As summer winds down, the Hudson Valley is still buzzing with must-see events that celebrate everything from local art to seasonal flavors. Whether you’re a foodie, a craft enthusiast, or someone who just loves a good festival, these events will help you make the most of the season. Let’s dive into the top 10 events you should have on your radar!
1. Hudson Valley Wine & Food Festival
Dates: September 7-8, 2024
Location: Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NY
If your ideal weekend involves sampling gourmet foods and sipping on locally crafted beverages, then this festival is a must. With over 300 vendors, you’ll experience the best of Hudson Valley’s culinary scene, plus fine arts, crafts, and live demonstrations by celebrity chefs.
Why You Should Go: It’s a feast for the senses and a perfect way to celebrate the region’s vibrant food culture.
More Info: Hudson Valley Wine & Food Festival
2. Modern Makers Market
Dates: September 21-22, 2024
Location: Hops on the Hudson, Beacon, NY
Join the Modern Makers Market for a unique shopping experience featuring talented artisans and makers from across the region. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Hudson Valley, this event offers handcrafted goods, one-of-a-kind art, and delicious local food.
Why You Should Go: Discover extraordinary craftsmanship, support local artists, and enjoy the beautiful Hudson Valley during peak fall foliage.
More Info: Hops on the Hudson
3. Kaatsbaan Cultural Park Annual Festival
Dates: September 13 - October 6, 2024
Location: Kaatsbaan Cultural Park, Tivoli, NY
This festival offers a blend of world-class visual arts, contemporary dance, and music, all set in the picturesque surroundings of Kaatsbaan Cultural Park. It’s an essential stop for anyone who appreciates high-quality performances in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Why You Should Go: It’s an arts lover’s dream, bringing top-tier performances right to the heart of the Hudson Valley.
More Info: Kaatsbaan Cultural Park
4. Hunter Mountain’s Oktoberfest
Dates: September 28 - October 13, 2024 (Weekends)
Location: Hunter Mountain Resort, Hunter, NY
Celebrate Oktoberfest in true Bavarian style with this lively event featuring traditional German food, live music, and local vendors. The breathtaking fall foliage at Hunter Mountain only adds to the festive atmosphere.
Why You Should Go: The combination of great beer, music, and stunning views makes this a perfect autumn outing.
More Info: Hunter Mountain
5. Coxsackie Riverside Festival
Date: September 21, 2024
Location: Coxsackie Riverside Park, Coxsackie, NY
This riverside festival is a family-friendly event with live music, local food, crafts, and a spectacular fireworks display to cap off the night. It’s a perfect day out by the Hudson River.
Why You Should Go: The festival offers a relaxed vibe with plenty of activities for all ages.
More Info: Coxsackie Riverside Festival
6. Taste of the Harvest at Cedar Lakes Estate
Date: September 29, 2024
Location: Cedar Lakes Estate, Port Jervis, NY
This farm-to-table dinner showcases the best of Hudson Valley’s harvest with a gourmet four-course meal in a stunning outdoor setting.
Why You Should Go: It’s an intimate dining experience that combines local flavors with the serene beauty of Cedar Lakes Estate.
More Info: Cedar Lakes Estate
7. Fall Crafts at Lyndhurst
Dates: September 13-15, 2024
Location: Lyndhurst Mansion, Tarrytown, NY
Set on the stunning grounds of the Lyndhurst Mansion, this craft show is one of the largest and most well-known in the region. With over 200 vendors offering unique handmade items, from jewelry to home décor, it’s a great place to find one-of-a-kind treasures.
Why You Should Go: The combination of high-quality crafts and the breathtaking Lyndhurst estate makes this event truly special.
More Info: Artrider Fall Crafts at Lyndhrst
8. Capital Apple & Wine Festival
Dates: September 28 - 29
Location: Columbia County Fairgrounds, Chatham, NY
This festival celebrates the apple harvest with everything from cider tastings, wine tastings to apple-themed crafts and activities. It’s a great event for families and anyone who loves fall
Why You Should Go: It’s the perfect way to embrace the start of fall, complete with apple picking, local wines, and more.
More Info: Capital Apple & Wine Festival
9. Hudson River Craft Beer Festival
Date: September 28, 2024
Location: People’s Waterfront Park, Newburgh, NY
Beer lovers, this one’s for you! Featuring over 80 breweries, cideries, and seltzers, this festival is a celebration of craft beverages in a scenic riverside setting.
Why You Should Go: With so many local and regional brews to try, it’s a must-visit for anyone who appreciates a good craft beer.
More Info: Hudson River Craft Beer Festival
10. Best of Hudson Valley Party
Date: September 26, 2024
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton, Poughkeepsie, NY
Celebrate the best that the Hudson Valley has to offer at this exclusive event, featuring local food, drinks, and live music. It’s a great way to sample the region’s top-rated offerings all in one place.
Why You Should Go: It’s a night of indulgence where you can taste and experience the finest the Hudson Valley has to offer.
More Info: [Best of Hudson Valley Party]
11. Hudson Valley Garlic Festival
Dates: September 30 - October 1, 2024
Location: Cantine Field, Saugerties, NY
For garlic lovers, this festival is a must. Featuring garlic-themed foods, cooking demonstrations, and garlic-inspired crafts, it’s a unique celebration of this beloved ingredient.
Why You Should Go: Where else can you enjoy garlic ice cream and stock up on all things garlicky?
More Info: Hudson Valley Garlic Festival
12. Roughcut Brewing Oktoberfest
Dates: September 28 - September 29, 2024
Location: Roughcut Brewing, Kerhonkson, NY
Celebrate Oktoberfest in style at Roughcut Brewing with two days of craft brews, live music, stein-holding contests, and plenty of German-inspired eats. This local brewery is known for its top-notch beer, and they’re pulling out all the stops to make this Oktoberfest one to remember.
Why You Should Go: It’s the perfect fall event with great beer, fun contests, family-friendly activities, and delicious food. Plus, Roughcut’s scenic location makes it an ideal spot for a fall day out.
More Info: https://www.roughcutbrewing.com/
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Larie’s Ending Thoughts
You know, there’s something special about spending summer in the Hudson Valley—it’s like each event is a little slice of what makes this place feel like home. From the buzz of local festivals to the simple joy of a perfect garlic knot (yes, that’s a thing), these moments remind us why we love living here. And honestly, who can resist the lure of a good craft fair or a wine tasting with friends? I certainly can’t.
So, as you fill your calendar with these events, remember to savor every moment—whether you’re finding that perfect hand-crafted gift at Lyndhurst or sampling your way through the Wine & Food Festival. And hey, if you see me wandering around with a cider in one hand and a basket of apples in the other, don’t be shy—come say hi! We can swap stories, share a laugh, and maybe even discover the next hidden gem together. Here’s to making the most of this summer, one festival at a time!
