Family events in Troy, NY

An open creative time welcomes all ages to stop in and make art independently or explore the day’s featured project. Activities change from week to week, encouraging discovery of new crafts and chances to share personal artwork. The focus is on self expression and creating together as a community, rather than aiming for a perfect final result.

This casual Pokemon league welcomes fans of both the video games and the trading card game. Entry is $6, and each player receives a booster pack of their choice from the available selection upon entry. Participants can complete a League Task sheet to earn exclusive prize packs, stickers, and more.

The Saratoga Book Festival will take place in downtown Saratoga Springs across multiple days. The team is planning sessions and confirming authors, with more announcements to come. The Literary Night Market will return at Universal Preservation Hall. KidZone will also be back and, for the first time, will be hosted at The Children's Museum at Saratoga.

Albany LGBTQIA+ Youth Group provides drop-in time for LGBTQIA+ youth ages 13 to 18. Food and drinks are provided by community volunteers.

The biennial quilt show is scheduled at Proctors Theatre. This recurring gathering highlights quilting and the creativity behind every stitch.

Howl-O-Ween 2026 is a dog and Halloween themed fundraiser at HopeClub of the Capital Region benefiting the American Cancer Society. Highlights include dog activities and pet focused fun, costume contests for pets with the possibility of human participation, local vendors, food and treats, music and entertainment, activities and crafts for kids, raffles, and more. The event brings people together in a spirit of hope, honors cancer survivors, remembers loved ones, and raises funds to support the American Cancer Society's lifesaving mission. There is no admission charge and the event is open to all.

Miss Chloe leads a special musical storytime at the library with sing-along music, engaging book readings, and a hands-on craft. Suited for children ages 2 to 6. Registration is not required, so families can drop in and participate.

Delaware State Hornets head to Bob Ford Field to take on the Albany Great Danes in an early-season matchup. The road team looks for a statement performance, while Albany aims to protect home turf in front of the local crowd. Momentum could hinge on field position, converting in the red zone, and control at the line of scrimmage. This is a chance to see college football up close in Albany as these teams square off.

The second annual walk focused on ADHD awareness brings families and neighbors together to deepen understanding, strengthen connections, and celebrate neurodiversity. Created to inspire lasting change, it encourages a more informed and inclusive future. Participants can warm up with Zumba, enjoy activities suitable for all ages, visit with therapy dogs, capture moments at a photobooth, and enjoy light refreshments. The program includes guest speakers and personal testimonials that highlight lived experiences. Expect raffles and giveaways throughout. Beyond the walk itself, attendees can learn practical facts about ADHD, explore available services and supports, and connect with local mental health organizations, advocates, healthcare providers, educators, and other community resources. ADHD affects people across the lifespan, yet many cases go unrecognized and misconceptions persist. When it is left untreated, risks rise for mental health challenges, obesity, involvement with the justice system, and even reduced life expectancy. Funds raised support awareness initiatives, community programs, and advocacy in underserved areas.

A lawn show dedicated to classic Pontiacs and GMCs takes place at the Saratoga Automobile Museum, where vehicle owners can display their cars and spectators can enjoy the show at no charge. Pre-registration is $15, and registering on the day is $20. Each registered vehicle receives two tickets for museum entry, encouraging a full visit to the galleries. Highlights include judged awards for standout vehicles, a 50/50 raffle that supports the Museum, and a dash plaque for every participating car. Music will be provided by DJ Andy Narzynski, and Curvy Girls Food Truck will be on site with food. It is an opportunity to connect with enthusiasts, admire a wide range of classics, and explore automotive history.

A kid-centered book marketplace at The Children’s Museum at Saratoga brings families and young readers together with children’s authors in a lively, welcoming setting. In addition to meeting authors, special exhibitors will be on hand to enrich the showcase. A booth will also offer signed copies and information about Uno: A Bilingual Counting Book, a new title planned for October.

Tom Chapin takes the stage with songs and stories shaped by a six decade journey through American music. The Hudson Valley troubadour has released 27 albums and earned three Grammy awards, and his career spans work as a recording artist, concert performer, storyteller and activist, along with extensive credits in Broadway, television, radio and film. Equally at home in contemporary folk and in children’s music, he kept music flowing during the shutdowns by streaming 200 live shows with his daughters as Mornings with Papa Tom. Raised in an arts-focused family, he started out in Greenwich Village folk clubs with brothers Harry and Steve as The Chapin Brothers, then began a solo run in 1976 with Life Is Like That, building a reputation for vivid narratives and easy connection. His creative path has included a lead role in Pump Boys and Dinettes on Broadway, music direction off-Broadway for Cotton Patch Gospel and Harry Chapin: Lies and Legends, hosting National Geographic Explorer, topical songs for NPR’s Morning Edition, and a cameo as a vice presidential candidate in the 2004 remake of The Manchurian Candidate. A committed advocate for the environment, hunger relief, social justice and arts education, he describes these times as a call to reinvent while holding fast to the joy of guitar playing, singing and the spark that makes a good song, a strong recording and a memorable concert. His recent album, Songs of Hope, gathers uplifting, meaningful pieces, some in the long-standing Chapin storytelling tradition, with contributions from Abigail and Lily Chapin, John McCutcheon, Michael Mark, Jon Cobert, and musical friends Eric Weisberg, Robin Batteau, Jay Ungar and Molly Mason, Jonathan Edwards and Larry Campbell. The release has drawn praise from WFUV for its warmth and timeliness, and The New York Times has recognized Chapin as a defining personality in contemporary folk. This appearance offers an evening with a beloved artist whose work bridges generations.

Little ones can enjoy open play at the library with a mix of engaging toys and activities. Highlights include a ball pit with tunnels, costumes for dress-up, a pretend kitchen, and other playful stations that encourage imagination and movement. Everyone is welcome, with the experience tailored especially for children 6 and under.

Play, Create & Explore hosts a nature-focused playgroup featuring a changing mix of hands-on activities such as sensory exploration, process art, playdough prompts, and simple science. Designed for children ages 12 months through five years, participation requires attentive supervision by a caregiver, and siblings may attend. Sessions take place outdoors in the grassy area across from the old Casino building in Central Park, the future site of the Schenectady Environmental Education Center. The program runs in all weather, so plan for the elements, and weather-related cancellations follow the Niskayuna school district.