Aside from the long-debunked notion that you shouldn’t wear white once Labor Day passes, there isn’t too much mystique surrounding the annual occasion, which was created in the late 1800s to celebrate Americans’ collective work ethic. Though the summer’s last long weekend does provide a perfect opportunity to hit local beaches and public pool before they close for fall.
Fortunately, the Hudson Valley affords a wide range of ways to send off summer, both in and out of the water. And to spare you the effort of digging for an agenda, we gathered a handful of attention-grabbing leisure activities happening in our region this upcoming Sept. 2-5.
Labor Day Celebration with The West Point Band
Rounding out its “Music Under the Stars” concert series, the West Point Band will host its annual Labor Day Celebration on Sept. 3 at its Trophy Point Amphitheater. To get down to brass tacks, pack a picnic and expect to see a brilliant fireworks display and live cannon fire set over a beautiful Hudson River view. You’ll want to toot your own horn to all your friends after this one.
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Photo courtesy of West Point Band
For those taking it easy in Greene County, visit the Family Fun Day Festival hosted at the MJQ Irish Cultural & Sports Centre. From carnival rides to beer and food vendors, the Sept. 3 event will be great for both kids and adults, especially since any child under 12 has free admission. Plus, there will be live music, karaoke, and a fireworks display at night, so you’ll be seeing the season off with a bang.
Enjoy the great outdoors
Yes, it’s September, but the weather tends to still trend warm. So why not plan an outdoor excursion? There’s no shortage of state parks in the Hudson Valley region open for camping that feature miles of paths for hiking and biking, beaches, and even a few museums. Check out Thacher State Park, Grafton Lakes State Park (for beachgoers), and Peebles Island State Park (museum lovers). And for more hiking hotspots, check out our Top 30 Hiking and Biking Adventures.
If you can’t have enough of the yellow stuff, make sure to cross the Westchester county border and stop by Historic Hudson Valley’s corn-centric community festival in Sleepy Hollow. There will be games and races, and of course plenty of food and cooking demonstrations from local chefs. Kids will definitely get a kick out of the maize maze, and history buffs can enjoy a tour of the 18th century Manor House and Mill. Live art, music, and ice cream from the Blue Pig will make for a party worth stalking about.
