We’ve got the beat
Sept. 15: Fresh Beat Band Kiki, Shout, Marina, and Twist — four friends whose popular show spices up TV’s Nick Jr. — rock out on the stage at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. The group’s fun songs — such as “Bananas” and “Just Like a Rockstar” — bring the crowd to their feet. Much like the TV show, the live performance teaches preschoolers the ins and outs of music. 2:30 p.m. $31-$51. 200 Hurd Rd., Bethel. 866-781-2922 or www.bethelwoodscenter.org
Off to the fair
Through Sept. 3: Columbia County Fair You’ve seen horse races and dog races, but have you ever seen a pig race? At this county fair, there’s a chance to see one every day. And the speedy swine aren’t the only act worth watching: Musicians and magicians perform throughout the day as fair attendees munch on scrumptious goodies. Be sure to cheer on the cowboys in the Painted Pony Rodeo, and don’t miss the action at the Monster Tractor Pull. 10 a.m. $10, children under 12 free. 32 Church St., Chatham. 518-392-2121 or www.columbiafair.com
Meet and greet
Sept. 15: Children’s Book Day What could be better than curling up in a comfy chair with a beloved book? Meeting and talking to the author of said beloved book, of course! At Washington Irving’s Sunnyside, more than 50 authors and illustrators of children’s books gather to greet their fans. Little readers can ask questions about their favorite characters, bring htome signed copies, and take pictures with the writers. 12 p.m. $14, $8 children. 3 W. Sunnyside Ln., Tarrytown. 914-631-8200 or www.hudsonvalley.org
Starry night
Sept. 15: STARLAB Planetarium Plunge into the Mid-Hudson Children’s Museum’s inflatable celestial world to learn all about the seasonal constellations. Discover why the North Star never moves, but other stars do. An expert star-gazer explains all while aspiring astrologers marvel at the glittering sky. 6 & 7 p.m. $11.50. 75 N. Water St., Poughkeepsie. 845-471-0589 or www.mhcm.org
Moon walkers
Sept. 28: Harvest MoonWalk The Hudson Valley Rail Trail is open after dark just one day each year. So bundle up, grab your flashlight, and take a nighttime stroll with fireflies lighting your way. Conclude the evening sitting around a bonfire, listening to a storyteller, and munching on donuts, popcorn, and cider. Walk begins at the Rail Trail Depot and ends at Tony Williams Park. 9 p.m. $5, under 6 free. 101 New Paltz Rd., Highland. 845-691-2066 or www.hudsonvalleyrailtrail.net