Free things to do in Albany this summer: in and around Downtown
Whether you’re into health and wellness, history and art, music and culture, or just love a good free event, we’ve got you covered! 🌟 Downtown Albany is at the core of dozens of free events this summer, and this list is just the beginning.
We’ll keep it updated as more free happenings pop up in the Downtown District and surrounding areas, so check back often!
Something is Cooking on Madison Avenue in Downtown
Downtown's Madison Avenue is quietly thriving as longtime favorites and new restaurants come together to strengthen the neighborhood’s identity. Highlights include Hattie’s Restaurant, powered by Business for Good and launching a workforce training program; Café Capriccio, recently honored with the NYS Senate Empire Award for 43 years of service; and The Excelsior Pub, named 2025 Retailer of the Year. Local staples like Hill Street Café and newcomers like Suga Foots Soul Kitchen round out a food scene that’s as rooted in tradition as it is in community growth.
Your Downtown guide to Father’s Day gifts
Father's Day (June 15, 2025) is just around the corner, and downtown Albany restaurants and retailers are here to help you celebrate the amazing dads and father figures in your life. Check out these local businesses and get the perfect gift for the father or father figure in your life!
Statement from Executive Director Georgette Steffens regarding the celebration with Governor Kathy Hochul about the investment in our state capital
Statement from Executive Director Georgette Steffens regarding the celebration with Governor Kathy Hochul about the investment in our state capital
New Wayfinding Signage System Launches Downtown
On Wednesday, May 14, the Downtown Albany BID officially launched the Capital Wayfinding Program, a major initiative designed to make navigating our city easier and more intuitive. The event brought together BID Executive Director Georgette Steffens, Mayor Kathy Sheehan, Albany Parking Authority Executive Director Sean Palladino, and other federal, state, and city leaders to celebrate the milestone.
Call for BID Board nominations
The Downtown Albany BID is seeking nominations for candidates to join the Board of Directors beginning August 2025 and serve three-year terms.
You Downtown guide to Mother's Day gifts
Mother's Day (May 11, 2025, for those who are unsure) is coming up quickly, and Downtown restaurants and retailers are here to help you honor these wonderful women. You'll find a complete shopping directory here, complete dining directory here, and complete event calendar here.
Lineup announced for free Downtown concert series: Alive @ Five
Presented by the City of Albany, Alive at Five returns for its 36th season to a brand new location in Downtown Albany at Tricentennial Park on Broadway, running from June 5 to July 17
Press Release: BID seeks artists and sponsors for return of popular Downtown is Pawsome public art project
The Downtown Albany Business Improvement District (BID) is announcing a call for artists for the third round of the Downtown is Pawsome public art series. This free outdoor placemaking project will feature ten 36-inch tall sculptures in the image of Albany's iconic canine mascot, Nipper the Dog. Artist applications are due by the end of the day on May 16.
Mayor announces return of Alive @ Five to Downtown at groundbreaking of Tricentennial Park
City of Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan announced the return of Alive @ Five to downtown Albany during a press conference at the groundbreaking of Tricentennial Park. The park is currently under construction to enhance the public space and is expected to be fully renovated by June of 2025.
