Event will feature live music, fireworks and more
SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. – While most Saratogians are busy enjoying popular summer entertainment options like SPAC and the track, some event organizers are focused on one of the Spa City’s most popular winter events.
Saratoga New Year’s Eve, originally called First Night and for a short time Saratoga New Year's Fest, will offer residents and visitors a fun way to ring in the new year in downtown Saratoga Springs. The two-day event will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024, and Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025.
New this year, Proctors Collaborative will partner with the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, Discover Saratoga, the Saratoga Springs City Center, and the City of Saratoga Springs to present Saratoga New Year’s Eve. Proctors Collaborative will assist in securing entertainment acts to be featured at its Saratoga Springs venue Universal Preservation Hall as well as the Saratoga Springs City Center on New Year’s Eve.
"We are thrilled to partner with the Saratoga County Chamber, Discover Saratoga and the Saratoga Springs City Center and deepen our connection with the vibrant community of downtown Saratoga Springs,” said Teddy Foster, director of Universal Preservation Hall. “This collaboration not only enhances our cultural offerings but also integrates us further into the fabric of this wonderful city. We look forward to many exciting events and opportunities together.”
Local company Death Wish Coffee is once again supporting this community event by returning as a presenting sponsor of Saratoga New Year’s Eve.
The celebration will kick off with a free outdoor concert on Ellsworth Jones Place, located just outside of the Saratoga Springs City Center, along with a spectacular fireworks display launched from the top level of the City Center’s parking garage. This portion of the event, held from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, is designed to offer a family-friendly option available to the public at no cost.
Afterward, Saratoga New Year’s Eve ticketholders can enjoy more live entertainment from nationally recognized acts at multiple downtown venues.
Headlining performers and a full entertainment schedule for Saratoga New Year’s Eve will be announced in the coming months, and tickets will go on sale this fall.  
The festivities will conclude on New Year’s Day with the Saratoga First Day 5K, a fun and healthy tradition for runners and anyone looking to kick start 2025. 
“Collectively, our organizations host, promote, and manage over 500 events per year, which means we know how to throw a party and to bring people together,” said Todd Shimkus, president of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce. “The 6 p.m. fireworks show from the top of the City Center’s parking garage, in particular, has been a big hit with families and drives people into our downtown restaurants and bars early in the evening. Of course, none of this is possible without the sponsor support provided by Death Wish Coffee.” 
“As we look forward to Saratoga New Year’s Eve, we are excited to join forces with the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, the Saratoga Springs City Center, and the City of Saratoga Springs. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to promoting tourism and enhancing Saratoga County's cultural vibrancy,” said Darryl Leggieri, president of Discover Saratoga. “By partnering with Proctors Collaborative, we are confident this event will provide exceptional entertainment and draw visitors to experience our community's unique charm. Together, we aim to create an unforgettable experience for residents and visitors as they ring in the new year in the heart of Saratoga Springs.”
More information about the Saratoga New Year's Fest is available online at saratoganye.com. Anyone interested in attending is encouraged to sign up here for regular updates, performance announcements and ticket specials.
About the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce: Since 1918, the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce has been opening doors and closing deals for businesses throughout the Saratoga County community. Guided by a strong and sustainable vision, the Chamber leads the way in maintaining and strengthening a healthy business climate, initiating constructive community action, and creating a community where all can thrive.