Downtown News

The Downtown Albany Business Improvement District (BID) is proud to launch a new event celebrating the Capital Region and the people, places, and traditions that make this area of New York so unique. 518 Day will take place on Saturday, May 16, featuring a full day of family-friendly activities and entertainment in downtown Albany, including the 5.18K Road Race, a 518 Vendor Village, a Local Music Showcase by Metroland Now, a Melba Madness stroll, and more. 

The Downtown Albany BID is seeking nominations for candidates to join the Board of Directors beginning in the summer of 2026 and serve a three-year term, with the opportunity to serve a second term, if interested.

The Downtown Albany Business Improvement District (BID) will host its annual Earth Day Cleanup on Wednesday, April 22, in celebration of Earth Day.

Here's where you can experience First Friday events in Downtown Albany. Start making your Friday Night Plans in Downtown Albany.

The Downtown Albany Business Improvement District (BID) is creating its own luck this St. Patrick’s Day with a Four-Leaf Coaster Scavenger Hunt designed to draw parade-goers into Downtown bars and restaurants following the Albany St. Patrick's Day Parade on Saturday, March 14. 

Voting is now open for the Times Union's 2026 'Best Of' The Capital Region competition. Help put downtown Albany businesses on the map!

Downtown Albany Strategy was unveiled today

Whether you're in it to win it or just "here for the beer," there are plenty of bars and restaurants in downtown Albany where you can watch Super Bowl LIX.

We invite you to support - today and every day - the Black-owned businesses and organizations in downtown Albany.

Downtown restaurants, bars, shops, and venues are offering something special for every kind of love. Explore our Downtown Albany Valentine’s Day Guide to find the best places to eat, sip, shop, and celebrate this Valentine’s Day.