The Crafted Kup in Poughkeepsie has just revamped its space. Popular with the Vassar College crowd, the coffee shop in the heart of Poughkeepsie’s Arlington district now offers close to 70 seats; a small stage for live events; and hip, modern decor. Two things that haven’t changed? The locally made baked goods and strong selection of coffees, teas, and smoothies. www.thecraftedkup.com
Oenophiles rejoice! The Wine & Food Festival of New Paltz heads to the Mohonk Mountain House from Apr. 22-24. Enjoy tastings, seminars, and celebrity chef demonstrations by Peter X. Kelly of Xaviars Restaurant Group; chef, author, and TV personality Sara Moulton; wine educator and Windows on the World Wine School founder Kevin Zraly; and more. www.internationalwinemasters.com
From the folks who brought you the Hudson Valley Wing Fest, the Hudson Valley Mac and Cheese Fest rolls into Washingtonville on April 30. Brotherhood Winery plays host to a day of cheesy bliss, during which participants can sample mac and cheese creations prepared by restaurants and chefs from across the Valley, all while sipping craft brews and the winery’s award-winning vintages. On hand for the fun: Mix N Mac of Middletown is set to dish out seven different types of mac and cheese, while Brothers Barbecue in Cornwall, Cosimo’s Restaurant Group, Whistling Willies of Cold Spring, and tons of other local eateries prepare their own versions of the popular casserole. (Insider’s tip: Be on the lookout for a certain lobster jalapeño mac and cheese; the word is it will be a crowd-pleaser.) Enjoy live music, games, and other comfort foods. And don’t forget to take advantage of the free self-guided tour of the winery while you’re there. Apr. 30 from 12:30-4:30 p.m. $25, VIP $50. Brotherhood Winery, Washingtonville. 845-590-1915; www.hvmacandcheesefest.com