Holiday House Lights In Beacon For 2018!

Thank you to everyone who submitted pictures of their decorated homes! It has become a tradition each year for us at A Little Beacon Blog to go “Holiday House Light Hunting,” where we literally drive up and down Beacon (quite literally, when we drive up Mount Beacon into those neighborhoods) to find exciting holiday house light decorations.

While there are several pictures in this roundup, it is just a sampling of the many house lights decorating Beacon right now. Where possible, we indicate where a house is. Otherwise, we encourage you to drive or walk around on your own self-guided tour!

Here is a home going with a fun minimalist pop-art look. If this looks familiar to anyone, this house was featured on HGTV’s House Hunters with Richard Blakely and Lindsay Kaplan. Watch the episode - it is hilarious, and you’ll even see Richie from Max’s on Main in it!
Photo Credit: Richard Blakeley (Richie’s son-in-law)

Celebrating their first holiday season in Beacon, Allison and Chris built their house from scratch. You’ve probably seen it on 9D on the way to the train station just after the Southern Dutchess Country Club. Next year they promise MORE lights to outline the entire house.

Lauren and Brent just moved to Beacon at the end of this past summer, and were excited to decorate their new home for the holidays!

New life in the former Halvey Funeral Home as the new residential homeowners are settling in. (The funeral home business has relocated to Bank Street, near Dia off Wolcott.)

A nice “I’ll be home for Christmas” vibe is coming from this home.

Oooh! Glittery and sparkly!

Brightly lit trees on front porches emerged as a theme early on. In order to capture these white lights on the tree, we had to sacrifice the rest of the house in the dark. #iphonechallenged

Props to anyone who got lights onto their roof!

Traditional and festive!

The sparkly laser lights look like snow for a minute.

While not over the top, this very classic look had us wanting to live there.

Awwww! We love the big polar bear!

This corner of Tompkins Terrace has some serious cheer!

This house is a professional Griswold. Wait for the other side...

It’s a good thing we had our Christmas music playing, because it felt like music was coming out of the lights! And BTW, this design is so elaborate and well-done, we had driven around the block to go somewhere else, but actually got lost and thought we had driven up to a new house when we approached this one from a different angle! People come from all over to take pictures of this house.

Being a neighbor of the above house might serve as a Holiday House Light Challenge, so we tried to show some love for the neighbors. Fist bump to this little Vader across the street.

It’s the “Fa La La La La La La Death Star” house on Overlook Ave.

As we stopped to take this photo of this charming display, one of the wreaths got sucked back into the window! We wondered if we were in Whoville while the Grinch was stealing Christmas? No, the decorators were just putting on finishing touches as we drove by.

Quite elaborate around the yard!

We liked the illuminated nativity scene with the snowman.

Always a good one. This house is near Dogwood and gives us a beach-house vibe each year when they light up with Christmas.

Certainly a warm glow! There was a cute snowman table spread scene out on the front porch at this house near the mountain.

More lit up trees on the front porch of this house near the mountain. We are definitely putting a Christmas tree out on the front porch next year!

Tricky picture, but this house, on Mountain Lane, which travels up Mount Beacon, overlooks the city below and over to Newburgh. It’s really neat over here, as several roads twist and turn up the mountain.

Charming. Can we move in? This one is also slightly up Mount Beacon.

If your house was gift-wrapped as a package, this is what it might look like.

Santa in a web!

Candy canes in the front yard on DeWindt.

Where to Buy a Christmas Tree Near Beacon, NY

Your hunt for a Christmas tree in or near Beacon is going to be a satisfying one. Below, you’ll find different local Christmas tree lots from which to purchase your live tree. The lots will smell heavenly, as the aroma is bursting from the trees. If you are totally out of decorations, and need a place to start, you could go to Brett’s Hardware in Beacon for the Christmas tree stand and an entire galaxy of light options (choices for your house, your tree and for other outdoor decorations like a mini-light show).

You could also go to Home Depot in Fishkill for Martha Stewart brand shatter-proof ornaments and other staples for indoor and outdoor decorating. If you change your mind on a real tree and instead opt for an artificial tree, you could head back to Brett’s or read our faux tree roundup.

SUNNY GARDENS NURSERY

Sunny Gardens Nursery is the nearby nursery located on 9D a little ways past Stony Kill Farm as you head toward Poughkeepsie. The regular plant nursery is open in spring, summer and fall. Once frosty winter days hit, Sunny Gardens opens its lot for the Christmas trees, wreaths, and decorated wreath balls.

Drive into the parking lot and step out, and it smells. so. good. The pine fragrance is accented with a slow-burning fire as the staff keeps warm around a fire-pit off to the side while you search for the exactly-right, perfect-for-you, favorite tree.

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CHRISTMAS TREES FROM BEACON'S FIRE DEPARTMENT

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The Christmas tree shed from the Beacon Engine Fire Company next to Dogwood's parking lot.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

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The Beacon Fire Engine Company’s Christmas tree lot usually keeps hours consistent year to year.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

Beaconites can also buy a tree that benefits the Beacon Fire Engine Company, which is one of three fire companies in Beacon that respond to fires. To buy a tree from these firefighters, look for them in the lot next to Dogwood's parking lot (a single rope separates the two parking lots), at East Main Street and Liberty Street, on the east end of town, over Fishkill Creek, near the mountain.

A perfect December day might include a late lunch or dinner and a beer at Dogwood, followed by a Christmas tree pickup.
Location: 60 East Main Street 
OPEN:
Wednesdays to Fridays, 5 to 9 pm
Saturdays and Sundays, 10 am to 6 pm

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FISHKILL FARMS

Wow, what a beautiful location to go buy a Christmas tree! Fishkill Farms is just a short trip east on I-84. In addition to the fragrant trees, you may also smell the homemade donuts being cooked up fresh every morning. Don’t miss their store stocked with their apples and homegrown organic veggies, eggs, and fresh-pressed cider. Plus, Santa is visiting on Saturday, December 15, 2018.

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VERA’S MARKETPLACE & GARDEN CENTER

Speaking of homemade donuts, more homemade donuts are in Cold Spring at Vera’s Marketplace & Garden Center, and they are famous. The garden center is located in a strip on a rural part of Route 9, and it shares its location with The Pantry and Marbled Meat Shop. You will not leave hungry from this tree hunt when you get yours from Vera’s. Getting there from Beacon is easy.

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ADAMS FAIRACRE FARMS

And of course, you can buy your Christmas tree from Adams Fairacre Farms on Route 9 in Wappingers Falls. Adams offers a big selection of small and large trees, and walking through their tree nursery at night is always a lovely, fragrant experience. In years past, they’ve had real. live. reindeer.

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CHOP YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS TREE

If you’re the real adventurous type, and want to cut down your own Christmas tree, you could try Battenfelds, up in Red Hook in the arctic reaches of northern Dutchess County. They offer wagon rides, Santa sightings and do sell other Christmas decorations. Just a heads up, though: They open at the end of November, so you may need to go early in the season if you want more of a selection. You could also visit TJ’s Tree Farm in Highland, which opens on Black Friday. They offer pre-cut trees, as well as trees you can cut yourself.

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BIG STORE OPTIONS - HOME DEPOT AND PARKING LOT NEAR WALMART ON ROUTE 9

If you're a recent transplant from NYC, then buying a Christmas tree from Home Depot on Route 9 (to the right off the ramp from eastbound I-84), or from the parking lot across from Walmart on Route 9 (to the left off the same ramp) won't feel that much different from picking a tree from a pop-up Christmas tree lineup on Broadway.

Where To Buy A Faux Christmas Tree - And Could It Cure Your Cold?

Faux Christmas trees were the answer to this family’s recurring sniffles and chronic coughing.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

Most of you are searching for where to buy a real Christmas tree in Beacon right now. And why wouldn’t you be? 'The hunt for the live Christmas tree is the most fun part of the start of the holiday season! But did you know that your Christmas tree, and any live-greens garland, might be bringing on that mystery “cold” you just can’t kick?

I know - I’ve been a denialist for years about this, until I went to the ER in Poughkeepsie two Christmases ago with a really bad asthma cough, and actually got better at the ER, surrounded by goopy, miserable people. Hear me out:

The Christmas Tree Can Bring On Allergies, Causing Asthma, Runny Noses, Prickly Skin

Pretty much every year, I get really sick. We all do, right? It’s normal. While at an in-law family Christmas dinner down South years ago, where the halls are decked with loads of garland, I basically had to sit outside in the cold fresh air for most of the dinner preparations, while my head calmed down and I could breathe again. I called home to my mom, telling her of my symptoms. “You’ve always been allergic to the Christmas tree!” she said. Oh yeah… I forgot.

I forget every year. Two years ago, while pregnant with my third child, my asthma was really acting up. But it wasn’t like an asthma attack, it was a simple tickle-cough. Totally normal, right? Doesn’t everyone have a tickle-cough? At the Holiday Family Fun Night in the school cafeteria, PTA parents were handing out the wreaths that families bought as part of a fundraiser. I was slowly fading away into a head fog, but just thought I was tired. Eventually I couldn’t speak to people anymore, without coughing. I was whispering.

The next morning, I called my midwife to ask her if it was safe to take my kid’s inhaler while pregnant. My kids both have asthma coughs, so I’m a professional nebulizer person. Her response? “I can hear you not breathing. I can hear you pushing the words out. Take yourself to the ER to measure your oxygen.”

Great. So off my dad and I went to Vassar. The waiting room was overflowing with the flu. As my dad Googled how to fix the computer board on our broken washing machine (Darn that thing! Pro tip: Buy the cheapest washing machine with the least amount of bells and whistles!!!), my lungs started clearing up in this germ-infested room. After half an hour, we left. And I remembered about the Christmas tree.

Therefore, out went the live Christmas tree, and so began our hunt for a fake Christmas tree!

The Hunt For The Fake Christmas Tree

We went to #allthestores to find the perfect faux Christmas tree, and wowzers, there are fun selections. Clearly we will be having several different trees because it’s too hard to pick just one. Great news, though: We have many options for artificial Christmas trees here in Beacon and around the Hudson Valley:

Faux or Artificial Christmas Trees In And Around Beacon

BRETT’S HARDWARE - 18 West Main Street, Beacon, NY

Brett’s Hardware (True Value)

Your closest and friendliest option is Brett’s Hardware at 18 West Main Street in Beacon, NY, down toward the train near the Hudson River. There, you’ll find all the things you need for a faux Christmas tree Christmas. With rainbow pre-lit trees, prices start at $89 for a 7-foot tree that has plugs for the lights running down the tree, and $149 for a 7.5-foot tree without plugs to fiddle with, so just piece it together and it works once plugged in at the bottom. BAM! You’re done.

But maybe you want more lights, so more lights you shall have. Brett’s has different colored Christmas lights, and those neat laser lights that all the neighbors are getting. You want some instant holiday stars? You got ‘em. There are different styles and prices of the laser light spinner as well. Brett’s Hardware also has plastic bin containers to store your ornaments and decorations.

Brett’s Hardware is open until 8 pm every weeknight, so if you’re commuting home, just stop on by. Brett’s is open ‘til 7 pm on Saturdays and 5:30 pm on Sundays. Brett’s is in the True Value family, so they can get in on good group pricing.

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Pier 1

Way up Route 9, you’ll find Pier 1. Luckily, it’s right near a Starbucks to help fortify you through the afternoon shopping. There are beautifully bushy white artificial Christmas trees there, but they start at $400. If you weren’t planning on investing in a faux Christmas tree this year, you might want to put this on your wish list for Santa for next year. (Or check back after Christmas - maybe there’ll be a big sale?)

Target

Target in Poughkeepsie is where I found the smallish silver tinsel tree (about $80) that graces my office here at A Little Beacon Space. To be honest, I was looking for a pink tinsel tree, like the one Howling At The Edge Of Chaos has in her storefront window. But this fun one will work for now!

Rite Aid

Located in the middle of Main Street in Beacon, you may find some short (about waist-high) faux Christmas trees that could fit in a small window - with white frosting on the tips. After three years, the white “frost” on one of ours just turned yellow. Soooo… time to check on these options!

Happy decorating!

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SPONSOR SUPPORT: Brett’s Hardware supported this article with an Article Sponsorship! We can bring you stories and ideas like this with the help of all of our advertisers at any level. Thank you for supporting businesses who support us!

Sweet and Spicy Valentine's Day Gift Guide for Beacon 2016!

Y'all. You are in for a delightful weekend in Beacon again! Happy Valentine's Day! We have many gift ideas to warm your heart, because it will be chilly out! Quick, scroll down and see which idea works for your valentine, even if you are your own valentine! PS: Need a card?

Beacon Pantry

Beacon Pantry's owner, Stacey, is the queen of cheeses in Beacon. (She frequently takes trips to Europe to further educate herself.) Thanks to her obsession with flavors, Beacon Pantry is offering a fondue night on Saturday and Sunday from 2pm-9pm. On the menu is fondue, but they will also substitute a cheese and charcuterie plate if desired. Each couple receives bubbly fondue with all the trimmings, a bottle of bubbly and a dessert to share! Reservations are required.
Details >

After Ella's More Good Tasting Room

This Valentine's Day Sunday, Ella's Bellas and Drink More Good (we covered More Good's bitters here) have teamed up to introduce After Ella's: More Good Tasting Room for a very boozy Valentine’s Day brunch, which will run from 11am-3pm, followed by an evening of small plates and cocktails from 4pm-9pm. Guest Chef Brandon Collins will be serving up some fantastic food and More Good will be curating the cocktail menu. Normally they serve a light breakfast on the weekend, as seen in A Little Beacon Blog's Best Brunches Guide, but this special brunch opportunity is a treat. Yum.
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A Room With a Heated Stone Floor

Watch out world...one of the sisters of Cedar Lakes Estates, and of the corresponding Instagram account "sistersofcedarlakes," has moved to Beacon, bringing with her the style of the unbelievably beautiful wedding and event venue from Port Jervis (off of I-84's Exit 2). You could book this room with its "heated stone floors, wood burning fireplace and like 100 furry blankets" and take a mini-vacation from Beacon. Just sayin'.
Details >

Beacon's airbnb scene offers many options, from romantic and country to city and lofty. Here are two you'll want to try:

A Room with Quite a View

Lambs Hill is a private equestrian estate on Mount Beacon, with 180-degree views overlooking the Hudson River and Beacon. This private guest house is part of a larger wedding destination spot. During your stay in a beautifully designed luxury suite, you can visit the estate's Icelandic horses and donkeys, or slip into the outdoor hot tub. One mile to Beacon's Main St. and 2 miles to train and Dia.
Details >

An AirBNB in Beacon Special

You can stay for a night in this mid-19th-century Italianate home. Owned by a sculptor, you have a built-in concierge as he is happy to advise you on the local arts and outdoor scene. Just half a block off of Beacon's Main Street, and minutes to the Metro-North train station.
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Lacy Things!

You can thank Christina Faraj, The Bra Fit Expert for the sexy lead photo of this Valentine's Day Gift Guide, as she is selling that matching lingerie set in her shop, located in a permanent pop-up space in Echo Boutique on Beacon's east end of town near the mountain. Walk on down to her shop and you can buy the lingerie set seen here, or any lingerie item, and get a festive valentine gift bag to give your valentine. Pictured here is a matching set, with a black lace push-up demi bra from BTempted. Christina is a professional bra fitter and can get you in exactly the right shape for your body. She can see you on the spot if you need a quick fitting, but if she's not there, fear not, you can grab any style of bra you want and buy it at the sales counter at Echo. The Bra Fit Expert is a Featured Business in A Little Beacon Blog's Shopping Guide, and she always has something new up her sleeve!

Hot Stone Massage and Melt Those Cares Away

With all of the heavy shoveling you aren't doing this year, I know your body is worn out anyway, from getting your taxes ready, last minute Valentine's Day shopping and teacher card writing, and all of the other things during your day that make you tense. I'm not sure how you are going to make it to March without getting a therapeutic massage from Karen Meyer at River Therapeutic Massage, who has designed a special Valentine's Day massage just for you. Incorporating gently warmed and scented oils, the Himalayan Salt Stone Massage Experience is like no other. These polished stones have ancient healing energy to bring balance to the mind, body and spirit. Luxuriate in their warmth as they ease the tension out of your back, neck and shoulders.

Your session continues with an oil-infused Himalayan Salt Scrub for your hands and feet…and finally, complete your experience with a relaxing and rejuvenating Mini Facial Massage, enhanced with essential oils. Choose from rose, frankincense or several others.

While you’re still feeling the post-massage “glow,” enjoy a glass of wine or mineral water and a light snack. No rush to get back to real life!

River Therapeutic Massage is a featured business in A Little Beacon Blog's Beauty Guide, and each month we are tempted with a new offering! So keep checking here to find out which special Karen will offer next.
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Couples Massage

Maybe you did a couples massage on your honeymoon, or maybe you've never booked a massage with your honey at all. This may be your weekend! Terra Firma Massage is offering an educational twist to this, where you can learn some easy massage techniques to enhance your connection with each other and not feel like you don't know how to give a nice back rub. Giannetta Salon Spa always has available their couples room, which includes homemade banana bread for you to snack on. Amazing, I know! For other sources of massages, do see A Little Beacon Blog's Beauty Guide for many more ideas.

Fun in a Photo Booth!

Adorbs, I know. You too can look this cute and fabulous in the photo booth at The Pfotoshop, who painted the backdrop pink for Valentine's Day! Pfotoshop is a boutique specializing in home decor and gifts and is a featured shop in A Little Beacon Blog's Shopping Guide. They're on the east end of Main Street near the mountain, one of a few shops in the old Matteawan train station. And if you need to pucker up for that photo like owner Jackie Foley is here, head across the street to The Blushery, where you'll find a fresh shade of pink or red lipstick.

Do treat yourself to these lovely aromas, the Pfotoshop's newest line of bath and body products.

Roller Skating Date!

I know, right? You're dying to go roller skating with your mate! Well now you can, in Hyde Park at Roller Magic. Hyde Park Roller Magic is also included in our Adults Classes Guide, should you be looking for hula hooping classes...

Going to a Dance

Those Howlands...they are always dancing! Every month,, the Howland Cultural Center has a dance event, and this month it is in honor of Valentine's Day on Saturday night at 8pm. Special refreshments will be served, along with chocolates. This night is also Beacon's Second Saturday, so after you see art by walking our Second Saturday Guide, drop into this dance!

Chocolate and Balloons

Sometimes you need to give balloons instead of chocolate or flowers. Maybe your recipient is not eating chocolate at the moment, or is overwhelmed by the scent of flowers. Balloons are the way to go. My secret balloon source is the little shop in the middle of town that is next door to Trendy Tots, the kids consignment shop. If you have never been inside of this little store, I know that you have walked by it several times. The window is nondescript with old flyers on it, but the woman inside is magical and very busy building flower arrangements and blowing up mylar balloons, and even has an air pump for those of you who need a sea of balloons on the floor or taped to walls for decoration. At the time of the publishing of this article, the photo of her storefront is buried in my files, but I will snap the shot and post it here.

A lot of chocolate was consumed for the writing of this Valentine's Day Gift Guide. These chocolate hearts in particular are from Alps Sweets Shop on Beacon's Main Street. The chocolate-covered Oreos below are famously from Gourmetibles.

Kids Activities

You knew Beacon's bakers were going to do something special for Valentine's Day! The Be Mine Pop UP  is your chance to buy baked goods from 5 Hens as well as sing and dance in Spanish with Lisa Marie and listen to bluegrass music from The Miller Brothers. This is a weekend event, running from Friday at 4pm until Sunday. So get up on it.
Details >

Friday afternoon at 4pm, make cards at The Beacon Bagel with The Beacon Craft Workshop to raise money for the Beacon Soup Kitchen. Kids 5 and up can attend without a parent, and kids 4 and under must be with a parent.
Details >

Work off the Chocolate

Maybe you forwent all of the gifts and went straight for dessert, as was recommended here in last year's Valentine's Day post with the seven sources of chocolates at that time. It's best you go to a boot camp or get some endorphin-producing exercise. All Sport's special Buddy Boot Camp is your chance to come with a friend and work out together in what will be a challenging morning, but so worth it in the end. And you can always relax in the hot sauna to sweat it out even more when complete. This is one of several special classes at All Sport that we keep track of here at A Little Beacon Blog.

This Valentine's Day Gift Guide was brought to you buy (typo intended!) A Little Blog's Shopping Guide. There are plenty more gift ideas out there on Main Street, and we have your full Shopping Guide for when you are out and about! Have A Little Beacon Blog's Shopping Guide open on your phone as you look for gifts for Men, Women, Kids, Foodies, and more.

3 Pop-Up Shops Open Post-Thanksgiving - Don’t Miss Them!

Looking to pick up some one-of-a-kind gifts for your Holiday shopping list?  After Thanksgiving, there will be some great opportunities to do just that right here in Beacon and nearby!  We have a few Pop-Up shops opening this weekend from the East end of Main Street down to the West.  

This Saturday, check out Work:Shop Holiday Artisan Market at the Wickham Solid Wood Studio at 578 Main St. in Beacon. This annual market brings out some of the best artisanal crafters of jewelry, knits, glassware, ceramics, and beauty products, from Beacon and beyond. Also, of course, the renowned woodworking of Wickham Studio owner Jessica Wickham. Last year’s event included food, as well as raffles of many coveted designs.

Saturday is also the opening reception of Small Works Show at Catalyst Gallery (137 Main Street) featuring featuring paintings, drawings, photography, prints, mixed media and sculpture by more than 50 artists.  This Pop-Up will be here until January 3, 2016.

Nearby in Hopewell Junction at Arbor Ridge (17 Rt 376 - intersecting with Rt 52) on Sunday December 6 from 10 am to 4 pm will be the Rock & Shop Decemberfest Extravaganza.  This craft fair is a fundraiser for two Wounded Warriors living in the Hudson Valley.  Santa will be there with small gifts for the kids and the event will also include live music, food, and raffles.

Want more? Come back to Beacon for Second Saturday on December 12 and check out Makers-on-Hudson's 7th Annual Holiday Craft Fair at The Howland Cultural Center at 477 Main Street from 10 am to 5 pm.  This fair will feature members of the Hudson Valley Etsy Team and local makers and artisans from the Hudson Valley. 

Plan ahead and check out our full Pop-Up Shopping Guide.

Thanksgiving Menu Roundup for 2015 - Turkey, Desserts, Soups, Sides to Order

The weather is so unseasonably nice, that it is really hard to imagine that next week we'll be slowing down to a few days off from school and work, in order to help us unplug and enjoy our families. And if the rumors from folks in Chicago and Ohio are true, this region may actually get snow for Thanksgiving! Which would be a classic case of terrible weather for those who drive or fly to Grandma's - something always comes up.

For this year's Thanksgiving Menu Roundup, I had to plant myself at Ella's Bellas - one of the delicious sources of what may be several dishes served on your table this year - for my own pre-Thanksgiving slice of pumpkin cake and pumpkin fondue (which is not on their official Thanksgiving menu). It was a nice treat to have pumpkin and spice on the tip of the tongue - literally.

Pick and choose your Thanksgiving treats and serve a bounty of dishes collected from all over Beacon. Let us begin...(and order RIGHT NOW because some of these makers have ordering deadlines of Monday, or Tuesday, or maybe yesterday, but they might still accept last-minute orders).

HINT: Call ahead to see if the pie or bread of your dreams is still available to pre-order... While pounding the pavement for these menus, we saw several spots had order deadlines that had been scratched off and extended. So take a chance and call just in case... Websites can be a little trickier to update than good ol' pen to paper. Several sources list Sunday or Monday as the drop-dead day.

APPETIZERS

Cheeses...you are in luck because cheese platters are Beacon Pantry's specialty! These cheese plates are serious business, and include delightful bite-sized goat cheese tarts, stilton and cranberry tarts (stilton is a type of blue cheese), and a hand-selected array of artisanal cheese.

Because you cannot snack on cheese alone, dips and spreads are also on the Thanksgiving menu at Beacon Pantry. Select from hummus, dolmas, tomato bruschetta, mushroom bruschetta and olives. Beacon Natural Market has a tasty menu with a lot of options for various courses of your dinner. Select from tapenade (a dip made from black olives, capers and anchovies) or artichoke hummus, or surprise your guests with a seasonal pumpkin hummus!

What will you decide?

SALAD

Pumpkin Pie Spice vinegar from Scarborough Fare.

Stay light and healthy with an arugula/mesclun salad with goat gouda, toasted pepitas, butternut seed oil and maple vinegar dressing from Beacon Natural Market, or an Autumn quinoa salad.

ROLLS & BREAD

Time to get really fancy with the bread you'll serve to guests. And by fancy, I mean tasty. First, start with really salty, smooth butter from Kate's Homemade Butter from Maine or the Amish Roll Butter (a tad onion-y from the cows' diet of regional chives and such), which is easy to find at Key Food.

As for the bread, All You Knead Bakery has the largest selection of breads, from Sourdough to Challah to Olive to an Autumn Harvest - a sweet and chewy loaf chock full of cranberries, raisins and pecans. Baguettes are easy to find at other cafe restaurants like Beacon Pantry, where you may also be ordering cheeses or soups, while plain or rosemary dinner rolls dinner are warming in the oven at Ella's Bellas.

Special to Beacon Pantry this year are sweet breads, including include petite muffins in a variety of flavors, orange gingerbread, banana bread, pumpkin cranberry bread and apple raisin, brought in from the famed Cafe Le Perche up in Hudson.

SOUPS

Now come the toughest choices. There are a lot of good soups on these Thanksgiving menus. But here is the good news: Soups can totally transform leftovers into fresh, savory dishes when you make a sandwich and dip it into soup. So feel free to over-order here. While you may find frozen soups at your favorite source like Homespun, you need to think about these seasonal soups being offered special for Thanksgiving. Beacon Natural Market is offering a pumpkin soup with curry leaves. Ella's Bellas has a butternut apple soup, and Beacon Pantry also has a butternut squash soup.

THE TURKEY & WHAT GOES WITH TURKEY

Russell Samuel and Shivana Weathers donate turkeys as part of the I Am Beacon here in Key Food Beacon.

Beacon Natural Market and Key Food are your easiest sources to find turkey. Barb's Butchery cut their turkey ordering off a week ago. Key Food is also carrying out the annual turkey and food drive in partnership with I Am Beacon, and have so far reserved 95 turkeys, donated by various people, for families in need. If you usually pick up Murray's chicken from Beacon Natural Market, you can order their turkeys as well in 20lb or 22lbs range. There is a larger selection from Snowdance Farms, where you can buy a turkey from 11-24lbs. But order now, because they are accepting orders until the turkeys are gone.

A cranberry sauce with orange and spices can be found at Beacon Natural Market, and Beacon Pantry does have a cranberry chutney as well as your turkey gravy, sausage bread stuffing, and traditional bread stuffing. But if stuffed acorn squash is your thing, then Beacon Natural Market has a stuffed acorn squash stuffed with tofu, nuts, fruits and quinoa. If you're making your own stuffing but want a little help from Ella's Bellas, they are selling stuffing cubes in 10oz bags.

SIDES

Rosemary infused oil from Scarborough Fare.

Mashed potatoes get creative twists this season with a sage mashed potato or a sweet potato puree with toasted pepitas at Beacon Natural Market, and Yukon gold mashed potatoes or a mashed maple sweet potato at Beacon Pantry.

Veggies!! We must be healthy, right? Good luck with that, when we can order roasted brussels sprouts cooked in duck fat and bacon from Beacon Pantry. Regular roasted veggies are available at Ella's Bellas, and consider an order of string beans with sesame garlic seasoning from Beacon Natural Market.

If you are roasting your own potatoes or vegetables, infused oil from Scarborough Fare can put your dish over the top. A top recommendation for the Thanksgiving fixings is the rosemary oil. 

DESSERT

Pumpkin molasses turnovers with cheesecake filling at All You Knead.

This is the moment when you need to get a cup of coffee and really think about your options. This is serious.

Among light and fruity options are tarts, like frangipane tarts in many flavors including apple, blueberry, raspberry, chocolate caramel pecan and mixed berry at Beacon Pantry. Stuffed apples with pecans, currents, brown sugar, butter and maple syrup are being baked at Homespun. Cranberry sour cherry pie, and a vegan apple or apple pie or a cranberry upside down cake can be found at Ella's Bellas.

Pretty much all of your usual bakeries are selling pumpkin pie and apple pies. You are covered here. You just need to get your order in.

Where you want to get dangerously delicious are in these other pies, special for Thanksgiving. Ella's Bellas is baking up a fudge pie, and a pecan bourbon version with Hudson Valley Bourbon. There is a chocolate malt pie at Beacon Natural Market. Homespun has outdone themselves with a caramel pecan tart pie, pumpkin cheesecake bars, almond dacquoise with pumpkin buttercream (gluten-free), and vanilla cranberry jam cake with pumpkin-spiced buttercream. You may also find pie ideas from Get Frosted Cupcakery, but call for options!

Traveling? 

The Pie Box, to travel with your pie, at Utensil.

For those of you traveling, pies are always the easiest contribution to bring to a gathering. The key will be in how sturdy the pie box is. Thankfully, Utensil is one step ahead of you with The Pie Box. This is a lucky find, as The Pie Box actually sold out last year around holiday time. For pie bakers, it's a great holiday gift because it makes pie delivery so much more secure.

Frozen soups are also easy to travel with, especially if you have a luggage rack on your roof, as it's usually cold in November. Well, hopefully it's cold in November.

This is all assuming you are driving, of course.

Please share your pictures of Thanksgiving meals with us at A Little Beacon Blog by tagging us on Instagram at @alittlebeacon! Looking forward to see how your dinner turned out.

Menus Used For This Article Include:

Beacon Natural Market

Beacon Pantry

Ella's Bellas (all gluten-free)

Homespun

PS: If you are a food source who wants to be included in next year's Thanksgiving Menu Roundup, be sure you sign up for our Advance Notice email by clicking here where we send out opportunities to businesses so that they can submit to articles we are working on.

Get Excited - Bake Sale and Holiday Shop Updates in Pop-Up Guide

We love to support local businesses and sellers here in Beacon and this year, we have a great list of Pop-Up Shops happening in town! Pop-Ups are a great way to find unique, one-of-a-kind gift items and maybe meet the designer in person to learn more about their products.

Starting this weekend, check out BAKE LOVE, NOT WAR at The Shambala Yoga Center on S. Chestnut Street.  All proceeds from this bake sale will go towards the Solidarity Through Humanity mission which aids in bringing life-saving supplies to Syrian refugees in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley.

Another great Pop-Up to mark down on your calendar for December will be the Makers-on-Hudson Holiday Craft Fair on Second Saturday at The Howland Cultural Center, featuring members of the Hudson Valley Etsy Team and local handmade artisans.

So get your Holiday shopping list ready and check out our Pop-Up Shop Guide for a full listing of events in Beacon and nearby!

Valentine's Day Chocolate Fix - Forget Date Night, Just Give Us Chocolate

Valentine's Day is really a religious holiday for chocolate, let's be honest here. You can go out on a date night, but where are you getting your chocolate, and just how deep and dark are you going? Get in touch with your cravings, because you've got choices right here in Beacon...

CHOCOLATE SNACKS

Praise be, Jeni's has arrived to Beacon, NY by way of Utensil! This is a big deal, folks. I normally get it straight from Columbus, which is a long 12hr drive! As a connesour of hot fudge on ice-cream or brownie sundaes, I can tell you that this fudge it bitter, dark, and hits the spot. It also is a perfect match with Salty Caramel ice-cream, which good news for us - is here in caramel sauce form!

Ask Instagram, and you shall receive the real deal for Yodels. When we asked 5 Hens if she had her own version of the Yodel, she clucked back "Yes, at Martha's in Newburgh!" These Chichi Ding Dongs are made from Valrhona chocolate filled with whipped cream from a local dairy. Pre-order for Valentine's Day, at Martha's Friday and Saturday located at 105 Liberty Street in Newburgh. Find 5Hens in many Beacon shops, including Dennings Point Distillery. Full list here: www.fivehensbakedgoods.com

The chocolate cheesecake cupcake at Get Frosted Cupcakery may give you immediate satisfaction as you're walking to your next pedicure or to get a glass of wine at Oak Vino or Chill. www.getfrostedcupcakery.com

GIFTS FOR TEACHERS & FRIENDS

Chocolate covered strawberries are a fancy treat for anyone on your list, including a great idea for an office party or platter. Hand dipped in Belgian or dark chocolate using fresh ingredients at The Chocolate Studio. www.facebook.com/TheChocolateStudioBeacon

Chocolate covered Oreos from The Chocolate Studio, located on the very East side of Main Street are an easy treat for yourself, and a much appreciated gift for a teacher or friend. www.facebook.com/TheChocolateStudioBeacon

And your box of chocolates will be coming from Alps Sweet Shop of course! Beacon's local yet national chocolatier makes their chocolate in their Main Street factory in the copper pots you see pictured here. They can ship to wherever you like. www.alpssweetshop.com

DATE NIGHT WITH WHOEVER - JUST ORDER IT!

The espresso chocolate cake at Dogwood is a surprising spot-hitter. It's surprising because usually for a cake, icing or a fudge topping is required (or hint hint Dogwood: we'd love a scoop of vanilla ice cream!). But this chocolate is so deep and moist, that you'll want to take advantage of it while you're enjoying yourself on date-night, I suppose, with a stout of some kind. If you're enjoying this at home (yes...you have permission to order dessert to go), enjoy with this recommendation from Tim Buzinski of Artisan Wine Shop: "A glass of slightly fizzy red from Italy works great, and one we have right now: Sangue di Guida Special." www.dogwoodbar.com

There is a secret society of chocolate pastry chefs in Beacon, and the maker of this Bliss Cake is one of them. JoAnne Meyer is the Chocolatier & Pastry Chef at The Chocolate Studio, and also bakes and delivers for local eateries. This Bliss Cake has become somewhat famous, if not hard to find.  The Bliss Cake is a decadent fudge cake topped generously with a deep, rich dark chocolate mousse, covered in ganache, served with a port wine reduction. Find it at the Piano Piano Wine Bar in Fishkill, at an upcoming Ladies Night at the Chocolate Studio. You can also order it directly on-demand from the Chocolate Studio directly. (845) 765-1165

Christmas Tree Removal

Happy New Year! It’s that time of year for resolutions and clean slates. We make big plans to clean out closets and clear our minds in the process. For many of us it all begins with finally removing the big twinkly Christmas tree in the corner. 

The Highway Department is in charge of collecting trees after the holidays. According to Highway Superintendent Anthony “Zep” Thomaselli, curbside tree removal is currently in progress. Tree collection with occur during January, weather permitting. If you are a bit of a procrastinator or if you feel your tree has been overlooked, just give the Highway Department a call at (845) 831-0932 with your address and they will haul your tree away.

Christmas Lights! More Christmas Lights!

Driving around with kids in car seats during the holidays makes looking at holiday lights even more special. You thought you liked Christmas Lights as an adult? Well kids are enthralled by them and can't wait to see the next house. You could drive through a light festival, which would be amazing and you should check out Boscobel's), or you could drive around every night in Beacon to see the decorated houses of our enthusiastic citizens. Those who put on a show at Halloween often come through for Christmas as well.

Coming home after school has a new soundtrack now, and it sounds like this:

Kids (breathlessly): "MORE Christmas Lights!!! Backup, Mama, Backup! I see a light! The Santa is up!"

Here is a collection of Christmas Lights that you may recognize. Hats off to you folks for decorating! More photos will be added during this 2014 season.

You know this house - on Willow at the base of East and West Willow. Much better in person, so drive the loop.

A house also on one of the Willow streets.

Again with Willow. Who is also a top trick-or-treating destination! Not a surprise that they pull through for Xmas.

Yard art is a requirement in Beacon. You can let your inner yard-art enthusiast out.

Beautiful.

The Firehouse on Main Street.

Beacon Falls at Fishkill Creek lit by The Roundhouse.

Beacon Shopping Guide - Store Hours, Days and Ideas in Beacon!

Shopping! So fun, yet so strategic. With so many options to shop on Main Street, we compiled a Shopping Guide for your shopping and bookmarking pleasure! Save this in Pinterest or on your phone to refer back to as you shop! Before we get started, here are the tough questions we asked ourselves before compiling the Shopping Guide.

Things you should know about this guide:

• Open and Closed Hours are posted, but we know that small business owners need to make sudden changes based on personal situations, so keep that in mind as you shop and always call a store first.
• Special Message For Businesses: If you are a business wanting more information about being featured in this Guide, or if your business has been featured in this Guide and you want to enhance your listing with an advertising package, click here for more details.

Mountain Tops

144 Main Street
(845) 831-1997
PrAna, Patagonia, Keen and many other of your favorite (or soon to be favorite) brands are in this small but packed shop. Find boots, walking shoes and hiking shoes, and the socks to match. And find boots and socks for wee ones as well. As always, socks are buy 4 get the 5th free!
HOURS
Open Daily:11am-6pm
Sunday: 11am-5pm


COLORANT
145 Main Street
Colorant is a high-end fashion boutique that Beaconites first knew as a pop-up shop, and has rooted its concept store here permanently. Inside the store, you will find silks, cotton, cashmere, and wool garments that were hand-dyed by COLORANT using colors from naturally derived ingredients such as indigo, weld and madder root. They delight in the unpredictable nature of a color, depending on where and how the material was grown. Select from COLORANT's own designer label, as well as others designers carried in the store.
HOURS
A weekend shop.
Friday - Sunday: 11am-6pm

Nella Bellas Boutique

155 Main St.
(845) 838-3833
Nella Bella's Boutique is a women's and teen's boutique. The boutique is filled with of unique finds hand picked by the owner herself and has friendly prices for great fashion.
HOURS
Wednesday-Sunday: 11am - 5pm
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays

Lorraine Tyne
161 Main Street Beacon, NY 12508
845-418-5LTS
The easiest bling you'll ever buy. From huge statement necklaces to tiny wrist bracelets. There is usually a sale or special deal going on at Lorraine Tyne, so stop in to see what you can piece together.

River Winds Gallery
172 Main St, Beacon
(845) 838-2880
River Winds Gallery is the brightly lit gallery you see as you first drive or walk into Beacon. Always festive, their window is twinkling each night with lighting and wearable art found within. Oh yes, you will find large or small canvas paintings here, but you will also find jewelry from sought after designers from metalsmiths to glasswork.
HOURS
Wednesday - Monday: Noon-6pm
Closed Tuesdays

NFP

457 Main St.

(646) 823-3274

For those who like the cozy, sexy, sleek sweater look, this is a must-shop. Super cool, unique and high fashion sweaters and knitwear are designed by Gail Travis.

Open Saturdays 11am-5pm or by appointment only

Reservoir and Wood

460 Main St.

Reservoir & Wood is lifestyle boutique of the modern, mid-century, rustic and inspired. The clothing is high-end design and is pretty dope. Find fashions for women, men, baby, and some household.
HOURS
Monday: 11am-6pm
Thursday-Friday: 11am-6pm
Saturday: 11am-7pm
Sunday: 11am-6pm
Closed Tuesday & Wednesday

Lauren & Riley

462 Main Street

(845) 831-3862

A hip little shop to find bling, dresses, and sometimes tops and sweaters. You'll find perfumes and lotions and girly things, yet for those who love the skull and crossbones, you'll also find some punk designs as well. Also find an assortment of tea and honey, wallets, and other unexpected adornments like cuff links and jewelry.

HOURS
Monday: 11am-5pm
Closed Tuesdays 
Wednesday-Friday: 11am-5pm
Saturday: 11am-6pm 
Sunday: 11am-5pm

Echo Beacon

470 Main St.

(845) 440-0047

Women can find complete outfits in Echo. From skinny pencil skirt/dresses, to stretchy tops, to slouchy sweaters. Also find a line of shoes from Fly London and other brands. Oh, and there's the lip gloss, purses, nail polish, and more.
HOURS
Mon-Sat: 10am-7pm
Sun: 10am-6pm

The Bra Fit Expert
470 Main St. (inside of Echo Beacon, in the back near the fitting rooms)
Women's wardrobes are complete with a variety of bras to choose from, including stretch lace, under-wire, strapless, and more. This popup bra shop was opened by Christina Faraj, a professional bra fitter. Thought you needed a fitting room in Victoria's Secret to get measured? Not anymore.
HOURS
Thursday, Friday, Saturday

Gwenno James

17 E Main St.
(845) 202-3224
Gwenno James signature designs incorporate hand dyed and hand printed fabrics which are crafted at her studio and boutique in Beacon, New York. Using traditional textile techniques such as silk screening, marbling and blueprinting, Gwenno considers each fabric piece as a fluid canvas onto which an original surface design emerges...one color, one brushstroke, one imprint at a time.
HOURS
Tuesday-Wednesday: 11am - 6pm
Friday-Sunday: 11am - 6pm

Closed Monday and Thursdays
 

Mountain Tops
144 Main Street
(845) 831-1997
Easily find a gift for the man in your life. Camping gear usually mean gadgets that men love, like propane, head lights (lights you put on your head), manly slippers, sunglasses, hats, and much more.  As always, socks are buy 4 get the 5th free!
HOURS
Open Daily: 11am - 6pm
Sunday: 11am - 5pm

Reservoir and Wood

460 Main St.

The jackets for men that you will find in Reservoir and Wood will give your man a unique look. This is the store for the stylish but rugged man.
HOURS
Monday: 11am - 6pm
Thursday-Friday: 11am - 6pm
Saturday: 11am - 7pm
Sunday: 11am - 6pm
Closed Tuesday & Wednesday 

Echo Beacon

470 Main St.

(845) 440-0047

New to Echo is a men's line of coats and heavy duty gloves, as well as scarves and hats.
HOURS
Mon-Sat: 10am-7pm
Sun: 10am-6pm

Clay Wood & Cotton

133 Main Street
(845) 481-0149

Delightful little store for hand made pottery, jewelry, stationery, wood based designs, and many other things. Has an entire room devoted to knitting.

HOURS
Thursday-Monday 11am - 6:30pm


 

Hudson Beach Glass

162 Main Street, Beacon
(845) 440-0068

Beautiful. Anything you find in Hudson Beacon Glass is special. From ornaments to wind chimes to large platters. Like with many of the galleries in Beacon, the art you find here may be acclaimed world wide. Their studio glass blowers include those who have created major architectural installations and have crewed with Dale Chihuly. Stop in to find blown glass objects of all kinds, from lights to bowls to wind chimes and ornaments. Do investigate their extensive jewelry case for jewelry from local designers. Special for the Holidays are the glass blown ornaments where you or your child can blow into an ornament and preserve the breath forever.
HOURS
Monday - Saturday: 10am-6pm
Sunday: 11am-6pm

Notions-N-Potions

175 Main Street

(845) 765-2410

Where the motorcycle enthusiast and the spiritualist come together!  Notions-N-Potions makes products that are handcrafted using only the finest herbs, essential oils and fragrance oils, and are made in the store. Find apparel, books, candles, helmets, herbs, pocketbooks, incense, tarot cards, and more.

HOURS
Monday: Noon-6 pm
Thursday: Noon - 6pm
Friday: Noon - 7pm
Saturday: 10am - 7pm

Sunday: Noon - 4pm
Closed Tuesday & Wednesday

Dream in Plastic

177 Main St

(845) 632-3383

An addictive shop for items you never realized you needed until you wanted everything. Full of whimsical items like over-sized cupcake pillows, mugs, whimsical to-do list pads, and more. And socks. Lots of really cool socks. You can find something for anyone on your holiday list.
HOURS
Monday: 12p -5pm
Thursday: 12p -7pm
Friday: 12pm-7pm
Saturday: 11am-7pm
Sunday: 12pm-6pm
Closed Tuesday and Wednesday
 

Beacon Bath & Bubble

458 Main St

(845) 440-6782

Bubbles and soaps of all shapes, sizes and colors.

HOURS
Wednesday-Saturday: 11-6pm
Sunday: 12-4pm
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays

Utensil

480 Main St.

(845) 202-7181

Utensil is the home chef's go to store for anything you need in the kitchen, from honey to french presses, to wooden pizza peels (aka giant spatula).

HOURS
Monday: 11am-6pm
Wednesday-Saturday: 11am-6pm
Sunday: 11am-5pm

Closed Tuesdays

After the Barn
508 Main St
(845) 202-7146
Live the reclaimed life in After the Barn, where you can find beautiful tables, chairs and other pieces of furniture made from dismantled old barns. But that's if you didn't want to make it yourself. Owner Bob Staab brings back collectibles like printer's keys with different fonts, wooden crates, lights, and more. After the Barn brings new life to old barns by painstakingly dismantling barns and turning them into fine furniture, flooring, cabinets, even birdhouses.
HOURS
Wednesday-Saturday: 10am - 6pm
Sun: Noon - 5pm
Closed Monday-Tuesday

FABHAUS
512 Main St
(845) 440-7090
FABHAUS Beacon is a creative store that sells meticulously designed products and offers Hudson Valley residents an opportunity to make their own ideas a reality. With the FABHAUS in-store laser cutter, customers can have objects fabricated from a wide variety of materials, or customize their existing gear by laser engraving. Great place for a custom-made holiday ornament!
HOURS
Thursday-Saturday: 11am - 7pm
Sunday: 11am - 5pm

Closed Monday-Wednesday

Trendy Tots Take Two

296 Main Street


(845) 838-2200
This unique infants & children's consignment boutique sells new and gently used children's apparel and gear for your little ones.
 Very friendly pricing and a source for big and little ticket items from pac-n-plays to mittens.

HOURS
Tues-Sat: 10am-6pm
Thurs 10am-7pm 
Closed Sunday-Monday

Play

167 Main St.
(845) 838-2134
Don't be fooled by the name - Play is for adults and kids. Play is a toy store that has something fun for everyone, of all ages. Retro toys like slime balls and metal lunch boxes, fun books like Regretsy (and some books with titles we can't publish here!), a wide selection of wall art, hanging beads for doorways, jewelry, games, books, artwork, rare candy, tricks & novelties galore. Be sure to check out their darkroom in the back for electricity balls and other glowing things. If you have a creative girl on your list, there are many design books available for her to draw in.

HOURS
Open Daily: 11-6
Sunday: 11-5 
2nd Saturday of each month: Beacon Open House til 9

Beacon Bath & Bubble

458 Main St

(845) 440-6782

Bubbles and soaps of all shapes, sizes and colors. An easy stocking stuffer!
HOURS

Wednesday - Saturday: 11am - 6pm
Sunday: Noon-4pm 
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays 

Echo Beacon

470 Main St.

(845) 440-0047

Ho Ho Ho, so many choices. Echo specializes in toys from Calico Critters and Melissa & Doug, as well as retro Fisher Price favorites from your childhood. Train sets galore, and if you're into educational toys, owner Karen has selected some of the best games.
HOURS
Monday-Saturday: 10am - 7pm
Sunday: 10am-6pm

Lauren & Riley

462 Main Street

(845) 831-3862

The perfect spot for a holiday dress for a little girl. Owner Kim also has a daughter, so the wardrobe she makes available for your toddler is one you want to pick up and show off in pictures.

HOURS
Monday: 11am-5pm
Wednesday-Friday: 11am-5pm
Saturday: 11am-6pm 
Sunday: 11am-5pm
Closed Tuesdays

Reservoir and Wood

460 Main St.

A high-end boutique with adorable pajamas, leggings and other clothes for a new baby or funky toddler. The baby clothes and leggings you'll find here are a perfect gift for the most perfect parent on your list. You'll also find belly cincher secrets for the pregnancy stage.
HOURS
Monday: 11am-6pm
Thursday-Friday: 11am-6pm
Saturday: 11am-7pm
Sunday: 11am-6pm
Closed Tuesday & Wednesday

Waddle n Swaddle 
484 Main St
(845) 831-5952
Waddle n Swaddle is a natural parenting store and wellness boutique, focusing on the essential needs of mama, child and the “naturally modern family”.  They hand-pick eco-friendly toys, maternity/nursing bras and clothing, baby carriers, feeding supplies, potties, cloth diapers, swaddles, gear and more.
HOURS
Monday-Wednesday: 10am-5pm
Thursday: 10am-6pm
Friday-Saturday: 10am-7pm
Sunday: 11am-5pm

American Gypsy Vintage
263 Main St
(845) 440-3670
A little bit country, a little bit rock & roll. From bohemian to bike, this boutique sells a well-edited assortment of vintage and contemporary designers. In addition to running the shop, owner Nicole Alyse is also a sought after personal style blogger who does photo shoots in Beacon and NYC. For inspiration or fashion envy find her on twitter and instagram.
HOURS
Thursday-Monday: 1pm - 7pm
Closed Tuesday and Wednesday 

Blackbird Attic

442 Main St

(845) 418-4840

Michelle Caves' consignment boutique is an orderly, well-curated mix of reasonably priced modern, vintage, and designer clothing & furniture/decor pieces.

HOURS
Sunday-Monday: Noon - 5pm
Thursday-Saturday: Noon - 6pm (or later)
Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Vintage:Beacon

478 Main St.
(845) 202-7172
A stylist edited consignment and resale boutique, specializing in women's vintage and designer fashion. It's a cozy space that owner Angela Hasting stocks full of amazing finds.
HOURS
Mon: Noon - 6:30pm
Thurs-Fri: Noon - 6:30pm
Sat-Sun: 11:30am - 6:30pm
Closed Tuesday and Wednesday

Mountain Tops
144 Main Street
(845) 831-1997
Kayaks, canteens, non-electric coffee makers, hats, river shoes, Frisbee golf, you name it. If you want to climb a mountain or go camping, this is your store. As always, socks are buy 4 get the 5th free!
HOURS
Open Daily: 11am - 6pm
Sunday: 11am - 5pm

Peoples Bicycle
430 Main St
(845) 765-2487
An old school bike shop with new-school style. Find a wide range of bikes from custom-built heavy-duty cargo bikes to kids’ tricycles. Visit the beautiful new Main Street storefront meet all the dudes who make and maintain these beautiful bikes!
HOURS
Open Daily
Monday-Friday: 12pm-7pm
Saturday-Sunday: 8am-7pm

Beacon Natural Market
348 Main Street
Beacon, NY 12508
(845) 838-1288
Though you will find organic produce here, you will also find heavy duty men's and women's jackets and shirts here as well. If the sturdy hemp material is what your favorite person likes, then this is a good place to swing by to choose from a carefully selected stock of outdoor-wear.
HOURS
Monday-Saturday: 9am - 7pm
Sunday: 10am - 5pm

Scarborough Fare

257 Main St.
(845) 831-7247
Scarborough Fare has a large selection of gourmet olive oils and vinegars and their shelves are stocked with local and imported goods. Want to impress the foodie on your list with flavorful olive oil or vinegar? You pour the oil into a bottle that you can bring home and back for a refill. Try their Pumpkin Spice Vinegar to transform your baking, and see our recipe for using in to bake banana bread. While visiting enjoy a tasting of their enormous collection of pastas, sea salts and spices.
HOURS 
Monday-Friday: 11am - 7pm
Saturday: 10am - 7pm
Sunday: 11am - 6pm

Beacon Pantry
382 Main Street, Beacon
(845) 440-8923
Known for carrying French and Italian delectables, Beacon Pantry is a great idea source for eclectic gift baskets for the foodie in your life. They have wonderful gift boxes for every type: pasta lover, Francophile, tea drinker, chocolate lover, cheese lover and more.
HOURS
Monday-Friday: 7am - 8pm
Saturday: 8am - 8pm
Sunday: 8am - 6pm

Drink More Good
383 Main Street, Beacon
(845) 797-1838

Drink More Good produces small batch soda syrups, tisane concentrates, and cocktail bitters that are thoughtfully handcrafted using organic ingredients. Their ginger syrup is also a great addition to veggie juices and smoothies!

HOURS: Daily 10am-8pm, and Tuesdays 10am-3pm

Alps Sweet Shop
269 Main St
(888) 442-2577
Chocolate made in small batches, fresh ingredients, attention to detail and respect to tradition, Alps Sweet Shop hand makes over 100 different confections.
HOURS
Monday-Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: 11am - 5pm

The Beacon Barkery

192 Main St

(845) 440-7652

It’s unique place to find the coolest gourmet cookies and treats in the Hudson Valley-for your beloved furry ones! Favorite treats include “Cannolis”, “Peanut Butter Puppies”, and “Tail Bangers” for dogs and “Bonita Flakes” and seafood treats for cats. Also find leashes, collars and clothes.

HOURS 
Monday-Friday: Noon - 6pm 
Saturday: 10am - 6pm 
Sunday: 12:30pm - 5pm

 

Jake's Main Street Music

393 Main St

(845) 765-8548

A music store and stringed instrument shop featuring quality new, used, vintage and consigned stringed instruments as well as music lessons.They also carry a wide variety of strings and accessories, art, gifts, CDs and vintage vinyl recordings. It's a relaxed, low-pressure shop where visitors are encouraged to stay a while and try things.

HOURS
Wed: Noon-8pm
Thur-Sat: Noon-7pm
Sun: 1pm-6pm


Beacon Music Factory
629 Route 52, Beacon
(845) 765-0472
As the name suggests, this is a music factory where kids and adults can learn, be in rock bands, and can listen to music. Do check out their Rock Band Boot Camp for upcoming camps and performance dates.
HOURS:
Hours vary; contact business.

2 Way Brewing Company

18 West Main St Beacon, NY
(this is down the hill from Main Street proper, near the train)

(845) 202-7334

On your way up from the train station, either on foot or by car, Beacon's own brewery is a must-stop. Check out the artists on display as well!
HOURS:
Thurs: 5pm-11pm
Fri: 3pm-11pm
Sat: 3pm-11pm
Sun: noon-5pm

Denning's Point Distillery
10 N. Chestnut Street, Beacon
This spot isn't technically under the "Beer" category, but it shouldn't be overlooked. Denning’s Point Distillery in Beacon, NY crafts the finest artisanal spirits available including Viskill Vodka, Beacon American Whiskey & Denning's White Rye Whiskey. They use high quality grains from New York state farms and strive to create classic spirits of unique character and depth. Denning's Point Distillery works from a unique, urban production space and offers impromptu tours and tastings.
HOURS:
Fri: 2pm-8pm
Sat: 2pm-8pm
Sun: 2pm-6pm

The Hop
554 Main Street, Beacon
(845) 440-8676
The Hop is not just a delicious restaurant with artisanal fare. Its beer store boasts an amazing selection of craft beers. Perfect place to pop-in for a unique 6-pack!
HOURS:
Mon, Wed, Thurs & Sun: noon-10pm
Fri-Sat: Noon- Midnight

Santa is Coming to Town! Where and When to Find Him

Santa is coming to town! Have breakfast with Santa, coffee, or spot him while you're out shopping. You never know where he'll show up, but here are a few places we know he will be! If you know of more, please email editorial@alittlebeaconblog.com with your inside info.

TOWNE CRIERCAFE WITH MISS VICKIE

Santa Spottings on Main Street
December 2016
Main Street Shops
Santa comes to coffee shops and restaurants around Beacon. Where will you visit him?
Information >

12/3/16

Saturday Breakfast with Santa

10am Doors Open, 11am Breakfast Starts

This is the 8th year "Tinsel" (Miss Vickie) has hosted Breakfast With Santa in Beacon, and it is more popular every year! Tinsel, Little Santa and Elf Bob hand out craft ornaments for children to work on as they are finishing their buffet breakfast from the Towne Crier kitchen, and enjoying their Christmas coloring books (all included). Santa stops at each table to talk with children and give out candy canes while parents take pictures. Reservations are strongly encouraged.

Lunch With Santa Pre-Christmas Carol Play (Beacon Players)

December 5th and 6th 2015

Saturday and Sunday

12noon

Come and have a great lunch before the show with Santa and some very special guests! At 12:00 noon we will be serving a lunch (with a special Holiday dessert), a photo and a personal visit with Santa, lots of fun and Holiday games, but you need to make a reservation! The cost is $8.00 per person and seating is very limited to 50 guests each day. You will need to make a reservation by sending an email to beaconsantalunch@gmail.com.

Information >

All Sport Health & Fitness

12/13/16

Tuesday Evening

5pm - 7pm

Cookies, Crafts & Santa, Oh My! Free holiday fun for kids, All Sport is hosting a Santa night that is free for everyone, including non-members. Kids will have fun decorating cookies and making holiday gift crafts in the community room, with plenty to do while parents work-out. Santa will be in the Grand Lobby, so bring your camera! Santa cares about animals too and is taking donations for dogs and cats, so please bring a donation of pet food for the SAFEHAVEN Pet Food Pantry. Cat food is especially needed. 

Details >

All Sport is a main sponsor of A Little Beacon Blog, and we thank them for their support!

City of Beacon + BeaconArts + Beacon Hebrew Alliance Annual Tree and Menorah Lighting

12/10/16
Second Saturday
3:30pm-6pm

This 4th Annual Tree Lighting is free to the public and this year it will be held at Pohill Park (next to Beacon Visitor’s Center, Main Street & Route 9D). Small children's craft, music and dance will kick-off the celebrations at 3pm. Santa will arrive via pedi-cab to officially welcome the spirit of the holidays to Beacon at around 4:30 pm.

Details>

2016 Santacon in Beacon
12/10/2016
1:00pm

Start at Bank Square Coffeehouse, 129 Main St, Beacon, NY
Please join us for the first Santacon Beacon! If NYC got too crowded for you, why leave Beacon? We're starting at 1pm at Bank Square, then moving our way up Main Street to various locations, with our final destination at The Elks Lodge for a live band, drink specials, and Santacon Prizes! 

Leave the kids at home and put on your walking shoes. Bring cash for drinks, although credit cards are accepted at most of our stops. Dress for the holidays - Santa, Christmas, Hanukkah, Ramadan, Dwalli, whever. Santa loves everyone.
Information >

Breakfast With Santa
12/18/2016
10:00am-2:00pm

Location: County Fare, 2652 East Main St, Wappingers Falls, NY
Join us for breakfast with Santa. The man himself will be in the building to spread holiday cheer and take some pictures. Seatings at 10AM and 12PM. Price is $10 per child, $15 per adult and includes a breakfast buffet and a make your own ornament craft for the kids. By reservation only so give us a ring and book your spot today.
Information >

BeaconArts & The Beacon Hebrew Alliance Menorah Lighting
12/24/2016
Location: Polhill Park / Beacon Visitor's Center (Main Street & Rt. 9D)

Kringles Christmas House

By Surprise

Santa stops by this Christmas Shop sometimes on the weekend, so if you're out and about, peek your head in here! Also pick up Christmas decorations.

Holiday Giving in Our Local Back Yards

This article was planned to be published a few days from now, but with the newly created #GivingTuesday, we put a rush on it. It's time to address that collection of suggested donation sources that you file in the back of your bills folder, and write the checks for end of the year donations because they make a big difference. Beacon is steeped in volunteer organizations that provide vital services that many come to depend on, whether it be for enjoyment or a life threatening emergency. Here are a few ideas for you to donate to this Holiday Season.

BEACON VOLUNTEER AMBULANCE CORP.

When I got the letter in the mail to donate to the Beacon Volunteer Ambulance Corp (BVAC), I almost overlooked the word "Volunteer". When my husband called 911 for me a year after we'd moved here, while we were hosting a spring BBQ, I was having a then undiscovered bout of appendicitis which left me blue and shaking in my bed while my guests ate potato chips (I felt extremely embarrassed to be so unsocial). An ambulance and medical people showed up (even more embarrassing as our new neighbors viewed the scene from their front porches), because that is what happens when you call 911. What amazes me to this day is that the ambulance service is volunteer based, and has been since its inception. It is also the "busiest volunteer service in the country" with 2200 calls per year, according to their website.

When they started, the Beacon Volunteer Ambulance Corp made calls out of a 1948 refurbished Cadillac ambulance. The "dispatch system" was 3 volunteer members setting up a phone in their house. Then 7 volunteer members set up phones in their houses. Then they got pagers. And now the Dutchess County Bureau of Fire dispatch system is their system.

If you want to make sure these guys stick around, consider donating to the Beacon Volunteer Ambulance Corps. They have a membership PDF, but consider just sending a check to the address on their website.

DONATION DETAILS >

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CITY OF BEACON FIRE DEPARTMENT

A combination paid and volunteer organization, the City of Beacon Fire Department has been protecting Beacon since 1913. It has 13 paid firefighters, 3 support staff, and a volunteer organization of 60. That's a lot, and possibly how they fill 3 fire stations and have been designated with the fastest response time in Dutchess County, according to the City's website. Currently, their entire website has been under construction since early November, so when they are out fighting fires, perhaps your donation can help them make the updates they need. Or buy new equipment and maintain trucks ;)

Send your donation to:

City of Beacon Fire Department

Fire Department

13 South Avenue

Beacon, NY 12508

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COMMON GROUND FARM

Common Ground Farms is hosting their Annual Benefit Auction this Saturday, December 6th at the Scenic Hudson River Center Red Barn, 8 Long Dock Road, Beacon for food, drink, and live music from Tall County.

All proceeds go to support the Farm's nonprofit farm-to-school programs in which local Beacon school kids visit the Farm, and which allows the farmer to visit Beacon classrooms. In 2014 every third, fourth, and fifth grade class from J.V. Forrestal Elementary School (which is one of four elementary schools in Beacon) visited Common Ground Farm to learn about worms, bees, compost, organic farming, and local vegetables. Common Ground Farm also provides Chefs in the Classroom that conduct taste tests of local veggies and who prepare healthy food and recipes, which are then served in the school cafeteria. Common Ground Farms' goal is to increase funding so that they can work with their partners, including Hudson Valley Seed, to expand programming to additional schools.

BUY TICKETS HERE >

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BEACON DOG PARK

After a year of fundraising, the Beacon Dog Park finally hosted a ribbon cutting to officially open its gates in March of 2013. Right next to Memorial Park for Kids, where dogs are not allowed, the Beacon Dog Park has made socializing dogs and humans easier and more attainable. Your membership as a dog owner is donation enough, but if you wanted to donate a little extra, it does help to buy new benches, fix any fencing, etc.

DONATE NOW >

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GIANNETTA SALON & SPA

Near and dear to Giannetta Salon & Spa's heart for the Children's Tumor Foundation, which has made great strides in developing cures for cancer, tumors, bone disorders, and learning difficulties. Right now, Giannetta's is hosting a raffle for a basket of wine, as well as 3 Kerastase Chroma Thermique system products. This is sort of major because if you've ever tried Kerastase, you'll know it's the most luxurious shampoo lather you've ever experienced, and really does make a big difference in your hair. A donation box for the Children's Tumor Foundation is available as well. You can stop into the salon to enter the raffle.

MORE ABOUT GIANNETTA >

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MID-HUDSON CHILDREN'S MUSEUM

Any city is so lucky to have a Children's Museum, and if you're not already a member or a regular attendee of this museum, you should know that Mid-Hudson Children's Museum, located on the Hudson River in Poughkeepsie almost under the Walkway Over the Hudson, is a special place for kids. They celebrate childhood and are proud to offer exhibits that get kids moving, exploring, building, pretending, collaborating, creating and discovering. Their exhibits focus on nature, science, literacy, art, music and community and allow children the opportunity to develop foundational learning skills. The museum also builds a lot of their own exhibits.

BECOME A MEMBER or JUST DONATE >

Remember, these are only a few ideas. Let's see how creative you can be in your Holiday Giving!

Gingerbread House Decoration Party from Beacon Public Space

The 8th Annual Gingerbread House Decoration Party is today at the Howland Public Library!

It's a BOYGBH (Bring Your Own Gingerbread House) supplies or buy a kit there if there is one left for $12.

Brought to you buy Beacon Public Space, this tasty project is loads of fun and is a great excuse to decorate a gingerbread house. But it doesn't stop there! It then adds to the decoration of Beacon's Main Street, because with this Gingerbread House Decorating Party, there is a catch - at least one house per decorator must be put on display in a storefront window December 11 - January 20th.

 

Details at Beacon Public Space!

#GobbleGobble: A Hashtag Thanksgiving

Wishing you and yours a wonderful Thanksgiving, reflecting on how the digital world of hashtags and Pinterest have brought us closer together by tapping on hashtags to see food ideas, table centerpiece ideas, and close moments between people.

If two (?) years ago was the time of one if the most damaging snowstorms for Beacon and surrounding areas on Halloween, this was the year when a nor'easter kicked off Thanksgiving and made travel a little dicey (note picture of our trip across Pennsylvania on I80 through a mountain range before cell service goes out).

Here's a toast to the creativity coming out of everyone as they tap and search and follow inspirations.

PS: did you know that Beaconite and tech enthusiast Stowe Boyd of BeaconStreets.com was part of the behavior movement that encouraged hashtags to be an official way of categorizing thoughts and tweets on Twitter and other platforms? We are living in transforming times.