Saratoga Showcase of Homes: A Tradition of Craftsmanship, Community, and Giving Back
For nearly three decades, the Saratoga Showcase of Homes has been a staple of autumn in upstate New York. Each fall, thousands of visitors tour newly constructed houses across Saratoga County, celebrating the artistry of local builders while raising funds for local charities. Now entering its 29th year, the 2025 Showcase continues a legacy of community spirit, creativity, and generosity.
A History of Homebuilding and Philanthropy
The Showcase of Homes was founded in the mid-1990s by the Saratoga Builders Association with a clear purpose: to spotlight the talent of regional homebuilders and craftspeople while giving back to the community. Over the years, it has become one of the area’s most beloved traditions, with many attendees returning annually. Families often make it a group outing—mothers and daughters, friends, and neighbors spending a crisp fall afternoon touring homes together.
From its early days with just a handful of homes, the event has grown to attract as many as 18 houses in a single year. Each property is carefully staged with the help of designers, landscapers, and suppliers, transforming these residences into full showcases of modern living. The event also highlights broader industry trends—from the rise of open floor plans to the latest in smart-home technology and sustainable design.
But beyond design and construction, the Showcase has always had a deeper mission. Proceeds from ticket sales and sponsorships benefit local charities. To date, the event has donated well over $1.6 million dollars back into the community, cementing its place as a philanthropic cornerstone in Saratoga Springs.These proceeds are in no small part generated through ticket sales. Ticket prices started at $10 in the earlier years and later increased to $20, and are now $25. Still a modest ask for such an amazing event.
The 2025 Showcase: What to Expect
This year’s Saratoga Showcase of Homes promises to be one of the largest in recent memory, featuring 13 homes across the region—a number not seen in over five years.
The lineup of participating builders includes Abele Homes, Amedore Homes, Beechwood Homes, Bella Home Builders, Belmonte Builders, DeGraff Bloom Custom Builders, Green Springs Companies, Heritage Custom Builders, Kodiak Construction, Urvalek Builders, and Witt Construction. Several, such as Belmonte and Green Springs, will showcase multiple properties.
“These homes represent the very best of our region’s builders and designers,” said Barry Potoker, Executive Director of the Saratoga Builders Association and longtime co-chair of the Showcase. “People just love this event—we hear from families who have been to every single one. It’s rewarding for the builders, inspiring for visitors, and above all, it’s a chance to give back to our community”.
Event Dates and Tickets
The 2025 Showcase of Homes will be held over two weekends: October 4–5 and October 11–12. Homes are open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both Saturdays and Sundays.
Tickets cost $25 per person, a modest price that has only increased once in nearly three decades (from $20 to $25 on the 25th anniversary). Each ticket is valid for the entire event, meaning visitors can tour homes multiple times across both weekends.
Tickets can be purchased online at SaratogaShowcaseOfHomes.com, at the door, or at local outlets including Adirondack Trust, Arrow Bank, Curtis Lumber, and ReShop in Ballston Spa and Restore in Fort Edward.
Categories, Judging, and Awards
Homes in the 2025 Showcase will be judged in these categories—Classic, Executive, Luxury, and Estate—based on price points.
Judging takes place the week before the Showcase opens, with a panel of out-of-town experts spending full days touring and evaluating each home. Categories include Exterior, Workmanship, Interior Floor Plan, Kitchen, Primary Bathroom, Landscaping, and Interior Design. Meanwhile, visitors themselves get to cast votes for the coveted People’s Choice Awards.
Supporting Local Charities
At its heart, the Showcase of Homes is a fundraiser. This year’s proceeds will once again support Rebuilding Together Saratoga County and Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Washington, and Warren Counties.
“These charities are at the core of what we do,” explained Lisa Licata, co-chair of the 2025 Showcase and Managing Broker for Sterling Real Estate Group. “The Showcase isn’t just about building beautiful homes—it’s about building stronger communities. The money raised helps families in need, and the volunteers from these organizations make the event possible”.
Both nonprofits not only receive financial support but also contribute hundreds of volunteers to staff the event, from stamping tickets at the door to distributing the popular Showcase shoe bags. Originally created to protect hardwood floors from thousands of visitors’ shoes, these reusable bags have become a sought-after keepsake.
Community Partnerships and Workforce Development
The Showcase is also deeply tied to workforce development efforts in the building trades. The Saratoga Builders Association is a founding member of the Northeast Construction Trades Workforce Coalition, which runs youth programs such as summer construction camps for girls and partnerships with BOCES. At this year’s Showcase, coalition participants will demonstrate their skills by building flower boxes for sale, and a student-built tiny house will be displayed at one of the participating properties.
These initiatives reflect a broader push to address labor shortages in the trades. With as much as 60% of the skilled workforce set to retire within the next decade, events like the Showcase also serve as inspiration for younger generations to consider careers in construction, plumbing, electrical, and related fields.
A Tradition That Brings People Together
Over the course of its two weekends, the Showcase of Homes welcomes nearly 4,000 visitors each year. Guests travel from across New York and neighboring states—including New Hampshire, Vermont, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New Jersey—to take part. For many, it’s more than just an open house tour; it’s a fall tradition, complete with packed lunches, carpool groups, and design inspiration shared on social media.
As Lisa Licata, who is in her 20th year as Co-Chair summed up, “We’ve been doing this for 29 years, and every year the excitement grows. It’s a lot of work, but when you see the crowds enjoying themselves and know the charities benefit—it’s worth every minute”.
Event Snapshot: Saratoga Showcase of Homes 2025
- Dates: October 4–5 & October 11–12
- Hours: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (Saturdays & Sundays)
- Tickets: $25 per person, valid both weekends
- Where to Buy: Online, at participating local banks and businesses, at ReStore shops, or at the door
- Beneficiaries: Rebuilding Together Saratoga County & Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Washington, and Warren Counties
- Website: SaratogaShowcaseOfHomes.com
Continuing the Legacy
Now in its 29th year, the Saratoga Showcase of Homes continues to grow, adapt, and inspire. With record builder participation, exciting partnerships, and an unwavering mission of philanthropy, the 2025 edition is poised to be one of the most memorable yet. For attendees, it’s a chance to tour beautiful homes, meet the builders who shape their communities, and—most importantly—be part of a tradition that makes a real difference.
Watch the full podcast episode here: https://buyinglocal.us/inside-the-2025-saratoga-showcase-of-homes-buying-local-s3e39