Upcoming Events
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History Books and Brews| June 10 6pm
Enjoy a literary evening at Saratoga County History Center, while finding the book that’s perfect for you or your loved one. At this special event, Mike Hare, Store Manager at Northshire Books of Saratoga Springs, will discuss why we read history, share some of his favorite history books and biographies, and offer special recommendations. Sip at a soft drink or enjoy a beer while chatting with Mike and other guests about your favorite books in history, and meet some of the local authors behind your favorite history books. Register HERE
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Garden Tour: Plants & History Intertwined| June 13 2-3pm
Delight in the highlights and history of our five historically-themed gardens on a special tour led by our volunteers. Register HERE
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Olde Time Strawberry Social| June 14 2-3:30pm
Treat yourself and friends to shortcake featuring homemade biscuits, fresh strawberries and real whipped cream—a classic delight. Pickup available. Our annual premier event to support the gardens at Brookside Museum. Featuring musician Bob Marcotte of the NYS Country Music Hall of Fame. Register HERE
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Charlie‘s Heroes| June 18 7pm
During World War II and again during the Korean War, an Italian American restaurant owner in Mechanicville took photographs of local service members in uniform who stopped by his popular tavern. Chris Carola tells the stories behind the collection of approximately 700 images taken by Charles Siciliano Sr.currently housed at the Mechanicville District Public Library. These photos are visual reminders of the service and sacrifice of so many of our fellow New Yorkers. Register HERE
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2026 Brookside Craft and Antique Fair| June 20 10am – 3pm
Guests will be able to shop a wide variety of locally handcrafted collectibles, antiques, and farm products. No mass-produced or commercially-made items will be permitted. This is a terrific opportunity for New Yorker’s to sample and appreciate the best of upstate artisans, farmers, and culinarians. The event is free and open to the public, and will be held rain or shine.
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2026 History Book Sale| June 20 10am – 3pm
Join us on the porch during the Craft and Antique Fair and shop a selection of rare and out-of-print history books.
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George III: America’s Last King| July 8 6pm
Jim Sefcik will examine the King’s background and personal life, especially those who influenced him the most, his role during the War for American Independence, two events during that time that he had to deal with in addition to the war, and his health leading to his ultimate demise. He was king from 1760 to 1820! And although a Hanoverian as were his 2 immediate predecessors, George regarded himself as an Englishman through and through. Was he a womanizer? Was he “mad”? How was he regarded by his subjects? Register HERE
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Seeing Ballston Spa: An Observational Sketching Journey| July 12 12-3pm
Join us for a 3-week immersive art experience that brings creativity to life!
Inspired by the beautiful gardens and architecture of the Village of Ballston Spa, this hands-on watercolor and ink sketching program invites participants to experience the village in a creative new way. From capturing natural elements and architectural details to joining a guided downtown sketch walk, participants will build sketching skills while exploring the charm and character of Ballston Spa. Sessions are July 12, 19 and 26. Register HERE
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A Bastille Day Celebration| July 14 6 – 8pm
Celebrate the French national day with creative activities and French vibes. Make your own, aromatic lavender sachet, sample fine French cheeses, and enjoy the sounds and songs of a Parisian cafe. Browse travel guides for Paris and France, and select a postcard as a souvenir of the evening. Enjoy a night à la française at Brookside! Register HERE
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SCHC Reads: Revolution Song: A Story of American Freedom| July 16 6pm
Join us for the third meeting of our new history Book Club at the Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum. This year, in honor of America’s 250th, we will be reading books that explore the unfolding and impact of the American Revolution. Register HERE
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Seeing Ballston Spa: An Observational Sketching Journey| July 19 12-3pm
Join us for a 3-week immersive art experience that brings creativity to life!
Inspired by the beautiful gardens and architecture of the Village of Ballston Spa, this hands-on watercolor and ink sketching program invites participants to experience the village in a creative new way. From capturing natural elements and architectural details to joining a guided downtown sketch walk, participants will build sketching skills while exploring the charm and character of Ballston Spa. Sessions are July 12, 19 and 26. Register HERE
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Take A Walk in the Park-with History!| July 22 9:30-11am
Join Ballston Town Historian Rick Reynolds for a historic walking tour of Anchor Diamond Park, corner of Route 50 and Middleline Rd., Ballston Lake. (2.5 miles north of the Burnt Hills intersection of Rt 50 and Lakehill Rd.) The presenting sponsor of this walking tour is Ballston Spa National Bank. The walk will be about 2 miles walking on flat trails. Wear clothing appropriate for the weather; bug spray and good footwear recommended. Register HERE
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The French and Indian War in the Adirondacks| July 22 6pm
In the mid-1750s, New York was caught in the crossfire as the British and French struggled for control of North America. During the French and Indian War, the Adirondack Mountain region saw numerous military encounters around Lakes George and Champlain while Sir William Johnson, Robert Rogers, John Stark, Phineas Lyman, and others carved their names in the annals of American history. Author Marie Danielle Annette Williams uncovers the complex history of the Adirondacks during its most tumultuous time. Register HERE
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Seeing Ballston Spa: An Observational Sketching Journey| July 26 12-3pm
Join us for a 3-week immersive art experience that brings creativity to life!
Inspired by the beautiful gardens and architecture of the Village of Ballston Spa, this hands-on watercolor and ink sketching program invites participants to experience the village in a creative new way. From capturing natural elements and architectural details to joining a guided downtown sketch walk, participants will build sketching skills while exploring the charm and character of Ballston Spa. Sessions are July 12, 19 and 26. Register HERE
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For more information visit https://brooksidemuseum.org/
