Events in Albany today

Board game creators and curious playtesters are invited to a monthly playtest night hosted by the local design group Spielbany. The focus is fun, with the aim of exploring and refining new tabletop ideas together while meeting like minded designers from the area. Designers and playtesters are equally welcome. Participants may bring a prototype to test, although newcomers are encouraged to spend their first session as playtesters to get a feel for how the group operates. Attendees are asked to review the Spielbany Code of Conduct in advance.

Compete in a Legacy format constructed tournament. Top players by rank receive in-store credit, with prize amounts determined by attendance.

Participants face off in a YuGiOh trading card game tournament that follows the Advanced Constructed format and consists of three rounds. Each attendee receives two OTS packs, with additional rewards granted to the top-ranked players based on overall attendance. A friendly atmosphere of strategy and dueling brings the community together for competitive play.

A weekly gathering that offers a welcoming space for transgender, gender nonconforming, and nonbinary people to connect, relax, and build community in a casual social setting.

Connect with other adults living with type 1 diabetes at a relaxed meetup centered on coffee and conversation. Whether you were recently diagnosed or have managed T1D for years, this gathering is open to you. RSVP by emailing Nikki at nikkitdefruscio@gmail.com.

A lively trivia night fills Centre Street Pub with seven rounds of brainy fun. The lineup includes general knowledge, a picture round that tests observation, a rotating themed miscellaneous segment, a music portion with a playful karaoke vibe, history and geography, and an entertainment category focused on showbiz favorites. It all culminates in a timed finale built around a single multi answer question worth big points, where speed can decide the champions. The format allows teams or solo players, and larger groups offer more brainpower for the toughest puzzles. Top performers receive prizes that commonly include gift cards, drinks, or branded swag from distributors.

1 Million Cups brings Capital Region entrepreneurs together in a supportive setting to connect with fellow business owners, talk through challenges, and explore ways to grow. Participation is free, the gathering welcomes everyone, and coffee is on hand. This program is offered in partnership with the Rensselaer County Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Bring your crochet, embroidery, knitting, hand stitching, or any other needlecraft to a welcoming gathering focused on making progress. Settle in to finish long-standing projects or begin a fresh one without any pressure. No registration is required, and drop-ins are welcome.

Looking for a change of scenery from the home office, a coffee shop table, or a dorm room? This casual coworking session brings remote workers, small business owners, and students together in The Cottage at Bard & Baker to focus and get things done alongside a friendly crowd. The space offers plenty of outlets to keep devices powered, wifi for easy connectivity, and an on site PrintWithMe station for quick printing. Keep energy up with drinks or a meal from the full menu while you work. When the work session wraps up, feel free to stick around to socialize, enjoy a cocktail, or play a game with others. There is no cost to use the space for working or studying, with charges only applying if you choose to access the board games afterward. The venue remains open to the public for indoor dining and gameplay during this time, and guests are welcome to work there on other days as well.

Suit up for casual Battletech gaming centered on armored combat. Choose between Classic play or Alpha Strike, depending on available space, and newcomers can jump in with a learn to play option. Participants set the era and point totals, keeping matchups flexible and player directed. Admission is $5, or it is waived with a purchase of $5 or more.

Autumn Evening is a farm to table celebration of food and community at Hilton Garden Inn Troy, highlighting five decades of local partnerships that strengthen the region’s food system. Guests can enjoy seasonal plates crafted by area chefs, beverages from local producers, and acoustic performances, all in the company of neighbors and supporters. The event honors the farmers, growers, makers, and community members who expand access to fresh, local food across the Capital Region. It offers a chance to savor regional flavors and build connections, reflecting the community spirit that continues to nourish the area year after year.

This free community yoga session in Albany welcomes all experience levels and focuses on gentle movement, mindful breathing, and relaxation to support stress relief and a sense of calm. Participants can bring a yoga mat or borrow one, and bringing water is encouraged. The program is sponsored by the YMCA, and off-street parking is available. For updates about future classes, workshops, and wellness events, information is shared by Ms. Noir Wellness Studio.

Casual Commander open play invites players to enjoy as many games as they like. Entry is $8 and includes one set booster per participant. Win a pod to receive a random set of cards to share among all players at your table. The Magic Companion app and Wizards Event Locator can be used to keep up with events.

Rainbow Runners Group brings LGBTQ+ folks and allies together for a friendly, weekly run that starts and finishes at Mr Bumbles Cafe. Participants typically cover about 3 to 4 miles at a comfortable pace, with route options that let each person choose the distance that feels right while always looping back to the cafe. All experience levels take part, from first-timers to seasoned runners. Brandon, the cafe owner, helps coordinate and provides a spot to stash personal items during the outing. It is a welcoming way to connect with others, enjoy the neighborhood on foot, and build community through fitness and friendship.

Lavender Social Hour, formerly Women's Pride, is a gathering for women and for anyone across the spectrum who is comfortable in women-led spaces to meet and build community. The focus is on connection within a women-led setting.

An open board game night at Bard & Baker makes it easy to find a group and play. It is a welcoming option for people who love games but need players, newcomers interested in meeting friends, and anyone seeking a relaxed hangout with like minded folks. Attendees may arrive solo or with a companion, and can expect a wide variety of games on the tables for all ages and skill levels. A $5 game cover grants access, and food and beverages are available for purchase from Bard & Baker. No RSVP is required. Games tend to get started quickly, and later arrivals can watch a table until a seat opens and then join in.

Video game developers from the Capital Region gather for a relaxed, monthly meetup to share what they are working on, discuss recent industry news, and strengthen community ties. The Albany chapter of the International Game Developers Association hosts this casual social and welcomes both members and nonmembers. By attending, participants agree to follow IGDA Albany's Code of Conduct.

The Egg presents Pat Metheny with his new ensemble Side-Eye III+. A leading voice in modern music for decades, Metheny began on trumpet at eight, shifted to guitar at twelve, and was already performing with top Kansas City jazz players by fifteen, foundations that helped shape his unmistakable sound. Early work with vibraphonist Gary Burton drew attention to his horn-like phrasing, lyricism, and rhythmic ease. His debut, Bright Size Life, opened fresh paths for jazz guitar with spacious sonics and clear melodic focus. Over the course of a prolific career, Metheny has sold more than 20 million albums and earned 20 Grammy Awards across ten distinct categories, a breadth of recognition no one else has matched. He has collaborated with artists including Steve Reich, Ornette Coleman, Herbie Hancock, Jim Hall, Milton Nascimento, and David Bowie. His compositions range from intimate solo pieces and orchestral works to the trailblazing Orchestrion project. As an educator, he became the youngest instructor at both the University of Miami and Berklee College of Music, later receiving an honorary doctorate. His honors include the DownBeat Hall of Fame, NEA Jazz Master, and membership in the Royal Swedish Academy of Music and the Missouri Hall of Fame. This appearance is part of a world tour with Side-Eye III+, supporting their self-titled album, the inaugural release on his label Uniquity Music, which will serve as the home for his catalog and future projects.

At Lark Street Tavern, open mic night welcomes performers to step up and share their songs. The night features live sets from local singers and songwriters in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Attendees can sip a drink and take in an evening of music, guitars, and friendly company.

Dale Watson & His Lone Stars headline an evening of roots-driven country with special guest India Ramey. For more than four decades, Watson has championed his self-coined style, Ameripolitan, weaving honky-tonk, outlaw country, western swing, and rockabilly into a sound that stands apart. A singer, songwriter, guitarist, producer, and actor, he treats tradition with an independent streak and a modern edge. Known for a commanding voice and ringleader presence, he brings twang, heart, and road-tested energy to the stage. His album Unwanted, written and produced by Watson, draws on heartache, hard-won lessons, and the momentum of life on the highway, featuring songs like "Willie Waylon and Whiskey," "If You Really Loved Me (Outlive Me)," and "Life is Like a Song." Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 day of show.

Waterworks hosts a weekly drag show with a changing lineup of hosts and performers. Enjoy music, drinks, and drag entertainment in a welcoming setting that highlights Albany nightlife and the local drag scene. Each week offers a fresh mix of talent on stage.

Every Thursday, Nine Pin offers a special featuring a Bavarian pretzel served with mustard and cheese, paired with a 12 oz cider for $15.

Enjoy a relaxed studio setting where people of all ages can stop in to make art. Work on personal projects at your own pace or try the project of the day, which changes each week and can spark interest in new crafts or offer a chance to share what you already create. The focus is on self expression and creating alongside others in the community, with less emphasis on perfect results and more on the creative process.

Open play for Star Wars: Legion is available at The Fortress of Gaming. Enjoy casual tabletop battles in the Star Wars universe. Entry costs $5, or the fee is waived with a purchase of $5 or more.

A back-to-school themed kiki ball calls on all 007s to leave their mark on the floor. OTA spans the entire night, with cash prizes and trophies awarded along the way. House leaders are encouraged to watch closely as a fresh wave moves through the scene. Categories include Runway, Female Figure, Male Figure, Face, Best Dressed Spectator, and Up and Coming Kiki House, with additional categories planned. Admission is offered as a $10 presale, or $5 with a student ID or a school supply donation. Free entry is available for those who sign up to volunteer with partner organizations. Support comes from The Free School, Hudson/Catskill Housing Coalition, and Queer Blox.

Magic: The Gathering Commander play at The Lost Gnome features a $10 entry that includes a booster of your choosing and a small hot drink such as tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. Additional beverages, food, and retail items are available for purchase.

Pathfinder Society Organized Play at Bard & Baker Troy offers a global d20 tabletop campaign where participants become agents of the Pathfinder Society, a fellowship of explorers, archaeologists, and adventurers who document the mysteries and wonders of Golarion. A $5 per person cover applies for gaming, and food and drinks are available for purchase. Space is limited each week, so advance signup is encouraged. This is an official Pathfinder Society organized meetup, and Bard & Baker remains open for regular gaming during this time.

This weekly Star Wars Unlimited league offers open play with the newest Star Wars collectible card game. Players can earn free prize packs for playing, trading, or teaching the game. Depending on attendance, drafts or other competitive events may be organized. Entry is $5.00, or covered by a purchase of $5.00 or more.

An inviting Yu-Gi-Oh dueling night centered on the Advanced Constructed format and limited to three rounds. All participants receive two OTS packs for attending, and additional prizes are awarded to top placements, with payouts adjusted according to overall attendance. It is a focused, friendly competition that highlights strategy and rivalry, with a cheerful nod to believing in the heart of the cards.

Experience a monthly drag showcase hosted by Typhoid Mary, featuring a rotating lineup of queens who bring glamour, attitude, and standout stage presence. Admission is free and guests of all ages are welcome. Seats are claimed on a first-come basis, and arriving early improves the odds of finding a great spot.

Pokemon Club and League is back with plenty of ways to earn prizes. It welcomes fans of both the video games and the trading card game. The entry fee is 6.00, and each player receives one booster pack of their choice from the available selection upon entry. Completing a League Task sheet can earn exclusive prize packs, stickers, and more.

The Egg hosts Liz Phair, an artist whose career since Exile in Guyville has challenged expectations and opened doors. She has released five albums, sold more than five million records, composed music for television, and earned two GRAMMY nominations. In 2019 she published the memoir Horror Stories with Random House, noted by the LA Times for its candid look at fame, motherhood, and aging. Her 2021 full-length, Soberish, reunited her with producer Brad Wood and received strong praise from outlets including Variety and The New Yorker. In 2018 Matador Records released a deluxe edition of Exile in Guyville featuring a remaster and the first officially restored audio of her 1991 Girly-Sound cassette recordings, a collection that Pitchfork awarded a perfect 10. She has appeared on the cover of Rolling Stone, topped SPIN’s albums of the year list, and reached number one on the Village Voice Pazz and Jop Critics Poll. She was a main stage headliner on Lilith Fair in 1998 and 1999 alongside artists such as Sarah McLachlan, Emmylou Harris, Sheryl Crow, and Missy Elliott. Three decades after her debut, her influence on contemporary music, especially among female voices, remains strong.

Pete Davidson appears at Palace Theatre for a phone-free show. When guests arrive, phones, smartwatches, and related accessories will be placed in individual Yondr pouches that remain with each person and are unlocked at the end of the event. If device access is needed during the show, designated phone-use areas inside the venue will be available, and devices must be re-secured before returning to the performance space. Anyone using a device in the performance area will be escorted out of the venue.

Footsy Magoo's hosts a spirited trivia night built around seven rounds of questions that mix challenge and humor. Play solo or gather a team, since more minds can help crack the toughest clues. Expect a blend of general knowledge, a photo identification segment, a themed miscellaneous portion, a music round with a karaoke twist, history and geography questions, and entertainment trivia. It all culminates in a timed finale featuring one multiple answer question worth big points. Top finishers receive prizes that may include a gift card, free drinks, or distributor swag.

Open studio hours welcome creators of any age to engage in art-making at their own pace. Participants can focus on a personal piece or try the project of the day, which shifts from week to week to encourage learning new crafts and sharing personal techniques. The environment emphasizes self-expression and working together as a community, rather than aiming for a perfect final result.

Now in its fourth year, this women-focused salmon charter on Lake Ontario with Dirty Goose Sportfishing blends relaxed shoreline activities with time on the water. The itinerary begins with a casual fire and drinks to meet fellow anglers, then continues with breakfast in town, a hike at Salmon River Falls, and time by the river with optional bank fishing. A six hour charter on the lake follows, after which the group returns to the marina to clean and bag the catch for transport and then visits a local restaurant for a meal together. Designed for all skill levels, the experience emphasizes learning, connection and stepping outside comfort zones. The cost is $400 per person, and there are 10 spots available. Bring a cooler for taking fish home; ice is available nearby. All fish are pooled and split evenly among participants. Fish cleaning, crew tip, tackle and rods are included. Bring your own beverages; ginger ale, water and boat snacks will be provided. Payments are non-refundable but may be transferred with approval, and partial payments are not accepted. If weather, safety or unforeseen circumstances lead to a cancellation, a 20 percent non-refundable charge may apply.

Albany LGBTQIA+ Youth Group welcomes ages 13 to 18. This is a drop-in gathering, and food and drinks are provided by community volunteers.

Savor a cider spritz themed cocktail flight created for this installment of the Flight Night series. For $20, enjoy a tasting of four specialty drinks accompanied by a snack bowl to share or keep for yourself. Nonalcoholic flight options are typically offered at a lower price. Walk-ins are welcome, but reserving a table is recommended since it can get busy. To hold a spot, call 518-948-6693.

At The Gateway Diner, select a Halloween themed pottery piece to fit your style, from pumpkins and lanterns to gourds, ghosts, skulls, or mummies. Pieces marked as illuminated include a bulb and cord. Photos show the full range of options. A beverage of your choice is included with registration, and signing up in advance lets you choose your piece.

Jazz Evenings brings live jazz to the stylish lobby at The Landing Hotel. Settle in for a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy the music with a thoughtfully made cocktail.

Settle in for a friendly board game night where you can bring your own favorites or jump into whatever is already on the table. A $5 fee or a stamped purchase receipt from Zombie Planet provides access to the gaming library and table space at the Fortress.

This Magic: The Gathering tournament spotlights the Modern Constructed format and features three to four rounds of Swiss. Top finishers receive store credit, with amounts determined by total attendance, and the top two also earn promotional packs while supplies last. Event information is available through the Magic Companion App and the Wizards Event Locator.

This concert at The Egg features múm, pronounced moom, an Icelandic group whose exploratory sound blends electronic experimentation, gentle vocals, glitchy rhythms, inventive sampling, and haunting textures shaped by both traditional and unconventional instruments. Formed in 1997 by Gunnar Örn Tynes and Örvar Smárason, the band has released six studio albums along with numerous singles, EPs, collaborations, and works for theater and film. Notable milestones include Whistle, a 2013 single with Kylie Minogue from the film Jack & Diane, for which they had composed the original score the year before. In 2015 they created Drowning with German pianist and composer Hauschka, a commission from the MDR Sinfonieorchester in Leipzig that was performed that summer. Their projects also span a semi improvised electronic score for the silent film Menschen am Sonntag and a special Iceland Airwaves 2016 collaboration with the Kronos Quartet at Harpa, revisiting songs from their back catalog. In 2019 they released a 20th anniversary edition of their 1999 debut Yesterday Was Dramatic, Today Is OK and toured Europe and China to mark the occasion, with a planned US leg in spring 2020 postponed due to the global pandemic.

Lark St Tavern hosts karaoke on Friday and Saturday nights, featuring six large screens that display lyrics and a sound system that supports every performance. Sign-up takes place before the singing starts, and arriving early helps secure a spot on the list.

The second annual City Mission Steps for Sustainability 5K, presented by Highmark, is a run and walk that channels each mile into meaningful community support. Participation helps provide meals, safe shelter, clothing, and other essential resources for men, women, and children, while also encouraging personal wellness. Every participant will receive a commemorative finisher medal, with refreshments available after the race. Sponsorship opportunities are available for those looking to expand their support. The event is managed by ARE, Albany Running Exchange Event Productions, with the shared goal of building a stronger, more sustainable community one step at a time.

This cozy fall crafting retreat, hosted by The Craft Ladies at the Russian Orthodox Community Center, provides a personal 6-foot workspace and an entire day to dive into scrapbooking, card making, album planning, or any project you choose. Breakfast kicks things off, a late lunch and dessert are included, and snacks are offered throughout. Prize drawings and giveaways add to the fun while creativity takes center stage. Registration is $55 for full-day access. Fred the Flamingo brings a lighthearted spirit to an event focused on creativity, camaraderie, and lasting memories.

The Troy Waterfront Farmers Market returns to Monument Square and nearby streets with an outdoor, rain-or-shine marketplace that stretches across several city blocks. A favorite destination in the Capital Region, it brings together a large community of farmers and fresh food vendors, plus the return of the Makers Market, live music, prepared food, expanded seating and community tables. Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the market area. During its outdoor season, the heart of downtown becomes an open-air street festival, with tents, sidewalk tables and music stages filling Monument Square and extending along River and 2nd streets. On the busiest days, as many as 15,000 visitors browse local produce, meats, seafood, prepared foods and handmade crafts, and many stay to socialize and explore nearby shops and restaurants. When the colder months arrive, the market moves indoors. The market has earned frequent regional Best Of recognition, including a 2019 People’s Choice award from American Farmland Trust that named it the number one farmers market in the nation.

Ease into the close of the work week with a yoga practice centered on mobility work, deep stretches, and steady breathing. Come as you are. Props will be provided, and a limited number of mats will be available to borrow.

This gathering invites new parents, guardians, and caregivers to connect, share experiences, and find community. It is geared toward parental figures of all genders, especially those caring for children under age 4, yet all caregivers are welcome. RSVP is not required, and attendees can come with their little ones and an open heart.

New York’s next generation of high school esports talent steps into the spotlight as students, educators, families, community leaders, and gaming fans from across the state come together to celebrate competitive play, technology, education, and innovation. The event is free for players, schools, spectators, and community members through the Innovation Partnership between Albany County and MVP Health Care. Attendees can experience how esports opens doors to STEM learning, career exploration, digital literacy, and workforce development. Presented by Claim to Fame Entertainment, in partnership with VDO Gaming & Esports Education, the showcase brings industry leaders and educators together with students and the wider community. It goes beyond competition, serving as an investment in the future of New York’s students. Organizations that value innovation, education, workforce development, and community engagement are invited to support the event as sponsors. Benefits include demonstrating a commitment to youth and technology, building connections with families and decision makers from across the Capital Region, and aligning with a fast-growing industry while helping keep the experience free and accessible. Leading global gaming and technology brands have already recognized the potential of esports to inspire, educate, and connect the next generation, and this showcase focuses that momentum in Albany, New York.

The 60th Stockade Walkabout is a fall open house tour through Schenectady’s Historic Stockade neighborhood, New York State’s first historic district. Visitors can step inside distinctive private homes and learn about architectural details and the families who lived there. The experience also includes music, appearances by historical characters, exhibits at the Schenectady County Historical Society, an archaeology dig, and displays of artifacts left by early residents. Locations on the route include the Schenectady County Historical Society, the Stockade Inn, neighborhood churches, and other sites. It is presented in partnership with the Stockade StreetFest. Tickets will be available online and at select retail locations.

The second annual Evening Over the Falls gala at Mount Ida Preservation Hall offers an elegant celebration of a year devoted to preservation, arts, culture, and community while marking the start of the new fall season. Guests can look forward to a dinner crafted by Chef Larry Schepici, live music filling the historic sanctuary, and time to connect with friends, neighbors, artists, and supporters. The program highlights accomplishments from the past year, recognizes those who have contributed to Mount Ida’s growth, and reveals the upcoming slate of performances, exhibitions, and community programs. Tickets include dinner, dessert, and nonalcoholic beverages, with wine, beer, and additional drinks available for purchase. Cocktail or business casual attire is recommended, encouraging a special look that remains comfortable. The evening flows from a reception with cocktails and conversation to a warm welcome and dinner service, followed by a presentation with sponsor recognition and the fall season announcement, then concludes with live music, dessert, and time to connect. A limited number of reduced-price Community Access Tickets are available for artists, volunteers, students, and community members for whom standard pricing presents a financial barrier, and requests are handled confidentially.

Admission is $10 and includes a pack along with a small tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.

An evening of live jazz unfolds in the elegant lobby of The Landing Hotel, where smooth melodies fill a refined setting. Enjoy a carefully crafted cocktail as the music sets a relaxed backdrop for conversation and unwinding.

Graham Nash presents an evening that surveys six decades of music, guiding listeners through the eras that shaped his storied career with the Hollies, Crosby, Stills and Nash, Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, and his acclaimed solo work. He is joined by Todd Caldwell on keyboards, with Adam Minkoff and Zack Djanikian contributing on guitar, bass, drums, and vocals. Recent reviews describe his live shows as more than ordinary concerts, celebrating songs and stories that continue to resonate, and commend his ability to deliver at the highest level every time he steps on stage. Nash has been inducted twice into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, with the Hollies and with Crosby, Stills and Nash, has two inductions in the Songwriters Hall of Fame, as a solo artist and with CSN, and is a GRAMMY Award winner. His songbook spans beloved tracks from the Hollies such as On a Carousel and Carrie Anne, landmark CSN pieces like Marrakesh Express and Lady of the Island, CSNY favorites including Teach Your Children and Our House, and solo milestones from Songs For Beginners like Chicago and Military Madness. His work with David Crosby yielded Southbound Train and Immigration Man, and his creative journey continues into Now, his 2023 solo album. The first CSN and CSNY chapter was brief, yet the music from that period became lasting touchstones.

Created by the team behind The Simon and Garfunkel Story and The Life and Music of George Michael, this production pays tribute to Billy Joel, celebrating favorite hits while sharing the life behind the music. The concert charts his journey from early days to worldwide renown as a landmark songwriter and performer, combining authentic performances with striking visuals and storytelling. It highlights how these songs have influenced generations and why his legacy continues to endure.

An entire evening dedicated to Rush unfolds at The Kings Inn as The Goldman Boys deliver a performance that spans all eras of the progressive rock band. This tribute centers on the full scope of Rush’s music for a night focused completely on their catalogue.

Two teams of skilled improvisers go head to head in a high-energy showdown for points, bragging rights, and your laughter. It blends the excitement of a sports match with the spontaneity and unpredictability of live improv, turning every scene into a fresh surprise. Audience reactions help decide the champion, so every laugh counts. Expect quick pacing, sharp humor, and a lively comedy competition from start to finish.

A relaxed meetup for painting miniatures with fellow hobbyists. Bring your own figures and use the event’s supplied paint, brushes, and lighting to add detail and finish your projects. Open to all ages and every experience level, including kids who are learning. Warhammer, Warmachine, Dungeons & Dragons, board game minis, and more are all welcome. Entry is $5, or free with any menu purchase.

Experience a thoughtfully curated gathering of makers, artists, and designers on the Jay Street Marketplace each Sunday. This seasonal market runs April through October and takes place alongside the Schenectady Greenmarket and Farmers Market.

Rooted in the idea that mothers thrive with a supportive village, this monthly marketplace brings moms together to connect and support one another. Hosted inside i7 Events in Rotterdam, it highlights small businesses owned by women and mothers, creating a friendly place to browse unique goods and show support. The focus is on community, connection, and encouragement for both makers and shoppers.

Step into the world of tabletop roleplaying with Dungeon Master Alex as you learn Dungeons and Dragons from the ground up. The session begins with an easy introduction to the essentials. You will choose a character, talk about how roleplaying works at the table, and explore the core rules through play. Pre-generated characters are ready so you can jump into a short introductory quest with other new players. Plan for about three to three and a half hours of guided adventure that shows how a campaign can unfold. This workshop suits complete beginners and returning players alike, whether your interest comes from actual play series like Dimension 20 or Critical Role, video games such as Baldur’s Gate 3, or a need to brush up on the newest rules. All materials are provided by Dungeon Master Alex, and you are welcome to bring your own dice and something to take notes. Designed for participants ages 16 and up, using the most recently released Player’s Handbook and the 5.5 (2024) rules update.

Casual Magic Commander games take center stage, with players settling into pods and enjoying free-form matches. The entry fee is $8 and includes one set booster for each participant. Play as much as you like until closing. Win a pod and receive a random set of cards to share among the players. For details and event check-in, the Magic Companion app and the Wizards Event Locator can be used.

At Brown's Revolution Hall, Jajja's Kids hosts a brunch fundraiser marking two decades of work supporting children in Uganda who previously lived on the streets, with a focus on education. The program features brunch and time to connect with others, reflections on milestones and plans for the future, and first-hand updates from board members who recently visited the organization’s programs in Uganda. Attendees can explore ways to support the effort, shop for handmade African goods with proceeds benefiting Jajja's Kids, and view or purchase original artwork created by the youth. Contributions from the event help fund schooling, mentorship, and other resources that help students progress from early grades through higher education and beyond.

A monthly gathering at Bard & Baker for Magic: The Gathering fans who want a relaxed space for casual games and to connect with the local community. It offers a welcoming way for people new to the area to make friends alongside longtime players.

A weekly trivia night at Bard & Baker features classic pub-style questions across a wide range of subjects. The final session of each month becomes a themed game, often with nerdy topics led by Andrew of Cromulent Comics. It typically books up, so reservations are recommended by calling 518-948-6693.