PREVIEW: Buskers Takeover Downtown Albany For Buskers & Brews
6/28 @ Downtown Albany
Bar crawls are always a fun way to explore an area and gain a sense of community while letting loose and enjoying some libations. This Saturday afternoon, “Buskers & Brews” takes that idea and adds in a live music element via the time honored tradition of busking.
While the busking isn’t happening in the traditional sense with the element of surprise, this creative way to “plus up” a bar crawl is a welcomed addition to Downtown Albany. In partnership with the Irish Heritage Museum, this crawl was inspired by Capital Repertory Theatre’s Once which will be performed from July 11th to August 10th. The crawl takes place from 12-4pm as a self-guided crawl (although the music is on a schedule) utilizing a passport that grants you access to not only live music, but an array of other benefits.
At the Capital Repertory Theatre, which is the defacto first stop, participants will check in and receive their passport, as well as a beer, wine, soda, or specialty cocktail featuring Albany Distilling Co. spirits, plus a commemorative tote bag and cup featuring Kevin McKrell, the Irish American music veteran. The first busker, James Kelly, will perform at McGeary’s from 1pm-2pm, where passport holders will receive a complimentary beer and select apps for $10. From 2pm-3pm at Common Roots Albany Outpost, Pride of Moyvane will be busking and passport holders will receive a complimentary beer or wine, $10 pizza specials, and their second drink will be buy one get one free. The final performance will be from 3pm to 4pm at the Irish Heritage Museum, with buskers Michael Clarke and John Nolan, and featuring local Irish step dancers. Passport holders will receive a complimentary beverage and 15% off at the Museum gift shop.
Passports cost $20 and are available now. This is a rain or shine event, with only 100 passports total available, so act now or miss out on one of the more unique events happening in Downtown Albany this Summer.