SPAC Celebrates 60 Years with Packed Summer Concert Lineup

Iconic outdoor venue hosts diverse array of musical acts, from Cake to Guns N' Roses

Mar. 23, 2026 at 12:37am

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Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) is marking its 60th anniversary with a jam-packed summer concert series featuring a wide range of musical acts, from rock and country to jazz and classical. The iconic outdoor venue in Saratoga Springs, New York will host over 30 concerts and events between May and September, including performances by Cake, Claypool Lennon Delirium, Jelly Roll, Evanescence, Jack Johnson, Santana, the Dave Matthews Band, and many more.

Why it matters

SPAC has long been a cultural hub in upstate New York, drawing music fans from across the region to its scenic natural amphitheater. This milestone 60th anniversary season showcases the venue's enduring appeal and ability to attract top-tier talent across genres, cementing its status as one of the Northeast's premier outdoor concert destinations.

The details

The summer season kicks off on May 29 with SPAC's annual fundraiser gala, featuring live music, fireworks, and a dance party. Notable concerts include An Evening with Cake on June 1, the Saratoga Jazz Festival on June 27-28, and performances by James Taylor, Santana and the Doobie Brothers, and Guns N' Roses. The New York City Ballet will also return for multiple shows, including A Midsummer Night's Dream and an 'Innovators & Icons' program. The Philadelphia Orchestra will also have a three-week residency at SPAC in August.

  • The summer season kicks off on May 29 with SPAC's annual fundraiser gala.
  • The Saratoga Jazz Festival will take place on June 27-28.
  • The New York City Ballet will perform on July 8-11 and July 10-11.
  • The Philadelphia Orchestra will have a three-week residency at SPAC from August 5-22.
  • The summer concert series runs from May through September 2026.

The players

Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC)

An iconic outdoor amphitheater in Saratoga Springs, New York that has hosted a wide range of musical acts and cultural events for 60 years.

Yannick Nézet-Séguin

The music and artistic director of the Philadelphia Orchestra, which will have a three-week residency at SPAC in August.

Josh Groban

A Grammy-nominated singer who will perform as part of the Philadelphia Orchestra's residency.

Gregory Alan Isakov

A Grammy-nominated indie-folk singer who will perform with the Philadelphia Orchestra.

Brian Stokes Mitchell

A Tony Award-winning Broadway star who will perform with the Philadelphia Orchestra.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery employee

The takeaway

SPAC's 60th anniversary summer concert series showcases the venue's enduring appeal and ability to attract top musical talent across genres, cementing its status as one of the Northeast's premier outdoor concert destinations.