The Beat

Saratoga Springs, N.Y. — The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame will play host to the fourth annual “Countdown to the Triple Crown” fundraising event on Saturday, Feb. 7. This winter fundraiser, scheduled exactly three months prior to the 152^nd Kentucky Derby, will feature more than 100 silent auction items and an online auction of unique items and experience packages to benefit the Museum.

Magic Hour’s après-ski popup launches new experience in celebration of the Winter Games featuring Italian-style fondue, seasonal cocktails, and Olympic watch parties high

New York, NY - In honor of the upcoming Winter Olympic Games in the Italian Dolomites, Magic Hour at Moxy Times Square, New York City’s largest all-season rooftop bar—operated by Tao Group Hospitality–is debuting an all-new experience at their seasonal installation, Mountain Lodge.

First Phase of Museum Transformation Introduces Major Exhibits, New Dedicated Kids Zone, Café and Gift Shop Reopenings, and Launch of Visioning Task Force

Governor’s $150 Million Investment Begins Multi-Year Modernization of Museum

Governor Kathy Hochul and Commissioner of Education Betty A. Rosa today announced the launch of Phase One of the transformation of the New York State Museum. Made possible by Governor Hochul’s historic $150 million investment in the Museum’s future, the initial rollout includes major new exhibits, a new dedicated Kids Zone, the reopening of the Museum café and gift shop, and the establishment of a Visioning Task Force to guide future revitalization. These efforts represent a new era of collaboration and vision, aimed at transforming the State Museum into a vibrant, inclusive, and family-friendly destination that reflects the full diversity and creativity of New York.

Northport, NY – The Northport Hotel has been named one of OpenTable’s Top 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in America, earning a coveted spot on the nationally recognized list based on verified diner reviews and reservation data. This honor is especially meaningful as The Northport Hotel is one of only two restaurants in all of New York State to receive this distinction, underscoring its commitment to exceptional hospitality, elevated cuisine, and an intimate, romantic atmosphere.

March 5-29 at The Sheen Center, NYC

New York, N.Y. (January 27, 2026) – The Real Artists LLC presents Dust of Egypt: The Story of Sojourner Truth, a heroic saga of a young mother’s fight to save her son, written by Karin Abarbanel. Rhonda PASSION Hansome directs a cast of seven, including Desi Waters as Sojourner Truth with Jade Cayne, Eliott Johnson*, Eric Ruffin*, Jeanna Schweppe*, Mark McCullough Thomas*, and Nicholas Louis Turturro. Sixteen performances will be staged from March 5-29, 2026, at The Frank Shiner Theater, The Sheen Center for Thought and Culture, 18 Bleecker Street in NYC.

Ticonderoga, N.Y. -- Step back 250 years into the heart of the American Revolution this winter! Fort Ticonderoga is rolling out its "Winter Quarters" season (through April) with a powerhouse lineup of immersive living history events, virtual programming, premium behind-the-scenes tours, and hands-on workshops, all under the banner of its multi-year REAL TIME REVOLUTION® 250^th commemoration.

Free community event presented by CulinaryArts@SPAC on March 7 @ 3 PM

Saratoga Springs, NY (January 27, 2026) – Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) announces a special free community program featuring renowned culinary historian, James Beard Cookbook Hall of Fame winner and star of the Netflix docuseries High on the Hog, Dr. Jessica B. Harris. Presented as part of SPAC’s CulinaryArts@SPAC initiative, Braided Heritage: Tracing the Roots of American Cuisine will take place on Saturday, March 7 from 3–5 p.m. at The Pines at SPAC and will explore the deep cultural roots that shaped American food as we know it today.

Rochester, N.Y. (January 23, 2026) — Marc Iacona and John Nugent, producers of the 23rd Edition Rochester International Jazz Festival in partnership with Rochester Regional Health, are pleased to announce 16 more artists who will join the 23 previously announced artists, playing in the Festival's signature Club Pass Series, presented by M&T Bank.