Overview
SaratogaArtsFest is an organization that produces an annual four day festival of the same name, in early June. The festival celebrates the arts in its many forms – dance, film, literary, music, theatre and visual. Festival programming encompasses emerging and established local, national and international artists at performance venues and exhibit spaces in Saratoga Springs, New York. SaratogaArtsFest seeks to expand appreciation for the arts and continue the city’s growth as a premier arts destination.
The festival is made possible because of a community-wide collaborative partnership with community and arts organizations. The Alliance of Arts Partners provides the foundation of festival programming, with additional programming and discounts supported by the broader community including local businesses, schools and churches. SaratogaArtsFest connects the expertise and programs of these individuals and organizations working together in the areas of programming, financial and logistical support, and marketing and outreach efforts. Together, the collaborative nature of the festival and its arts partners enhance the arts landscape and encourage increased cultural tourism in the region.
ARTSPASS
The SaratogaArtsFest admissions package includes an ARTSPASS for free and discounted admission to events during the June celebration and for arts-related discounts throughout the year. The ARTSPASS is a handcrafted collectible artifact displaying the SaratogaArtsFest logo. Additional packages, designed to meet the diverse needs of festival attendees, are made available at varied pricing and offering structures.
History
The idea of a comprehensive arts festival celebrating the cultural resources and arts programming in Saratoga Springs began nearly nine years ago when representatives from the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, Skidmore College, Yaddo, the Saratoga County Arts Council, and other arts organizations came together to imagine an effort to promote all of the arts. In 2006, conversations coalesced into a plan that was broadly embraced by leaders from the arts, education, business, and government. The first SaratogaArtsFest was held June 15-17, 2007.
Organization
SaratogaArtsFest is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization managed by a Board of Directors, with an operations team of local volunteers and professionals working year-round to promote its arts partners and Saratoga Springs, NY as an arts destination, while planning and executing the annual festival. The organization is indebted to support from its many sponsors, patrons, advertisers, and of course, the artists and audiences who make SaratogaArtsFest a vibrant annual tradition.
Mission Statement
The mission of SaratogaArtsFest is to promote Saratoga Springs, New York as a premier arts destination. An annual celebration, SaratogaArtsFest showcases local arts organizations through programming of local, national, and international emerging and established artists. SaratogaArtsFest is made possible by a collaborative alliance of community partners committed to increasing appreciation and enjoyment of the arts, expanding audience and strengthening year-round cultural tourism in the Saratoga region.
