Top 10 Events in November

Date Published: October 23, 2020

Our monthly list of Top 10 Events has been altered to ensure everyone can experience Dutchess’ exciting happenings – both virtual and in-person (while maintaining social distancing to keep everyone safe)!

1. Around the Kitchen Table hosted by the Culinary Institute of America

Sunday, November 1 and 8 at 5:00 p.m.

Here’s your chance to participate in an interactive virtual cooking session with Alumni Chefs from The Culinary Institute of America! Step into their kitchens as they share their secrets for creating both delicious dishes and a sense of community. On November 15th join Chef J.J. Johnson, a James Beard Award-winner, as he prepares Spicy Prawns in a Piri Piri Sauce. Then join Katianna and John Hong on November 8th as they prepare their favorites dishes. A cocktail using Poughkeepsie’s The Vale Fox Distillery’s Tod & Vixen’s Dry Gin 1651 will be featured alongside each dish! For more information, click here.

2. The Bardavon Presents Virtual Performances

Monday, November 2 at 9:00 A.M. online

Even though live theater performances may not be happening at the moment, we can still enjoy the arts on our home screens thanks to “Bardavon Presents’” Virtual Performances s! Tune in and watch “Rhapsody in Black,” (available Nov. 2 - Feb. 28) written and performed by LeLand Gantt and developed at NYC’s Actors Studio by Estelle Parsons. Rhapsody in Black is an electrifying one-man show that explores LeLand’s personal journey to understand and eventually transcend racism in America. You can also catch “Sugar Skull!” (available Nov. 2 - 13) and join the virtual Día de Muertos adventure. Sugar Skull, a charismatic candy skeleton, follows the music towards the ultimate party! Along the path, Sugar Skull meets many colorful characters who teach him how Day of the Dead is much more than a party — it is a celebration of life! For more information click here.

3. Mother Nature & Me by Clarkson University, Beacon Institute for Rivers and Estuaries

Wednesday, November 4 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Water Ecology Center at Denning’s Point

Join Clarkson's Beacon Institute's education staff on an adventure to learn about and explore nature, and fill curious minds. This program is for adults (parent, grandparent, guardian, etc.) and children ages 3-5. Children and adults will participate in exploring Denning’s Point State Park, take part in a lesson that begins with an engaging story followed by an outdoor nature and sensory play. Indoor and outdoor activity groups are limited to 10 participants. Advanced registration is required. For more information click here.

Photo by Ashley from The Hudson Valley Adventurer

4. Barret Art Center Presents Artist Talk with Ransome: The View From Home

Thursday, November 5, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. online

Join Barrett Art Center’s Executive Director Joanna Frang as she discusses with artist Ransome, his latest solo show “The View From Home”. He’ll share his creative process, the inspiration for this collection of pieces, and other ongoing projects. Ask Ransome any question during the live Q&A proceeding the Artist Talk. Registration is required. For more information, click here.

5. Hudson Valley Restaurant Week

Monday, November 9 through 22 at various locations in Dutchess County

The bi-annual Hudson Valley Restaurant Week is here! From November 9 to the 22, taste local cuisine at a discounted rate.With two-course pre-fixe lunches for $25.95 and Three-course pre-fixe dinners for $35.95, this is your chance to explore new spots, support your favorites, and celebrate the culinary scene in the Hudson Valley! View the 11 participating Dutches restaurants here. These curated menus will highlight locally sourced ingredients prepared by our talented local chefs. Outdoor seating will also be available at select restaurants, and takeout. Please check with individual restaurants for details. Reservations are now open, click here for more information.

6. Clermont State Historic Site Walk and Talk Tour -“The Livingstons and their Community During the Revolutionary War”

Sunday, November 15 & 20 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Clermont State Historic Site

Stroll through the grounds of Clermont State Historic Site with historic interpreters for a walk and talk tour discussing the important role Clermont and the Livingston family played during the American Revolution. Hear the stories of the family and other residents of Clermont including enslaved individuals, local Palatine tenants, and freeholders. It is suggested to wear comfortable shoes. There is no charge to attend the program, but visitors must register in advance. For more information, click here.

7. Art After Dark by The Art Effect

Thursday, November 19 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Join this year’s Art After Dark’s interactive online extravaganza full of stories and surprises as they honor Todd Poteet and Sade Sharas. Visit the Alumni Auction for ceramics, prints, and other works of art created by diverse and talented alumni. You can also view the Alumni Art Exhibit both online (link coming soon) and at The Trolley Barn until November 21. Art After Dark pairs perfectly with a cheese and charcuterie box filled with seasonal and local meats, produce, nuts, crackers, and cheese, artfully curated by Simply Gourmet. Plus, a bottle of wine from Millbrook Vineyard and Winery, and local chocolate from Oliver Kita. All available for purchase when you buy your event ticket. For more information, click here.

8. “A Christmas Carol” Presented by The CENTER for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck

Multiple dates in November and December, at The CENTER for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck

Get into the holiday spirit and enjoy Dickens’ holiday classic “A Christmas Carol” performed live by CENTER favorites. Pull into their grand lawn, drive-in style, and enjoy the show from your heated car! Directed and adapted by Lou Trapani with musical direction by Paul & JoAnne Schubert, this performance is appropriate for all ages. For more information, click here.

9. ERDAJT’s Holiday Christmas Light Display

Friday, November 27 in the Town of Union Vale

Marvel at the display of approximately 640,000 lights choreographed to some holiday favorites! Born out of a father’s desire to make the holidays magical for his kids, this light show holds the Guinness World Record for most lights on a residential property. Drive through this Dutchess holiday must-see, and experience the magic and wonder first-hand. The light display will be open starting Friday, November 27th through December. For more information, click here.

10. Hudson Valley Art Market at Locust Grove Estate

Friday, November 27 - 29 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Locust Grove Estate

This year, do your holiday shopping at the Hudson Valley Art Market, where local artists and makers come together to showcase their one-of-a-kind products. As a local alternative to big box stores, the market will also feature over 20 vendors, Fair Trade items, and gourmet foods. Make a day out of your visit by exploring the beautiful grounds of the historic Locust Grove Estate. Don’t forget to stop by the museum shop for more locally-made gifts and books. For more information click here.