Who doesn’t fantasize about dashing off to a beach vacation in Ibiza or a countryside retreat in France? Unfortunately for most of us, such daydreams are destined to remain tucked inside the crevices of our imagination. Don’t let that get you down, though! This summer, the Hudson Valley goes on a globetrotting journey as it welcomes a slew of cultural fests. From Puerto Rican movies and Caribbean flavors to Japanese ceremonies and Latin beats, the Valley has the best of world right here in New York.
Bon-Odori Dance Festival for Peace
August 4, 12-8 p.m.
Kingston Point Beach, 53 Delaware Ave, Kingston
In honor of its eighth year, the Bon-Odori Dance Festival returns to Kingston to honor “Obon,” the Buddhist practice of remembering ancestors, family, and friends. The community event will feature traditional Japanese dance performances, Taiko drumming, and martial arts demonstrations in addition to a prayer ritual for victims of radiation disasters led by Buddhist monk, Kenjitsu Nakagaki. Local food and business vendors will also be the grounds for eating and shopping respites throughout the day.
Dancers at the Bon-Odori Festival / Photo by Liam Francis Mulcahy
Benefit for Puerto Rico
August 4, 2 p.m.
Old Dutch Church, 272 Wall St, Kingston
On the first Saturday in August, head to the historic Old Dutch Church in Kingston to celebrate Puerto Rican culture in the Hudson Valley and raise funds for the Hispanic Federation’s Unidos Relief and Recovery Program to Support Puerto Rico. Come to watch From Mambo to Hip Hop, a film that recognizes the Puerto Rican contribution to American popular music. Afterward, DJ Manuel Blas will lead a post-film discussion. If you love Latin hip hop or want to learn more about the music of the region, this is the event for you.
Hudson Valley Flamenco Festival
August 12-15
Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main St, Rosendale
Dancers and dancers-at-heart can flock to the Hudson Valley Flamenco Festival this August to witness the talented performers that call the region home. Throughout the week, flamenco shows will take place throughout the Rosendale area. On Saturday, August 11, locals can head to the Rosendale Theatre for a “Cante, Baile, Toque” event. The following day, on Sunday, the festival will screen La Chana, the award-winning flamenco documentary film directed by Lucija Stojevic. Follow the event on Facebook to learn more about the performances for the week.
Saugerties Caribbean Carnival
August 12, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Cantine Veterans Memorial Complex, 207 Market St, Saugerties
Presented by Seasoned Delicious Foods co-founder Tamika Dunkley, the Caribbean Carnival comes to the Greco Senior Center at Cantine Veterans Memorial Complex for its inaugural year. The colorful fest will feature local food vendors, a drum circle, face painting, craft vendors, and performances throughout the day. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their carnival costume best, since the individual with the best get-up will receive a $250 prize. Proceeds from the fun-filled day benefit Lighthouse TV23 of Saugerties.
