Saratoga New Year’s Eve 2026 headlining entertainment announced

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. – The Allman Betts Band is set to headline Saratoga New Year’s Eve 2026, event organizers announced at a press conference on Tuesday in Saratoga Springs.

Individually, they’re Devon Allman and Duane Betts, two solo artists and modern-day guitar heroes who’ve both spent years creating their own version of American roots music. Together, they’re the leaders of The Allman Betts Band, a supergroup anchored by sharp songwriting, fiery fretwork and an historic legacy.

Inspired by the classic sounds of the group’s family tree, The Allman Betts Band makes timeless rock and roll for the modern world, blurring the boundaries between blues, Americana and southern soul.

Critically-acclaimed studio albums have established the band’s own legacy of music and brotherhood, while hundreds of live shows — including annual performances of the all-star Allman Betts Family Revival — have sharpened the group’s chemistry onstage.

There’s a richly historic lineage to The Allman Betts Band, but these musicians are proudly carving out a contemporary soundtrack for the American South.

The band will perform at the Saratoga Springs City Center, along with several other regionally and nationally recognized acts.

Headlining at Universal Preservation Hall, Nicotine Dolls is a New York City-based pop/rock band on the heels of releasing its 2025 debut LP “an Attempt at Romantic.” With front-and-center storytelling, gritty, honest vocals and instrumentation that’s equally punchy and nuanced, the group’s sound features rafter-reaching hooks on top of rich soundscapes.

Since forming in 2019, Nicotine Dolls have built a fiercely loyal fanbase through relentless creativity and intimate connection. The band’s breakout single “What Makes You Sad” has earned nearly 20 million Spotify streams, and there’s another album in the works for 2026.

Taking the stage at Caffe Lena is Reese Fulmer & The Carriage House Band, a versatile indie-folk/Americana ensemble that’s one of the fastest-rising acts in upstate New York. With a rotating cast of talented players, a broad and dynamic body of work and expansive live albums highlighting a reputation for compelling performances, this group is sure to entertain the New Year’s Eve crowd in Saratoga Springs’ most iconic music venue, the longest-running folk coffeehouse in the country.

The Saratoga New Year’s Eve celebration will kick off with free outdoor entertainment by DJ RVMBA on Ellsworth Jones Place, located just outside of the Saratoga Springs City Center, along with a spectacular fireworks display launched from the top level of the City Center’s parking garage. This portion of the event, held from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on New Year’s Eve is designed to offer a family-friendly option that is available to the public at no cost.

Afterward, Saratoga New Year’s Eve ticketholders can enjoy an evening filled with a diverse array of live entertainment at multiple downtown venues including the Saratoga Springs City Center, Universal Preservation Hall and Caffe Lena.

Additional performances will be presented by Maggie Doherty, Kieran Rhodes, The Belle Curves, Heard, Ally the Piper, Doc Horton, Glass Pony and more.

This year’s event was organized through a partnership between the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, Discover Saratoga, the Saratoga Springs City Center, the Saratoga Springs Downtown Business Association, the City of Saratoga Springs, Proctors Collaborative and Caffe Lena, along with support from sponsors Adirondack Trust Company, Druthers Brewing Company and the Saratoga Springs Special Assessment District. 

“It is our pleasure to partner with Discover Saratoga, the Saratoga Chamber of Commerce, City Center, Caffe Lena and all those who work to make this New Year’s Eve event sparkle,” said Jean Leonard, President of Proctors Collaborative. “There is such pride of place here in Saratoga Springs, and the vibrant, diverse arts and culture scene here is a significant driver of that pride. It’s a great place to be on New Year’s Eve, and I hope everyone will join us!”   

“Caffe Lena has been a New Year’s Eve favorite for Saratoga for nearly 30 years. We look forward to bringing revelers a cozy place to warm their hands and hearts with a wonderful acoustic show,” said Sarah Craig, executive director of Caffe Lena. “Reese Fulmer & the Carriage House Band is such a fun ensemble. They always pack the house and put on a memorable show.”

The festivities will conclude on New Year’s Day with the Saratoga First Day 5K, a fun tradition for runners and anyone looking to begin 2026 with a healthy activity.  

“Start 2026 with a healthful advance to what will be a great year,” Race Director Peter Goutos said, inviting all to participate in the holiday fun. With a start time of 11 a.m. that lets participants sleep in, this family-friendly run/walk tours Broadway, the city’s residential east side and the iconic Spring Run Trail. 

New for 2026, the First Day 5K is partnering with the Saratoga Springs Lions Club to support one of the club’s core missions of diabetic awareness and education. An optional donation for this cause can be made upon event registration.

Early online registration for the 5K is encouraged and available at fc4events.com. The registration fee includes an event shirt and competitive awards. Late registration opportunities will be available on the day of the race.

“From the festive fireworks to the First Day 5K – and a whole lot of outstanding entertainment options in between, Saratoga New Year’s Eve offers an incredible New Year’s celebration with something for everyone,” said Todd Shimkus, President of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce. “We hope folks will join us to ring in 2026 by partaking in this beloved Saratoga tradition.”

“We’re proud to be part of Saratoga New Year’s Eve once again,” said Darryl Leggieri, President of Discover Saratoga. “This cherished community tradition brings together locals and visitors to celebrate the spirit of the season. It creates a memorable night for families and guests while strengthening the community that makes Saratoga special.”

“Since moving the fireworks earlier, the New Year’s celebration accommodates both families as well as nightlife revelers to the wonderful hometown feel of our beautiful downtown,” Saratoga Springs Mayor John Safford said. “Come early or late – you will find New Year’s Eve in Saratoga Springs to be a singular unique experience.”

“The Saratoga Springs Downtown Business Association is excited to help present Saratoga New Year’s Eve because it brings the community together for a vibrant, family-friendly celebration in the heart of downtown,” said Deann Devitt​​​​, president of the Saratoga Springs Downtown Business Association. “We’re proud to showcase local businesses, arts, and culture while welcoming visitors to experience the energy and charm of Saratoga Springs.”

Saratoga New Year’s Eve ticket sales will begin at noon on Thursday, Nov. 20 at www.saratoganye.com. Tickets start at $26 each. Limited VIP packages will be available as well.

More information about Saratoga New Year’s Eve 2026, including a full entertainment schedule, is available online at www.saratoganye.com, where anyone interested in attending is encouraged to sign up for regular updates.