Featured Events in Saratoga Springs in May, 2025 (May Updated)

Experience the thrill of Jason Aldean's Full Throttle Tour 2025 as it makes a stop at Saratoga Springs on May 25th. The renowned Broadview Stage at SPAC will host this highly anticipated event, located at 108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866. Fans can look forward to an unforgettable evening filled with top-notch performances by the country music superstar. Don't miss out on this opportunity to see Jason Aldean live in action at one of the most iconic venues in Saratoga Springs.

One of today’s most prolific voices, Josh Ritter has released eleven studio albums including 2019’s widely acclaimed, Fever Breaks , of which NPR Music praised, “He remains a hydrant of ideas while embodying an endless capacity for empathy and indignation, often within a single song.” Celebrated for his richly crafted storytelling, heartfelt lyrics, and enchanting blend of folk, rock, and Americana, Ritter’s songs are often rooted in personal experiences and historical themes. The New York Times reflects, “Harking back to Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen and maybe a little Mark Knopfler, Mr. Ritter has always been a slinger of serious ideas and high-flown imagery.” In addition to his work as a musician, Ritter is also a national best-selling author, having released two novels to date: 2021’s The Great Glorious Goddamn of It All and 2011’s Bright’s Passage . Released to critical attention, Stephen King wrote in The New York Times Book Review that Bright’s Passage “shines with a compressed lyricism that recalls Ray Bradbury in his prime … This is the work of a gifted novelist.”  His latest album, released in October 2024, Heaven, Or Someplace As Nice , is a nine-song collection, featuring legendary jazz guitarist Bill Frisell. It was recorded live in the studio over just a few days, capturing an intimate and organic sound with minimal overdubs. ​Described by Ritter as his "cosmic cowboy mini-album," these original songs evoke a timeless quality, perfect for listening around a campfire or during a quiet evening at home. Notably, the album includes Ritter's own rendition of "Only A River," a song he originally penned for Bob Weir's 2016 solo record, Blue Mountain , and which Bob Dylan covered during live performances in 2023. ​ Join us at Caffè Lena for a rare opportunity to see Josh Ritter solo in our intimate listening room and immerse yourself in the heartfelt storytelling and rich melodies that define his music. SAMPLE SONG Can't make the show in person? Stream this show live at  CaffeLenaTV . Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket. Tags Singer Songwriter Information Source: Caffe Lena | eventbrite

Experience the ultimate progressive rock journey at the Coheed and Cambria * Mastodon :: The Infinite Arc Tour. This highly anticipated event will take place on May 26, 2025, at the Broadview Stage at SPAC in Saratoga Springs, NY. Don't miss the opportunity to witness these iconic bands in action at this stunning venue located at 108 Avenue of the Pines. Get ready for a night filled with epic music and unforgettable performances that will leave you wanting more. Mark your calendars and secure your tickets to be part of this exceptional musical experience.

For over 50 years, Roy Book Binder, aka, “The Book,” has been rambling across the globe, keeping the timeless tradition of American blues alive. A true storyteller and master of fingerpicking guitar, Roy has shared stages with Rev. Gary Davis, Pink Anderson, Bonnie Raitt, Hot Tuna, JJ Cale, and more, earning a place among the greats. Here are just a few of Roy’s accomplishments, First solo acoustic blues album to receive 5 stars in Downbeat Magazine In the late 80s he toured the east coast with Bonnie Raitt & appeared on The Grand Ole Opry, which led to his almost 30 appearances on NASHVILLE NOW's, Ralph Emory Show His latest album The Good Book hit #3 on AirPlayDirect's Americana charts ( #1 was Guy Clark & #2 was the late Townes Van Zandt. Folkdj.org had Roy in the top 3 artists for July.) He’s been featured on a PBS Special & on NPR’s Fresh Air with Terry Gross Roy is a regular instructor at Jorma Kaukonen’s Fur Peace Ranch Roy is not only a blues master but a born entertainer. He gave up his Greenwich Village “pad” in the early 1970’s and lived in his “Tour Bus” for the next 15 years, criss-crossing the US and appearing at festivals throughout Canada & Europe. With his "Tour Bus" in town, every show becomes a one-man blues-fest, full of authentic licks, legendary stories, and music that transcends time. We are so excited to have Roy back on the Caffè Lena stage! He’s been playing here since 1968! Don’t miss an unforgettable evening with a true blues legend.  The 65th Anniversary Folk Heritage Series is made possible by the Charlie Pickett & Kathleen Rehl Endowment Fund. SAMPLE SONG Can't make the show in person? Stream this show live at  CaffeLenaTV . Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket. Tags Blues Information Source: Caffe Lena | eventbrite

Northshire Bookstore is 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. "Scholarly, immersive, graphic history of the Revolutionary War's middle years. Atkinson focuses on military strategies and campaigns, vividly describing the war's brutality to soldiers, officers, and citizens. He also effectively delves into Britain's descent into a global conflict, and portrays America's often shaky but resilient quest for idealized independence." — Mike Hare The Fate of the Day is a riveting narrative covering the middle years of the Revolution, including the epic battles at Brandywine, Saratoga, Monmouth, and Charleston, a winter of misery at Valley Forge, and appeals for sacrifice by every American committed to the struggle for freedom. Rick Atkinson is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of seven previous works of history, including The Long Gray Line , the Liberation Trilogy ( An Army at Dawn , The Day of Battle , and The Guns at Last Light ), and The British Are Coming , the first volume of the Revolution Trilogy. He has won numerous awards, including Pulitzer Prizes for history and journalism. Important event information: There is a paid parking garage attached to the Saratoga Springs City Center. If you plan on finding free parking in Saratoga, please leave yourself extra time to find a spot. If you have a disability and need accommodations to make sure this event is safe and comfortable for you, please reach out to us at events@northshire.com to let us know how we can help. If you purchase a ticket that includes a copy of the book, you will receive your book when you arrive at the event and present your ticket. Books will not be available for pickup before the event. If you miss the event, we will hold your book or books for pickup at Northshire Bookstore in Saratoga Springs until July 7. Books not picked up by July 7 will be donated. If you have any questions about this or any other Northshire event please e-mail us at events@northshire.com. Information Source: Northshire Bookstore | eventbrite

Enjoy 4 hours of open bar and fabulous food while watching the Derby Day festivites on 2 large screen TVs. Exclusive, on-site wagering available throughout the event. Valet parking, photos and a race track bugler makes for a funfilled event! Information Source: Saratoga Sponsor A Scholar | eventbrite

Are you struggling with wondering if someone you love who has passed on has made it to the other side? Do you want to know if that person knows how much you care about them? Curious about what's in store for your own future? You'll have a chance to get those questions and more answered at Saratoga Living 's Cocktails & Clairvoyance event at The Gideon Putnam this May 14 , at which two well-respected intuitives will be putting their extrasensory talents on display, randomly drawing names of event participants to receive readings About our intuitives for the evening: Chrissy Manolakis is a professional Tarot consultant, mentor, and spiritual coach who helps clients navigate real life issues through the use of Tarot, her intuition, and grounded, practical, advice. Melissa Neely (Bee and Briar Medium ) is a Celtic psychic medium, shamanic practitioner, herbalist, an educator and a spiritual teacher; with the mission to teach each client about the natural and intuitive gifts they hold within, while helping them connect to loved ones, animals and their higher selves. Want to know more? Read our recap of Chrissy and Melissa's Capital Region Living event from last fall here . Before the clairvoyant conversation begins, guests will be treated to a free drink and hors d'oeuvres provided by The Gideon Putnam. This event is limited to 100 people , so buy your tickets now! PLUS! We'll be raffling off a complimentary one-hour reading with beloved Capital Region psychic medium Tracy Fluty. Some scenes from past Cocktails & Clairvoyance events: Information Source: Saratoga Living | eventbrite

Don't miss out on the opportunity to witness Matt Rife's "Stay Golden Tour" as it comes to Saratoga Springs on May 18, 2025. The event will take place at the Broadview Stage at SPAC, located at 108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866. This is a must-see show for fans of comedy looking for a night of laughter and entertainment. Secure your tickets now to experience the comedic talent of Matt Rife live on stage.

Breaking Benjamin & Staind are set to rock Saratoga Springs at the Broadview Stage at SPAC on May 23, 2025, as part of their Awaken The Fallen Tour. Located at 108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, this highly anticipated event promises an unforgettable night of music for fans in the city. Don't miss your chance to experience these iconic bands live in concert at this renowned venue. Get ready for a night of electrifying performances and epic music at Breaking Benjamin & Staind: Awaken The Fallen Tour.

Chick Corea glibly referred to him as "The Chick Corea of Blues," and Aretha Franklin called him "The Bluesman." Blues Hall of Famer Joe Louis Walker has an impressive list of credentials: a six-time Blues Music Award winner, nominee for the Contemporary Blues Grammy and a duet with B.B. King on his Grammy award-winning Blues Summit album. But that doesn’t come close to describing the euphoria-inducing, feel-good rollick of one of the greatest bluesmen in a generation. Billboard hailed his playing as “…gutbucket blues, joyous gospel, Rolling Stones-style rock crunch, and aching R&B. Walker’s guitar playing is fine and fierce.” NPR described Joe Louis Walker as “a legendary boundary-pushing icon of modern blues.”  There is no shortage of praise; Blues Revue calls Walker "one of contemporary blues' most dynamic and innovative, musicians releasing consistently exciting, soulful, heartfelt, and spellbinding music."  Living Blues stated, "His fretwork is indelibly stamped with his trademark blend of emotional heat and impeccable precision. Even at his most flamboyant, Walker sounds like he's playing ideas, not just notes." Joe Louis Walker’s new album, Weight of the World (out this past February via Forty Below Records), is a bold testament to his genre-spanning mastery. Produced by Eric Corne, the album blends blues, soul, gospel, funk, and rock, showcasing Walker’s legendary versatility. He continues to push boundaries, proving that roots music only deepens with time.  A brilliantly lyrical guitarist, soulful singer, and prolific songwriter, Walker just might bring the house down. SAMPLE SONG Can’t make the show in person? Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV . Enjoy one week of access with your live stream ticket.  Made possible by the generous support of Joe & Luann Conlon, in honor of Thom O'Neil.  Tags Blues Information Source: Caffe Lena | eventbrite

Comprised of violinists, violists, cellists, and double bassists, String Orchestra musicians explore a wide range of repertoire including suitable orchestral standards, educational arrangements and contemporary compositions that develop musical skill and technique. ESYO Repertory Orchestra is a full symphonic orchestra experience that provides intermediate-level and advancing musicians with challenging rehearsal and performance opportunities. Performing together, come listen and be inspired by the talent of it all. Repertoire Mozart Symphony no 31 :"Paris" mvt 1, Wilson Short CutHome, Hovahness "And God Created the great Whale" Lois Lyman Concerto Runner-up TBD Looking for Access ESYO tickets? Email Mary Rose Petrozola (mpetrozola@esyo.org) for the code to purchase. What is Access ESYO? Click here to learn more! Information Source: Empire State Youth Orchestra | eventbrite

Get ready to dive into the ultimate Swiftie Brunch Dance Party—where the energy never stops and the fun is off the charts! Join us at the Holiday Inn Saratoga Springs for a wild time filled with non-stop dancing, laughter, and epic moments with your fellow Taylor Swift fans. Indulge in a delicious, mouthwatering brunch while belting out all your favorite Taylor Swift hits, from timeless classics to the latest chart-toppers. This is the perfect chance to connect with fellow Swifties, share your love for Taylor, and create unforgettable memories with new friends who share your passion. Lace up your dancing shoes and don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience! Information Source: Holiday Inn Saratoga | eventbrite

Join us for an extraordinary evening with John Gorka, one of the most respected voices in contemporary folk music. From his humble beginnings at the legendary Godfrey Daniels coffeehouse in Pennsylvania to international acclaim, John has spent decades crafting songs full of heart, humor, and wisdom.  With a baritone voice that’s both rich and intimate, Gorka’s music has earned him comparisons to artists like Nanci Griffith, Mary Chapin Carpenter, and Shawn Colvin—many of whom have also recorded his songs. His career took off after winning the New Folk Award at the Kerrville Folk Festival, leading to a celebrated catalog of albums on Red House Records and Windham Hill/High Street Records. Fans know John for classics like Land of the Bottom Line , I Know , and Jack’s Crows , as well as collaborations with folk luminaries. His song Where No Monuments Stand was even featured in the documentary Every War Has Two Losers .  Whether you’ve followed his journey from the start or are discovering him for the first time, this is a rare opportunity to experience John Gorka up close in the intimate setting of Caffè Lena—the perfect venue for a storyteller of his caliber. SAMPLE SONG Unable to make the show in person? Stream this show live at  CaffeLenaTV . Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket. Tags Singer Songwriter Information Source: Caffe Lena | eventbrite

Regulations Familiarize yourself with the regulations required by New York State and gain a clear understanding of your role in adhering to them. Work in small groups to locate specific regulations and evaluate real-world scenarios. OCFS: 7 CBK: 7 ELG: D2 CDA: 1,5 SAC: 3,4,14 Hours: 2 CEU: 02 Presenter: Heather Sweet Information Source: Brightside Up | eventbrite

OPERA SARATOGA X COOKBOOK BOOK CLUB Theme: Parisian Street Food Date: MAY 18, 2025, 1-3 PM Join FSM’s Cookbook Club for a movable feast of French classics. Chef Annette Tomei will demo and guide you through how to: Compose Your Own Nicoise Salad Build a Tartine Fill and Wrap Homemade Crepes with savory and sweet fillings Serve Yourself the Most Decadent Chocolate Dessert in the World: Smothered Brie (there’s chocolate involved) Inspiration for this month’s Cookbook Club comes from My Paris Kitchen by David Leibovitz (discounted copy with advance ticket purchase), and Feasting and Fasting in Opera by Pierpaulo Polzonetti. With a special live performance by Opera Saratoga singers, this afternoon of gastromusicology kicks off the summer season, while celebrating the tastes of love. Limited tickets available! Tickets: $65 Tickets Include: French lunch with menu described above (1) Glass of wine or beer, or mocktail Option to purchase a copy of this month’s Cookbook Club selection, My Paris Kitchen, by David Leibovitz ($30 with advance ticket purchase) Pop-up Music; selections in French (and some from La Vie parisienne) Performed by festival artists with Laurie Rogers, head of music staff, on piano. Information Source: Franklin Square Market | eventbrite

The Matt Rife: Stay Golden Tour is set to illuminate Saratoga Springs with an unforgettable evening of comedy at the esteemed Broadview Stage at SPAC. On May 18, 2025, at 8:00 PM, attendees will gather at 108 Avenue of the Pines, where the air will be filled with anticipation and laughter. Known for his sharp wit and charismatic stage presence, Matt Rife promises a performance that will leave the audience in stitches, making it a must-see event for comedy enthusiasts. With a reputation for engaging storytelling and relatable humor, this tour stop is expected to draw a diverse crowd eager to experience Rife's unique comedic style. As the date approaches, excitement builds for what is sure to be a highlight of the entertainment calendar in Saratoga Springs.

“Like alchemy, Fredericks fuses elements from blues, roots rock, jazz, and folk to form his own distinct sound. Give a quick listen to this gentleman, and let Fredericks’ sand-textured vocals and honest lyrics whisk you away to the illusion of a simpler time.” - Elissa Ebersold, Nippertown Americana singer-songwriter, Sawyer Fredericks, hailing from a farm in central New York, began playing local farmers markets, open mics, and iconic New York venues at the age of 13. With his deep, beyond-his-years original lyrics and melodies, soulful vocals, and powerful live performances, Sawyer seemed an unlikely match for reality tv, but he won over audiences to win season 8 of NBC's The Voice . Fredericks released his major label debut, A Good Storm , with Republic Records, an impressive blend of soulful Folk, blues, and rock, entirely self or co-written. He chose to go independent for Hide Your Ghost (2018). Fully written and produced by Fredericks, HYG sheds the high gloss major label treatment and stays true to his honest stripped-down style. In 2020, with song premieres in People Magazine , American Songwriter , DittyTV and an album preview in Billboard , Fredericks released Flowers For You . With this project, “Fredericks is expanding his sound even more, moving from bluesy folk into more expansive Americana, rock and tines of jazz” ( Concert Hopper. ) The album was included in No Depression Readers’ 50 Favorite Roots Music Albums of 2020, and several tracks won top awards from the 18th annual Independent Music Awards,"Born" in the Folk/Singer-Songwriter category and "Amen" the Vox Pop award in the Social Action Song category. “Born” was in rotation on SiriusXM’s Coffee House channel and included in Amazon Music's editorial 'Fresh Folk and Americana' playlist. In January 2021, Sawyer released his rendition of the iconic “What A Wonderful World” with an accompanying animated video, and in 2023, Sawyer released The Golden Tree EP, featuring his band and Sav Buist and Katie Larson of The Accidentals. In the spring of 2024, Sawyer and his band returned to Dreamland in Woodstock to record a full-length album. Stream this show live at Caffè Lena TV . Enjoy two weeks of access with your live stream ticket. Information Source: Caffe Lena | eventbrite

Join The Buttonista, Intern Aaron and team Two Buttons Deep for The Buttonista Show's 250th Episod e on Friday, May 23 at Vapor Night Club at Saratoga Casino Hotel! Featuring music from DJ NPG, come out to Saratoga for an epic night of exclusive content, audience participation and plenty of Michelob Ultra and NUTRL to kick off your Memorial Day Weekend in the Great Upstate. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show will begin at 8 p.m. with a meet-and-greet and more music from DJ NPG following the live podcast recording! This event is 21+ and all tickets come with one complementary drink (NUTRL, Michelob Ultra or Michelob Ultra Zero) . Information Source: Two Buttons Deep LLC | eventbrite