Summer is all about feeling great in your skin. It is the perfect time to get outdoors and work on your health. If you are seeking fun and entertaining ways to get active this season, look no further. There are plenty of wellness activities around the Hudson Valley that you and your family will enjoy.  
Animal Walks at Clover Brooke Farm
Ongoing
Hyde Park
Yep, you read that right. This summer, get active by walking a donkey or goat. Walking with an animal can lower cortisol levels (which is a stress hormone). Plus, animals are great listeners. They will quietly listen to your stresses and worries on your peaceful stroll through the beautiful pastures, meadows, sheep paddocks, and past the bass pond at Clover Brooke. This wellness event is great for both children (not recommended for children under five years old) and adults, as the donkeys and goats are bound to make everyone smile.  Be sure to book these experiences at Clover Brooke Farm online. Hiking experiences with alpacas and llamas are also available for participants eight years old and up (anyone under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult).
Your time on the farm will start off with a tour of the grounds and an introduction to other animal friends that live there, such as the sheep, goats, llamas, alpacas, and barn cats. You will also get to meet the donkeys, who will surely be delighted to see you. You’ll have an hour to walk around with your donkey. Â
Rooftime Volleyball Tournament
July 13 and 14
Fishkill
Calling all volleyball lovers! The 32nd annual two-day volleyball tournament to support Hudson River Housing takes place this July at the East Fishkill Community Center. Beginners and more experienced volleyball players are encouraged to attend. The friendly competition will consist of reverse coed doubles on Saturday and men’s and women’s triples on Sunday. All proceeds, including the registration fee, merchandise purchases, and bake sale purchases, go to Hudson River Housing—a nonprofit based in Dutchess County that is committed to improve communities through affordable housing and sustainable development.
Catskill Mountain Yoga Festival
July 27 ; Rain date July 28
Roxbury
Held for the fourth year on top of Plattekill Mountain in Roxbury, this family-friendly wellness event is quite possibly the best day of the year for any yogi (or aspiring yogi). Join Raegan Reed, owner of The Cardio Club & Delhi Dance Studio and yoga/fitness connoisseur, and headliner Kelly Kamm (known for her yoga storytelling), along with many other talented yoga instructors. Â
Enjoy a day filled with over 40 yoga classes, meditation, and workshops. All are welcome to attend the festival, and those who purchase a basic pass can take part in three yoga classes. The VIP pass gives you access to VIP parking and four yoga classes.
Kids’ passes are available as well, and include a kids’ yoga class. General admission passes for the wellness event can be purchased if you want to take a ski lift ride to the top of the mountain, hike, or check out other happenings while friends and family are attending yoga classes. Vendor offerings include tarot card readings, henna, local artisans and crafters, massages, and local food.
Walkway at Night
July 19, August 17, and September 20
Highland and Poughkeepsie
A few times a year, the Walkway Over the Hudson is open at night to deliver unmatched views of the river and stars. This summer, take the opportunity to get your walk on across the Hudson River in the evening. In addition to being a must for the nighttime views, this is a great way to enjoy the Walkway with cooler temperatures in the summer. The event is free to attend for Walkway members, while non-members can purchase tickets for $5 ahead of time (pre-registration is recommended) or at the gate. Weather permitting, Mid-Hudson Astronomical Association will be on the bridge with telescopes to view the night sky. All proceeds benefit the Friends of the Walkway nonprofit organization, which is hosting the event.
Millbrook Vineyards Wine Run 5K
August 25
Millbrook
Attention all wine lovers! Do you love to run or walk? If so, this 5K at the beautiful Millbrook Vineyards is for you. Running and walking are excellent ways to care for your health and support overall wellness. End the summer right with this 5K race, which includes a T-shirt, wine glass, finisher medal (which also doubles as a wine coaster), and pour of wine. The top three finishers in each age category will receive a custom age group award. The charity partner for the event is Angels of Light, an organization aimed at helping children and families with life-threatening illnesses. Sign up for the 5K here. Â
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