Top 10 Events in December

Date Published: October 23, 2019

Kevin McCurdy’s Holiday Spirit Festival
November 29 – December 28, 2019 | Bowdoin Park, Wappingers Falls
A Hudson Valley's original, one of a kind, family holiday event! Celebrating its 14th anniversary, the Holiday Spirit Festival is like no other event, offering your family a place to make new memories and relive old ones. From its inception, this fest was designed to take you back to those days of yesteryear, with holiday tunnels, twinkling light displays, and more!

Holiday House Hunt for Kids
December 1, 8 and 15, 2019 | Locust Grove Estate, Poughkeepsie
Enjoy a holiday-themed scavenger hunt through the historic mansion, featuring lavish holiday decorations. Begin your adventure with a sweet treat and holiday performance by storyteller Lorraine Hartin-Gelardi! The hunt will run from 12-4pm with times at 12:15, 1:15, 2:15, and 3:15pm. $10/person, kids under 4 are free. Arrive by 3pm to enjoy the entire program!

A Christmas Carol Radio Play
December 5-22, 2019 | Clove Creek Dinner Theater, Fishkill
The Charles Dickens holiday classic comes to life as a live 1940s radio broadcast, complete with vintage commercials for fruitcake (extra-fancy), and the magic of live sound effects and musical underscoring. A handful of actors bring dozens of characters to the stage, as the familiar story unfolds: Three ghosts take Ebenezer Scrooge on a thrilling journey to teach him the true meaning of Christmas. A charming take on a family favorite that will leave no one saying "Bah Humbug!"

Celebration of Lights Parade & Fireworks
December 6, 2019 | Downtown Poughkeepsie
Get in the holiday spirit at this free event! The City of Poughkeepsie, in conjunction with the Bardavon, and many others will present the 26th annual Celebration of Lights Parade and Fireworks – event begins at 6:30pm.

Sinterklaas Festival
December 7, 2019 | Rhinebeck
The day features performances at venues throughout the village of Rhinebeck: dance, music and theatrics, tightrope walking, even fire juggling! Strolling musicians, dancing Grumpuses and a variety of colorful characters wander the streets of the village to delight children with stories and treats. Astride his white steed, Sinterklaas leads the Children’s Starlight Parade, which culminates in the center of town with the Sinterklaas pageant, honoring the children and ending with a stirring wish for peace.

Black and White Truffle Dinner
December 12, 2019 | The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park
Tis the season right? Why not indulge in the world’s most luxurious ingredient – the truffle! Join in on a welcome beverage, presentation, and tasting by our sponsor Sabatino Tartufi in Danny Kaye Theatre. Then, enjoy a succulent six-course meal redolent with the flavors of black and white truffles. Four of the courses will be paired with Piedmont and Campania wines. This evening is not to be missed. Event beings at 6pm. Tickets are $175 prepaid, all-inclusive. Reserve your seat now or call (845) 451-1014.

Holiday Craft Fair
December 14, 2019 | MJN – Majed J. Nesheiwat Conventer Center
This holiday craft fair will be highlighting Hudson Valley artists, crafters and local food products. Come out and support local! Admission and parking are free. Enjoy raffles and live music as you get some of that holiday shopping checked off your list!

Yuletide Tea
December 14, 2019 | Wilderstein Historic Site, Rhinebeck
Festive holiday event featuring fine tea, finger sandwiches, homemade cakes and cookies. Includes tour of the mansion. Reservations are necessary, as seating is limited. Admission is $35. To purchase tickets, call (845) 876-4818 or click here to register online.

The Vanaver Caravan
December 14 & 15, 2019 | Kaatsbaan, Tivoli
Into the Light is a multi-cultural winter holiday show for the whole family. “This unique holiday production celebrates multicultural traditions and inspires diverse audiences of all ages”. Shows both Saturday and Sunday at 1pm and 4pm.

Polar Express Night
December 16, 2019 | Hyde Park Train Station Museum, Hyde Park
Don’t miss the annual Polar Express Readings at 6 and 7pm while you enjoy crafts, hot cocoa and a visit from Santa. This event if free and a great experience for families with children!

*To the best of our knowledge, this information is correct as of publish date 11/12*