Coglianese /NYRA Photo Photo

NYRA to Host Italian-American Day presented by Aperol Spritz at Saratoga Race Course

by NYRA Press Office

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) will celebrate the culture and traditions of the Bel Pease during Italian-American Day at Saratoga Race Course on Wednesday, August 8.

Italian-American Day is presented by Aperol Spritz.

The day-long festivities will feature Italian music, dance, entertainment, crafts and food from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Coca-Cola Saratoga Pavilion.

Accordion players Ralph Brooks and Peter Rizzo will greet guests with traditional Italian music as they arrive at the gates beginning at 11 a.m. Italian singer Rafi Topolian will begin the day by performing the National Anthem in the winner's circle.

Dancers from the Albany Dancesport Club will perform a traditional Italian folk dance trackside at approximately 2:10 p.m. following the day's third race.

Italian tenor Angelo Mazzone, Jr. will perform an Italian aria trackside following the day's fifth race at approximately 3:15 p.m.

The Coca-Cola Saratoga Pavilion will host performances throughout the afternoon from Italian singer Nick Coluccio; Italian guitarist and singer Edward Salvo; and the Albany Dancesport Club.

Italian food will be available for purchase to benefit the Italian Heritage Association and Museum in Albany at the Coca-Cola Saratoga Pavilion, including Italian sausage subs; meatball subs; eggplant and chicken parmigiana; pasta; Italian pastries and gelato.

The afternoon will also include an Aperol Spritz tasting from 3 to 5 pm at The Stretch, the all-new private hospitality venue located on the second floor of the Grandstand at the Top of the Stretch. The tasting is restricted to those who have purchased tickets to The Stretch.

Activities highlighting Italian culture, traditions and history will take place at the Coca-Cola Pavilion throughout the day, including Italian language lessons and the opportunity for children to create their own Venetian mask. Interactive exhibits from the American Italian Heritage Association and Museum will also be on display.

Grandstand admission for Saratoga Race Course is $5 and Clubhouse admission is $8 for guests who purchase their tickets prior to the day of the event. Grandstand admission is $7 and Clubhouse admission is $10 when purchased at the gate.

The 2018 season at Saratoga Race Course continues through Labor Day, Monday, September 3. For more information about Saratoga Race Course, visit NYRA.com.