Check out some of the events this weekend in the Albany, NY area, including the 2023 Albany Chefs’ Food and Wine Festival, the 7th Annual Downtown Schenectady Soup Stroll, and more. You could also head to The Egg to see Almost Queen perform, attend a local improv show at Mopco Improv Theatre, or watch a powerful film screening of A Choice Of Weapons: Inspired By Gordon Parks.
The 2023 Albany Chefs’ Food and Wine Festival
January 26-28
Calling all wine enthusiasts and foodies! The Albany Chefs’ Food and Wine Festival is back again (and in-person!) for another great year. This three-day festival is jam packed with wine, tastings, auctions, and more. Don’t miss out on the Grand Gala reception on Saturday, where attendants will enjoy a unique and curated 5-course dinner prepared by Lead Chef, Jamie Ortiz.
January 26-February 4
Cohoes Music Hall has yet another great show for theater lovers to attend. Check out [Title of Show], a performance about two struggling writers racing against time to create their submission for a new musical theater festival. Will they make the deadline or not? You’ll have to see the show to find out!
January 27
Jump back to the 70s and attend the Almost Queen show this weekend at The Egg in Albany. Almost Queen will bring so much hype, you’ll feel as though you’re seeing Queen in its heyday. This group gives fans the most authentic show possible, including elaborate music interludes and four part harmonies. This is a concert you won’t want to miss.
7th Annual Downtown Schenectady Soup Stroll
January 28
Looking to warm up after the snow this week? Luckily for you, the 7th Annual Downtown Schenectady Soup Stroll is this weekend! Print out a map and ballot, grab your coat, and head downtown, where you can sample soups from a number of local restaurants for only $1 per 3 oz serving. As you’re sampling, make sure to keep note of your favorites and vote for your ‘souperstar’ choice by 4:15pm.
8th Annual New York Craft Brewers Festival
January 28
If you’re a beer lover, this event is one you won’t want to miss! With over 50 breweries and brewmasters from all over the state, it will be easy to find new favorites. Come out to Crowne Plaza Albany – The Desmond Hotel for endless options of IPAs, sours, lagers, and more. Pair your beer with delicious food from Albany’s most popular food vendors, including Pastabilities, Limp Lizards, and more. This is a 21+ event and tickets can be purchased online in advance.
January 28
Ready for a night of entertainment and comedy? Look no further than Mopco’s improv show—The Long and Short of It. Mopco Improv Theatre has developed several long form improv formats that will keep you laughing all night, including Bollix Manor, 2 on the Aisle, and more. Tickets for this show are available online and at the door.
Film Screening | A Choice Of Weapons: Inspired By Gordon Parks
January 29
Explore the power of images in the ongoing conversation about racial, economic, and social equality in this powerful film screening. A Choice of Weapons follows Gordon Parks’ career as he uses his camera, words, and film to shed light on a variety of struggles faced by the Black community. The film also follows his legacy and shows the impact of his art while working for LIFE magazine and beyond. Advance registration for this screening is not required, but seating is limited.