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Hudson River tourism directors share their top picks for places to go, sights to see, and things to do throughout November.
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again. There are a ton of things to do in the Hudson Valley each month. Even in the face of the coronavirus, there exist dozens upon dozens of ways to experience the best of what the region has to offer. While they might not be traditional per se (virtual turkey trots, anyone?) they are engaging, entertaining, and a fantastic way to discover more about all the region has to offer.
To help scout out the best events in the Valley, we reached out to local tourism directors from Albany to Westchester for their top picks for things to do. Check out their selections, then get planning!
Throughout the Hudson Valley
Hudson Valley Restaurant Week
Throughout the Hudson Valley
November 1-14
The Valley Table’s signature dining event is back this month. Browse the list of participating restaurants and menus online before booking a table for a prix fixe meal that makes the most of Hudson Valley flavors.
Albany County
Discover Albany President and CEO Jill Delaney shares her top recommendations for the month.
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Fashionable Frocks of the 1920s
Albany Institute of History and Art, Albany
All month, 4:30 p.m.
Who loves fashion in the Hudson Valley? The Albany Institute of History and Art highlights a few dozen 1920s dresses from its historic clothing archive. Ultra-rich colors, dynamic patterns, and unique fabrics mark the style of “the Roaring ’20s.” Dive into the flapper culture all month long.
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Albany Lantern Parade
Washington Park Lakehouse, Albany
November 7, 4:30 p.m.
Albany’s sixth annual lantern parade returns to its regular format this November, after getting a socially distant twist last year. Held in a scenic outdoor setting, this event invites the Albany community to get creative and craft lanterns. The Albany Public Library supports the event with lantern-making kits so you can create your lantern out of recyclables at home. After that, everyone can snap photos of the city aglow.
The Irish and How They Got That Way
Capital Repertory Theatre, Albany
Starting November 19
Head to Capital Repertory Theatre in Albany for a musical about all-things Irish culture. The Irish and How They Got That Way uses classic show tunes and pop hits to tell the complete story of the Irish people. Writer Frank McCourt uses his wit to both celebrate his culture and detail the tribulations his people have endured.
Columbia County
Read up on Columbia County Tourism’s highlights for things to do in the Hudson Valley this month.
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Open Day – Equine Advocates
Equine Advocates, Chatham
November 13, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Do you love horses? Come to Chatham and spend a few hours strolling around a gorgeous farm with rescued donkeys, ponies, and horses. The farm invites visitors to picnic at the pond and enjoy the serenity of Columbia County. Plus, guests can learn about all of the animals and why they needed to be rescued.
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The Annual Panto “Rapunzel: The Tale of a Quaran-Teen”
The Ghent Playhouse, Ghent
November 26, 27, and 28
Bring the family out to Ghent to see a hilarious production by the Panto Loons. All their plays utilize the elements of traditional British pantomime, bringing in audience participation, wonderful songs, great characters, and even politics. This year, the group twists a classic Grimm fairytale, Rapunzel, into something fun for the whole family.
Dutchess County
Take a peek at Dutchess Tourism, Inc.’s top picks for things to do in Dutchess County this month.
49th Annual Train & Hobby Show
Mid-Hudson Civic Center, Poughkeepsie
November 7, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Anyone who enjoys trains will love Poughkeepsie’s hobby show. The massive space inside the Mid-Hudson Civic Center hosts all kinds of model exhibits, layouts, and vendors. Enjoy the spectacular Railrodiana, and check out the creations of other hobbyists.
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Christkindlmarkt
Germania, Poughkeepsie
November 19-20
It wouldn’t be the start of the holiday season without Poughkeepsie’s Christkindlmarkt. Explore Germania’s recreation of a European Christmas market. While there, dig into staple dishes and sweet holiday treats. Plus, get a head start on all your holiday shopping, and enjoy a mug of mulled wine as you go.
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The Wonderland of Lights
Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck
Starting November 25
Who’s already in the Christmas spirit? Get the season started at “The Wonderland of Lights” at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds. Tons of bright displays illuminate the night in this family-friendly experience in the Hudson Valley. Get your tickets online today.
Greene County
Look no further for the coolest attractions and activities in Greene County during the month.
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Festival of Trees
Anthony’s Banquet Hall, Leeds
November 12-14
Ready for the holiday season to begin? Greene County’s annual Festival of Trees returns, celebrating 25 years of seasonal cheer. Browse elaborately decorated wreaths and Christmas trees, and take a few home via silent auction. Plus, stop by food and craft vendors for plenty of snacks and holiday shopping. Don’t miss the arrival of Santa!
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Chilly Willy Winter’s Eve Tours
The Bronck Museum, Coxsackie
November 20-21
The Bronck Museum’s Chilly Willy Winter’s Eve Tours are perfect for anyone curious about the history of the Catskills. Find out firsthand how people celebrated early winter holidays in times past, including Martinmas, St. Nicholas Day, and St. Lucia Day. Your costumed guide grants special insight into a bygone era.
Windham Festival Chamber Orchestra
Orpheum Film & Performing Arts Center, Tannersville
November 27, 8 p.m.
Enjoy a classy night of live music in Tannersville. The Windham Festival Chamber Orchestra performs works by Schoenberg, Debussy, and Mahler. Tickets cost $25 per person.
Orange County
Check out Orange County Tourism Director Amanda Dana’s selections for the best things to do this month.
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Black Renaissance Festival – Visual Arts Exhibition
Safe Harbors of the Hudson, Newburgh
Saturdays through November 20, 1-5 p.m.
A total of 21 artists present their work at Safe Harbors of the Hudson this month, as the Newburgh visual arts exhibition hosts its second annual Black Renaissance Festival. Examine and celebrate creativity from emerging black voices at this month-long event. Plus, on November 21 at 5 p.m., Safe Harbors board member scholar Rev. Earl Miller leads a discussion on the Tulsa Massacre of 1921. Miller’s grandfather facilitated a congregation in Tulsa post-massacre. Today, Miller honors the lives lost, businesses burned, and homes destroyed during the atrocity.
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Chef’s Dinner: Bourbon and Bacon
City Winery Hudson Valley, Montgomery
Hungry for delicious dining? Head to City Winery Hudson Valley for breathtaking views, captivating history, and eclectic eats. This four-course tasting dinner pairs beer, wine, and, of course, bourbon with the cuisine. Follow along with beverage director Ganna Fedorova for top-notch combinations.
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Thanksgiving Centerpiece Making
Winding Hills Golf Club, Montgomery
November 18
Prep your Thanksgiving centerpiece at this Hudson Valley golf course. Join Winding Hills Golf Club in Montgomery for a buffet dinner, alongside a workshop for crafting tidy tablescapes. Of course, the Orange County landscape is perfect for fall leaf-peeping as well. If you’re interested, RSVP to info@windinghil
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Holiday Love Maker Market
Lewis Park, Warwick
November 26-27, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
If you need more inspiration for holiday shopping, turn to this Warwick maker market. “Holiday Love” assembles 40 Hudson Valley artisans in a peaceful park to replicate the magic of Christmas markets in NYC. Handmade presents add a certain flair that is unmatched.
Putnam County
Read up on Putnam County Tourism Director Tracey L. Walsh’s picks for things to do this month.
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Comedy With Clam Sauce
Putnam County Golf Course, Mahopac
November 6, 6:30 p.m.
Ready to laugh? Putnam County Golf Course hosts three “Italian stallions” for a night of comedy and eats. Dig into classics like sausage and peppers, eggplant rollatini, and linguini with clam sauce, to name a few. Chris Monty, Tommy Gooch, and John Santo take the stage and deliver a night to remember.
Photo by Mad Martigen, courtesy of Putnam County Tourism
Putnam History Hikes
North Redoubts Trailhead, Garrison
November 13, 12 – 3:30 p.m.
The Hudson Highlands are beyond beautiful this time of year. Take in their majesty while learning about the region’s past at one of Putnam History Museum’s history hikes. This event explores the North and South Redoubts, and details the chaining of the Hudson River during the Revolutionary War. The hike will last about three hours.
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Bring the Kids Goes Outside
Boscobel House and Gardens, Garrison
November 13, 9:30 a.m.
Embark on an hour-long walking tour through Boscobel House and Gardens with the family. Museum Educator Lisa reveals special highlights of the Garrison property’s verdant 68 acres. Plus, a children’s craft keeps things extra fun for the kiddies.
Rockland County
Take a browse through the hottest things to do in Rockland County throughout the month.
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Rockland Fashion Week
Palisades Center, West Nyack
November 6, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
If you love style and design, you have to attend Rockland Fashion Week. West Nyack highlights the work of both local and international designers. The clothes are accompanied by live music and other entertaining performances.
Music From Fiddler on the Roof with Violinist Kelly Hall-Tompkins
The Reform Temple of Rockland, Nyack
November 13, 7 p.m.
Broadway showtunes are absolutely timeless. Enjoy a night of renditions from Fiddler on the Roof, featuring renowned violinist Kelly Hall-Tompkins. She recently portrayed the “fiddler” on Broadway, so she knows a thing or two about “tradition.” Note, guests must show proof of vaccination to attend.
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Weekend Wine Tastings at Torne Valley Vineyards
Torne Valley Vineyards, Hillburn
Saturdays and Sundays, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Make the most of the vino paradise that is the Hudson Valley with a weekend wine tasting in Hillburn. Torne Valley pours wine alongside meals outside, making it the perfect place to spend an autumn afternoon.
Ulster County
Read up on Ulster County Tourism’s event highlights for the month.
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Family of New Paltz Turkey Trot
Online
November 1-30
New Paltz’s family turkey trot goes virtual to allow participants to run for fun throughout the month. Runners can complete their route from any location, and funds raised go toward Family of New Paltz’s work to run a food pantry and provide domestic violence and adolescent services in the Hudson Valley. Register online for this holiday 5K.
Photo courtesy of Ulster County Tourism
The Catskill Harvest and Christmas Express
Westbrook Lane Station, Kingston Plaza, Kingston
November 6-7, 13-14, 20-21
Catskill Mountain Railroad’s Polar Express ride may be canceled this year, but its Christmas Express is still choo-choo-ing through the Hudson Valley. Hop aboard for an adventure through the Catskill Forest to Santa’s Workshop at the North Pole. During the trip, passengers can snack on cookies, hot cocoa, and coffee to keep warm aboard the decorated and covered open-air flat cars. Bring blankets and cozy up during this seasonal to-do. Plus, before Christmas theming takes over, check out the autumnal Harvest Express.
Heart of the Hudson Valley Holiday Extravaganza and Thanksgiving Farmers Market
Marlboro Elementary School, Marlboro
November 20
Ready to get the holiday season started? The 11th iteration of this Thanksgiving farmers’ market offers fresh fruits and vegetables, organic baked goods, artisan cheese, and so much more. Craft the perfect Christmas foodie basket at this event. Plus, shop handmade furniture and crafts.
Westchester County
Discover the hottest happenings according to Westchester County Tourism this month.
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Lasdon Park
Lasdon Park, Katonah
All month long
It’s a wonderful time of year to get into crafting. At these Lasdon Park events, learn how to macramé, make decoupage, and create the perfect ornament for your tree. Plus, check out the wide range of shrubs and other plants ideal for the holiday season. Stay tuned for a potential announcement of “Holiday on the Hill,” an annual family tradition.
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Westchester’s Winter Wonderland
Valhalla
Starts November 26
Right after Thanksgiving, Westchester’s Winter Wonderland arrives to set the county aglow all holiday season long. This year, the fest takes on a 1.2-mile drive-thru format that leads visitors along a path filled with thousands of twinkling lights. Expect dancing trees, a candy cane lane, a 40-foot Christmas tree, and more show-stopping scenes. Plus, the new “elf disco” brings a lot of holiday cheer.
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Beauty from Ashes
Hudson River Museum, Yonkers
All month long
Painter, sculptor, and performance artist Jamel Robinson debuts “Beauty from Ashes” at the Hudson River Museum. This exhibition reflects on Robinson’s personal experiences and the Smithsonian’s “African American Art in the Twentieth Century” collection. Five works, including a mixed-media piece, will be on display. Robinson tackles everything from slavery and the civil rights movement to issues of police brutality.