Special Events in Dutchess County, NY

America As You Like It • 17 December 2018

The Top Events for 2019!

Hudson Valley Hot Air Balloon Festival

July 12-14, 2019

The Hudson Valley Hot-Air Balloon Festival is in its 28th year of hosting balloonists and vendors from all over the country. The festival's history has evolved into a Hudson Valley tradition and has grown into a full weekend of activities, drawing tens thousands of visitors from all over the world. Some of the festival favourites are the evening Majestic Hot-Air Balloon Illumination Moon Glow, tether rides, and rides in the hot-air balloons throughout the weekend! In addition to 100 balloon launches scheduled annually, there are helicopter rides, hayrides, games, live music, adult and children's activities and so much more.

Dutchess County Fair

August 20-25, 2019

A 6-day fair celebrating all things agriculture with fair rides, shopping, interaction with all types of animals an exotic zoo, and of course fair food.

For six days each August, the bucolic fairgrounds on Route 9 in Rhinebeck plays host to nearly half a million patrons. The second largest county fair in New York State is the showplace for agriculture in Dutchess County. Over 147 acres of finely manicured gardens and grass create the beautiful setting for thousands of farm animals, agricultural exhibits and horticultural displays.

The fairgrounds becomes an entertainment destination where big name talent can be enjoyed, “thrill a minute” excitement can be experienced at one of the finest carnivals in the entire country, free shows and attractions can be viewed almost constantly from the time you arrive to the time you leave. The tradition of excellence that has been the Dutchess County Fair for over 170 years offers something for everyone and creates memorable moments that will be cherished for a lifetime.

Hudson Valley Wine & Food Fest

Sept 7-8, 2019

Wine makers come from all across NY State to offer samplings and deals. Event also has live music and food trucks and features artisanal beer and spirits made only in NY.

The Hudson Valley Wine & Food Fest celebrates the bounty of wine, food and fun in the Hudson Valley all in one place. This annual event takes place the weekend following Labor Day, every September at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck, NY. Enjoy hundreds of wines from Hudson Valley Wineries, Cideries, Distilleries, Craft Beers, Food Trucks and Gourmet Foods.

Sinterklaas in Rhinebeck

Dec 7, 2019

The region was founded by the Dutch so Rhinebeck celebrates Sinterklaas (the Dutch version of Santa) with all day music events, entertainment all around the historic village, entertainment in the streets and at dusk, the parade with live animals and giant puppetry telling the story of Sinterklaas and ending of course, with Sinterklaas himself.

Combine your trip with a visit to see the holiday decorated mansions and historic estates (9 in total) and an easy train trip into NYC for more shopping!

With natural scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, historic landmarks, restaurants, and more, begin your Hudson River Valley getaway in Dutchess County, New York!

7 nights from £910pp including flights, train, car hire & hotel. Call 020 8742 8299 for more details.

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