It’s the first weekend of November and with the weather looking warm, we’ve compiled a multitude of means to help distract you from pre-Election Day jitters. So, get out there Hudson Valley.
Albany
What: Rev up your engines and check out the latest models from more than 30 auto manufacturers, featuring everything from all-electric to speedy race car prototypes.
When: Friday, Nov. 4 through Sunday, Nov. 6
Where: Times Union Center, Albany
Columbia
Peripheral Natural Wine Festival
What: With some of the best vineyards in the country right here in the Hudson Valley, it’s no surprise that this event would attract worldwide winemakers and appreciators. Join them for a salon-style tasting, featuring more than 20 labels, including the killer new kid on the block, Suarez Family Brewery.
When: Saturday, Nov. 5, 12 pm
Where: BackBar, Hudson
Dutchess
What: Not an artist? Not a problem. Grab yourself a good pour, and you’ll be painting like Picasso in no time.
When: Sunday, Nov. 6; 2:30 pm
Where: Piano Piano Wine Bar, Fishkill
Dutchess Handmade Pop-Up Shop Opening Reception
What: This year, get your holiday shopping done early. With a selection of locally curated jewelry, ceramics, home décor items, and more, you can find something for everyone on your list. Friday marks the shop’s opening day, but you can visit through Dec. 17.
When: Friday, Nov. 4; 5:00 p.m.
Where: Arts Mid-Hudson, Poughkeepsie
Greene
What: Relax and revive yourself in the serenity of this three-day Catskills retreat. Practice traditional and emerging yoga styles through various workshops and community-oriented events. Stay for the spiritual sounds of musical greats, performing throughout the weekend.
When: Friday, Nov. 4 through Sunday, Nov. 6
Where: Hunter Mountain, Hunter
Orange
What: Although you may think of Thanksgiving dinner in terms of turkey and stuffing, you won’t find either at this festive feast. An ode to the area’s Civil War history, Monroe’s Museum Village will replicate traditional 19th century Thanksgiving recipes for sampling, including General Grant’s cucumber salad, gingerbread, and hardtack (a hard, biscuit-like cracker).
When: Saturday, Nov. 5 through Sunday, Nov. 6
Where: Museum Village, Monroe
Putnam
What: The tale of Nordic warriors battling monsters, demons, and other the forces of evil, Beowulf is one of the longest standing poetic masterpieces in the English language. See the performance live this weekend with players from Hawk Rock Theater, incorporating puppetry, masks, and Old English tongue.
When: Multiple showings Saturday, Nov. 5 through Sunday, Nov. 6
Where: Arts on the Lake, Kent Lakes
Rockland
Rockland Votes! Election History Exhibition
What: Before you head to the polling booth on Tuesday, take a look at the history of American presidencies and pertinent issues within Rockland, and the many that still resonate today.
When: Sunday, Nov. 6, 1 pm
Where: Historical Society of Rockland County History Center, New City
Ulster
Woodstock: 100 Years of the Arts Gala
What: Woodstock has been a major American artistic landmark long before Bob Dylan ever stepped on the scene. On Saturday, celebrate its rich musical culture and influence with live performances from local greats like Connor Kennedy and Mik & Giles, and historical multi-media style presentations.
When: Saturday, Nov. 5, 8 pm
Where: Woodstock Playhouse, Woodstock
Red Hook & The Chocolate Festival
What: Chocolate is taking over Red Hook, and everyone’s in on the fun. Tour the town and stop by multiple village vendors for tastings, competitions, demos, and decadence. But before you fill your face with tarts and treats, save yourself some day-after gut guilt with the early morning 5k Hot Chocolate Run or the infamous afternoon Chocolate Olympics.
When: Saturday, Nov. 5, 11 am
Where: Red Hook Village