The 2009 edition of the Irish 2000 Music and Arts Festival will take place at the Saratoga County Fairgrounds in Ballston Spa, N.Y., on Sept. 18 and 19. This is the first time in more than a decade that the event, which draws thousands of guests each year, has changed its location.

Irish 2000 President Matt Nelligan said, "After 11 successful years at the Altamont Fairgrounds, we are excited about moving to a new venue that will allow us to further grow our event at a great facility in the heart of Saratoga County."

The decision to move the event was based primarily on the event organizers’ appreciation that these are tough times economically. "By moving the event to the Saratoga Fairgrounds, we are able to hold the line on pricing," Mr. Nelligan said.

New this year will be a special early bird rate which will be "the lowest price ever for those purchasing tickets for the two days of the event. We also plan to expand the ages that get in for free from 10 and under to 12 and under. We’re also introducing a two-day VIP ticket that gives greater access to VIP areas and entertainers. Plus, there will be a reduced parking fee," he said.

Mr. Nelligan also noted that this year’s 13th annual festival will have new bands and attractions and "lots of new ways for everyone to enjoy Irish 2000. Moving to the Saratoga County Fairgrounds also provides guests with easy access from the Northway to dining, shopping and nightlife in Saratoga Springs."

Irish 2000 is one of the top five Irish festivals in the United States in terms of attendance, averaging about 15,000 people each year. The festival will be underway from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 18, and from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19.

For additional information and updates on ticket prices and performers, visit www.irish2000fest.com or call 1-888-414-3378.

The not-for-profit Irish Music and Arts Festival, Inc., with headquarters at the Albany Ancient Order of Hibernians’ Irish Cultural Center in Albany, organizes the annual festival. The goal of the organization is, "To preserve, protect and promote Irish history and culture in the 21st century."

Since its inception, the festival has donated close to $350,000 to a variety of charities including the Albany Irish-American Center, the Irish-American Heritage Museum and all of the schools of Irish dance in the Capital Region.

The Fairgrounds are located 30 miles north of Albany, off Interstate 87 (Adirondack Northway), in Ballston Spa.

• From Albany (no trucks).
  Northway north to Exit 12. At end of ramp, follow signs to Route 67 West. At intersection of Routes 67 and 50, go straight across Route 50 onto Ballston Avenue. At T-intersection, turn right and then take an immediate left onto Fairground Avenue. Fairgrounds at top of hill.
  
  
• From Albany (for trucks).
  Northway north to Exit 12. At end of ramp follow signs to Route 67 West. Turn right onto Route 50. In Village of Ballston Spa turn left at light at Getty gas station. Fairgrounds at top of hill.
  
  
• From the North:
  Northway south to Exit 13S. Turn right at first light onto Malta Avenue. Continue on Malta Avenue to light. Turn left at light onto Route 50. Turn right onto Front Street. Bear right onto Fairground Avenue. Fairgrounds are at top of hill.
  
  
• From Amsterdam.
  Go east on Route 67. Left onto Middleline Road. Right onto County Farm Road. Right at stop sign onto Fairground Avenue. Follow to the Fairgrounds.
  
  
• From Schenectady.
  North on Route 50. In the Village of Ballston Spa, turn left at light at Front Street. Bear right onto Fairgound Avenue. Fairgrounds at top of hill.

Kathy Condon * Condon Communications * P.O. Box 4208 * Albany, NY 12204
PH: 518-436-1103 * CELL: 518-441-0259
E-MAIL: kcondon@netheaven.com