Art Night Schenectady
Every Third Friday | 4:30 PM | Downtown Schenectady
ART NIGHT is a vibrant, city-wide celebration of local and regional creativity, transforming more than a dozen venues into a walkable showcase of visual art, live music, performance, film, and more. From the charm of Jay Street Marketplace to the creative energy inside Armory Studios NY, this is your chance to experience the heart of Schenectady’s arts scene in one unforgettable evening.
Over 100 artists and performers share their work throughout downtown, opening their studios, galleries, and creative spaces to art lovers, families, friends, and curious wanderers alike.
Art Night Schenectady may look a little different this August, as some participating locations take the month off—but there is always room to celebrate art and creativity in Schenectady!
Join local artists, musicians, businesses and community organizations on Friday, August 21, for live entertainment, exhibitions, hands-on activities and other creative experiences throughout the city.
Alt Art Night at Jay Street Marketplace
From 5–9 pm, Jay Street Marketplace will come alive with local art, music, shopping, food and family-friendly activities.
- Live music in Jay Square featuring Adam Gerstenberger from 5–8 pm
- Local artists and vendors throughout Jay Street Marketplace
- Art receptions at Bear and Bird Boutique + Gallery, Sweet Sprig and Bittersweet Candy
- Kids Art Time at Storied Coffee
- Henna art at Hat Pin Peril
- Outdoor music from DJ3DG
- A live art projection experience with FarEye Productions from 8–9 pm
- Food, drinks and secret specials from participating businesses
- The official Alt Art Night after-party at Toni’s Wine Bar from 9–11 pm
Accoutrements: A Barn Fashion Show
The Electric City Barn presents Accoutrements: A Barn Fashion Show from 6–6:45 pm at Jay Street Marketplace.
This free fashion show will spotlight original accessories and wearable creations from local artists, including Evadne Fline, Hat Pin Peril, Salvage & Shine and Druis Beasley.
ALCO Tunnel Community Art Project
Visit the historic ALCO Tunnel from 5–8 pm to learn about CREATE Community Studios’ community mosaic project.
Guests can participate in a hands-on mosaic installation demonstration or stop by to see the project and learn more about the creative work transforming this unique Schenectady space.
Location: Enter behind Alltown Fresh, 1424 Erie Boulevard, Schenectady.
Mohawk Valley Art Shoppe and Last Nerve Tattoo
Stop by Mohawk Valley Art Shoppe and Last Nerve Tattoo from 5–8 pm for an evening benefiting the Child Advocacy Center.
Activities include:
- The opening reception for the Summer/Fall 2026 Local Art Show
- An outdoor Sketch Club garden party, weather permitting
- Live music
- Complimentary refreshments
- Raffles benefiting the Child Advocacy Center
Location: 701 Union Street, Schenectady.
Come celebrate Schenectady’s creative community, meet local artists and experience art in unexpected places throughout the city!
The ART WALK Experience - Not Available for August
Want the inside scoop? Start your evening with the ART WALK.
Beginning at 5pm at the Museum of Prints and Printmaking (150 Barrett Street), a knowledgeable host will guide you through some of Schenectady’s most exciting art venues. Along the way you’ll:
• Hear artists talk about their creative process
• Watch painters and performers in action
• Experience original live music
• Discover hidden creative gems throughout downtown
The walk culminates at Armory Studios NY, where the night often continues with lively After Hours events.
