Albany BID Launches St. Patrick's Day Scavenger Hunt

Businesses offer prizes to encourage parade-goers to explore downtown

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Downtown Albany Business Improvement District is hosting a scavenger hunt called the "Four-Leaf Coaster Scavenger Hunt" on March 14 to encourage visitors to explore downtown Albany restaurants and bars after the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade. Participants can visit over 15 participating businesses to search for the BID's signature Four-Leaf Coasters, scan the QR codes, and submit the unique numbers for a chance to win tickets to an upcoming comedy show.

Why it matters

The scavenger hunt is an effort by the Downtown Albany BID to drive foot traffic and business to local restaurants and bars after the St. Patrick's Day Parade, which is a major annual event that draws large crowds to the city's downtown area.

The details

Participants in the Four-Leaf Coaster Scavenger Hunt will visit over 15 downtown Albany businesses to search for the BID's signature coasters, each featuring a four-leaf clover design and a QR code. After finding a coaster, participants must scan the QR code and submit the unique number on the back of the coaster, along with their contact information. Each submission will increase the participant's chances of winning tickets to an upcoming Jim Gaffigan comedy show at the MVP Arena.

  • The scavenger hunt will take place on March 14, 2026.
  • The winner of the ticket giveaway will be announced on St. Patrick's Day.

The players

Downtown Albany Business Improvement District

A non-profit organization that works to promote and support businesses in downtown Albany, New York.

Georgette Steffens

The Executive Director of the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The BID wanted to complement the Albany St. Patrick's Day Parade with an activity that captures the fun of the day while encouraging visitors to explore our Downtown.”

— Georgette Steffens, Executive Director, Downtown Albany BID (news10.com)

What’s next

The winner of the ticket giveaway to the Jim Gaffigan comedy show will be announced on St. Patrick's Day.

The takeaway

The Four-Leaf Coaster Scavenger Hunt is an innovative way for the Downtown Albany BID to drive foot traffic and business to local restaurants and bars after the St. Patrick's Day Parade, a major annual event in the city. By offering prizes and encouraging exploration of downtown, the BID is helping to support its member businesses and foster community engagement.