Canfield Casino can host weddings, events
Gatherings of 150 allowed at historic Spa City venue
After being shuttered for a year during the pandemic, the Canfield Casino in Congress Park has reopened for business.
Commissioner of Public Works Anthony “Skip” Scirocco announced Thursday that the historic building can now host weddings and other events with up to 150 people.
“Guests will still need to follow (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) and state guidelines to attend, but this is the first step towards normalcy,” Scirocco said a prepared statement.
However, for all events booked at the casino, all attendees must have proof of a recent negative test result or proof of immunization prior to the event. Also, masks must be worn at all times except when eating or drinking. Socially distanced dancing will be allowed in designated areas. “While all of these requirements do not fit with what a traditional wedding or event would look like, these guidelines are in place to help prevent the spread of COVID. Hopefully, as more people are vaccinated and time passes these restrictions will be eased as well,” Scirocco said. The closure did allow the city to complete some improvements and restoration work. The improvements include a new sound system and air filters as well as restoration of some floors and decorative woodwork.
The Canfield Casino is designated a National Historic Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was originally built in 1870 as a gambling establishment by John Morrissey, and upgraded with an ornate ballroom by Richard Canfield between 1902 and 1903. Canfield closed the establishment in 1907 and it was sold to Saratoga Springs in 1911. Those interested in renting the Canfield Casino can contact Mary Castanza in the Public Works Department at 518-587-3550 ext. 2555 or at mary.castanza@saratoga-springs.org.