Looking for things to do in the Hudson Valley in July? We’ve got you covered.
Summer Hike-a-Thon Scavenger Hunt
Albany County
July 1–31
The Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy encourages families to hit the trails for this month-long scavenger hunt. Register online to receive clues; painted reptiles and amphibians will be hiding throughout all 22 MHLC preserves as well as along the Helderberg-Hudson Rail Trail. Submit photos of your findings to win free ice cream certificates and be entered into fun raffles.
The Marvelous Wonderettes
Albany
Tuesday–Sunday through July 14, 7 p.m.
Following the friendship of four girls through high school and adulthood, this production brings the audience on a journey through the ‘50s and ‘60s with classic hits from each era. This musical is free to the public and takes place at Washington Park’s Park Playhouse.
New York State’s 4th of July Celebration
Albany
July 4, 5–10 p.m.
Gather at the Empire State Plaza for a night full of local live music, food and drink vendors, and other patriotic activities. The night ends with a fireworks display over the state’s capital city.
Independence Day Celebration
West Point
July 6, 7:30 p.m.
The weekend after the fourth, head to the Trophy Point Amphitheater for a patriotic performance by the West Point Band. After the music, stick around for the fireworks display over the Hudson River.
Off-the-Vine Comedy Night
Marlboro
July 6, 8 p.m.
At Benmarl Winery, order a glass of vino and enjoy this night of varietal comedy, which includes stand-up acts, storytellers, and improv groups. The performance takes place under a large tent on the grounds.
Artist Workshop Series
Yonkers
July 10, 1–3 p.m.
Join self-taught artist Madge Scott—whose work appears in the Hudson River Museum’s current exhibition, “Rivers Flow / Artists Connect”—for a guided drawing and painting workshop inspired by the life of rivers. Participants will draw or paint a riverscape with boats and barges traveling up it.
Chatham SummerFest
Chatham
July 13
Thousands will gather in Chatham as the town blocks off Main Street for a day of entertainment, food vendors and makers, and more summer activities. There will be live music throughout the day and the SummerFest parade.
The Day the Earth Stood Still
Rosendale
July 13, 9:30 p.m.
Head to the Rosendale Theatre for a Saturday night creature feature, a showing of the 1951 sci-fi classic “The Day the Earth Stood Still.” Guests wearing alien attire to match the movie’s theme will receive discounted admission.
Catskills Irish Arts Week
East Durham
July 14–20
Celebrate the traditions of Ireland with demonstrations and workshops in writing, music, and language at the MJQ Irish Cultural & Sports Centre. The week ends with the East Durham Trad Fest on Saturday, full of musical and dance performances and food from local vendors.
Summer Shorts Film Fest
New Paltz
July 18–21
Returning for its second year, this festival will present film projects—30 minutes or less—from both local and national creators. Shorts will be screened over four days at the DENIZEN Theatre in the bustling Water Street Market.
Upstate Art Weekend
Various locations
July 18–21
This four-day self-directed tour features over 130 artists and art centers that will be showcasing exhibitions, projects, and open studio tours throughout the Valley. Participating locations include Bard College’s Hessel Museum of Art, KinoSaito, Manitoga, and many more.
Community Clean-Up
Poughkeepsie
July 19, 2–3:30 p.m.
The Youth Arts Empowerment Zone and the Trolley Barn Gallery are calling on community members to help pick up trash around the gallery’s Main Street location. After the clean-up, check out the current exhibition “Earth’s Reflection,” a collection of multimedia works that draw attention to pollution prevention.
Walkway at Night
Highland and Poughkeepsie
July 19, 8:30–10 p.m.
Enjoy evening views of the river and the Poughkeepsie skyline from the Walkway Over the Hudson on one special night. Tickets are $5—kids 12 and under get in free—and can be bought online or at the gate.
Catamount Thirsty Cat Festival
Hillsdale
July 20–21
At the Catamount Mountain Resort, listen to live music, sip on local ciders, beers, and wines, and order from a variety of food vendors at this annual summer festival. Bring the kids; they can take part in family-friendly activities and games.
Christmas in July Fundraiser
Newburgh
July 21, 12–4 p.m.
The spirit of giving is alive at this Ice Time Sports Complex event raising money to buy gifts for children in local foster care. Included in the ticket price: two hours of skate time, crafts and games, photos with Santa, and more. Concessions and raffles will also be onsite.
Treat Yourself
Accord
Get some much-needed R&R in Accord: Last month, luxury hotel Inness unveiled its new full-service spa and gym. Situated in the center of the property, the wellness complex (open to hotel guests, members, and the public) features sauna and steam rooms, an indoor tranquility pool, five spa treatment rooms, an outdoor cold plunge tank, and a year-round heated pool with views of the surrounding Shawangunks. Open 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. For more info, visit inness. co/wellness.
