As the year draws to a close, Saratoga Springs, NY, transforms into a vibrant city of celebration, offering a wide range of events to welcome the New Year. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting for the holidays, the city provides a diverse array of festivities to suit all preferences. Here’s an updated guide to the upcoming New Year’s Eve events in Saratoga Springs, along with a special package from Saratoga Arms Hotel to enhance your experience.

Saratoga New Year’s Eve 2025: A Two-Day Celebration

Formerly known as First Night, the rebranded Saratoga New Year’s Eve is scheduled for December 31, 2024, and January 1, 2025. Our city-wde event promises a dynamic lineup of entertainment, family-friendly activities, and community engagement.

 

December 31, 2024: Festivities Begin

• Free Outdoor Concert and Fireworks: The celebration kicks off at Ellsworth Jones Place with a free concert by local funk band Tops of Trees from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. A spectacular fireworks display will follow at 6:00 PM, launched from the top of the Saratoga Springs City Center parking garage, illuminating the downtown skyline.
• Live Performances at Downtown Venues: Post-fireworks, the city comes alive with performances at various venues:
  • Saratoga Springs City Center: Renowned musician Ben Folds will headline the evening, delivering his signature genre-blending music. The concert begins at 8:30 PM, with Lindsey Kraft opening the show at 7:45 PM with selections from her one-woman musical, “love, me.”
  • Universal Preservation Hall: Experience the high-energy fusion of reggae and ska with Mystic Bowie’s Talking Dreads from 8:45 PM to 9:45 PM.
  • Caffe Lena: Enjoy the dynamic performances of Los Sugar Kings, a Boston-based quartet known for their rich harmonies and genre-blending music, with shows at 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM.
  • Putnam Place: Up-and-coming jam band Dogs in a Pile will deliver an electrifying performance starting at 9:00 PM. Please note, this show requires an upgraded Saratoga New Year’s Eve ticket.

Additional New Year’s Eve Events in Saratoga Springs

Beyond the main festivities, several local establishments are hosting special events to ring in the New Year:

• Saratoga Casino Hotel: Join the “Vegas to Nashville” New Year’s Eve Celebration featuring two powerhouse bands, The Accents and Big Sky Country. The event includes a lighted 4’ ball drop countdown. Doors open at 8:30 PM, with general admission at $30. VIP packages are also available.
• The Night Owl: Celebrate with a premium open bar and passed hors d’oeuvres from 9:00 PM to midnight, featuring DJ Hollywood in the Gold Room and DJ Tswag in the Red Room. Dance the night away right into 2025.
• The Parting Glass: This iconic Irish pub offers a cozy atmosphere to welcome the New Year with a pint, some darts, and live music with Maggies Clan.

 

January 1, 2025: Saratoga First Day 5K

Begin the New Year on a healthy note by participating in the Saratoga First Day 5K. This annual tradition invites runners and walkers of all levels to embrace the fresh start of 2025. The race begins at 11am and the course starts in downtown Saratoga Springs, and moves through the east side of town.

 

Saratoga Arms Hotel: Toast to 2025! A Saratoga Arms New Year

To complement your New Year’s celebration, Saratoga Arms Hotel presents an exclusive package designed to offer a luxurious downtown lodging experience.

• VIP Access: Enjoy a VIP ticket to the Ben Folds concert at the Saratoga Springs City Center, along with general admission to all live entertainment at Universal Preservation Hall, Caffe Lena, and the Saratoga Springs City Center.
• Front Porch Fireworks Bash: Gain admission to our exclusive Front Porch Fireworks Bash from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, featuring champagne, cocktails, and charcuterie. This event offers prime viewing of the city’s 6:00 PM fireworks display.
• Evening Indulgences: Throughout the night, guests have exclusive access to our premium hot cocoa and sweet treats bar by the fireplace, providing a cozy retreat between festivities.

This package is available as an add-on of $159 per person to your room rate. To ensure availability, we recommend booking early, as rooms will sell out!

Plan Your Visit

Saratoga Springs offers a unique blend of cultural events, live music, and community spirit, making it an ideal destination to usher in the New Year. Whether you’re seeking lively celebrations or a more intimate experience, there is something for everyone