Area farms and specially curated local products will showcase alongside live entertainment and family fun at Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park and along the Hudson Valley Rail Trail this coming weekend.
With crispness in the air and beautiful fall foliage in the trees, the Walktoberfest Farmers and Makers Market brings a curated selection of the Hudson Valley’s finest producers – farms, distilleries, breweries, wineries, restaurants, artists, artisans, and more – to the Hudson Valley Rail Trail and west approach to Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park on Saturday, October 21 and Sunday, October 22 from 12-5 p.m. More than 190 vendors will exhibit their wares for purchase, with many agribusinesses offering free samples or tastings. For complete information, visit walkway.org/walktoberfest.
General admission to Walktoberfest is $5, with entry valid for either day. Admission includes full access to all vendors, samplings of wine, beer and spirits from more than 25 area purveyors, a full day of live music and specialty performances, art installations, games and activities for kids and much more. Walkway members and children under 12 are free. All proceeds benefit the Friends of the Walkway nonprofit organization. To learn more about Walkway membership and to secure your complimentary Walktoberfest tickets, visit join.walkway.org.
“Walktoberfest is always one of the best weekends on the Walkway calendar,” said Lori Robertson, Executive Director, Friends of the Walkway. “From the beautiful autumn surroundings to vendors showcasing the Hudson Valley’s finest, it’s always wonderful to see the community come together to have a great time.”
For attendees 21 years of age and older, the chance to sample from more than 25 of the area’s top wine, beer, cider and spirits producers is included with every $5 Walktoberfest ticket.
Walktoberfest features many of the Hudson Valley’s top food trucks and culinary offerings – including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten free options! Wood Fire Company will show off samples of their new menu alongside bites and treats of varying cuisines. Don’t forget to save room for something sweet from Nancy’s Artisanal Ice Cream among the more than 22 food vendors participating.
Children under 12 receive free admission to Walktoberfest and will find many engaging activities to ensure they have a memorable day out. Kids can meet a new furry friend with Parrots For Peace, Two by Two Zoo, or the Wayward Ranch Animal Sanctuary. Crazy For Art, Music For Humanity, and Brick House Resellers Lego Building will help them tap into their creative side, while visiting the Hudson River Sloop Clearwater proves learning about local ecology can be fun. And don’t miss the chance to get your child’s photo taken with his or her favorite superhero (sponsored by MGI International) or princess that will be on site throughout the event.
Live entertainment is a staple at Walktoberfest, with local favorites 7th 7eam playing rock, pop, and hip-hop, while TriviaBreak with Andre tests your knowledge. Jasparoo Duo brings a Bluegrass feel on Saturday. DJ’s from iHeart Media of the Hudson Valley will spin the hits in-between, with kids enjoying the dynamic Tiny Bubbles Ukulele. And don’t miss pop-up dance shows and the special Hudson Valley Sustainable Fashion Show taking place both days.
The entirety of Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park will remain accessible at no cost throughout Walktoberfest. Parking is free along Haviland Road and in the Town of Lloyd lot (87 Haviland Road, Highland). Additional parking is available at the Napa Auto Care Center by Shamrock Square (3555 Route 9W, Highland, Ulster County Park and Ride (at the corner of 9W and Route 299 in Highland), and at the Poughkeepsie Metro-North Train Station. A shuttle will operate on a continuous loop between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. to transport guests to and from their vehicle.
To purchase and see a complete list of vendors, live music, frequently asked questions and more, visit walkway.org/Walktoberfest.