GUILDERLAND — A sunny spring day on Wednesday was the launch of the Four Seasons of Guilderland passport program.

Through summer, fall, and winter, too, residents and tourists alike are being encouraged by the Guilderland Chamber of Commerce to visit venues in town as well as in New Scotland and the Helderberg Hilltowns.

The chamber’s director, Sandra Dollard, applied to Albany County for funds from the federal American Rescue Plan Act.

When the $50,000 grant was announced last October, Dollard told The Enterprise, “We’re bringing commerce and tourism together.”

She planned for “events all the time … just showing all the beauty we have to offer.” She mentioned wineries, breweries, golf courses, and the nearby rail trail and said there could be celebrations with holiday lights or brewery tours.

“We’ve always been known for Western Avenue but we’re so much more than that,” said Dollard.

Passports were handed out on May 22 at Stuyvesant Plaza, and businesses are invited to advertise by April 12 on a whimsical colorful map detailing local attractions.

Each location will have a spot on the passport to provide a stamp, signifying the tourist’s visit, and providing a chance to win raffle prizes at an event next spring.

The chamber is hosting a Bikes, Burgers, and Beverage event on July 18 to complement the Guilderland Restaurant Week, which runs from July 15 through 21; a Brewery & Winery Tour in the fall; and a soup, chowder, and a chili cook-off in the winter called, The Heat is On.

Passports are available at the chamber’s office at 300 Great Oaks Boulevard in Suite 300.

“This Passport Map and Four Seasons of Guilderland initiative will enable Guilderland to leverage its diverse offerings to create an immersive and enriching experience for visitors,” said Dollard in a statement.

“By showcasing our wineries, breweries, farms, restaurants, and unique shops and small businesses as key destinations through the passport,” she said, “the town and visitors can encourage tourists to explore the region’s natural beauty, engage with local producers, and support tourism in the town.”

— Melissa Hale-Spencer