming, and community outreach. This event will sell out. Space is limited. Do not wait to purchase tickets. Tickets start at $175. This event is 21+. Learn more and buy tickets at spac.org. 

The Fate of the Day

Northshire Bookstore & Saratoga, America’s Turning Point, are thrilled to present an evening with Pulitzer Prize-winning author and historian Rick Atkinson, in celebration of The Fate of the Day: The War for America, Fort Ticonderoga to Charleston, 1777-1780, the second volume of his landmark American Revolution trilogy. Atkinson will discuss the book and his work with Joe Donahue of WAMC/Northeast Public Radio. The event will be held at the Saratoga Springs City Center, 255 Broadway, Saratoga Springs at 6 p.m. on May 30. 

Heritage Garden Club Sale

Heritage Garden Club Perennial Plant, Herbs, Annuals and Garden Decor Sale.  Saturday, May 31, 9 a.m.  until sold out at the Italian American Center, 247 Grand Avenue, Saratoga Springs.  There will be a variety of perennial plants, herbs, several annual plants and garden décor available.  Those interested in joining are always welcome to join us as new members.  You don’t have to have a “green thumb” to become a member of our garden club.  If interested contact 518-256-3141 or find us on Facebook at HeritgeGarden
ClubofSaratogaSprings. 

Pollinator Palooza Native Plant Sale 

Join Sustainable Saratoga on Saturday, May 31, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. to buy native plants and meet people dedicated to protecting our precious pollinators, their habitat, and other natural resources. Sustainable Saratoga volunteers have been growing 1,600 plants for the last 2 months and they are ready for their new homes. The event will be held at Oligny’s Country Gardens, 390 Wilton-Gansevoort Rd, Gansevoort. Parking: Across the street at 393 Wilton-Gansevoort Rd. Family friendly but no pets at the event, please. Payment by cash or check preferred. Free soil pH testing by Cornell Cooperative Extension (bring about 1/4 cup of dry soil). Kids’ activities and raffles to win books, gift certificates, plants, and more plus food trucks.

4-H Leaders Scholarship Golf Classic

Saratoga Lake Golf Club, 35 Grace Moore Rd., Saratoga Springs | Join us on Saturday, May 31, in our mission to empower the youth of Saratoga County and help us create meaningful experiences that will shape their futures. Thank you for making a difference—your support is invaluable! Some Major Sponsorships are still available. But don’t forget we welcome in-kind gifts of raffle baskets and gift certificates that can get your business out on the course! If you have any questions, contact Greg Stevens at the 4-H office at 518-885-8995 or grs9@cornell.edu.

Annual Garage and Bake Sale

The Ladies of Charity, Saratoga Chapter annual sale is on Sunday, June 1 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Italian American War Veteran, 247 Grand Avenue, Saratoga Springs. The event will be held rain or shine. Donations may be dropped off on Saturday, May 31 from 1 – 4 p.m. Suggested items: linens, glassware, pots & pans, knick-knacks, jewelry, tools, toys, small furniture, lamps, books, baby items, choldren’s clothing, 3T and under. No computers, TVs or skis. All items must be in good condition. Bake sale donations: cakes, breads, cookies, cupcakes, brownies, pies, muffins, rolls, candies or your specialty. To volunteer or leave donations call Claudette Farchione at 518-584-7592 or Sharon Drosky at 518-365-0004.

Bingo Fundraiser

Cancer can rob someone of happiness. A small gesture of giving a gift to a patient who is at the end of their rope is our goal.    “A Night Out For You” is a customized experience that will bring them joy and allow patients to have something to look forward to and forget their diagnosis for a few hours.  Please help us keep giving these patients a night out by donating to or attending the Bingo Fundraiser to be held on Sunday, June 1, at the Saratoga Wilton Elks Club. Doors open at 2 p.m. with bingo from 3 to 5 p.m.  Tickets are $25 at the door, $20 per person in advance gives you 3 cards to play for 5 games. Additional cards $5/each.  nightoutforyou.org

Festival of Young Artists 

A free community festival on Sunday, June 1 from 2 – 5:30 p.m. Following the theme Wonder – inspired by the work of 24th U.S. Poet Laureate Ada Limón – the festival will celebrate the collaborative creativity of more than 700 of the Capital Region’s brightest young dancers, musicians, singers, poets, and visual artists in support of SPAC’s mission to provide free and accessible arts programming for local youth. Featuring students from local schools and organizations, the afternoon will include individual pop-up performances and art displays, culminating in a large-scale, coordinated production on stage. As part of the production, original musical composition by festival student, Siyi Guo (Guilderland HS, Grade 12), will premiere on the stage, performed by the ESYO Symphony Orchestra. This event is free to the community; however, registration is required for admission. Visit spacfoya.org for details.  

Saratoga Race Course Tours

In celebration of the Belmont Stakes, the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation is thrilled to offer two exclusive behind-the-scenes walking tours of the historic Saratoga Race Course. Join the Foundation on Friday, June 6 at 9:30 a.m. or Sunday, June 8 at 9:30 a.m. for a rare opportunity to explore the oldest and one of the most iconic sporting venues in the United States. Led by the Foundation’s Executive Director, Samantha Bosshart, this special walking tour will take participants through both the public and lesser-known sides of the Saratoga Race Course. Tours begin at the Whitney Viewing Stand at the Oklahoma Training Track. Tickets are $35 for SSPF members and $45 for non-members. Reservations are required and space is limited. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.saratogapreservation.org or call 518-587-5030.

Saratoga Schools Receive National Music Education Honor for Second Year in a Row

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Springs City School District has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation.

Now in its 26th year, the designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate “outstanding achievement for providing music access and education to all students.”

“This honor reflects our district’s deep commitment to the arts and the outstanding efforts of our music educators, students, families, and community partners,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Patton.

“Music education is an essential part of a well-rounded education for many students here at Saratoga Springs, equipping us with skills that extend far beyond the classroom,” said Thomas Bundy, president of the Saratoga Springs High School Tri-M Music Honor Society. “It provides opportunities to collaborate with peers, explore diverse cultures, express ourselves creatively, and build lifelong skills—all while enriching both our school and local community.” 

To qualify for the Best Communities designation, the Saratoga Springs School District answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making programs. Responses were verified by school officials and reviewed by the leading arts educational research firm, WolfBrown.

SPAC Hosts College Graduation Ceremonies

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.


Photo of a Maria College graduate at SPAC by Cindy Schultz.

Photo of Skidmore College graduates via Skidmore.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — As we go on, we remember all the SPAC we shared together.

Two higher education institutions celebrated their commencement ceremonies at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) last weekend: Skidmore College and Maria College.

Skidmore conferred 628 degrees during its 114th Commencement Exercises on Saturday, May 17. Members of the 2025 class hailed from 42 countries, 35 U.S. states, and Puerto Rico. 412 Bachelor of Arts and 216 Bachelor of Science degrees were conferred. Poetjournalist Aaron P. Dworkin and Adam D. Weinberg, director emeritus of the Whitney Museum of American Art, both received honorary degrees and addressed the graduates. 

The following day, Maria College awarded bachelor’s and associate degrees, as well as practical nurse certificates, to 218 graduates in fields such as nursing, healthcare management, psychology, and liberal arts. Honorary doctorates were awarded to Sister Jean McGinty ’62 and Bartley J. Costello III for their leadership in healthcare and public service, while Maureen E. O’Brien received the McAuley Award for advancing disability inclusion and supporting student success. Keynote speaker Dr. Barbara Crump encouraged graduates to lead lives rooted in resilience, purpose, and service to others.

Impressions of Saratoga Owner Selected as New York Senate “Woman of Distinction”

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.


Marianna Barker poses alongside State Senator Jim Tedisco.
Photo provided.

ALBANY — Marianne “Mare” Barker, owner and founder of the Impressions of Saratoga gift shop in downtown Saratoga Springs, was recently honored as a 2025 “Woman of Distinction” by Senator Jim Tedisco and his colleagues in the New York State Senate. 

“Under Mare’s leadership and dedication, Impressions of Saratoga has become a destination, woman-owned small business for locals and tourists to shop for all things Saratoga and equestrian themed,” Tedisco said in a statement. “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to honor her as a 2025 New York State Senate Woman of Distinction for all her hard work and everything she has done for our local economy.” 

Originally from Bellmore, New York, Barker attended SUNY Cobleskill, where she met her husband, Dave Barker. They have lived in Saratoga Springs for more than 45 years.

Barker initially started her business alongside her husband in Cobleskill in 1978 as a screen printing and embroidery shop. A retail storefront was added a year later before the store was relocated to the Spa City. Since 2018, Barker has co-owned Impressions with Maddy Zanetti.

Barker has also spearheaded other business endeavors over the years, including The Bijou Bar (during the 1980’s), Racing Impressions (the licensee and merchandiser for NYRA for eight years), and Bailey’s Café. In 2018, Barker and Zanetti opened their second retail location in downtown Saratoga, The Dark Horse Mercantile.

May 23 – May 29, 2025

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Property Transactions.


This Adirondack log home at 57 Lincoln Mountain Rd in Corinth was listed by Kate Naughton from Roohan Realty and sold for $395,000

BALLSTON 

Karen Vijaykumar sold property at 56 Forestbrook Dr to Kevin Fox for $565,000

Gustavo Lopez sold property at 87 McMaster St to Scott Frances for $460,000

Trenton Dunbar sold property at 11 McMaster St to Olya Prevo for $398,000

Michael DiPasquale sold property at 5 St Patrick Place to Joseph Macesker for $480,000

CORINTH

Foothills Builders LLC sold property at 9 Moose Way to Lori Zareski for $466,400

GREENFIELD

Scott Perkins sold property at 503 Middle Grove Rd to Telisky Development Partners LLC for $180,000

MALTA

Jordan Keefe sold property at 102 Arrowwood Pl to Christopher Nolan for $355,000

Robert Saumell sold property at 52 Wake Robin Rd to Taylor Poitras for $326,500

Michael Manosh sold property at 232 Van Aernem Rd to Brian Hauprich for $400,000

David Cayole sold property at 1B Applewood Dr to Michael Pizziketti for $420,000

MILTON

Joanna Hart sold property at 79 Thompson St to Regan Delancy for $185,400

SARATOGA

Sebastian Whiting sold property at 108 Oak Tree Dr to Pawfectionist LLC  for $500,000

Patrick Rubin sold property at 108 Coveville Rd to William Nizolek for $1,300,000

Melissa LaBate sold property at 10 Morgans Run to Frank Armenio for $246,500

SARATOGA SPRINGS

Salomone and Company LLC sold property at Columbia Ave to NYS People of New York State  for $478,600

Naylor Property Holdings sold property at 17 Beach Ct to Steven Dignam for $1,200,000

Patricia Wilkins sold property at 219 Division St to Eve Epstein for $790,000

Adelphi Owner II LLC sold property at 19 Washington St Apt 455 to Miguel Diaz for $1,590,000

Mark Walsh sold property at 14 Robin Hood Ct to Nicholas Rodick for $510,000

WILTON

Tra Tom Development Inc sold property at 169 Traver Rd to Cobblehill Development LLC for $140,000

Tra Tom Development Inc sold property at 171 Traver Rd to Cobblehill Development LLC for $140,000

Tyler Hedge sold property at 32 Traver Rd to Joyce Jacobs for $198,000

Jeffrey Ball sold property at 63 Traver Rd to Joseph Firenze for $398,000

Forest Grove LLC sold property at 48 Daintree Dr to David Benton for $682,700

Pigliavento Assoc. sold property at 18 Eastpointe Dr to Timothy Morgan for $770,716

184 Edie Rd LLC sold property at 184 Edie Rd to 3Thirty Three Second Ave LLC for $915,000

Pigliavento Assoc. sold property at 8 Eastpointe Dr to Rajesh Patel for $854,109

Edie Road LLC sold property at 21 Cannon Royal Dr to Ovais Ahmed for $325,000

Yaddo Announces 2025 Summer Events,Natalie Merchant Named Guest of Honor

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.




Photo of Yaddo by Elizabeth Haynes, courtesy of Yaddo.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Yaddo, the famed artists’ retreat in Saratoga Springs, has unveiled its programming for the 2025 summer season, which includes a special appearance by acclaimed singer-songwriter Natalie Merchant.

The scheduled events include: 

  • The Nature of Art, a series of talks that kicks off June 19 with Ian Berry of the Tang Teaching Museum (additional dates: July 10, August 7, and September 18); 
  • Wine & Roses, offering live classical music paired with regional wines (runs July 17, July 31, and August 14);
  • The Art of Wellness, select Sunday yoga classes in the gardens through October;
  • The 2025 Yaddo Golf Invitational on June 3 at the Saratoga National Golf Club;
  • The annual Yaddo Summer Benefit on June 26, featuring guest of honor Natalie Merchant;
  • A rare open house will close the season on September 27, offering the public a behind-the-scenes look at Yaddo’s mansion and grounds (details forthcoming). 
  • All the events benefit Yaddo, a nonprofit retreat that has hosted thousands of artists that have collectively earned 83 Pulitzer Prizes, 1 Nobel Prize, 13 Academy Awards, 71 Emmy Awards, 34 MacArthur “Genius” Fellowships, 71 National Book Awards, 500+ Guggenheim Fellowships, and 16 Tony Awards.
  • The Yaddo Gardens, the only part of the property open to the public, will welcome visitors from June 9 through October 9.
  • For tickets, event details, or to learn more, visit Yaddo.org.

SPAC Plans $12 Million Theater Renovation

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Featured, News.


Renderings of a renovated Spa Little Theater via Phinney Design / the Saratoga Performing Arts Center.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Performing Arts Center announced last week a $17.5 million fundraising campaign—the largest fundraising effort in SPAC history—in anticipation of its upcoming 60th anniversary next year. The capital campaign would allow SPAC to renovate its historic Spa Little Theater to the tune of $12 million.

“Launching our Four Seasons Campaign is an exciting next step that will bring us into the future, raising funds to completely renovate and restore Spa Little Theater for the first time in its 100-year history and supporting our year-round artistic and educational programming for years to come,” said Elizabeth Sobol, SPAC’s chief executive officer, at the organization’s annual meeting.

As part of the quiet phase of the campaign, which launched in 2024, Stewart’s Shops/the Dake Family gave the lead gift of $1 million to support these initiatives. 

“In 1966, members of the Saratoga community came together to build SPAC. Sixty years later, we are asking the Saratoga community to help ensure that all we have created here together endures well into the future,” said Susan Law Dake, a SPAC board member and Four Seasons Campaign chair.

The theater renovation would be the first time that the 500-seat venue has undergone a major facelift since it was built in 1935. The redesign will be “fresh and accessible” while maintaining the venue’s “acoustic and historic integrity,” SPAC said.

Christopher Shiley, president of SPAC, said that since taking over operations of the Spa Little Theater in 2022, SPAC has presented more than 100 events at the venue, welcomed more than 35,000 guests, and expanded the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center’s season to a year-round residency. The theater has also been used as an event space for cultural, community, and corporate partners.

The project will include 17,125 square feet of interior and exterior renovations, including: 

  • a new floor plan and accessibility measures;
  • theater upgrades (including updated seats);
  • increased ADA seating;
  • a new stage floor;
  • an environmentally-efficient HVAC system;
  • a new lobby layout with an increased number of renovated and accessible restrooms;
  • an updated box office;
  • a new bar/café;
  • a multipurpose community room with an adjacent outdoor patio; 
  • a new artist suite and dressing rooms.

The project has been awarded a $2.2 million capital grant from Empire State Development through the Regional Council initiative, and $2 million pursuant to the most recently enacted New York State budget thanks to Governor Kathy Hochul, New York State Parks, and the New York State Legislature. Additional funding has been provided by the SPAC board and other private donors and family foundations.

A groundbreaking is slated for September 2025, with a reopening planned for late fall of 2026 to celebrate the conclusion of the 60th anniversary season.

Abigail Jenks Memorial Day Ruck Returns

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.


image from event website

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The annual Abigail Jenks Memorial Day Ruck will return this year to raise funds for a Saratoga Springs High School scholarship that is awarded to graduating seniors who are enlisting in the U.S. Military, attending a service academy, or demonstrating a commitment to service—especially those involved in the arts.

The event was founded to honor Specialist 4th Class Abigail Jenks.

“The Abigail Jenks Memorial Day Ruck is in memory of a local hero who paid the ultimate sacrifice,” Vincent Sablich told Saratoga TODAY. 

A ruck is a military-style training exercise that involves walking or jogging with a weighted backpack. The course winds just under 3 miles through Gavin Park and is meant to be a reflective experience, not a race. A small rucksack with a symbolic brick will be provided with registration, representing the weight carried by service members. Participants are welcome and encouraged to bring their own backpack or vest, and they can choose to walk or jog while rucking.

The ruck will begin at 9 a.m. at 10 Lewis Road in Saratoga Springs, near the large pavilion.

To register for the event, visit www.zippy-reg.com/online_reg/index.php?e=2246.

Discover Saratoga

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Featured, News.


Chowderfest 2022. Photo by Supersource Media Studios.


“At Discover Saratoga, we’re proud of the role we play in promoting Saratoga County and helping our local businesses thrive. In 2024, our work helped generate more than 855,000 room nights and $150 million in lodging revenue,” said Darryl Leggieri, President, Discover Saratoga. We also brought in hundreds of meetings, conventions, and sporting events, keeping Saratoga top of mind for travelers and event planners alike. It’s all about working together to keep our community vibrant, welcoming, and successful year-round.”

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Springs is known as a year-round destination filled with world-class attractions, thriving arts and culture, exquisite restaurants, upscale retail and boutique shopping, and a vibrant nightlife scene. The city and county owe much of their success and notoriety to the efforts of Discover Saratoga. 

Under the leadership of President Darryl Leggieri, Discover Saratoga acts as an outstanding resource for tourism and hospitality throughout Saratoga County. Their members’ hard work and support have enabled them to effectively market and promote the diverse businesses and attractions of our city and our county. Discover Saratoga’s commitment to the area’s history, culture, and hospitality have fueled economic growth and enhanced visitor experiences since their establishment in 1985.

Recent annual events hosted by Discover Saratoga include:

  • 2024 Healthy Saratoga Weekend
  • First-time event in 2024
  • 29 participants
  • 2024 Belmont on Broadway
  • Headlined by Blues Traveler Band
  • 15,000+ estimated attendees
  • 2024 Saratoga Wing Off
  • 34 participating restaurants
  • $6,000 raised for American Cancer Society
  • 2024 Restaurant Week
  • 46 participating restaurants
  • 6 first-time participants
  • 2024 Saratoga New Year’s Eve
  • 4 event venues and 12 musical acts
  • 3,500 estimated attendees
  • 2025 Chowderfest
  • 89 vendors including 13 first-time participants
  • 40,000 estimated attendees
  • 109,000 bowls of chowder served

For information or assistance from Discover Saratoga, visit www.discoversaratoga.org.