The Albany Chefs’ Food & Wine Festival returns this weekend! Check out the events and competitions you can enjoy with the festival, and see what else is happening this weekend with Maritn Luther King, Jr. events, a Winter Ball for charity, an exciting event at the Times Union Center, and more.
The Ultimate Food Festival
Albany Chefs’ Food & Wine Festival
Thursday, January 11 through Saturday, January 13
The prime event for Capital Region foodies is back again! You will not want to miss out on the Albany Chefs’ Food & Wine Festival at Empire State Plaza, with a number of competitions and events to check out, including the popular Slider Slam Competition and an inside look at this year’s rising chefs from area restaurants.
Celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Observance
Monday, January 15
You can check out a major Martin Luther King, Jr. observance at the Empire State Plaza with a robust schedule of incredible speakers like JoDee Kenney from Spectrum News, exciting musical performances, and more.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration
Sunday, January 14
Schenectady County Community College is hosting a Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration with keynote speaker Michael A. Blake, State Assembly Member and DNC Vice Chair.
A Winter Ball for a Great Cause
Winter Ball Featuring the Audiostars
Saturday, January 13
Philly Bar and Lounge in Latham is hosting a Winter Ball fundraiser for the Ronald McDonald House Charities. You can enjoy live music from The Audiostars, drink specials, and raffles. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door.
See Monster Trucks Compete
Monster Jam at the Times Union Center
Saturday, January 13 and Sunday, January 14
You can see an action-packed Monster Jam at the Times Union Center this weekend with world-class drivers competing in monster truck racing and freestyle competitions. Tickets start at $18.
Enjoy Live Music
Ja Rule at Upstate Concert Hall
Friday, January 12
Well-known rapper Ja Rule will be performing at Upstate Concert Hall in Clifton Park on Friday. Tickets are $25 in advance, or $28 the day of.
Learn More About Owls
Owl Investigation at the Pine Bush
Sunday, January 14
Who doesn’t love owls? If you’d like to learn more about these creatures, check out this event happening at the Albany Pine Bush Preserve. They’ll be doing a short presentation about owls and then will be dissecting owl pellets, a sign that they’re active in the area. The cost is $3 per person or $5 per family.
Plan for Gardening Season
Planning Your 2018 Garden With Doug Pratt
Sunday, January 14
Think spring this weekend as you look ahead to what your garden will include this year. Doug Pratt, a Master Gardener with Cornell Cooperative Extension and organic grower, will be available to answer questions and talk about gardening practices at the Honest Weight Food Co-op.
Attend a Job Fair
Monday, January 15
Attention job-seekers: A job fair is happening at the Albany Marriott, hosted by the Times Union. Bring copies of your resume and take advantage of free resume critiquing.
For the Engaged
New York Bridal & Wedding Expo
Sunday, January 14
If you’re the midst of planning a wedding you’ll want to stop by the New York Bridal & Wedding Expo at the Albany Capital Center. Meet potential vendors face to face and enjoy the bridal fashion shows, a live DJ, and band demos.
