Events in Albany today

A leading martial arts tournament for the Capital Region that pairs competitive events with an exhibition of skills.

Help complete a 7,000 piece jigsaw, Six Portals by Rose Khan, at Honest Weight Food Co-op. Stop in for a short visit or spend the weekend contributing pieces while having fun and building community. Free to attend with registration.

The Troy Waterfront Farmers Market transforms Monument Square and the surrounding streets into a bustling open air marketplace, stretching across several city blocks with farmers, fresh food vendors, and makers. Shoppers can explore local produce, meats, seafood, prepared foods, and handmade goods, then settle into expanded seating areas or gather at community tables. This season brings new vendors and the Makers Market returns, alongside live music and plenty of ready to eat options. Well behaved dogs are welcome within the market area. Held outdoors, rain or shine, the market draws visitors from across the Capital Region for a lively street festival atmosphere, and many stick around to socialize and discover nearby shops and eateries. Regularly celebrated in regional polls and recognized nationally, it remains a beloved community destination.

Learn how to finish mitered hems through a live demonstration paired with an online video. Participation is available in person or online. Please bring a $2 donation for the church. To attend virtually, use Meeting ID 884 9290 1686 with code 025902 and email learaysilvia99@gmail.com if you plan to join online. If no one makes contact in advance for the online option, the meeting will take place only in person.

This installment of the Second Saturday summer series at BARE Blends Latham offers a lively mix of community, movement, shopping, and music. Enjoy an outdoor setting with yard games, a rotating selection of local vendors, and special deals inside the shop. Savor a favorite bowl or smoothie, listen to live music from Robert Forman Music, and take part in a fitness session led by Sophia from So Phit Fitness. Whether you plan to browse, break a sweat, or relax and enjoy the atmosphere, there is plenty to experience while supporting local businesses.

Add a touch of rustic charm by crafting a farmhouse-inspired sunflower made from repurposed canning rings and scrap fabric. This hands-on workshop shows how to transform simple, everyday items into bright, textured blooms that work beautifully as home décor or thoughtful gifts. Instructors offer clear, step-by-step guidance, so no prior experience is required, just an interest in making and a curiosity for upcycling. All materials are included, with an emphasis on salvaged supplies. Enjoy a relaxed setting, get creative, and head home with a sunflower that reflects your personal style.

Connect with fellow new parents, guardians, and caregivers in a space for conversation, venting, and community building. The meetup focuses on newer parental figures of all genders who care for children under four, while participation is open to caregivers of any kind. Little ones are welcome, and an open heart is encouraged. RSVP is not required.

As part of the Lansingburgh Historical Society’s celebration of Herman Melville’s 207th birthday, local historian Michael Barrett will present a talk at the Herman Melville House on Melville’s maternal grandfather, Peter Gansevoort, known as the Hero of Fort Stanwix. After the presentation, tours of the 1786 home will be available. Admission is $10 at the door, and the venue is air conditioned.

The Mercantile marks the shift to autumn with a fresh release of fall decor, warm candlelit ambiance, and seasonal pumpkin treats. A cold brew bar will be open, and there will be giveaways along with special doorbuster deals. It is a welcoming chance to explore new seasonal accents, enjoy a chilled coffee, and start planning for a cozy season.

This community kirtan and chanting gathering offers an uplifting mix of music, connection, and positive energy in a relaxed, welcoming setting focused on inner peace, well-being, and togetherness. The evening begins with a casual meet and greet, then moves into group chanting, singing, and shared music held in a respectful and supportive atmosphere. Participants are encouraged to bring a cushion, yoga mat, or blanket for comfortable seating, wear comfortable clothing, and, if they wish, bring instruments such as drums, harmonium, guitar, or shakers. Everyone is invited to arrive with authenticity, an open heart, and kindness to help foster a peaceful space for all. Weather permitting, some sessions may take place outdoors in a park. All experience levels are welcome to chant, sing, unwind, connect, and share in the uplifting energy.

The Albany Twilight Market presents the Capital Region's first alternative market, a curated showcase of creators from across the Northeast. Explore an eclectic selection that includes taxidermy, dark arts, oddities, carefully chosen antiques, macabre jewelry, witchcraft and apothecary, gothic apparel, spooky home decor, tarot readings, vegan food, and more at Quackenbush Sq.

Part of the Summer Square Concert Series, this free outdoor concert takes place outside the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall. Singer songwriters from Latham, New York who attend Berklee College of Music in Boston will share a mix of original songs and covers from a range of styles.

The lobby of The Landing Hotel sets the scene for live music from Rob and Courtney. Their blended vocals and inventive interpretations of jazz and contemporary standards offer a mix of familiar songs with a modern touch. Cocktails are available at the bar to complement the performance.

A welcoming workshop created for couples who want to feel comfortable and confident dancing together on their wedding day. Arrive to check in and meet other participants, then take a guided lesson that covers simple patterns you can use right away, stylish turns and twirls, and a photogenic dip to finish. Instructors share practical lead and follow technique so partners move together with ease, and a short routine is taught that can be used for a first dance. The session includes practice time and a brief one-on-one with the teaching team to answer questions and offer personalized pointers. Partners stay together throughout the class, and registration is for pairs only. This experience also works well for fathers and daughters or mothers and sons preparing for parent dances. Tuition options include a Basic Package at $125 per couple with entry for two dancers and a practice video to continue at home, a Personalized Package at $200 per couple that adds a custom practice video set to your song along with tailored practice guidance and wedding day tips, and a Private Lesson Package at $250 per couple that includes all of the above plus a 60 minute private session to refine technique, connection, musicality, and add extra moments to your dance. Private instruction is also available for customized choreography and specific styles such as rumba, waltz, foxtrot, tango, cha cha, hustle, swing, salsa, and more. This popular class tends to fill quickly, and registration is open.

Magic: The Gathering takes center stage with a focus on Pauper and Commander. The $10 entry includes a pack and a small tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.

Stella Rose is back at The Eleven at Lark Hall for a live celebration of Jerry Garcia’s legacy. Expect a performance that channels the Jerry Garcia Band and Grateful Dead sound, featuring a full lineup with guitar and vocals, fiddle, and driving percussion. It starts in the early evening and includes a free show.

The Schenectady-Saratoga Symphony Orchestra presents a Broadway-themed program at Music Haven, led by Maestro Glen Cortese. Guest artists soprano Lisa Layman and tenor Brent Weber perform favorite show tunes with full orchestral accompaniment in an outdoor setting. Attendees are encouraged to bring a picnic and arrive early to claim space on the lawn. If weather becomes an issue, the performance will move to Proctors. This concert is presented with support from Fenimore Asset Management, New Schenectady, the Schenectady County Arts & Culture Grant, and WMHT Classical.

Catch THE BRIEFS, the legendary Seattle punk band, live with The Sleeveens. This is an in-person punk show lasting about 4 hours.

Expect high energy in the front bar with dance music, and a karaoke scene in the back bar. Late night cravings are covered with $5 Dirty Shirley specials and $3 pizza slices. Guests can dance, take the mic, or unwind with friends for a laid back night out.

Yoga and meditation sessions at Mohawk Harbor are sponsored by MVP Health Care, making them free for the community. Each session starts with meditation and continues with yoga, led by a rotating group of teachers.

Enjoy a free outdoor yoga session at Riverfront Park in Downtown Troy. This summer series welcomes all experience levels for a relaxing and uplifting practice. Please bring a yoga mat, water, and any personal essentials such as a towel or sunscreen. Classes are led by Maitri Yoga, with support from CDPHP and Callanan Industries.

At Albany UU, Maryland-based singer songwriter Eli Lev shares indie folk and Americana shaped by story-centered writing that emphasizes service, presence, and a sense of shared humanity. His warm, earthy shows foster reflection and often invite singing together. Before touring full time, he taught eighth grade English on the Navajo Nation in northern Arizona for three years. Lessons from that time inspired the Four Directions Project, a four-album journey informed by Navajo teachings in which each direction carries its own qualities and insights. Each installment explores a distinct musical terrain while connecting ancestry and tradition with contemporary songwriting. His creative path continued with the Three Worlds Project, a trilogy that considers how past, present, and future converge in the present moment. The album Past Lives weaves family history and belonging into close-knit songs that incorporate archival recordings, earning widespread recognition and multiple songwriting and regional music awards, including honors from the Washington Area Music Association and national competitions. A seasoned performer across the United States, Europe, and the UK, he has played hundreds of shows and cultivated a dedicated community through heartfelt performances, steady touring, and close audience connection. From festivals to listening rooms to cultural landmarks, his live set aims for uplift, grounded feeling, and emotional resonance.

Explore a curated marketplace featuring makers, artists, designers, and more on the Jay Street Marketplace. Held alongside the Schenectady Green Market and Farmers Market, it brings together creative goods and market finds in one lively setting. Browse the offerings, meet the people behind the work, and enjoy the friendly street market atmosphere.

The Community Table at Schenectady Greenmarket offers an outdoor encounter with avian education ambassadors outside Schenectady City Hall. Visitors can greet the birds before or after browsing goods from local producers. This appearance takes place on selected Sundays at the market, and the market shares updates on its schedule.

Casual Commander open play welcomes players to keep gaming until closing. The entry fee is $8, and each participant receives one set booster. Win a pod and you will earn a random set of cards to distribute among the players. This takes place every Sunday. For details on scheduling and other happenings, check the Magic Companion app and the Wizards Event Locator.

Enjoy a calm, creative workshop centered on wrapping a pendant stone with wire. Explore a freestyle approach that lets you highlight your selected stone in a way that suits your style. All supplies are included, and registration comes with a beverage of your choice.

Catch The Bunny The Bear and friends for a night of heavy, high-energy metalcore, post-hardcore, and rock at Empire Underground in Albany. The show starts at 6:30 PM local venue time.

Music Haven's popular Blues BBQ returns with a headlining set from Chicago guitar master Ronnie Baker Brooks, the Blues Music Awards' 2025 Contemporary Blues Artist of the Year. The program offers an extended evening of blues and barbecue, with special guests Misty Blues and Mulebone completing the lineup. This is often one of the season's biggest nights, so arriving early is recommended. In case of rain, the event relocates to Proctors. Presented with support from Frog Alley Brewing Co., Homestead Funding and WEXT 97.7/106.1FM.

Every Monday features a $20 special that includes two 12 ounce pours of cider and a pizza.

Push your practice with a higher-intensity class designed to build strength while still leaving you feeling lengthened and at ease. The session may highlight a sequence that builds toward a pinnacle posture, include guided work on a more advanced shape, offer a barre-focused workout capped with a long stretch, or center on an elevated yoga flow. Expect to work hard, then wrap up balanced, open, and relaxed.

The program features a mix of marches, light classical selections, and familiar favorites presented in front of Reynold's House. Please bring a lawn chair for seating.

Tunesday brings free midday music to Tricentennial Park in downtown Albany, showcasing local performers. This event features the Downtown Classical Trio. Throughout the season, the series highlights artists such as Joanne's Driving the Bus, Jillian Smith Trio, Musicians with Albany Symphony, Bronte Roman Quartet, The MacS Trio, and Michael T & Wee B3. There is no cost to attend and all are welcome. Support comes from a grant by the Music Performance Trust Fund, organized by the Albany Musician's Association, Local 14 of the American Federation of Musicians.

A free showing of How to Train Your Dragon includes activities before the movie. Kids ages 12 and under receive complimentary popcorn. The film is rated PG, runs approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes, and is listed as a 2025 release. On the isle of Berk, a growing threat endangers both Vikings and dragons, and the bond between inventive Hiccup and the Night Fury Toothless becomes the key to shaping a shared future. Groups of twenty or more can reserve seats by calling 518-465-3335 ext. 127 or emailing info@palacealbany.org.

Enjoy a special evening at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium as the Tri-City ValleyCats take the field in an event highlighting Tunnels to Towers and marking the nation’s 250th. Attendees can show support for Tunnels to Towers, an organization that serves first responders, while taking in ValleyCats baseball.

Bring your own kit and materials for a relaxed crafting meetup at Bard & Baker. Spend time building and creating alongside fellow hobbyists in a welcoming setting.

Typhoid Mary hosts a spirited trivia night filled with quick wit, laughs, and good-natured competition. Sign-ups happen first, then the rounds begin. Expect questions spanning pop culture, sports, entertainment, music, and current events. There is no cost to participate, and top teams take home cider flights along with other goodies from Nine Pin.

Enjoy live jazz performed by local artists. Reservations are welcomed but not required. For reservation inquiries, call 518-650-6071.

Ilana Glazer appears live, a comedian, actor, advocate, and creator who tours internationally as a standup and co created and co starred in the series Broad City. Her second standup special, Human Magic, premiered on Hulu. Each Thursday she releases the video podcast It's Open with Ilana Glazer on YouTube, with an audio only version on podcast platforms. She co wrote and starred in Babes, which premiered at SXSW 2024 to enthusiastic reviews before its release with Neon. In 2025 she made her Broadway debut in the stage adaptation of Good Night, & Good Luck alongside George Clooney for a limited run.

Trivia takes over Centre Street Pub with seven rounds that mix knowledge, visuals, music, and pop culture. Test yourself on general knowledge, a picture round, a rotating themed miscellaneous segment, music and karaoke, history and geography, and entertainment, then cap it off with a timed finale built around one multi-answer question worth big points. Play solo or form a team, since more minds can help with the toughest questions. Top teams can look forward to prizes that may include gift cards, drinks, or swag from distributors. Expect an energetic pace and plenty of variety throughout the night.

Dashboard Confessional brings a night of live music to Empire Live Albany with special guest GLOM. This event is for ages 16 and up with a valid photo ID. A valid photo ID is generally required for entry, unless the attendee is accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who is 21 or older. Ticket access includes several presale options, including Saints & Sailors, artist, and venue presales, followed by a public onsale.

1 Million Cups brings together Capital Region entrepreneurs in a welcoming setting at the Rensselaer County Regional Chamber of Commerce. Business owners connect, exchange ideas, and get feedback on challenges with the goal of growing their ventures. There is no cost to attend, everyone is welcome, and coffee is provided. Presented in partnership with the Rensselaer County Regional Chamber of Commerce.

The New York State Food Festival at Empire State Plaza features Starship featuring Mickey Thomas. Thomas is the dynamic vocalist who powered Starship’s success in the 1980s and remains a notable figure in rock. He stepped in as lead singer of Jefferson Starship in 1979 following the departures of Grace Slick and Marty Balin, and that period brought chart favorites including “Jane”, “No Way Out”, “Find Your Way Back”, “Stranger”, and “Layin’ It on the Line”.

Lunchtime at the Plaza, presented by M&T Bank, features Slingshot Funk Band delivering a high energy blend of funk, R&B, jazz, rock, reggae, and soul spanning the 70s to today. Enjoy live music while grabbing lunch and browsing the Empire State Plaza Farmers Market and food vendors. This weekly series offers ten weeks of music and fresh finds at Empire State Plaza.

Remote workers, small business owners, and students looking for a change of scenery can settle into The Cottage at Bard & Baker for a relaxed coworking session. Bring a notebook, phone, tablet, or laptop and get things done alongside others in a space with plenty of outlets. Quick printing is available through the on-site PrintWithMe station, wifi is ready to go, and the full menu makes it easy to grab caffeine or lunch without breaking your flow. When the work period wraps up, attendees can stay to socialize over a cocktail or play a game, or head out if needed. There is no charge to use the space for working or studying, with costs applying only if accessing board games after the meetup. The space remains open to the public for indoor dining and gameplay, and guests are welcome to come on other days to work as well.

Paddle the Mohawk River in Schenectady on a guided kayak tour that traces the waterway from modern Mohawk Harbor to the site of the city’s historic port. Along the way, a knowledgeable guide shares stories that illuminate the region’s past. A kayak, life vest, and paddle are provided. Plan for roughly two hours on the water. There are no restrooms at the launch or takeout. For safety reasons, personal kayaks are not permitted. The group meets at Mohawk Harbor near Druthers.

Lavender Social Hour, previously known as Women's Pride, is a welcoming gathering for women and anyone across the gender spectrum who feels comfortable in spaces led by women. It offers a chance to meet others and strengthen community connections.

This free community yoga session in Albany welcomes beginners and anyone seeking a calming reset. Sponsored by the YMCA, the class centers on gentle movement, focused breathing, and relaxation to ease stress and support a good stretch. Off-street parking is available. Participants may bring a yoga mat or borrow one, and bringing water is encouraged. Instruction is provided by Noir, founder and yoga instructor with Ms. Noir Wellness Studio.

An open board game evening at Bard & Baker welcomes anyone who wants to play, meet new people, or simply relax with like minded gamers. It is geared toward solo attendees and makes it easy to find a table with new friends, though coming with a friend or partner works too. A $5 game cover provides access to the night, with plenty of food and drinks available for purchase from Bard & Baker. Open to all ages and experience levels, with many different board games in play throughout the night. No RSVP is required. If you arrive later, you can sit in to watch at a table until new players arrive or a seat becomes available.

Level 1 of the Tree of Transformation offers a grounded, nine-part learning journey that helps participants stabilize from within, deepen self-awareness, and bring more clarity to how they think, feel, and respond. Guided by a mindfulness-centered, trauma-sensitive approach, the series teaches practical ways to settle the nervous system, notice emotional patterns, sharpen attention, and relate to identity and stress with greater flexibility. Each session blends concise teaching with hands-on experience through guided meditation and regulation practices such as breathwork and grounding, time for personal reflection and journaling, optional group dialogue in a psychologically safe setting, and gentle somatic activities that build awareness of sensations and internal shifts. Simple tools like emotion labeling, shifting attention, and grounding are practiced for everyday use, while clear visual frameworks and mapping tools make concepts easy to understand and apply. Together these skills create a shared language that supports well-being, stronger communication, and intentional decision-making, laying the foundation for sustainable performance and meaningful growth in both personal and professional life. Participants receive professionally designed handouts and worksheets for each workshop, including reflection prompts, practice guides, and reusable visuals that extend learning beyond the session. Printed materials are provided for each person and are included in the price. The program is led by Nicholas C. Clay, a holistic integrative coach-practitioner and founder of Being One World, who draws on more than five years of experience integrating neuroscience, emotional regulation, and mindset development to support educators, leaders, and teams. He created the Tree of Transformation and is the author of Breath by Breath: A Simple Way to Come Home to Yourself.

Join an in-person speed dating event for singles ages 37 to 52. You will meet up to 12 local matches through a series of structured, 6-minute pre-dates, so you can quickly see who you connect with. At the end of the evening, the organizers handle the follow-up based on your selections in a relaxed, no-pressure setting.

Catch Autumn Lies Buried at Empire Underground in Albany. The show starts at 6:30 PM. Tickets are available via Ticketmaster.

At RSG Troy, trivia happens every Wednesday with a buy one get one boneless wings special and prizes.

Lark Street Tavern hosts a regular open mic that highlights local musicians and songwriters. Performers take the microphone while attendees relax with a drink and a friendly crowd. Expect an easygoing evening of live music with plenty of vocals and guitars.

Slidin' Dirty Troy presents a new open mic night led by host, vocalist and guitarist Danny Watson, backed by the Slidin' Dirty Band with Chris Beam on bass and Pete Vumbacco on drums. Musicians can bring their instruments and take the stage, with a full backline ready to go, including professional sound, stage lighting, amplifiers, microphones and a house drum kit. With a track record of helping standout local performers gain recognition, Watson brings his well-established open mic tradition to this Troy venue.

Waterworks hosts a lively drag night featuring a rotating lineup of hosts and performers. Expect upbeat music, drinks, and show-stopping drag for an energetic night out.

FOCUS hosts Hot Dog Thursdays at Westminster Presbyterian Church, offering a complimentary hot dog with regular or strawberry lemonade and time for conversation. All are welcome. Plans may change depending on the weather.

Enjoy a relaxed, all-ages creative time where you can stop in to make art at your own pace. Bring a personal project to work on independently, or try the featured project of the day. The focus changes each week, encouraging exploration of new crafts and chances to share your own artwork. Emphasis is on self expression and creating together as a community, rather than aiming for a perfect final piece.

A casual Pokemon club and league event for fans of both the video games and the trading card game. Admission is 6.00, and each participant receives a booster pack of their choice from the available selection upon entry. Completing a League task sheet can earn exclusive prize packs, stickers, and more.

Pathfinder Society Organized Play brings tabletop roleplaying to Bard & Baker Troy with a campaign set in the world of Golarion. Participants step into the roles of Society agents, a renowned fellowship of explorers, archaeologists, and adventurers who seek out and record hidden wonders. A $5 per person cover applies to participate in games, and food and drinks are available for purchase. Capacity is limited each week, and the meetup is run by the Pathfinder Society. During the event, Bard & Baker remains open for regular gaming.

SalSwing Social at Baila Albany Dance Studio brings together East Coast Swing, Salsa, and Bachata for a full night on the dance floor. The evening begins with an all-level Swing lesson to help everyone get comfortable, then transitions into a social where all three styles are featured throughout. Admission is $15 for the lesson plus social, or $10 for the social portion only. No partner is needed, and beginners are welcome. It is a chance for Swing dancers to explore Latin rhythms, Salseros to try Swing, and anyone interested in practicing, meeting new people, and enjoying music in one place.

SUNY Schenectady’s Faculty Jazz Combo performs at Music Haven with guest trumpeter and educator Jon Faddis for an evening of jazz featuring musicians and educators from the Capital Region. The food court will be open. In case of rain, the performance moves to Proctors. Presented with support from SUNY Schenectady, Head to Tail Pet Wellness Center, and Snapple.

A tour documentary from director David Markey captures an electrifying snapshot of life on the road with Sonic Youth and Nirvana during their late 1991 European run. The film also showcases live sets by Dinosaur Jr, Babes in Toyland, The Ramones, and Gumball performing for big, engaged crowds. Not rated and 99 minutes long. Presented as part of the summer series Rock Schenectady.

Toadies bring The Charmer Tour to Empire Live Albany. Admission is 16 and up with a valid photo ID. Guests without a valid photo ID may enter only if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who is 21 or older. Tickets will be available through artist, venue, and Bandsintown presales, followed by a public onsale.

Footsy Magoo's hosts a lively trivia showdown built around seven distinct rounds that blend knowledge, humor, and a touch of friendly competition. Tackle general knowledge questions, a picture round that puts observation to the test, and a weekly miscellaneous theme where surprises are part of the fun. A music round with a karaoke twist keeps the energy high, followed by a tour through history and geography and an entertainment segment celebrating movies, music, and pop culture. Everything builds to a timed final question with multiple answers and big points at stake. Play solo or form a team, and bring as many brainy friends as you like to take on the toughest prompts. Top teams earn prizes, often gift cards, drinks, or swag from distributors.

Charismatic karaoke host TJ New brings his signature karaoke experience to Slidin' Dirty in downtown Troy. The setup features a state-of-the-art sound system that helps even hesitant singers belt out favorite tunes. Slidin' Dirty has returned as an 11,000 square foot restaurant, bar, and live music venue, offering a spacious setting for Karaoke Night with TJ.