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Don’t put away your Easter hats just yet — the Kentucky Derby is coming to Dutchess County. “Over Hill and Dale,” the Maplebrook School’s Regional Artists Show, features art for sale by more than 30 artists from in and around the Valley. The works reflect the pastoral beauty of our region with a prominent emphasis on equestrian art. The monthlong show commences with a Kentucky Derby Day (May 2, 5-8 p.m.) complete with traditional Derby fare (including mint juleps), a broadcast of the race, and some modified betting. All proceeds benefit the school’s fine arts program. Through June 7, call for hours. 5142 Rte. 22, Amenia. 845-373-8557, ext. 246
For 45 years folk icon Judy Collins has been wooing listeners with her soft sound and deeply affecting personal courage (her 2003 memoir Sanity and Grace: A Journey of Suicide, Survival and Strength focuses on the tragic death of her only son). A classically trained pianist, Collins’ folk career has produced over 40 albums, several Grammy nominations, and numerous Top 10 hits — including a Grammy-winning cover of Sondheim’s “Send in the Clowns.” For one night, the dulcet-toned songstress brings her poetic performance style to Kingston’s UPAC. May 3 at 7 p.m. $40-$60. 601 Broadway, Kingston. 845-339-6088
She’s been likened to Streisand, Piaf, and Dietrich, but smoky-voiced Karen Akers is a household name in her own right. Her sold-out debut at Carnegie Hall in 1983 set the stage for a successful career on Broadway, in film, and in concert halls around the globe. Akers visits Caramoor for an evening of “Cabaret in the Music Room;” she croons tunes by Jule Styne, the famed composer responsible for classic musicals like Funny Girl and Gypsy. A champagne reception follows. May 2 at 8:30 p.m. $75-$200. 149 Girdle Rd., Katonah. 914-232-1252
It’s 1958, and teenage heartthrob Conrad Birdie just got drafted. As America’s teenyboppers erupt in protest, a nationwide contest leaves lucky winner Kim McAfee slated to plant a farewell kiss on sweet Birdie live on the Ed Sullivan Show. Chaos and romance ensue as Birdie and his entourage move into Kim’s sleepy Midwestern home. Bye Bye Birdie, the raucous satire and winner of eight Tony Awards including Best Musical, comes to the Lycian Centre for the Performing Arts on May 3 at 5 p.m. $45, $33.75 youth under 19. Kings Highway, Sugar Loaf. 845-469-2287
Nothing like seeing 200,000 blossoming tulips to make a cold upstate winter seem a distant memory. Spend Mother’s Day awash in the beautiful colors of spring at the annual Albany Tulip Festival. This year’s festivities include the traditional Tulip Queen Coronation, Luncheon, and Royal Tulip Ball, as well as the return of last year’s Wellness Garden where local and national vendors offer experiential activities for your body and soul. Crafts, children’s activities, food, and music round out this 61-year-old tradition. May 8-10. Sat.-Sun. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Washington Park, Albany.