Ob...sessed With Beacon Open Studios - Which Studios We Are Visiting

Two of my favorite weekends in Beacon are

Beacon Open Studios,

and the

City Wide Yard Sale.

This is an opportunity to explore all of Beacon to find interesting things you have never seen before - and probably never will again. Beacon Open Studios has opened today through Sunday, May 21-22, 2016, so get your walking shoes on because you have a lot of exploring to do. If you're looking for a place to park all day, we made this

Free Public Parking Lot Guide

for you, with pictures and addresses of all of Beacon's free lots.

Beacon Open Studios is the reason why you're seeing the big red dot everywhere - from people's yards to galleries or storefronts. Artists of all kinds - painting, jewelry, sculpture, mixed media - open their homes or takeover a space to let you meet them and view their work. To find these studios, pick up a brochure from most any shop or restaurant in town, or the studio's headquarters,

2 Way Brewing Company

down on Beekman Street on the way to or from the Beacon train station.

Anna Bergin

is my current obsession. Pictured here in layers of color, Anna has popped up in a

PopUp Shop

this past winter with chocolate baker 5 Hens, which was a perfect match because Anna's paintings look like cupcake frosting that you could eat. The texture of the paint she mixes herself is thick and chalky - like sugar frosting. Painted with oil and ash in shades of pastel, these paintings are captivating. Hold on a minute - "Ash?" you ask? Yes, Anna mixes the paint with actual ash from her fireplace. Says Anna: "

I take the ash from my fireplace during winter and campfires during summer months. It's part of what I think is neat about it using what we burn." See her work now at 2 Way Brewing Company and Spire Studios. And be sure to

be on our newsletter

in case she pops up in another PopUp Shop.

Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

Beth Weintraub, a printmaker, has eye-catching artwork on display. This piece on the left currently hangs in 2 Way Brewing Company right now as part of the Beacon Open Studios exhibit, and at Spire Studios.

Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

There is usually at least one hands-on art event for the kids, and this year, one of them includes an

opportunity to play with clay

from Beacon Craft Workshop, another regular in our

Kids Classes Guide.

Find it on Saturday in the upstairs classroom at the Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St, Beacon, NY.

Photo Credit:

Beacon Craft Workshop

This beautiful

wood scrap sale from Wickham

down at the very end of Main Street by The Hop is a not-to-be-missed sale. If you are a collector of wood to make anything - shelves, tables, surfaces of any kind - this is one wood workshop you need to stop into.

Photo Credit:

Wickham

Working in the studio, artist Joe Radoccia

gives you a taste

of what it's like to walk into one of these live-action studios.

Photo Credit:

Neg Kalfou

Breathtaking. David Swoop will be at 22 High Street. One can only look forward what else he has on display.

Photo Credit:

Beacon Open Studios

For all you romantics out there,

Anna West captures the moment.

She will also be at Spire Studios at 45 Beekman Street in Studio 2.

Photo Credit:

Beacon Open Studios

And for the jewelry collectors in the house, there are several in-home or jewelry studios open this weekend, a rare occasion indeed. This work space from

laiannaferruggia.

Photo Credit:

laiannaferruggia

Tag #beaconopenstudios in Instagram while you are  out and about so that we can see what you see!

Latest Updates This Week In The Things To Do In Beacon Guides 5-1-16

Happy May, everyone! Here's a quick list of what we added to ALBB this week so you can plan ahead this Spring. As the weather gets warmer, there will be more and more fun things to do!

---

• Burger & Beer Bash: Held this year at Dutchess Stadium on Thursday, August 11th. Tickets on sale now!
• City-Wide Yard Sale: Taking place June 11th throughout Beacon
• Bija Beacon Homestead BBQ & Art Opening: A free event featuring art from R.A. McBride
• Howland Public Library Awards Ceremony: A benefit for the Howland Public Library Savoit Fund
• Howland Cultural Center Monthly Events: including Open Mic Night, Bridge Club, Community Chorus, May Art Exhibit and more.

All of these dates are in the Events Guide, organized by month. Take a look to get a big-picture view of your month ahead!

---

• Prenatal & Parenting classes: Added to Waddle n Swaddle in Beacon

Check our Adult Classes Guide for more updates.

---

• Playdates (0-3 years): Added to Waddle n Swaddle on Thursdays, 1:00-2:30 pm

Check our Kids Classes Guide for more updates.

---

• Barb's Butchery: Prepare your next slow-cooked meal or sausage breakfast for the week ahead, and save 20%! Visit Barb’s Butchery's Frozen Foods ‘fridge, where all frozen rib-eye and sausage are 20% off.

You can always check our Restaurant Guide for the latest openings and promotions!

---

• Society of Lash is our newest member “Stand Out!” sponsor, making women mysteriously more beautiful than ever!

Find more ways to pamper yourself in our full Beauty Guide. 

---

Do you have a class or workshop you would like us to consider adding? Let us know on Twitter, Facebook, or via email at editorial@alittlebeacon.com. 

Latest Updates This Week In The Things To Do In Beacon Guides 4-24-16

Happy Sunday! Here's a quick list of what we added to ALBB this week so you can plan ahead this Spring.  As the weather gets warmer, there will be more and more fun things to do!

---

• The Howland Cultural Center: Many events have been added for the remainder of April and dates in May, such as their May exhibit celebrating National Asian-American Month and a playreading in July - Murder At Prisonwell Manor.
• Meet The Candidates: A Q&A session with the candidates running for the Beacon City School District.
• Constellation 2016 Sessions: Tours begin on May 7 with Melissa McGill. The land art project Constellation continues to light every night at sunset and launches its second season of sunset boat tours.

All of these dates are in the Events Guide, organized by Month. Take a look for a big-picture view of your month ahead!

---

• Come & Paint: Fundraising for the Seniors program at The Salvation Army on Main Street on April 30, May 21, and June 18.

Check our Adult Classes Guide for more updates.

---

• Get Frosted Cupcakery: Get Frosted Cupcakery has Sparkling Strawberry cupcakes that have...sparkles!
• Barb's Butchery: Now has two new chicken sausages: a Chicken Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Sausage, and a new Chicken Curry Sausage.

You can always check our Restaurant Guide for the latest openings and promotions!

---

Do you have a class or workshop you would like us to consider adding? Let us know on Twitter, Facebook, or via email at editorial@alittlebeacon.com. 

Latest Updates This Week In The Things To Do In Beacon Guides

Happy Sunday! Here's a quick list of what we added to ALBB this week so you can plan ahead this Spring.  As the weather gets warmer, there will be more and more fun things to do!

---

• Kingston Food Truck Festival: Friday, April 22
• Earth Day Clean Up: Friday, April 22 at Long Dock Park in Beacon
• Newburgh Urban Farming Fair: Saturday, April 30 at Safe Harbors of the Hudson in Newburgh
• Beacon Independent Film Festival: September 16-18
• Beacon Tree & Menorah Lighting: Two separate dates this year, December 10th & 24th respectively
• Artist Members Of The Howland: Latest art exhibit at The Howland Cultural Center going on now through April 29th

All of these dates are in the Events Guide, organized by Month. Take a look for a big-picture view of your month ahead!

---

• Kids Brunch: Learn how to make pancakes with John Cummings at The Beacon Pantry on Sunday, June 12.

Check our Kids Classes Guide regularly for more updates.

---

• Sailing Class: New "Sailing" section added, with a class offered by the Beacon Sloop Club.
• The Beacon Pantry: More classes added all through June, including Classic French Sauces, Too Hot To Cook, and Allergy Friendly Fiesta.

Check our Adult Classes Guide for more updates.

---

• Get Frosted Cupcakery: Brought back their white chocolate baguette on Fridays only!

You can always check our Restaurant Guide for the latest openings and promotions!

---

Do you have a class or workshop you would like us to consider adding? Let us know on Twitter, Facebook, or via email at editorial@alittlebeacon.com. 

Lottery for Long Dock Kayak Storage Starts Now! A Sure Sign of Spring!

The kayak pavilion at Long Dock Park prior to rental season. Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

Spring has been showing its frostier side around the Hudson Valley recently, but steamy hot days will be here before we know it. What better way to cool off than heading to the Hudson River, and what better way to enjoy the crisp waters than in a kayak or canoe? If you have your own river-faring vessel like a kayak, you have a shot to store it right at Long Dock Park in Beacon!

That’s right, the 7th annual lottery for kayak/canoe storage at Scenic Hudson’s pavilion at Long Dock is happening. Now through Friday, April 22, 2016, hopeful paddlers can enter the lottery by filling out a form here at Scenic Hudson’s website. People whose entries are drawn from the lottery will be notified by Friday, April 29. The storage pavilion's season runs from May 7 to October 31, and use of the storage costs $175. If you have any other questions, call Laura Sumner at (845) 473-4440, ext. 247, or email her at lsumner@scenichudson.org

The area that we now know and love as Long Dock wasn't always so welcoming, however. For many decades, it was a bit of a wasteland. A history of industrial use and general neglect left a lot for Scenic Hudson to turn around. But turn it around they have, after some serious cleanup and soil remediation work, not to mention the incredible landscaping with Hudson Valley native plant species. The park has even won prestigious national awards for its design and - in true Beacon fashion - environmentally friendly aspects! Thousands of people now visit Long Dock every year to spot wildlife (including bald eagles!) and enjoy the expansive river views. Check A Little Beacon Blog's Annual Events Guide for when Scenic Hudson conducts their riverside cleanups, and sign up for our newsletter that tells you what is going on each weekend so that you don't miss it!

If you haven't tried kayaking or canoeing, you can still get hooked on paddling. Longtime Beacon shop Mountain Tops Outfitters rents watercraft by the hour or day, and they even run kayak tours from Long Dock to Denning's Point and Bannerman Island during the summer. Who knows - you might enjoy it so much that you'll be a 2017 lottery hopeful!

Latest Updates This Week In The Things To Do In Beacon Guides

Happy Sunday! Here's a quick list of what we added to ALBB this week so you can plan ahead this Spring.  As the weather gets warmer, there will be more and more fun things to do!

---

• Scenic Hudson Kayak Storage: Lottery for storage is open until April 22nd 
• The Loom Record Release Party: Saturday April 23rd at The Howland Cultural Center
• K104's 5th Annual Cupcake Festival: Sunday May 8th at Main Street in Fishkill

All of these dates are in the Events Guide, organized by Month. Take a look for a big picture view of your month ahead!

---

• All Sport Health & Fitness:  Camp Fit program dates, School's Out Daycare Program

Check our Kids Glasses Guide regularly for more updates.

---

• The Beacon Pantry: more classes added such as Beginning Butchery, Cooking For The Week, and A Taste Of The Beacon Pantry
• All Sport Health & Fitness: April is "Buddy Month", plus Comedy Night, Health & Nutrition workshops and more April events.

Check our Adult Classes Guide for more updates.

---

• COLORANT Re-Opening: Hours are 11 am to 6 pm, Friday through Sunday. 

You can always check our Shopping Guide for the latest openings and promotions!

---

• Barb's Butchery: Beginner class at The Beacon Pantry, "Beginner Butchery With Barb - Chicken" on April 26th. 
• Royal Crepes:  Now open at 303 Main Street in Beacon

You can always check our Restaurant Guide for the latest openings and promotions!

---

Do you have a class or workshop you would like us to consider adding? Let us know on Twitter, Facebook, or via email at editorial@alittlebeacon.com. 

Backstage Passes to Behind-the-Scenes of Peter Pan at the Beacon High School...Student Makers Rocking This Show

Attending the Beacon Players production of "Peter Pan" at the Beacon High School this weekend will be like watching a college-level production. Why? Because of the dozens of uber-talented student makers who are involved in putting it together, from the costume department to the set design and construction. Beacon is a community of rolling-up-the-sleeves creative talent in so many areas, from carpentry to film to photo to dance (

so many areas!

), and this show has provided a trifecta opportunity for students, teachers and parents to unite those skills, working together all over the high school, setting up on hallway floors to draw patterns onto Tiger Lily's skirt, to building the set, to collecting props from flea markets, stores, and homes all over the community.

Involving students as much as possible has been integral to director Anthony J. Scarrone's vision. His assistant director is student Henry Wyand. Even the PR and marketing arm of the student production has stepped up. Two students in particular, Sierra Caban and Michael Bonanno, have been hard at work doing media outreach, organizing sneak previews for the press, and distributing free tickets in a 600-egg Easter egg hunt. All of this with the guidance of newly involved parent advisor Kelly Ellenwood, a grassroots organizer for many local organizations, as well as Nicole Paoli, Janira Quiñones, and Irina Siegel.

Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

A special touch that will have your visual senses soaring is seeing Peter Pan (played by BHS junior Rhiannon Parsaca) fly out of the nursery (pictured below) with new recruits to Neverland. This year, the Beacon Players have invested in the rental of a flying apparatus. The contraption, 

Flying by Foy

, was

developed by Peter Foy

to answer the aggressive vision of Mary Martin in the full musical version of "Peter Pan" in 1954. "Martin wanted her Peter Pan to fly higher, faster and farther than had ever been attempted before," according to the company. This allowed for Martin's "soaring aerial choreography [that] thrilled audiences and ushered in a new era in stage flying." Student choreographer Emily Kidd, pictured and interviewed in a Beacon Players video below, had that special opportunity to choreograph for the air as well as the stage floor.

The Foy flying director is Perry Fertig, with Randy Benson as flying supervisor; running the flying crew are P.J. Devine, D.J. Goodall, Zach Rodgers, Chris Richards, Connor Sgorbissa, Mark Murphy, and Mike Zingone. It will be quite busy in those wings!

Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

The Flying By Foy technology has been used in many productions you know, including "The Wizard of Oz," "A Christmas Carol," and even "Ice Capades." Beacon students will join the ranks of stars who have been strapped into it, including David Bowie, Lucille Ball, Diana Ross, Sally Field, Howard Stern, and even Sean Connery!

Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

In last week's issue of The Highlands Current, Parsaca

shares her childhood dream

of being flown away by Peter Pan. Now she gets to play that role, and actually fly.

Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

Students Design Costumes for 'Peter Pan'

The adults involved in the designing of the costumes are costume crew advisor Karin Zdrojewski with costume crew coordinators Jayne Warner and Irina Siegel. Digging into the design and construction of the costumes for Peter Pan, Wendy, the Lost Boys, Tiger Lily and her tribe were students on the costume crew: Cynthia Carmona, Ali Caruso, Elyse Istvan, Kindeya Green, Marin Kacur, Jessica McTeer, Jana Medley, Dana Miller, Kailee Montross, Grace Sanker, Marissa Schiller, and Jillian Warner.

In this 

video interview, Jillian Warner

, one of the costume designers and creator of Peter Pan's costume, describes what it was like to prepare for and produce the costumes. Jillian began sewing at a young age, keeping her skills honed long after a sewing class she attended with 

Eva Intonti Gronowitz

at Beacon Art Studio (which you can find in

A Little Beacon Blog's Summer Day Camp Guide

!)

Photo Credit: Beacon Players video screenshot.

Photo Credit: Beacon Players video screenshot.

Photo Credit: Beacon Players video screenshot.

Photo Credit: Beacon Players video screenshot.

A student designer applies the pattern with gel glue before it is dyed.

The Indian skirts for Tiger Lily and her girls were hand-dyed, using gel glue as the paint.

Watch the video

below to see how they did it. Says Sierra Caban, student media contact for the show, about the costumes: "For some costumes, they were put together using pieces of costumes that have been used in the past. They re-hem old costumes to fit the person that's wearing it in the current show, pin pieces together so that costumes won't fall apart, sew new pieces of fabric onto costumes, find shoes for some characters, and so much more. This show was very hard to costume because our director wanted everyone to be different, he wanted LOTS of color; but of course, [the] costume crew delivered. All of the costumes are so unique and wonderful because they've spent almost every day of the week leading up to the show at the school from 3pm to 9pm."

Photo Credit: Beacon Players video screenshot.

Choreography Is Huge Opportunity for Students

Most students in high school may get an opportunity to choreograph something as an end-of-the-year exam. But this year, student Emily Kidd got to choreograph for a real life play, and star in it as Tiger Lily herself. "I’m so honored to be and happy to be the choreographer for 'Peter Pan,' " says Kidd in this video interview produced by the Beacon Players, "because even though I’ve been worried that dances wouldn’t be as good as if an adult had done it, it’s still exciting. It’s scary, but I’m honored to do it. It’s a challenge. I’ve gotten more confident after people have been encouraging me." 

Students have been rehearsing for weeks. When most families were on Spring Break, Beacon Players were in the Pete and Toshi Seeger Theatre in the Beacon High School building the set, rehearsing dance moves, sewing costumes, and putting on other finishing touches for this weekend's opening.

Set Design Opportunities

The set/stage crew chief is Mark Murphy Jr., with Randy Caruso as advisor. The two have led a student crew consisting of Michael DeChent-Robertin, Elyse Fox, Ella Lewis, Stevie Hulse, James Olson, Anya Sendelbach, Kevin Steger, Sebastian Uribe, and Brandon Wansor. Take note of the beautiful paintings on canvas, by Lori Christie, that hang in the nursery..

Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

To get

really

behind the scenes with this and all productions from the Beacon Players, you can

read their meeting notes!

You'll see details that reveal to you who is making the magic happen, like this update: "Mrs. Siegel has been working on a vacant store front window display to advertise the show." 

It's been fun to glimpse some of the behind-the-scenes action required to put on this performance that gives Beacon students such a unique experience. For many, involvement in high school starts to define what careers they carve out. It's easy to see how your support for the Beacon Players gets used.

Ticket sales

,

program advertisements

,

sponsoring a seat

in the theater, and

donations

are all ways you can contribute. Students can

join the Beacon Players by filling out this form

to start the process.

Show Times: NEARLY SOLD OUT, if not already sold out by the time you read this!

Friday

 (night)

 April 8th: 

7pm

Saturday

 (afternoon)

April 9th

: 

2pm

Sunday

 (afternoon) 

April 10

: 

2pm

Buy tickets online

here

, or risk it and buy at the door!

*Waiting lists may be available at the door.

See you at the show!

Sundays Are Complete Again! Beacon Flea Market Opens April 10, 2016

Did you find yourself walking aimlessly down Main Street this winter, taken in with all of the shops of course, but missing your anchor, that nudge in the back of your mind of something you wanted to do but couldn't put your finger on?

That is because Beacon Flea was closed for the season, the outdoor flea market located behind the Post Office in the parking lot at 6 Henry Street that is open every Sunday from 8am-3pm weather permitting. Perfect for walking through with a cup of coffee from a nearby cafe, or full belly from brunch from these eateries or a Belgium waffle at the Yankee Clipper Diner. The flea market will be open again on April 10th through the Fall.

UPDATE: Due to the snowy weather on April 3rd, the original opening day, Beacon Flea moved it to April 10.

When Emma Dewing, Owner and Market Manager of Beacon Flea, announced on her Facebook page that the Beacon Flea had just signed a contract with the city for another near of flea marketing, the post was shared over 65 times. Says Emma: "People are excited for the market to open. It heralds Spring, warm weather, and a terrific social event in the heart of Beacon. On a Sunday morning, customers walk to Main, grab coffee, meet friends and neighbors in the Flea Market and hunt for vintage and handmade treasures! There is a buzz that is just wonderful, and I am so thrilled for Beacon!"

Estate Sales From Beacon Flea

Those in withdraw from hunting for treasures outside could still attend Estate Sales Beacon Flea put on throughout the Hudson Valley.

Photo Credit: From Beacon Flea's Instagram page.

Beacon Flea Now Accepting Vendors

Got something you want to vend? Beacon Flea is now accepting vendors. Welcomed items include vintage, retro, antique, junk, salvage, architectural elements, collectibles, attic clean-outs, yard sale, costume jewelry, art, musical instruments, and hand made items. Any questions, contact Beacon Flea directly for more information: beaconfleamarket@gmail.com  (845) 202-0094.

Beacon Flea Market and a rusty mountain in the sun!

A photo posted by Emma Dewing (@beaconflea) on Nov 8, 2015 at 7:31am PST

Italianate lamp with coin glass globes. Beacon Flea today.

A photo posted by Emma Dewing (@beaconflea) on Nov 8, 2015 at 7:39am PST

Watch crystal press cabinet with full drawers of watch crystals! Setting up at Beacon Flea this morning!

A photo posted by Emma Dewing (@beaconflea) on Oct 25, 2015 at 6:25am PDT

 

Crates of records at Beacon Flea today!

A photo posted by Emma Dewing (@beaconflea) on Nov 1, 2015 at 5:28am PST

Look For ALBB In The Peter Pan Playbill Program! Congratulations, Beacon High School Students!

Happy Times... A Little Beacon Blog is supporting Peter Pan, the high school play put on by Beacon Players, with a page in the playbill! Curtains go up April 7th, and Peter will actually be flying! It's all very exciting to watch proud parents take pictures of their kids practicing their makeup and Lost Boy hair styles in social media. Last year's production of Aladdin was very impressive, with very large elephants and other animals (fret not; they were puppets) walking through the aisles of seats in Beacon High School's theater.

Get your tickets now from the Beacon Players website, as this one may sell out!

Latest Updates This Week In The Things To Do In Beacon Guides

Happy Sunday everyone! We have so many goodies to share with you this week, so get your calendars ready!

---

This week is the start of Hudson Valley Restaurant Week. Some of the participating restaurants are right here in Beacon, including The Vault, Cafe Amarcord, Kitchen Sink Food & Drink, and Baja 328.

BAJA 328 is a Featured Business in ALBB's Restaurant Guide.

---

In the Events Guide, we are excited to hear that the Second Beacon Jazz Fest has announced its 2016 date - June 25th. Will we see you there?

After you let the kids have fun at the Easter celebrations at Memorial Park, get your dancing shoes on and head on over to The Howland Cultural Center for their next dance, "Come on Beacon! Let's Dance!" We popped our heads inside during the last dance, and it looked like a lot of fun!

Last week we shared the Maple Fest going on in Fishkill this month. If that is not enough, a second fest has been added for March 12th at Randolph School in Wappingers Falls.

All of these dates are in the Events Guide, organized by Month. Take a look for a big picture view of your month ahead!

---

Spring Break is almost here and the kids will be home. Do you have stuff planned to keep them busy but still learning? Scenic Hudson is having a special Spring Break series March 22-25, with different activities (such as Basic Fishing, Bird Watching and more) scheduled for each day.

Late last week we shared an update of all the awesome classes and events going on with our friends at All Sport Health & Fitness. Some of the special classes they have going on this month include Cycle/Yoga Fusion, Irish Ride (Spinning), Motown Ride (Spinning) and more.

Do you have a class or workshop you would like us to consider adding? Let us know on Twitter, Facebook, or via email at editorial@alittlebeacon.com. 

March Happenings at All Sport - Including Cycle/Yoga Fusion and Kids Spring Break Camp (Sponsored)

The Cycle/Yoga fusion has been a popular workshop, and is offered on special days only. Last month, registration doubled as a fundraiser. This month, registration is going to fill up fast, so get up on it! Details on Cycle/Fusion below.

The focus is on fitness at All Sport, but their programming is saying it loud and clear: All Sport is a well-rounded club membership. It's an experience with a lot of choices for the whole family. People who have lived in the Hudson Valley their whole lives and whose parents worked at All Sport decades ago have told me: "I lived at All Sport. My mom worked there and I was there all summer. I loved it."

Everyone's experience at All Sport is different, thanks to their ongoing programs in vastly different areas, like basketball leagues for adults, indoor soccer classes for boys and girls, boxing classes with one-time only workshops designed to shake it up and challenge you, entertain you, and keep you on your toes - your boxing toes!

A Little Beacon Blog keeps a full schedule of what is happening at All Sport here at the blog so that you have easy access to see what is going on this month, on which days, for which ages. We are dedicated to helping you have an organized, curated experience here in Beacon and the Hudson Valley, and incorporating All Sport's programs into your weekday and weekend schedule is no exception!

Here's the rundown of things you don't want to miss at All Sport for March. As you know, classes book up fast and you've got to be a quick little bunny to sign up. Keep All Sport's Sponsor Spotlight page open on your phone and refresh it every now and then for the latest classes and programs.

FOR KIDS:

March 1, 2016 - Book Club Begins (ok, this has passed, but know that they have a Book Club!)

March 2, 2016 - Registration for Spring 1 (members)

March 4, 2016 - Registration for Spring 1 (non-members)

March 4, 2016 - Pool Volleyball

March 9, 2016 - Sports Conditioning & Pitching

March 11, 2016 - Kids Night Out

March 11, 2016 - Free Swim Assessment

March 12, 2016 - Babysitting Course

March 21-25, 2016 - Spring Camp

March 28, 2016 - Spring 1 session of programs begin

March 31, 2016 - Lifeguard Training

Special for Wappingers Falls School District: School Age Child Care Begins in September 

FOR ADULTS 

Special workshops have been designed to keep the challenge in your workout and shake up your week! See below for dates of special classes you won't want to miss. Our favorite? The Cycle/Yoga Fusion.

Cycle/Yoga Fusion

Friday, March 11

Join Camille for a 30-minute Cycle and Maureen for a 1-hour Power Flow - the perfect balance to end your week. Register today! ($25 Members/$30 Non-Members).
Details >

Train Like A Fighter
March 14 - April 26
This NEW fierce fitness program is based off of Martial Arts and Self Defense techniques. Our Certified Personal Trainers will motivate you in this 6-week program that will have you shadow-boxing, using heavy bags, hitting tires with sledge hammers, and many more fearless feats.
Details >

Group Exercise Chisel & Sculpt Challenge
Tuesday, March 15
You'll use different variations of sculpting exercises to chisel and challenge your body.
Details >

Irish Ride
Wednesday, March 16
Spin out with Kim Wilson to Irish music, including U2, Dropkick Murphys, Flogging Molly, and many more. A spirited and celebratory ride!
Details >

Motown Ride
Thursday, March 30
Ride to the classics with this fun, funky Motown-themed class.
Details >

All Sport raised over $1,000 for the Fishkill Food Pantry with their Tap Back, Give Back Fundraiser Ride as well as donations from members.

There's always something going on at All Sport. This month, they partnered with JMcLaughlin for a popup shopping event to benefit Hudson Valley Hospice Foundation - and your wardrobe.

All Sport is a sponsor of A Little Beacon Blog, and we thank you for supporting businesses that make this publication possible! Click here for Advertising Opportunities.

New This Week in the Things To Do In Beacon Guides At A Little Beacon Blog!

We've made so many updates to our classes and guides this week, we want to make sure you do not miss a thing!

We just found out this week that the 10th Annual Beacon Barks Parade has been postponed until the last Sunday of April 2017. In the meantime, please continue to support the Dutchess County SPCA and Beacon Barkery.

A Little Beacon Blog is happy to be a sponsor of "Turning Passion Into Profit" at Beahive on March 16th. The event is hosted by HV Women In Business, and the topic will be about how to become successful by doing what you love.

Great guide. Can't believe I missed out on the start of the Beginner Spanish class! https://t.co/FB48lv0IcA

— CTPassat (@CTPassat) February 21, 2016

Don't worry, "CTPassat," we have added more language classes (including Spanish!) from the Fishkill Recreation Center.

Has your kid expressed an interest in Babysitting? Make sure they are trained the right way.  We added a new Babysitting category to our Kids Classes, featuring workshops that aspiring caregivers can sign up for.

Has the craft bug bitten you? Take a road trip down to Pelham in Westchester County to learn the craft of Wet Felting, where you learn to transform delicate wool fibers and into strong cloth with beautiful texture.

And don't forget to keep moving! We added more Zumba! and Tai Chi classes at the Veterans Memorial Building and Beacon Recreation Center.

March is jam-packed with upcoming events to check out! Easter is early this year, so bring the kids to Memorial Park for their annual Easter Egg hunt. More new events include a magic show with illusionist Ryan Dutcher, a special "Coffee House" night at the Howland Cultural Center (check out the "Women Artists Of The Hudson Valley" exhibit while you're there), and the inaugural Parade Of Green for St. Patrick's Day!

Plan ahead for April by supporting The Beacon Players with their rendition of Peter Pan at Beacon High School.

Do you have a class or workshop you would like us to consider adding? Let us know on Twitter, Facebook, or via email at editorial@alittlebeacon.com. 

Get Your Sweet Tooth & Dancing Shoes Ready This Weekend!

We have more Pop-Up Guide action happening this weekend in Beacon, filled with sweet, delicious goodness and more!

It's the second week of Flowers & Flours at Clay Wood & Cotton, featuring dried flowers and wreaths from Diana Mae Flowers and assorted sweets from The Darling Kitchen. Stop by this Saturday, starting at 11 am.

Also this Saturday over at the east end of Main Street, stop by Echo and pick up freshly baked goods by 5Hens, sure to delight your recipient. Cookie boxes, teacher gifts, marshmallows and more. You can pre-order by visiting fivehensbakedgoods.com or email 5hensbaked@gmail.com. Pick up at the store.

Once you're done snacking, head over to The Howland Cultural Center for a night of dancing! This monthly dance series is attended by singles, couples, friends and strangers. Great bands and voices will be heard, including a variety of rhythms, styles and moods. Light refreshments will be served. Suggested donation: $10.00

As always, you can check out all of Beacon's ongoing events throughout the year in our Events Guide. 

Upcoming + Annual Events in and Around Beacon - Places to Go, Things To Do You Don't Want to Miss

If you feel like you're the last to know everything, then bookmark this page and synch it into your calendar, because you're about to be on top of where to go and what to do in and around Beacon, NY and the Hudson Valley. If you have an event you'd like to submit for consideration, please email editorial@alittlebeaconblog.com.

Once an event passes, it will be moved to the bottom of this page, and then updated later in the year when the date is picked by the venue host.

Last Updated: 10/6/15

UPCOMING & ANNUAL EVENTS, PARADES & FESTIVALS

3rd Annual Pink Kiss Breast Cancer Awareness Event
October 10th, 2015
6pm-9pm
Location: Lorraine Tyne, 161 Main Street
Shop, drink and pose on the red carpet of Pink Kiss, a collaborative fundraising event from designer Sarah Graby and the jewelry store Lorraine Tyne. Sarah Graby features her collection of head scarves called "Sparkle My Head Scarves" to celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness month. Complimentary cocktails, glam styling sessions and giveaways await you. This year marks our 3rd year the event is raising money for the Hudson Valley's "Miles Of Hope" Organization.
Free, yet donate!

City of Beacon Pumpkin Carving Contest

Saturday, October 10, 2015

10 am

Location: Pavilion at Beacon Memorial Park

Kids 15 and younger can compete for Top Carver in two age divisions (13 to 15, and 12 and under). Parents should supervise children at all times! Supplies will be provided, but are limited. Sign up ahead of time at City Hall. Organizers insist, no professionals, please.

New York State Sheep & Wool Festival

October 17th - 18th, 2015 

Location: Dutchess County Fairgrounds | Rhinebeck, NY 12572

A lovely sheep and wool festival happening at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds. Learn about and enjoy the animals, find wool fashions like mittens, gloves and sweaters, and shop the market.

Information >

Buy Tickets Here >

Beacon Sloop Club Pumpkin Festival

October 18th, 2015
12pm-5pm

Location: Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park

The Beacon Sloop Club holds or participates in several festivals and events each year to raise funds for the clubs activities and bring awareness to many environmental and social issues.

Information >

City of Beacon Hocus Pocus Parade
Sunday, October 25, 2015
12:30 pm
Location: Main Street, Beacon
Costumed kids start lining up at Peace Park (South Avenue/9D and Main Street) at 12:30 for a parade down Main Street at 1. Trick-or-treating at businesses follows the stroll. Don't forget to check in at the Beacon Flea, too! They'll have some treats for the little goblins.
Information >

Pumpkins in the Park
Jack O'Lantern Lighting

Carving: Tuesday, October 27 to Friday, October 30, 2015, 3 pm to 6 pm
Lighting: Friday, October 30, 2015, 6 pm to 8 pm
Location: Long Dock Park, Beacon waterfront
On afternoons Tuesday to Friday, visit Long Dock Park to put your carving skills to use on pumpkins provided by Scenic Hudson. Stick around Friday evening, when the jack o'lanterns will be set aglow and displayed throughout the park.
Information >

Santa Spottings on Main Street

December 2015

Location: Main Street Shops

Santa comes to coffee shops and restaurants around Beacon. Where will you visit him?

Information >

LOTTERY, SEASON PASSES & SIGNUPS

Scenic Hudson Kayak Storage

March 30 - April 17, 2015

This lottery signup is annual, and we covered it here on the blog.

Sign Up Details >

Beacon's New Pool at the Settlement Camp

Registration Starts March 1st, 2015

Season Starts June 29th, 2015

Registration Form >

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EVENTS THAT ALREADY HAPPENED

These events have passed. Look for them next year!

We move them to the bottom of this Guide to get ready for next year!

City of Beacon's "Easter After Easter" Egg Hunt

Saturday April 25th, 2015

11am - 2pm

Location: Memorial Park

According to the City, Easter is coming later. "Same great fun and better weather! Join us for our a little bit later than Easter Egg Hunt and Spring Fling at Memorial Park."

Information >

Beacon Barks Parade

Saturday April 25th, 2015 (rain or shine)

10am - 3pm

Location: Main Street

The 9th Annual Beacon Barks! parade being held on Saturday, April 25, 2015, on Main Street in Beacon.  Beacon Barks! is the street festival for people who love animals, live music, great food, and having fun in the heart of Beacon. Festivities begin at 10:00 am and conclude at 3:00 pm.  Show appreciation for animal shelters, rescue and welfare organizations. It’s free, fun, family-friendly!  Bring your four-legged family members, too!  Local shops and restaurants open their doors to participants (both canine and otherwise) for tasty snacks & treats.  A variety of service providers (such as groomers, vets and many others) offer information and advice on caring for your best friend. Usually held the 3rd week in April of every year.

Information >

Ree-Play Sale
Friday, Saturday, Sunday
May 1, 2 3, 2015
9am - 1pm

Location: The University Settlement Camp Theater
724 Wolcott Avenue  (Rt. 9D across from Craig House)
The Ree-Play Sale is one of Beacon's most well known, well attended annual sales for baby and kids gear in the region. Donations pour in from families from all over, and the pickings begin on May 1st for three short days. Those who volunteer to sort the gently used items for sale do get pre-shopping privileges. For sale are gently used baby’s, children’s, and maternity clothing, toys, furniture, outdoor play equipment, bicycles, strollers and other baby-gear, etc.

The Ree-Play Sale the primary fundraiser for its parent organization, Wee Play Community Project,  an advocate for the City of Beacon’s playgrounds, which promotes excellence in children’s and youth programming, and builds an organized coalition of community parents.
Information >


Stony Kill Plant Sale: Vegetable and Herb Plant Sale and Spring Celebration
May 2nd, 2015
11am to 3pm
Location: 79 Farmstead Lane, Wappingers Falls, NY 12590
Get ready for the spring season with vegetables and herbs that were grown in Stony Kill's greenhouse.  Live music – food – children’s activities –  information – demonstrations – gift shop – tours of the farm animals in the barn – tours of the Verplanck Tenant Farmhouse – and much more!
Information >


Obercreek Plant Sale
May 2nd, 2015 10am to 4pm (also on May 9 and 10) 
May 3rd, 2015, 1pm to 5pm
Location: 59 Marlorville Road Wappingers Falls, NY 12590
The Obercreek Farm Standis selling their Certified Organic vegetable and herb plants for your home garden!  They are growing over 60 varieties, traditional and heirloom; check out the line-up below:
Information >

Common Ground Farm Seedling Sale

May 9th, 2015

10am to 3pm

Location: 142 Main Street, Common Greens Garden @ Tito Santana Taqueria

Find Common Ground Farm at the Common Greens Garden at Tito Santana Taqueria on Second Saturday in Beacon for their annual seedling sale, just in time for Mother's Day! Seedlings will include: flowers, tomatoes, cucumbers, melons, kale, greens, herbs and more! All grown by hand & with love in organic potting soil at Common Ground Farm.

Information >

Beacon Open Studios

May 16th - 17th, 2015

Location: Shops, Studios and Residences

Beacon Open Studios is a community supported project by artists, volunteers, individuals, and local business. Studio spaces are created around the community where you can drop in during daytime hours. As you walk around town, you will see the big red circle dot that identifies a studio space in a shop or home.

Information >


HEfeSTUS Iron Pour
May 23th, 2015
2pm to 10pm
Location: Hanna Lane (near the Tallix Complex, where parking is available)

Woa. This is an event you don't see very often, so you're going to want to go. It is live casting of hot metal during a day of food from local eateries and live music. Hefestus Iron pour began in 2013 with the idea of bringing together art, history and community.  This year’s all-day festival will include sculpture casting workshops, musical entertainment, local food and several thousand pounds of molten iron.  Local artist and students will be casting iron sculpture from an outdoor furnace in a spectacle of metal and fire that is not to be missed.  Casting is the process in which metal is melted in a furnace and poured from a container or ladle into a mold of ceramic shell or bonded sand. During  Hefestus 2014, over 50 iron castings were poured into molds designed and carved by attendees.
Information >


Beacon Riverfest In The Parks Series (Free)
May 25th, 2015
4pm to 6pm
Location: Memorial Park
Bring a picnic and make sure you're wearing your dance shoes as the first of four free summer concerts kicks off this Memorial Day Weekend. The band is "The Big Takeover" and you've enjoyed their reggae style before in Beacon.

For Goodness Bake

Saturday, June 6th, 2015

Location: Catalyst Gallery 137 Main Street

FOR GOODNESS BAKE (FGB) is an annual pop-up bake sale held in Beacon, New York. Founded in 2013 by friends and Beaconites Kristen Cronin and Tara Tornello, FGB is dedicated to raising funds and awareness for worthy causes within the Hudson Valley. Each FGB bake sale is held for one day only. Scores of the Valley's best professional and amateur bakers donate baked goods for the sale. Past beneficiaries have been the Children's Organ Transplant Association and the Kids R Kids Feeding Program. Once the last doughnut, cookie, or muffin has been sold, FGB closes up shop, hands over 100% of the proceeds to the beneficiary, and vanishes. Like superheroes, but with aprons instead of tights.

Information >

Beacon's City-Wide Yard Sale

Saturday, June 13th, 2015

9am - 3pm

Location:All Over Beacon!

Participating in the yard sale can happen one of two ways - you can register your address as an official yard sale and get on the map (try calling the City of Beacon at (845) 838-5000, or just put stuff out on your yard and tag it. People will surly be driving by and will stop.

Information >

Strawberry Festival

Sunday, June 14th, 2015

12noon - 5pm

Location: Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park

Strawberry shortcakes, music, vendors. what more do you need in the summer? The Beacon Sloop Club holds or participates in several festivals and events each year to raise funds for the clubs activities and bring awareness to many environmental and social issues.

Information >

Cider Week

June 12th - 21st, 2015

Location: Many different events and locations. See the full lineup here.

Cider-lovers rejoice, there is a Cider Week for you! Circulate around all of the events during this week, and increase your knowledge and appreciation of cider pressed in this region. Cider is another old beverage renewed in our day. It was made, stored, and consumed all over the U.S from early times. But eventually, Temperance politics and Prohibition ended legal sales. Apple growers had to replace their cider orchards with “Apple Pie orchards”. Bitter, sour, weird apples that could make great cider lost all value in the States. But real cider is not brewed. There’s no grain, no cooking, and no fast route to high quality. Serious cider is all apple juice, pressed from superior cider varieties. It represents the land that grew that fruit. It takes time and patience. Great beer can be made in weeks; great cider, not. The most complex cider is tannic, like red wine. Its gold color means people tend to chill it. But serious cider from the right fruit deserves to be tasted at about 60F. Also, cider tannins offer antioxidant effects, but with far less alcohol than red wine. Founded by Glynwood, Cider Week was created to revive New York's orchard heritage. The website serves to connect cider makers from New York’s Hudson Valley to buyers from top restaurants, bars, and retail shops across the Hudson Valley region, New York City, and beyond. Through growing awareness of craft cider, Cider Week helps to bring profitability to local orchards while reviving heirloom apple varieties.

Information >

All Events >

Beacon Riverfest In The Parks Series (Free)

Tuesday, June 16th, 2015

6pm to 8pm

Location: Green Street Park (on the other side of Fishkill Creek, this is a park located in the base of a sloping hill)

Bring a picnic and make sure you're wearing your dance shoes! The bands are "Bad Mother Factory" and "Knock Yourself Out."

Local Cider Market & Tasting at Historic Huguenot Street House

June 20th, 2015

Noon - 4pm

Location: Historic Huguenot Street House, 88 Huguenot Street, New Paltz, NY 12561

This cider event in New Paltz is included in this Guide because of the historical value and richness you will get out of attending it. As part of both New York State’s Path Through History Weekend and Hudson Valley Cider Week, Historic Huguenot Street will host a local cider market and tasting on Saturday, June 20. The market will feature 9 Hudson Valley cider makers, including: Hudson Valley Farmhouse Cider (produced at Breezy Hill Orchard and Stone Ridge Orchard), Warwick Valley Winery & Distillery (maker of Doc’s® Draft Ciders, Warwick), Glorie Farm Winery (Marlboro), The Standard Cider Company (owned by Brotherhood Winery, Washingtonville), Aaron Burr Cidery (Wurtsboro), Orchard Hill Cider Mill (located at Soons Orchard, New Hampton), Kettleborough Cider House (New Paltz), Pitchfork Hard Cider (Poughkeepsie), and Angry Orchard (opening a new facility in Walden). As part of the market, Historic Huguenot Street and Kettleborough Cider House will be introducing a historic crab apple hard cider, brewed by Kettleborough in collaboration with HHS. The cider’s use of crab apples is true to how the early founders of New Paltz would have brewed their own cider, which was a popular colonial drink.

Information > 

Beacon Riverfest Music & Food Festival

Sunday, June 28th, 2015

Noon to 8pm

Location: Riverfront Park (on the other side of the train station)

An entire day of live music and food! A large lineup of bands are playing on 3 stages in Riverfront Park. Kids under 10 get in free, and tickets are available for purchase for adults. Enjoy music, food and crafts. The bands include Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars, Tracy Bonham, Sidewalk Chalk, Schwervon, Decora, Gato Loco, Jenny Dee & The Deelinquents, What Moon Things, Breakfast In Fur, Shana Falana, M Shanghai String Band, and Simi Stone.

Information >

4th Of July Fireworks, Memorial Park

Saturday July 4th, 2015

NOTE: There is no parade on Main Street.

11am Reading of the Declaration of Independence

A reading of the Declaration of Independence will take place, on Saturday, at 11:00am at City Hall.

3pm till dark

Location: Memorial Park, Beacon

Presented once again by a collaborative community effort by the City of Beacon, Beacon-Fishkill Kwanis Club, The Costellos and I Am Beacon. Bring the whole family to enjoy! Fireworks begin at dusk.

Information >

For even more Things to Do for July 4th Weekend in Beacon, NY, see our Pools, Picnics and Fireworks Roundup!

Beacon Riverfest In The Parks Series (Free)

Saturday July 11th, 2015

6pm to 8pm

Location: The Beacon Pool - POOL PARTY! (at the Settlement Camp, 724 Wolcott)

Bring a picnic and make sure you're wearing your dance shoes! The band is "PONTOON."

Beacon Riverfest In The Parks Series (Free)

Thursday July 16th, 2015

6pm to 8pm

Location: South Avenue Park

Bring a picnic and make sure you're wearing your dance shoes! The band is "Jeremy Baum Trio."

Beacon Riverfest In The Parks Series (Free)

Thursday July 23rd, 2015

6pm to 8pm

Location: Long Dock Park (near the train station, but far to the left near paths for Dennings Point)

Bring a picnic and make sure you're wearing your dance shoes! The band is "The Stacks."

Beacon Jazz Fest

Saturday July 25th, 2015

12noon - 6pm

Location: The Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park

Celebrating Music, Hudson Valley Distilleries, artisan crafts & culture of the Hudson Valley, the Inaugural Beacon Jazz Festival will take place on Saturday, July 25 from noon to 6 PM at The Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park in Beacon, NY. Presented by Six String Productions, the festival will offer a wealth of musical talent, many with long associations with Beacon and the surrounding region, in addition to great Jazz this event will also double as a Hudson Valley distillery tasting event.   Local craft breweries, cideries and wineries will be represented along with local artisan chefs providing food to complement the event. Musical artists you can expect to hear include Sun of Goldfinger, Karl Berger/Ingrid Sertso Quintet, International Brass & Membrane Corps, Mike Dopazo & The HV All-Stars. The Beacon DJ Grady Salter will also be spinning classic jazz selections all day between acts.

In addition, Hudson Valley distilleries, Wineries, and Cideries, include Dennings Point Distillery,  Hudson Valley Distillery, Albany Distillery,  Dutch Spirits, Taconic Distillery, Tuthilltown, Harvest Spirits, Brotherhood winery, Naked Flock cidery , Bad Seed Cidery will be offering free tastings of their renowned spirits, cider and wine throughout the festival. Other local business providing food and drink at the Beacon Jazz Festival include More Good, Tito Santana, Beacon Bread, The Hop Express, plus many more.

More Information >

Firefly Feast

Saturday, August 1st, 2015

4pm - 9pm

Location: 4 Hanna Lane
The second annual Firefly Feast will have local food, drinks, and music all to benefit Common Ground Farm (kids 12 and under are free!).
More Information and Buy Tickets>

The Butterfly Festival

Sunday, August 8th, 2015

11am - 3pm (Rain or Shine!)

Location: 79 Farmstead Lane, Wappingers Falls, NY

Visit the Verplanck Memorial Perennial Garden and learn all about butterflies! Visit the butterfly tent and have a one on one experience with these wonderful creatures! Food – gift shop – children’s activities - information – demonstrations – and much more! (Free)

Information >


The Beacon Sloop Club Annual Corn Festival

Sunday, August 9th, 2015

12noon - 5pm (Rain or Shine!)

Location: Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park

The Beacon Sloop Club holds or participates in several festivals and events each year to raise funds for the clubs activities and bring awareness to many environmental and social issues. This free festival features fresh picked, ready‐to‐eat local‐grown Hudson Valley sweet corn on the cob, hot chili, watermelon, cold drinks, and other summer treats. Music throughout the afternoon and many free kids activities! (Free)

Information >

The Hairdressers Disco Ball

Sunday, August 23rd, 2015

7pm-10pm

Location:  Mid-Hudson Civic Center

For 2015, the Hairdresser’s Disco Ball and Charity Hair Show goes to the Oscars! Get ready for a blockbuster red-carpet-worthy runway show featuring over-the-top, highly creative hair styles and costumes inspired by Academy Award-winning movies and Hollywood stars. The big show raises funds for HVCS’ HIV/AIDS programs and services and takes place on Sunday, August 23, 2015 at 7:00 pm at the Mid-Hudson Civic Center in downtown Poughkeepsie. You may see your favorite stylist from Beacon participating!

Tickets and Information >
Facebook page for fabulous photos >



Dutchess County Fair

August 25th - 30th, 2015 

Location: Dutchess County Fairgrounds | Rhinebeck, NY 12572

Only one of the best fairs around! Folks from far and wide come to ride the Farris wheel and other rides. A fun date night or night out with the family.

Information >

Buy Tickets Here >

September 12th 2015
9am Registration, 10:30am Walk Begins

Location: Long Dock Park, Beacon NY

Benefiting Hope and Heroes, who funds the life-saving work on childhood cancer and blood disorders at Columbia University Medical Center. Presented by Jessica Salomon, a mother of a Sickle Cell Disease survivor, and Event Coordinator to bring awareness to the community one step at a time.

Information >

Hudson Valley Hoptember Harvestfest 
September 12th 2015 

Location: 1167 Noxon Road | Lagrangeville, NY 12540

"Celebrating Everything Hoppy!" The event will feature 30 plus local brewers, music by "Buckeye Rooster, and our Hop smoked BBQ by the award winning "Bacon Brothers" as well as many other Hop Infused Delights

Information >

Buy Tickets Here >

Hudson River Craft Beer Festival
September 19th 2015 

Location: Riverfront Park

This four-hour event will showcase over 200 releases from some of America’s best craft breweries. Attendees will sample beers in an atmosphere filled with live music, delicious food available for purchase, and great vendors.

Information >

Buy Tickets Here >

Beacon Independent Film Festival  

September 18th-20th 2015

Opening Night Friday, 7:30pm

Location: Beacon's University Settlement Camp on Wolcott Avenue (aka 9D)

The Beacon Independent Film Festival (BIFF) showcases creative films in a unique venue, nestled among the trees at the foot of Mount Beacon, NY.

Information >

4th Of July In Beacon 2015! Things To Do This Weekend!

The 4th of July Holiday Weekend has started! While it may be hot and humid for the Friday, the first day of the long weekend, July 4th itself may be a little rainy, followed by sunshine again on Sunday. So think extra sunny thoughts to keep those clouds away! This roundup is an enhancement of the weekend events that are also listed in A Little Beacon Blog's Annual Events Guide, which is part of the Things To Do In Beacon Guide.

Here's a breakdown of things to do in and around Beacon this July 4th weekend:

FIREWORKS - JULY 3
Looks like someone read the Farmer's Almanac and decided to have Fireworks on the 3rd, which is nice for those who like to double-dip in nights with sparklers. There is a whole big fireworks list at 101.5 WPDH of where you can see fireworks on Friday and Saturday nights up and down the Hudson River. If you're in or near Beacon, you may want to hit up:

Fishkill
Day: Friday July 3rd at Dusk
Where: East Fishkill Recreation Park, New York 82 & New York 376 Hopewell Junction, NY 12533
Time: Starts at 7 p.m. with an oldies concert featuring Adam & the NewHearts. Fireworks will go off at 9:15 p.m.
Free

Wallkill
Day: Friday July 3rd at Dusk
Time: Starts at 6 p.m.
Where: Town of Wallkill Golf Club, 40 Sands Road, Middletown, NY 10940
Free


FIREWORKS - JULY 4

Beacon!
Day: Saturday July 4th at Dusk
Where: Memorial Park, 7 Robert Cahill Drive, Beacon, NY 12508
Time: 3pm till dark.
What: Presented once again by a collaborative community effort by the City of Beacon, Beacon-Fishkill Kwanis Club, The Costellos and I Am Beacon. Bring the whole family to enjoy! Fireworks begin at dusk. A ceremonial reading of the Declaration of Independence happens at 11am at City Hall.
Free

Mohonk Mountain House
Address: 1000 Mountain Rest Road, New Paltz, NY 12561
Admission Price: Call (855) 883-3798 for reservations.
Details: Mohonk Mountain House’s 4th of July weekend will include demonstrations at the Firehouse, a carnival at its Kids’ Club, a log roll and porch dive, and a parade. Mohonk will hold its Illumination of the Mountain fireworks display on July 4th. The weekend events also include a live performance by Cathi Lou and Roger Thorpe and a ceremonial reading of the Declaration of Independence.

Poughkeepsie
Time: 6:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Address: Waryas Park, 1 Main Street, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
Admission Price: Free for a view from a public place, and $12.50 at Walkway Over the Hudson; Free at Waryas Park
Details: A bit of a drive, but the views are pretty great. The City of Poughkeepsie’s annual fireworks spectacular on July 4th can be viewed either from Waryas Park (free of charge) or from up on the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park).
More details

West Point
Time: 8 p.m.
Address: Trophy Point, West Point NY
Details: People who want to feel deeply historic often enjoy fireworks at West Point. Additionally, The West Point Band will present its annual Independence Day celebration with music followed by a fireworks display over the Hudson River. It's kind of emotional.


POOLS & COOLING OFF
Stay hot, please! If you need to cool off and take a dip, you have several options!

Beacon's New Community Pool - Friday, 3pm
Pool Party on Friday at 3pm! The pool is open for the first time in 6 years, and there is a party for it. The pool is easy to get to and swim in, with a shallow end of 2ft deep that gradually gets deeper to 8ft. Plenty of picnic green space surrounds the pool. See our article about it here, and get thee to the pool. Day passes are available if you don't have a season pass yet. Located at the University Settlement Camp, 724 Wolcott Avenue aka 9D.

Splash Down Water Park
If you've been longing for the days of your childhood when you climbed tall towers with an inner tube to slide down a really big slide, then Splash Down is for you. If you want to float down their Lazy River with your family, then Splash Down is for you. If you even wanted to rent a private cabana situation with waiter service and pretend you are on a beach when you are actually lounging next to Rt. 9, you could even do that too. Located on 16 Old Route 9 West in Fishkill, just off Rt. 9.
www.splashdownbeach.com

Sprinklers at Bowdain Park. Free.

Bowdoin Park
Perhaps one of the most beautiful public parks in the Hudson Valley, Bowdoin Park offers a sprinkler water system to run through (kids and adults!), a giant rock that kids love to climb, and an impressive set of jungle gym setups, donated by various businesses in the region. Pack a watermelon, snacks, and even a full picnic to grill out on grills in the picnic areas. Located at 85 Sheafe Rd.
Learn more

Beacon River Pool in the Hudson River
The Beacon River Pool is a circular pool that floats on the Hudson River and is connected to the shore. River pools were common in early New York history, and experiencing one is very special. There are benches all around and the floor is a thick net. It's a little odd at first, but very relaxing. Even if you are swimming with kids. It's free, so take a dip!
Learn more

All Sport's 3 Pools
If you don't feel like packing a lunch and you'd like to order some grill food and a beer, then the All Sport Pool is a fit for you. They have a kiddie pool, a family pool, and a pool dedicated to older adults who love to play water volleyball and other water sports. Day passes are available.
Learn more
Editorial Note: All Sport is a sponsor of A Little Beacon Blog, but this mention is not sponsored and is an editorial recommendation.

PICNICS

Artisan Wine shared their summer wine picks for different occasions.

WINE!
Pack wine and beer, and revisit our Summer Wine Picks with recommendations from Artisan Wine! This list is from last year, but if you go in this year they may have different brands for you to try depending on the type of picnic or BBQ you are having.

FOODIES!
No time to pack a picnic from scratch? Pick up cheeses, pre-made odds and ends or order to go! Here are a few recommendations:

BJs: Deep fried chicken and mac cheese. Also get collared greens and other soul food selections. Across the street from the M&T bank.

Beacon Bite Food Truck: Order a to-go basket of very fine fare. Recently off the grill have been chilled poached squid, charred chilli cabbage, nasturtium dill butter, and jalapeño. Woa. Located at 416 Main Street just past the middle of town.

Beacon Bite is in the middle section of Main Street and in the same lot as Beacon Pie Company's bike stand.

Raddish: A clean-eater's delight! With meat! Raddish is obsessed with...raddishes, lettus and green things from the ground. Order grilled chicken or tuna to top your salad. NOTE: Closed early on Saturday July 4th at 2pm. Located at 505 Main Street, at the far east end near the mountain.

Tito Santana Taqueria: A great space for easy ordering of fresh, cilantro based corn salads, tacos, quesadias, chips, and summer beer. Has a large outdoor space with plenty of picnic tables for indoor or outdoor eating.

Harry's Hot Sandwiches: Beacon's newest sandwich shop! A great take-away option. Look for serious sandwiches like the Chimichurri Roast Beast, and soups like a Black Bean Arepa. Loated at 449 Main Street, right next to the very large Beacon Theatre.

PIE + DESSERT!
BJ's also scores big points for having lots of mini-pies on demand. These are your basic pies, like apple, cherry, and sweet potato. We blogged about BJ's pies a few summers ago.

Beacon Pie Company: And then an official pie company came to town and they even deliver pie on bikes! Otherwise you can find them parked next to Beacon Bites, and sometimes there are a few pies in Barb's Butchery. You'll find flavors like Salted Honey Butter, and Chocolate Lavendar from their sweet list, and also pot pies, quiches, and shepherd’s pie on their savory menu.


HIKING
Will you be hiking this weekend? Do read our special hiking series for Family Friendly Hikes from the Cronins with your little people, and the Historical Hikes from Dylan Price to inspire your history hungry mind as you hike!

A walk to Earl's Chimney with the Cronin Family.

The view from Mt. Beacon. Dylan Price remembers a history you can walk through.