10 Music Events Happening in Upstate NY (Albany) in May 2025
May is shaping up to be an exciting month for music and cultural events in the Albany area, so we put together a list of 10 concerts and music festivals we thought you should check out! From Avril Lavigne, to rising talents in the area, to our very own Fras Fest, there's something for everyone to enjoy!
1. Avril Lavigne
Date: May 27, 2025
Location: (Broadview Stage at SPAC) 400 Ballston Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Don't miss the chance to see Avril Lavigne live on her Greatest Hits tour. Since her breakthrough debut 'Let Go' in 2002, which sold over 16 million copies worldwide, Lavigne has become a defining voice in pop-punk music. With seven studio albums to her name, including recent releases 'Head Above Water' and 'Love Sux,' she continues to evolve while maintaining her signature sound. This concert promises to deliver all her classic hits like 'Complicated' and 'Sk8er Boi,' along with newer fan favorites, showcasing why she remains one of the most influential artists in modern pop-punk.
2. Fras Fest
Date: May 17, 2025
Location: Palace Theatre Albany
Fras Fest is a unique music festival experience that takes place at The Ruins at Sassafras Museum. The event features a dual-venue setup with outdoor performances in The Ruins and indoor shows in The Moroccan Bar. Running from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM, attendees can enjoy a diverse lineup of live music while exploring the historic venue. The festival offers a full range of food and beverage options, creating a perfect atmosphere for socializing and enjoying live entertainment. This inaugural music festival is a celebration of the music scene with up-and-coming artists in the area and local ones from NYC, combining historic charm with contemporary musical performances.
3. Bit Brigade Performs 'Super Mario World' + 'F-Zero' LIVE
Date: May 3, 2025
Location: (Empire Underground) 93 N Pearl St, Albany, NY 12207, US
16+ | $20 ($17 Advance) | Doors 7PM | Show 8PM
4. Music of John Williams by Albany Symphony
Date: May 3, 2025
Location: 19 Clinton Avenue
If you like movie soundtracks, you'll absolutely fall in love again with the magic of John Williams' iconic film scores performed by the Albany Symphony Orchestra under the direction of David Alan Miller. This special concert features Williams' most beloved compositions, including themes from Star Wars, Harry Potter, E.T., Superman, and Raiders of the Lost Ark. The Albany Symphony brings these cinematic masterpieces to life, offering audiences a chance to relive their favorite movie moments through the power of live orchestral music. This performance showcases the enduring impact of Williams' work on film music and popular culture.
5. Sasami at the Swyer Theatre
Date: May 6, 2025
Location: Swyer Theatre
Sasami is a classically trained musician who has evolved into a dynamic pop performer. With her latest album 'Blood On the Silver Screen,' Sasami showcases her mastery of pop songwriting while exploring themes of love, passion, and self-discovery. Her music journey spans from her melancholic 2019 debut to the powerful metal-influenced 'Squeeze' in 2022, culminating in her most ambitious work yet. Backed by her experience as a French horn player and producer, Sasami's live performances blend technical precision with raw emotional expression, creating an unforgettable concert experience.
6. The Queers
Date: May 7, 2025
Location: (Empire Underground) 93 N Pearl St, Albany, NY 12207, US
16+ | $25 ($20 Advance) | Doors 6PM | Show 7PM
7. Baroness Red & Blue Tour
Date: May 13, 2025
Location: (Empire Underground) 93 N Pearl St, Albany, NY 12207, US
16+ | $35 ($30 Advance) | Doors 7:30PM | Show 8:30PM
8. Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo
Date: May 21, 2025
Location: Palace Theatre Albany
Experience the legendary rock duo Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo live in concert. This iconic partnership has defined rock music for decades, producing timeless hits like 'We Belong,' 'Love Is A Battlefield,' and 'Heartbreaker.' With over 36 million records sold worldwide, four consecutive GRAMMY® awards, and recent induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, this performance promises to be a memorable evening of classic rock anthems. Benatar's powerful vocals and Giraldo's masterful guitar work continue to captivate audiences, making this a must-see event for rock music enthusiasts.
9. Ben Cosgrove
Date: May 23, 2025
Location: Park Theater 723 Warren St Hudson, NY 12534
(From bandsintown.com) Ben Cosgrove is a touring composer-performer based in New England. He drives around the country performing original music inspired by the North American landscape.
10. Arm's Length with special guests: Prince Daddy & The Hyena
Date: May 24, 2025
Location: (Empire Underground) 93 N Pearl St, Albany, NY 12207, US
16+ | $28 ($25 Advance) | Doors 6PM | Show 7PM