Best Weekend Activities in The Capital Region for August 16–18!
As the weekend approaches, the Capital Region is buzzing with a wide range of events and activities perfect for families, music lovers, and those just looking to have a good time.
From fairs and festivals to concerts and cultural events, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a day out with the kids or an evening of live music, this weekend is packed with options.
Friday, August 16
Altamont Fair: Taking place at Route 146 and Arlington Street in Altamont, the fair will be open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. It promises a day full of fun, rides, food, and entertainment for all ages.
Vermont State Fair: Located at 175 South Main Street in Rutland, the fair runs from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Expect a classic fair experience with games, live music, and plenty of delicious fair food.
Mayfield Bannertown Fair: Held on North School Street in Mayfield from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., this local fair offers a more intimate experience with carnival rides, food stalls, and community events.
Racing at Saratoga Race Course: A must-see event for horse racing enthusiasts, head to Saratoga for an exciting day at the races.
French Montana at Palace Theatre: Hip-hop fans can catch French Montana live at the Palace Theatre in Albany at 8 p.m. Tickets are available on the Ticketmaster website.
Yo-Yo Ma Plays Dvořák: Classical music lovers can enjoy a special performance by Yo-Yo Ma at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center at 7:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased on the SPAC website.
Circus Student Showcase by Good Karma Studio: This unique event takes place at Prospect Park in Troy at 7:30 p.m. and showcases local circus talent. Tickets are available on the Eventbrite website.
End of Summer Pool Party: Celebrate the end of summer with a splash at the Veteran’s Memorial Pool in Watervliet starting at 1 p.m.
NYS Baseball Hall of Fame Tournament: Starting at 9 a.m. at Parkhurst Field in Gloversville, this tournament is a must for baseball fans.
Sunflower & Sangria Festival: Enjoy the beauty of sunflowers while sipping on sangria at Meadowbrook Farm Catskills in Leeds from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
A Gathering of Artisans Festival: Held at Warrensburgh Riverfront Farmers’ Market in Warrensburg from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., this festival features local artisans showcasing their crafts.
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical: Fans of musical theater can catch this show at the Capital Repertory Theatre in Albany at 8 p.m. Tickets are available on their website.
Dinos Alive Immersive Experience: Dino lovers of all ages can visit the Armory Studios in Schenectady from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. for an immersive dinosaur experience. Tickets are available on the Fever website.
Saturday, August 17
Altamont Fair: The fair continues at Route 146 and Arlington Street in Altamont from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Vermont State Fair: The fair in Rutland also continues from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Mayfield Bannertown Fair: The festivities in Mayfield start earlier today, running from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Racing at Saratoga Race Course: Another day of thrilling horse races at the Saratoga Race Course.
Disney’s The Lion King in Concert with the Philadelphia Orchestra: A magical night awaits at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center at 7:30 p.m. as the Philadelphia Orchestra performs music from Disney’s “The Lion King.” Tickets are available on the SPAC website.
Bianca Del Rio at Universal Preservation Hall: Catch the comedy queen Bianca Del Rio live at 7:30 p.m. in Saratoga Springs. Tickets are available on the UPH website.
Culturefest: Celebrate diversity at Jerry Burrell Park in Schenectady from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. This free event is perfect for families.
Free Family Circus Day: Head to Prospect Park in Troy starting at 1 p.m. for a day of circus fun that’s free for the whole family.
NYS Baseball Hall of Fame Tournament: The baseball action continues at Parkhurst Field in Gloversville from 9 a.m.
Touch-a-Truck and Safety Fair: From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., kids and adults can explore trucks and learn about safety at the Blenheim-Gilboa Visitors Center.
Downtown Bennington Food Truck Festival: Indulge in a variety of foods at this festival, held along Pleasant and School Streets in Bennington from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Rhynhart-Hellwitz Duo: Enjoy a free concert by this musical duo at the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall courtyard at 6 p.m.
Sunflower & Sangria Festival: The festival at Meadowbrook Farm Catskills continues from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical: Another chance to see this musical at the Capital Repertory Theatre, with shows at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Dinos Alive Immersive Experience: The dino fun continues in Schenectady from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday, August 18
Altamont Fair: The fair concludes its run from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Racing at Saratoga Race Course: Spend your Sunday at the races in Saratoga.
Troy Pig Out: Head to downtown Troy from noon to 5 p.m. for this popular food festival featuring some of the best BBQs in the region.
Cage the Elephant at Saratoga Performing Arts Center: Rock out with Cage the Elephant at SPAC starting at 6:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased on the Live Nation website.
Ballston Spa’s Family Fun Day: Enjoy a day of family-friendly activities at Wiswall Park in Ballston Spa from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with a concert at 6 p.m. Quiet play hours are from 10 a.m. to noon for those who prefer a calmer atmosphere.
New Scotland Community Day: This community event takes place at Jim Nichols Town Park in Voorheesville from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Albany County Farmers Market: Visit the MVP Arena in Albany from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for fresh produce and local goods.
NYS Baseball Hall of Fame Tournament: The tournament wraps up at Parkhurst Field in Gloversville starting at 9 a.m.
Battle Day Parade: Celebrate local history at the Battle Day Parade on Main Street in Bennington at 12:30 p.m.
Banana Party FUN-raiser: Support a good cause while having fun at the Lost & Found Bar and Kitchen in Albany from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Sunflower & Sangria Festival: The final day of the festival at Meadowbrook Farm Catskills runs from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The Carnival of the Animals with the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center: At 3 p.m., enjoy a delightful performance of “The Carnival of the Animals” at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center. Tickets are available on the SPAC website.
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical: The final performance at the Capital Repertory Theatre takes place at 2 p.m.
Dinos Alive Immersive Experience: The last day to catch the dino experience in Schenectady is 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
With so many events to choose from, this weekend in the Capital Region is sure to be unforgettable. Whether you’re exploring a fair, enjoying live music, or taking in a unique cultural event, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.