New York Heritage and Tourism Series to conclude with Brew Central NY at Saratoga Race Course

by Pat McKenna and Mark Bardack

The New York Racing Association, Inc. will conclude its New York Heritage and Tourism Series at Saratoga Race Course with a spotlight on Brew Central NY on Wednesday, August 31.

The day will highlight the tradition of craft beverages in Central New York and will feature activities, exhibits and entertainment which showcase the renaissance of craft beer, hard cider, spirits and wine in the region. The event will take place at the Saratoga Pavilion, presented by Time Warner Cable News, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

"As one of the Northeast's leading tourism destinations, Saratoga Race Course is an ideal venue by which to promote neighboring regions in New York," said NYRA Senior Vice President and Chief Experience Officer Lynn LaRocca. "According to a study commissioned by the Saratoga County Industrial Development Agency, as many as four in 10 guests who visit Saratoga reside in a state other than New York and recent fan surveys indicate that 60 percent of our guests come from outside the Capital Region. Our New York Heritage and Tourism series provides a special platform for other regions of the state to reach potential new visitors. 

Craft beer, wines, ciders and spirits from Central New York producers will be available in increments of five samples for $5. Guests must be at least 21 years old and show proper identification to participate in the tasting.

Participating breweries and distilleries include: 1857 Spirits/Barber's Farm Distillery in Middleburgh; Binghamton Brewing Company in Binghamton; Brewery Ommegang in Cooperstown; Cooperstown Brewing Company in Cooperstown; Empire Brewing Company in Syracuse; FX Matt Brewery/Saranac Brewery in Utica; Green Wolf Brewing Company in Middleburgh; Life of Reilley Distilling and Wine Company in Cazenovia; and Water Street Brewing Company in Binghamton.

Live entertainment will be provided by musician Paul Davie.  

The celebration of Brew Central NY coincides with Fan Appreciation Week, during which NYRA will thank its fans with a series of special events, discounts and offers during closing week of the 2016 season at Saratoga Race Course.

Fans will enjoy a 20 percent discount on grandstand reserved seats when using the promo code TOGA20, valid weekdays through Labor Day. Offer available at Ticketmaster.com and not valid on previously purchased tickets.

Saratoga Season Perks members will receive a number of additional exclusive offers beginning Monday, August 29 through Labor Day, Monday, September 5, including: 

• 35 percent discount on dated merchandise, including 2016 Travers collectible items, at NYRA stores
• 10 percent discount at most on-track concession stands
• 10 percent discount at Shake Shack
• 10 percent discount at participating vendors in the Artist's Village

The above discounts are available to season pass and season ticket plan holders who show their season pass or season perks card at participating on-track locations. Discounts do not apply to lottery, tobacco, alcohol, restaurant dining, group sales or Dunkin' Donuts. For a complete list of participating Saratoga Season Perks partners, visit SaratogaSeasonPerks.com.

From Wednesday, August 31 through Monday, September 5, NYRA will host an end of summer BBQ in the At the Rail Pavilion. The buffet lunch will feature menu items inspired by some of the region's most popular restaurateurs. The BBQ is $45 for adults and $35 for kids (12 and under) and includes admission and a program book. Reservations can be made by calling the NYRA Box Office at 1-844-NYRA-TIX.

The 2016 summer meet at Saratoga Race Course continues through Labor Day, Monday, September 5. For more information about Saratoga Race Course, visit NYRA.com.