News > First Saturdays

Downtown Saratoga continues a cultural tradition with its 3-hour monthly art event! Known originally as "First Thursday - Saratoga Art Scene," the event "First Saturdays" allows anyone to take advantage of the Saratoga Springs art scene.

Exploring Culture in Saratoga Springs Through Art

Since 1992, Saratoga residents and visitors alike have valued art receptions as a form of prized entertainment and cultural enrichment in Saratoga Springs. Local galleries and businesses featuring artwork on Broadway, Spring Street and Beekman Street have been scheduling artist receptions and openings once a month for years in a collaborative effort to increase awareness and public access for the arts. The See You on Saturday program, formerly "First Thursday", takes place on the first Saturday of each month.

In keeping with tradition, the Saratoga County Art Council has sustained the main goals of the event and the original vision of making art more accessible to the public - free of charge. The name "See you on Saturday" reflects the council's recommitment to this vision that continues to make the program even more effective.

More recently, the Art Council decided to expand the new program's horizons to include all forms of art, entertainment and cultural material. In addition, local businesses have jumped on the bandwagon, offering specials on food and drinks for these monthly events, and the Capital District Transit Authority (CDTA) provides a free trolley service to See You on Saturday events to attract even more visitors.

The purpose of the program is to enhance the public's passion for the arts in Saratoga Springs and surrounding areas. With these changes, the Saratoga County Art Council is taking great strides toward the further development of downtown Saratoga's thriving art scene.

For more information on attending, getting involved in or sponsoring this program, please contact the Saratoga Arts Council by phone at 518-584-4132 or .