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 improve the public space for year-round enjoyment and is expected to be fully renovated by June of 2025.
A free summer concert series formally held at Albany's Jennings Landing, Alive @ Five invites community members to enjoy an eclectic mix of musical performances by local and national talent. The concerts will be held throughout June and July.
“I am very excited about both the investment in Tricentennial Park and moving Alive @ 5 back to where it all began in Downtown Albany, breathing life back into our newest and fastest-growing neighborhood. We heard loud and clear from the Downtown Business Community that after an Alive @ 5 show on the Riverfront, visitors would get into their cars and leave rather than stay to experience the nightlife Downtown has to offer. Bringing Alive @ 5 back to Downtown Albany is a commitment to our businesses and our entire city, showing that we hear them, we support them, and we want to work with them to make our Downtown more vibrant and welcoming. The pandemic and work from home policies fundamentally changed people’s habits, but by coming together and being flexible, we will make this the best Alive @ 5 yet,” said Mayor Sheehan.
Concertgoers are invited to explore over 100 retail stores, bars, restaurants, salons, spas, and more while in the Downtown neighborhood. The Downtown Albany BID will inform the community about special offers, deals, and events to be provided by businesses in our District, specifically for Alive @ Five.
"Mayor Kathy Sheehan’s two major announcements today are just another example of her continued commitment to our small businesses and our daytime and residential populations. I am thankful to the city for undertaking such an important project that ensures the incredible asset that is Tricentennial Park will once again be a year-round public space, and includes thoughtful renovations and exciting new amenities. This modern design will allow the BID to host a wider variety of events that the entire community can enjoy," said Georgette Steffens, Downtown Albany Business Improvement District (BID) Executive Director. "Alive @ Five, returning to its original home this summer, is a game-changer for small business owners in our District, who are excited about the increased foot traffic from concertgoers and the opportunity to introduce themselves to potential new customers. We thank the Mayor for her support of our small businesses and look forward to welcoming live music fans back into Downtown."
Alive @ Five premiered in the summer of 1990 with a performance by legendary folk artist Richie Havens and has since grown into a summer staple in the Capital Region. Showcasing a diverse lineup of big names, up-and-coming acts, and local artists, Alive at Five will offer six weeks of free, critically acclaimed performances catering to nearly every taste. More details about this year's concert series will be available soon!
“As a family-owned business nestled in the heart of downtown Albany, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mayor Sheehan and the city for bringing Alive @ Five back to our vibrant streets. This beloved event allows us to once again create an immersive experience for everyone in the capital city. In an era defined by remote and hybrid work, we are thrilled to rekindle the magic and excitement of Alive at Five in its original setting, surrounded by the dynamic arts and entertainment venues that make Downtown truly special. Let’s celebrate together as we bring our community back to life,” said Dominick Purnomo, Owner, dp’s and Yono’s.
Click here for more information on events taking place in downtown Albany.
