And they’re off! The 2017 summer meet at Saratoga Race Course begins this Friday, and you can look forward to tons of exciting races and special events this weekend and in the weeks to come. But that’s not all! All throughout Saratoga Springs, you can find summer entertainment as far as the eye can see, including the Saratoga County Fair, live music, and more.
Prepare For Opening Weekend at Saratoga
Opening Day at Saratoga Race Course – Friday, July 21
After much anticipation, Opening Day at Saratoga Race Course has finally arrived. This Friday, gates will open at 11:00am, and the first post time will be 1:00pm. Head on over and watch the two named stakes races: the Grade III Schuylerville and the Grade III Lake George.
Race Course Giveaway Day – Saratoga Baseball Cap – Sunday, July 23
The first giveaway day at Saratoga Race Course is this Sunday, and it is a red and white 2017 Saratoga Baseball Cap! The item is free with each paid admission to the Race Course.
26th Annual Hat Contest – Sunday, July 23
One of the early highlights at Saratoga Race Course this year will be the 26th annual Hat Contest. During this event, visitors will go head-to-head for prizes in different hat categories, including the most creative headwear and a category just for children. Prizes are provided by Hatsational by DEI.
Get Festive This Weekend
176th Saratoga County Fair – Today Through Sunday, July 23
It’s time to go to the fair! The 176th Saratoga County Fair is well underway and will be open through this Sunday. Bring the whole family and check out all the fun rides, cool exhibits, live music, and of course, the amazing fair food. The fair is open 9:00am to midnight daily, and general admission is $12pp.
2017 Hats Off Music Festival – Friday, July 21 & Saturday, July 22
Celebrate Opening Weekend at Saratoga Race Course in downtown Saratoga at the Hats Off Music Festival! This free music festival will feature live music from different bands at various locations on Friday and Saturday. Performers include SIRSY, Alan Darcy, Erin Harkes Band, and more.
Support Great Causes
Saratoga Bridges Annual Gala: “The White Party” – Saturday, July 22
Get ready for the party of the summer – “The White Party,” that is! Hosted by Saratoga Bridges at Saratoga National Golf Club, “The White Party” is a white-themed gala featuring cocktails, a buffet dinner and dessert, live and silent auctions, music, and more. Proceeds from the event will go toward supporting Saratoga Bridges.
Elks Ride for Vets 2017 – Sunday, July 23
The Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge #161 will host their first ever Vets Charity Bike Ride this Sunday starting at 7:00am. The ride is designed for bike enthusiasts and features two different routes you can take. All funds raised will go toward the Elks Veterans Charity, which works to improve the lives of local veterans.
21st Annual Silks & Satins 5k Run – Saturday, July 22
This Saturday, the 21st annual Silks & Satins 5k Run will take place at Fasig Tipton in Saratoga Springs and help raise funds for Special Olympics New York. This fun run will take participants on a tour of the city, and it will kick off at 8:00am. Registration is $30 on the day of the race.
Enjoy Live Shows & Competitions
Saratoga Shakespeare in the Park: A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Today Through Saturday, July 29
Don’t miss out on Saratoga Shakespeare in the Park this weekend! The current play is “A Midsummer’s Night Dream,” and it will be performed daily at the Alfred Z. Solomon Stage in Congress Park through Saturday, July 29. Admission is free.
Summer Concert in Congress Park: Hot Club of Saratoga – Sunday, July 23
Gather up your friends and family and head over to the War Memorial in Congress Park for a free Sunday evening concert by Hot Club of Saratoga! The rain location will be the nearby Heritage Area Visitor Center.
Saratoga Polo Association: Veuve Clicquot Challenge Tournament – Friday, July 21 & Sunday, July 23
Never been to a polo match before? Visit Whitney Field in Greenfield Center this Friday and Saturday for Saratoga Polo Association’s Veuve Clicquot Challenge Tournament. Matches begin at 5:30pm each day, and admission varies based on seating.
