(Albany, NY) Friday, Jan. 23, 2026 – In the first Mayor’s Cup since a new Administration took office, Mayor Dr. Dorcey L. Applyrs is highlighting local Downtown businesses ahead of this year’s annual hockey game between Union College and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI). As the community gears up for an evening of tradition and rivalry at MVP Arena, visitors from across the Capital Region will be making their way to South Pearl Street for the much-anticipated doubleheader on Saturday, Jan. 24th. The women’s team will play at 3:00pm and the men’s team will play at 6:00pm. The two schools will not be playing for league points, but rather bragging rights, as the men face off for the 12th time this Saturday. For the women, this will be their 7th year competing in the Mayor’s Cup. Tickets are available at the MVP Arena website for adults and students/youth, which have a discounted ticket price.
Ahead of the snow starting Sunday afternoon, residents are encouraged to bundle up and come down to South Pearl Street for a day of camaraderie and competition. Albany offers a host of excellent restaurants and bars in the area for a quick bite to eat in between games, or a place to warm up with a hot drink after a full day of hockey at MVP Arena. The Mayor’s Cup is one of many examples of the events Albany has to offer, and it’s an excellent way to get residents to come out and support local Downtown business.
Dora Philip, Director of Sales at The Hollow Bar + Kitchen offered a pro tip, “Find a parking spot off 787 Clinton Ave (Exit 4A), grab a meal pre-game at one of our amazing Downtown restaurants, then walk a few blocks to the arena. When you’re ready to head home, you’ll fly past the traffic.” She also reiterated that Hollow Bar + Kitchen is looking forward to welcoming fans for the Mayor’s Cup, “The energy that local fans bring to the city, their passion and excitement for their chosen team, is electric.”
James Anilowski, co-owner of Albany Stadium Restaurant & Bar, said “we eagerly anticipate the Mayor’s Cup each year, as it brings out Albany’s residents in large numbers, unlike any other event. It reminds us of how Albany used to be, supporting our sports teams with enthusiasm and being appreciative of the MVP Arena, our restaurant, and all that the City had to offer. We look forward to working with the new City Administration to bring back the joy and excitement of all the incredible hospitality Albany has to offer.”
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