Find Out What's Happening Locally In Our Albany NY News Roundup

Dutch Apple Cruises Celebrates 40 Years on the Hudson River

A major milestone is underway on Albany’s waterfront as Dutch Apple Cruises celebrates 40 years in business. The family-owned company marks four decades of sightseeing, events, and local connection in 2026. 

Owned and operated by Anthony Renna and Melissa Hagan, Dutch Apple Cruises is now the only remaining cruise company on the Hudson River in Albany.

“Forty years on the Hudson is something we’re incredibly proud of,” said the owners. “This anniversary isn’t just about our business, it’s about celebrating Albany, our dedicated crew, our local community, and every guest who has stepped aboard over the decades.”

Over the years, the company has built a reputation for consistent quality and guest experience. It has been ranked the number one tour in Albany on TripAdvisor for 15 consecutive years and continues to welcome thousands of visitors for narrated cruises, private charters, and educational programs.

As Dutch Apple Cruises enters its fifth decade, the focus remains on enhancing guest experiences and strengthening community ties. The team plans to continue sharing the history and beauty of the Hudson River while serving as a key part of Albany’s waterfront experience.

518 Day Brings a Full Day of Local Fun to Downtown Albany

There’s a new event coming to downtown Albany this spring, and it’s all about celebrating everything that makes the 518 what it is. The first-ever 518 Day is happening on Saturday, May 16, and it’s packed with things to do from morning through the evening.

The day starts off with a 5.18K race and kids’ run, which is a fun way to lean into the whole 518 theme right from the beginning. After that, things shift into a more relaxed, explore-at-your-own-pace kind of day with a vendor village, live local music, and even historic tours if you want to mix in something a little different.

One of the standout parts of the event is the Melba Madness Stroll, where different spots around downtown will be serving up bites featuring melba sauce. You can grab a ticket, try a bunch of different options, and vote on your favorite, so it’s a fun way to get people walking around and checking out local restaurants.

Everything wraps up in the afternoon, but if you’re not ready to call it a day, there’s also an evening event at Quackenbush Square to keep things going.

If you’re looking for something to do that mixes a little bit of everything, food, music, shopping, and just being outside, this is definitely one to check out.

Art on Lark Returns To Albany This June

An adored Albany tradition is making its comeback this summer as Art on Lark returns  June 6. The street festival, which was last held in 2024, is set to bring energy back to Lark Street after a pause in large-scale events.

The revival comes under new leadership from the Lark Street Business Improvement District, along with a partnership with Metroland. Organizers say the return signals a fresh chapter for the corridor and its role in the city’s cultural scene.

Art on Lark will once again transform the street into a vibrant hub filled with visual artists, craft vendors, live music, food, and interactive community activities. The event is expected to draw thousands of visitors to downtown Albany.

The festival will run from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with Lark Street closed to traffic between Madison Avenue and Washington Avenue. The event will be held rain or shine, continuing its tradition as a can’t-miss early summer gathering.

Source: https://www.news10.com/community/art-on-lark-to-return-to-albany-following-hiatus/ 

Perfume De Lux Opens at Crossgates

A new fragrance destination has officially arrived at Crossgates Mall. Perfume De Lux is now open on the lower level near APEX Entertainment, bringing a fresh addition to the mall’s retail lineup and giving visitors something new to discover during their next trip.

Perfume De Lux is a specialty fragrance retailer offering a wide selection of designer-inspired perfumes and colognes for every style and occasion.

From everyday favorites to more elevated scents, the shop makes it easy to find something that fits your vibe or pick out a thoughtful gift. It’s the kind of place you didn’t know you needed until you walk in, and suddenly want to leave smelling like your best self.

Open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Perfume De Lux is a convenient stop to add to your routine.