Winter Activities and Cultural Events Set for Mid-Hudson Valley

The Mid-Hudson Valley is abuzz with a variety of cultural events and activities as the winter season unfolds. On January 7, 2026, the Saugerties Adult Learning Community will present its second winter talk titled “Inside Woodstock — Music, Culture, and Community.” This online event, which is free for those who pre-register, features Candace Rivela, assistant director of museum education and creative programs at Bethel Woods. Participants will explore the significance of the Woodstock festival, not just as a musical milestone but as a thriving cultural community.

To attend, individuals must register by January 5, 2026. The session will utilize images and videos from Bethel Woods’ collection, showcasing key artifacts and performances that shaped the era.

Further enriching the local community, the Phoenicia Library offers free English as a Second Language (ESL) tutoring every Thursday from 18:00 to 19:00. Librarian Susan welcomes learners of all proficiency levels. Interested individuals can call (845) 688-7811 for more details.

For those looking for a hearty meal, the Kerhonkson Firehouse will host its monthly breakfast on the second Sunday of each month. Take-out orders are available, and inquiries can be directed to (845) 626-7455.

Visitors can also enjoy an exhibition featuring the historic ice yachts, Whiff and Zip, at the Henry A. Wallace Center at the Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site in Hyde Park. This exhibition runs until January 4, 2026, from 09:00 to 17:30 and offers free admission.

Engaging Activities for All Ages

The Hudson River Maritime Museum is offering its “Museum Mates” children’s activity series on the first Saturday and third Thursday of every month, commencing at 11:00. Each session features crafts, storytelling, and Lego building, with ticket prices set at $10 for Lego and storytelling days and $15 for craft days. More details can be found at the museum’s website.

For outdoor enthusiasts, drop-in snowshoe lessons are available at Sam’s Point Visitor Center of Minnewaska State Park Preserve. These lessons occur every Saturday, weather permitting, starting at 10:00. Snowshoes can be rented for a nominal fee of $5 per person.

In the realm of visual arts, four exhibitions have opened at the Center for Photography at Woodstock. Running through January 4, 2026, the exhibitions include curated projects that explore themes of culture and community, showcasing works by a diverse range of artists.

The community knitting group, Knit ‘n Knatter, has resumed meetings at the Morton Memorial Library in Rhinecliff. This informal gathering occurs on the first and third Wednesdays of each month from 15:00 to 17:00, welcoming all who wish to knit, crochet, or simply socialize.

Upcoming Cultural Highlights and Workshops

An exhibit titled “Picnic” at the International Museum of Dinnerware Design runs until January 17, 2026. This juried exhibition showcases contemporary dinnerware designs that celebrate the picnic theme, alongside vintage picnic ware. Museum hours are Thursday to Sunday from noon to 17:00.

As winter progresses, the community can look forward to the “First Day hike” events scheduled for January 1, 2026. Two hikes will take place at different locations: one at the Peter’s Kill Area of Minnewaska State Park and another at Sam’s Point Visitor Center, both offering scenic views and a chance to embrace the natural beauty of the region.

Additionally, a workshop titled “Words of Resistance: Making Protest Signs on Umbrellas or Posters” will occur on January 3, 2026, at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Catskills. Participants can create their own signs or “signbrellas,” with all materials provided free of charge, inviting community engagement and activism.

For music lovers, the Woodstock Symphony Orchestra will perform on January 10, 2026, featuring classical pieces under the direction of Mina Kim. A snow date is set for January 11, 2026. Ticket prices range from $10 for students to $40 for general admission.

The People’s Place Wellness Empowerment Center continues to offer free workshops focused on health and wellness, held monthly. These sessions provide community members with valuable resources and support, further fostering a spirit of cooperation and well-being.

With these diverse offerings, the Mid-Hudson Valley is poised to engage residents and visitors alike in a winter filled with culture and community.