ArtsPass sales begin for SaratogaArtsFest 2009

Planning for the third annual SaratogaArtsFest, scheduled for June 11-14, is well under way, and for those who like a bargain there is an opportunity to act early and purchase the ARTSPASS Admission Package at a discount.

The ARTSPASS Admission Package provides access to over 100 events and activities during the four-day citywide celebration of music, dance, visual art, film, theatre, and literary art. In addition, pass holders receive discounts and perks at area shops and eateries during the festival, as well as year-round benefits at area galleries, theaters, and museums.

The ARTSPASS for adults and seniors (65 and older) will be sold at a discount of $5 through March 31, resulting in a price of $25 for adults and $20 for senior citizens.

"We are confident that the 2009 ArtsFest will not only dazzle those interested in the arts, but will also further establish Saratoga Springs as a center for arts and culture," said Marie Glotzbach, president of the SarataogaArtsFest Board of Directors. "With these special prices, we want to build excitement and encourage people to get the ArtsFest on their calendars now, and at the same time get a great deal."

Starting in January, the discounted ARTSPASS will be sold at select retailers and special promotional events to be announced. The ARTSPASS will also be available for online purchase beginning January 15 at www.saratogaartsfest.org.

Those who purchase the ARTSPASS prior to June 1 will receive an ARTSPASS gift card to be redeemed at the SaratogaArtsFest Center in downtown Saratoga Springs for the complete admission package, which includes an ArtsFest tote bag, custom-designed artifact, and the Festival Book and Arts Guide.

In-person sales at the ArtsFest Center will begin June 1. The regular pricing for the ARTSPASS Admission Package is $30 for adults, $25 for senior citizens, $15 for students and military personnel, and $5 for children ages 3 to 11. Children under 3 are free. A "Family Four Pack" for two adults and two children will sell for $65.

SaratogaArtsFest offers activities for everyone, from the seasoned arts enthusiast to families with young children. The line-up of local, regional, and national artists for 2009 will be announced in early spring. Last year's headliners included jazz pianist Gerald Clayton; the Martha Graham Dance Company; the Boys and Girls Choir of Harlem Alumni Ensemble; poet and nonfiction writer Honor Moore; SITI Company theatre group; The Equus Projects: Dancing with Horses; and Carnegie Hall's Ensemble ACJW.

The mission of SaratogaArtsFest is to strengthen the position of Saratoga Springs as a premier arts destination. The ArtsFest is committed to increasing appreciation for the arts and strengthening cultural tourism in the Saratoga region.