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Don't Miss These Top Spring Events In & Near Albany, NY In 2025

Embrace the lively atmosphere of spring in New York's Capital Region. From exciting wine festivals and blooming flowers to live music and family-friendly celebrations, there is so much seasonal fun to discover. Here are the best spring events happening in and near Albany, NY in 2025!

people walking around an outdoor tulip festival in a park

What Are the Top Spring Events This Year?

  1. Capital Region Flower & Garden Expo (March 28 - 30, 2025)
  2. Capital Wine Festival (April 12, 2025)
  3. Albany Tulip Festival (May 10 - 11, 2025)
  4. Niska-Day in Schenectady (May 17, 2025)
  5. Waterford Canal Festival (May 16 - 18, 2025)
  6. St. Sophia's Greek Festival (May 16 - 18, 2025)
  7. Schenectady Kids Art Festival (June 7, 2025)
  8. Alive at Five (June 5, 12, 19, and 26, 2025; July 10 and 17, 2025)
  9. Art on Lark (June 14, 2025)
  10. Albany Dad Fest (June 15, 2025)

Ready to dive deeper into Albany’s spring festivities? Below, you’ll find event details to help you plan your perfect spring itinerary.

Capital Region Flower & Garden Expo

capital region flower expo displays

Dates: March 28 - 30, 2025

The 2025 Capital Region Flower & Garden Expo will be taking place from March 28 - 30, 2025, at Hudson Valley Community College in Troy. If you are a green thumb, this is an event you do not want to miss!

Highlights include:

  • Artistic floral creations
  • Gorgeous garden exhibits
  • Seminars
  • Demonstrations
  • And more

This is an opportunity to learn about and see the beautiful wonders of the natural world. Wine, cider, and spirit tastings will be available too!

Capital Wine Festival

woman at a wine tasting event table

Date: April 12, 2025

Attention all wine connoisseurs! The 2025 Capital Wine Festival presented by Empire State Wine Events will be held at the Albany Capital Center on April 12, 2025.

Both wine and spirit samples will be unlimited at this annual festival. If you love a particular tasting, purchase a bottle and it will be left in the holding area until you're ready to leave.

The event will also include a paint and sip attraction, specialty foods, a photo booth, a DJ, and more.

Albany Tulip Festival

colorful flowers in a park

Dates: May 10 - 11, 2025

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Albany Tulip Festival on May 10 - 11, 2025. Over 140,000 tulips will be in bloom in Washington Park.

Enjoy live music, kids' activities, and the Tulip Queen Coronation amidst the vibrant floral displays. And, make sure to browse through the variety of on-site vendors, offering goods and treats to complement the festive atmosphere.

Admission is free, so come by and celebrate spring and Mother's Day weekend at Tulip Festival.

Niska-Day in Schenectady

colorful fireworks at night

Date: May 17, 2025

Mark your calendars for Niska-Day in Schenectady on May 17, 2025. Whether you're seeking entertainment or family-friendly activities, this event promises a fantastic time.

Originally established to address mental health needs within the Niskayuna School District, Niska-Day has evolved into a beloved community gathering. Join in the festivities, such as games, family entertainment, thrilling rides, and much more.

Waterford Canal Festival

canal boats and a nearby festival

Dates: May 16 - 18, 2025

The Waterford Canal Festival is an annual celebration that takes place along the Erie Canal in the charming Village of Waterford.

Explore the picturesque canal as you stroll along its banks and immerse yourself in numerous engaging activities. Take guided tours to witness the fascinating operation of the locks firsthand.

Plus, there's plenty of fun for the little ones with a range of children's activities, including face painting and bounce houses.

St. Sophia's Greek Festival

st sophias greek festival dancers

Dates: May 16 - 18, 2025

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the 53rd St. Sophia's Greek Festival, taking place in Albany. This cherished annual event invites you to delve into Greek culture while savoring delectable dishes and enjoying lively entertainment.

Check out the AGORA marketplace, featuring 20 local vendors offering an array of treasures. Be captivated by the sounds of live Greek music and the spirited performances of traditional Greek dancing.

This is an unforgettable weekend filled with culture, flavor, and fun.

Schenectady Kids Art Festival

puppet show in a park with people watching on the lawn

Date: June 7, 2025

Celebrate the 31st anniversary of the Schenectady Kids Art Festival on June 7, 2025!

The event welcomes kids to unleash their creativity and explore new artistic avenues. They will be able to sing, dance, paint, sculpt, perform, create, and have fun throughout the afternoon.

Admission is free, and the Schenectady Kids Art Festival runs from 12:00pm-4:00pm on Jay Street outside of Schenectady City Hall. The rain location is inside Proctors.

Alive at Five

jennings landing concert
Photo provided by City of Albany Office of Cultural Affairs, credit to ©Andrzej Pilarczyk (pilarphotog@yahoo.com)

Dates: June 5, 12, 19, and 26, 2025; July 10 and 17, 2025

The Capital Region comes alive with outdoor live music during spring and summer. This year, the Alive at Five concert series will begin on June 5, 2025, and continue for each Thursday through the summer, except on July 3.

The event organizers always put together an amazing lineup of performers, and admission to the concerts is free.

Concerts are typically held at Jennings Landing in Albany, but if there are poor weather conditions, concerts will move to under the 787 overpass at the Corning Preserve Boat Launch at Colonie Street and Water Street.

Art on Lark

vendor tables with artworks on display in a street fair

Dates: June 14, 2025

Art on Lark is one of Albany's most exciting street festivals for people who love art and creativity. Featuring a diverse array of artists, live music, and delicious food, it's a must-attend event for anyone passionate about art.

Photographers, painters, sculptors, ceramicists, and more artists showcase their artworks and products at Art on Lark. The event is presented by the Lark Street Business Improvement District.

Albany Dad Fest

bbq chicken on a grill
Photo by Elario Photography

Date: June 15, 2025

Albany Dad Fest is the perfect way to celebrate all of the awesome fathers out there! Enjoy some quality family time and create new memories with your dad on Father's Day in Washington Park.

Some highlights at the event include a classic car show, tasty food, vendors for dads, and much more. There will be good vibes, amazing tunes, and everything else that a dad may need for his special day.

Make plans for another fun-filled spring in the Albany area today!

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man with glasses with forest background
About the Author: Joe Legault Joe is a dedicated editor from Lake Luzerne, NY, with a passion for hiking the Adirondack high peaks, running half marathons and 5Ks, and visiting local craft breweries like Common Roots and Dancing Grain. He enjoys writing about the region's can't-miss attractions and activities.
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