Summer 2020: Re-Openings Reimagined and Cancellations

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Casino Hotel announced last week that harness racing will resume on Thursday, June 18, – but no spectators are allowed at the track due to state guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic. Fans can wager remotely on the races through Saratoga Casino Hotel’s online wagering platform, SaratogaBets.com, or on any other New York State approved online waging platform. 

Following the directive outlined by the New York State Gaming Commission and the New York State Department of Health, Saratoga Casino Hotel developed new policies and procedures to reduce the risk of a COVID-19 outbreak and ensure the safety of employees, horsemen, and horses.

Races will run two days a week, every Thursday and Sunday with a noon post time. The casino remains closed and is awaiting further guidance from the state regarding a reopen date for the entire property. 

• The Adirondack Balloon Festival, slated to take flight Sept. 17-20, has been grounded. The group plans to return Sept. 23-26, 2021. 

• The Washington County Fair, which was to take place Aug. 24-30 has been cancelled. Next year’s fair is planned for Aug. 23-29, 2021. 

•The Lake George Arts Project Summer Music Series and Jazz at the Lake have both been cancelled. The Summer Concert Series was scheduled for Wednesday nights in July and August and Jazz at the Lake was scheduled for September 19-20, both in Shepard Park in Lake George. A “Jazz at the Lake Reimagined program” – a series of hybrid events that combine performances and discussion with the artists is being coordinated. An announcement is anticipated regarding dates and times.