Exciting Community Events Unfold in Mid-Hudson Valley This January

The Mid-Hudson Valley is buzzing with a variety of community events this January, offering residents and visitors an array of engaging activities. From art workshops to musical performances, there is something for everyone to enjoy throughout the month.

Art and Music Workshops for Teens

A weekly art and music workshop is set to take place at the United Methodist Church located at 153 Main St., Port Ewen. Open to teens aged 12 to 18, the sessions will run every Tuesday from January through March, starting at 6 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. All materials will be provided, and healthy snacks will be available. For inquiries, interested individuals can call (845) 340-1293 or email [email protected].

Also taking place is a free English as a Second Language (ESL) tutoring program at the Phoenicia Library, situated at 48 Main St., Phoenicia. Librarian Susan will conduct lessons every Thursday from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., welcoming participants of all proficiency levels.

Family Activities and Cultural Exhibitions

The Hudson River Maritime Museum invites families to participate in its “Museum Mates” children’s activity series. Scheduled for the first Saturday and third Thursday of each month at 11 a.m., activities will include crafts, storytelling, and Lego sessions. Ticket prices are $10 for Lego and storytelling days and $15 for craft days. More information is available at the museum’s website.

For those interested in outdoor activities, drop-in snowshoe lessons are being offered at the Sam’s Point Visitor Center of the Minnewaska State Park Preserve. These lessons, designed for newcomers to snowshoeing, will occur every Saturday in January, February, and March, weather permitting. The lessons begin at 10 a.m., and snowshoes can be rented for a discounted fee of $5 per person.

Art enthusiasts can explore four new exhibitions at the Center for Photography at Woodstock, located at 25 Dederick St., Kingston. These exhibitions, including “Everyday Culture: Seven Projects by Documentary Arts” and “Kinship and Community: Selections from the Texas African American Photographers Archive,” will run through January 11.

The International Museum of Dinnerware Design is showcasing the exhibit titled “Picnic” at its location on 524 Broadway, Kingston. This juried exhibit, open until January 17, focuses on contemporary dinnerware design and features works from various artists across the United States.

Community Engagement and Performances

A weekly Kingston Rally & Food Drive will occur on Saturday, January 10, from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. in Post Office Park at the intersection of Broadway and Grand in Kingston. Participants are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items for local food pantries, along with signs and musical instruments to amplify their voices.

The Woodstock Symphony Orchestra will perform on January 10 at 7:30 p.m. at the Woodstock Playhouse, featuring the concert titled “Voices of Revolution.” Soloist Chris Santos will join the orchestra, directed by Mina Kim. Tickets are priced at $40 for general admission, $35 for seniors and veterans, and $10 for students.

On January 11, Saugerties Pro Musica will host a piano concert featuring award-winning pianist Sachiko Kato at the Saugerties United Methodist Church. The performance will begin at 3 p.m. and will feature pieces by renowned composers including Scriabin and Chopin. Admission is free, with donations accepted.

The People’s Place Wellness Empowerment Center continues to offer free workshops and health screenings every month. Located at 775 Broadway, Kingston, the center provides community support through various wellness classes and nutritional guidance. For more details or to register, visit their website.

As the month unfolds, the Mid-Hudson Valley continues to showcase its vibrant community spirit through these diverse events. With numerous activities appealing to all ages, residents are encouraged to take part and enjoy the cultural richness of the region.