What to Do This Weekend: October 21-23, 2016

While we wish this week’s abnormal autumn heat would stretch into the rest of eternity, we’re ready for the weekend, no matter the weather. So join us if you’re looking to sing, sip, or scare. Here’s where:

The Woodstock Invitational Luthiers Showcase, Woodstock

Whether you’re a strumming sensation or a wishful wannabe, this acoustic instrumental fest will get you jammin’ no matter your performance level. Purchase a freshly polished, hand-crafted six-string, or head straight for the performance stage to hear guitar greats like resonator guitar master Jerry “Flux” Douglas, the self-taught French-Algerian Pierre Bensusan, and jazz guitarist Bucky Pizzarelli. Looking to learn from legends? Sit in on nearly a dozen musical clinics over the three-day period to enhance skills like song-writing and alternate tuning, or better specific styles and techniques. There’s event a rare instrument exhibit, and social gatherings for worship-based bonding and camaraderie of the like.

Hudson Valley Horror Con and Boo Ball, Newburgh

Treat by day turns trick by night, as clean, kid-friendly fare goes dark after dusk. It’s the perfect spook party for anyone of any age, with pumpkin painting, witch story time, trick-or-treating, and a costume contest for little monsters, followed by a late night of dancing and thrills for grown-up ghouls. But be warned, after 8 pm the Boo Ball is 18 and up, so don’t be afraid to bust out your freaky side.

ArtEast Studio Tour, Multiple locations

This art adventure calls for a foliage-filled road trip. More than 40 local artists are opening their workspace doors to the public, educating enthusiasts on their creative processes and background behind their artistic influences. You’ll witness work through various mediums, including classic paintings and drawings, along with more abstract examples of woodwork and fiber art. While there’s no set itinerary for this self-guided driving tour, bright yellow signs across the counties will denote a venue’s participation.

Festival of Nations, Albany

With nearly 25 nations represented, take pride in your own heritage, or explore a new culture at this celebration of vivid local diversity. You’ll travel around the globe in just one day, experiencing the food, native music, and traditional dress of countries including Armenia, Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Nepal, Scotland, and Taiwan. And if you plan on attending, make sure you stick around for the parade of nations, where each culture will unify among the streets of their shared home city.

Fall Foliage Wine Tour, Multiple locations

Why visit one winery when you can drink at three? Sip your way through a trio of area vineyards this Saturday during a six-hour, scenic shuttled tour, barnyard lunch, and wine tasting. Once you board the mini coach bus from one of multiple convenient Beacon and Fishkill stops, you’ll start your journey to notable Valley wine destinations, including Brotherhood Winery, Adair Vineyards, and Glorie Farm Winery, with a stop for gourmet lunch provisions at Gardiner’s Kiernan Farm. Hear their stories, sample their wine, and learn firsthand how it’s all made. And while you’re at it, take in the vivid vineyard views along the way — perfect for many Instagram-able photo ops.