Kaatskillz Pro-Am Freestyle Event
Empire Terrain Parks, Hunter Mountain, Hunter
February 23, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Get ready to shred it up at Hunter Mountain on Saturday, when the region’s best skiers and riders flock to the slopes for a pro competition. Anyone who dares to enter can show their stuff at the skate park for the chance to win prizes from sponsors like CLIF Bar, Oakley, and Hunter Mountain. At the end of the day, the top pro competitors will go home with a total of $1,500. Not ready for the rails? You can still scope out the event, which is hosted by Joey B of Freshies Media and features beats by an onsite DJ.
31st Annual CF Stair Climb
Corning Tower Concourse, Empire State Plaza, Albany
February 23, 8:30 a.m.
It’s a generally accepted fact that climbing stairs is not great (hello thigh burn and breathlessness). Climbing stairs for a cause, however, makes the oft-dreaded activity a little more bearable.
Case in point: the 31st Annual CF Stair Climb on Saturday brings together ambitious locals who want to climb the 42 floors, or 809 steps, of Corning Tower to raise money for cystic fibrosis. Participants can race as individuals, relay teams, or first responders with full gear. The fundraising minimum is $150 or $10 for first responders.
22nd Annual Chili Bowl Fiesta
SUNY Ulster, Stone Ridge
February 23, 2-7 p.m.
Calling all chili lovers! Hosted by the Women’s Studio Workshop, the 22nd annual festival invites locals to the SUNY Ulster Stone Ridge campus to warm up with a hearty meal and browse the beautiful selection of handmade bowls for sale. Live music will add color to the afternoon, which also features scrumptious helpings of chili donated by Hudson Valley restaurants. As for admission, it’s $10 from 2-4 p.m. and free from 4-7 p.m.
Free Introduction to Rowing
Hudson River Community Boathouse, Poughkeepsie
February 23, 4-5 p.m.
Have you ever dreamed of rowing your way along the Hudson River? Now’s your chance, thanks to the Mid-Hudson Rowing Association’s free introductory class. The one-hour session takes place inside the Hudson River Community Boathouse tanks, which emulate rowing shells. Once you learn the basic strokes, you’ll be ready for a test run (row?) on the river itself.
2nd Annual Black History Month Gala
La Mirage Restaurant and Catering, Ulster Park
February 23, 7-11 p.m.
This Saturday, Harambee invites the Hudson Valley to pay tribute to the region’s African American heritage at its second annual Black History Month Gala. The elegant fest at La Mirage features dancing, dinner, and networking opportunities. In addition, Harambee will also lead a special presentation to celebrate the honorees who have made a positive impact on the local community.
Related: Kingston Nonprofits Prepare for Black History Month
Hudsonics: A Hudson Valley Poets’ Cabaret of Enactment and Performance
Green Kill, Kingston
February 23, 7-10 p.m.
Prepare to be enchanted on Saturday evening when local poets come together at Green Kill for a night of imaginative spoken word and collaborative artistry. With seating for 45 guests, the intimate performance features 10 talented Hudson Valley poets who will showcase a diverse range of styles and works. BYOB is allowed, and light refreshments are available at Ozubar, Green Kill’s onsite snack and soda bar.
Love, Loss, and What I Wore
The Studio Around the Corner, Brewster
February 23, 7 p.m.
Head to Brewster for a free staged reading of Nora and Delia Ephron’s play based on a book by Ilene Beckerman. Led by 12 local actresses, the play recounts tales of how clothing shapes experiences and memories. While admission is free, reservations in advance are recommended. Expect a whole lot of laughs – and maybe even a few tears – from this one.
