Schenectady, N.Y. — The annual Holiday Parade, “Wicked” and many other events attracted more than 46,000 people to downtown Schenectady this past weekend
Mayor Gary McCarthy said, “Schenectady put out the welcome mat this weekend and the response was terrific.”
“Downtown showed its holiday spirit and a good time was had by all,” said Ray Gillen, Chair of the Schenectady Metroplex Development Authority.
Gillen added, “Our parking system handled the big crowds really well. We received excellent cooperation from City officials, Proctors, the Downtown Ambassador Program, the Chamber of Schenectady County and the Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corporation in hosting this very successful weekend full of great events.”
The annual Holiday Parade sponsored by the Chamber of Schenectady County attracted an estimated 15,000 people to downtown on Saturday evening.
Proctors hosted several evening and matinee performances of “Wicked” which attracted another 13,500 people to downtown.
The Greenmarket hosted another 3,000 visitors to its regular Sunday market held at Proctors and Key Hall.
Other events held at Proctors included: Zombie Fest (300); Niskayuna class movie Turning Pages (150); a wedding held at Key Hall (125); a dinner proceeding Wicked (125); an acting class (30); Key to City event (50); Eighth Step performance (125) and a baby shower (125).
Aperitivo hosted live music Friday night. The restaurant reported serving over 675 dinners this weekend.
Other downtown venues were also busy. The Van Dyck had two sold out shows Saturday night. The Stockade Inn hosted a wedding and Pinhead Susan’s was standing room only both Friday and Saturday night according to Jeff McDonald. The McDonald Family owns all three venues.
The Bow Tie Cinema attracted an estimated 12,000 movie-goers who lined up to see Skyfall, the new Twilight movie and other features.
The Schenectady YMCA at Center City was busy with folks keeping to their fitness regime as over 550 members visited the facility on Saturday and Sunday. The YMCA also had a float in the parade.
“Wicked” continues its successful run at Proctors until November 25.