On Deck
Saratoga Race Course's third giveaway day, Yo-Yo Ma returns and more Spa City happenings.
Wednesday, August 16
The 16th annual NY Chaplaincy Brunch honoring Tracy and Todd Pletcher will take place Wednesday morning at the Saratoga National Golf Course. The NY Race Track Chaplaincy supports the backstretch workers who work behind the scenes at the racetrack. Tickets are $150 and the event goes from 10am-noon. To attend, contact info@rtcany.org.
Also this Wednesday is another racing-inspired event—this one honoring legendary racehorse Funny Cide, who passed away on Sunday, July 16. The locally owned horse—who beat the odds and almost snagged the Triple Crown—will be celebrated at Sackatoga Stable’s Funny Cide's Saratoga Send-Off event at Siro’s. In addition to live music and food, appearances will be made by Funny Cide trainer Barclay Tagg, owner Jack Knowlton and jockey Jose Santos, as well as former track announcer Tom Durkin. All proceeds from the night will go toward the construction of a statue in honor of Funny Cide at the Kentucky Horse Park. Doors open at 6pm. Tickets are $35 for general admission and $100 for VIP.
Thursday, August 17
Yo-Yo Ma will make a return to SPAC on Thursday to perform one of the most technically challenging pieces for solo cello: Dvořák’s cello concerto. Additionally, conductor Xian Zhang will make her SPAC debut leading a performance of Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 5. Tickets start at $49 and the show begins at 7:30pm.
Friday, August 18
Add to your Saratoga Race Course memorabilia collection with a new bucket hat—the third giveaway of the season that will be available to a limited number of track-goers this Friday. The 100 percent cotton cap reps the traditional red Saratoga logo and is free with paid admission while supplies last. A coupon acquired upon entry must be presented at designated locations at the racetrack to redeem the bucket hat.
Saturday, August 19
Soak in the last of the summer blooms at Saratoga Farmers’ Market’s Flowers & Fruits Festival. Hosted at High Rock Park, the event will feature games, family activities and kids’ crafts. Amy Hoge, owner of Bark Hill Farm, will also host a 45-minute flower-arranging class at 10am. Guests will create and get to bring home their own flower bouquet, and will be treated to complimentary beverages from Something’s Brewing. Email julia@saratogafarmersmarket.org to secure a spot in the workshop. The festival will begin at 9am. and wrap up at 1pm. Admission is free.
Sunday, August 20
Don’t miss your last chance to see the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center’s “New Classics” performance at the Spa Little Theater. The show will close out CMS’ summer residency at SPAC, which began June 11 and this year marked the 10th anniversary of their collaboration with the local venue. Sunday will see five different performers on piano, violin, viola and cello, with pieces originated from Haydn, Bloch and Suk. The show begins at 3pm. Ticket prices start at $54.