An Insider’s Guide to February Events in the Hudson Valley
By Kayla Sexton via HV Mag
Hudson River tourism directors share their top picks for places to go, sights to see, and things to do throughout the month of February.
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again. There are a ton of things to do in the Hudson Valley each month. While this winter has been a mild one, we’re still looking forward to seasonal delights like the Cocoa Crawl in Port Jervis and the Neon Lights Laser Show at Catamount Mountain Resort. There are also some enticing live performances this month, whether you’re into classical, jazz, blues, or theater. What’s more, with numerous business openings as of late, there is even more shopping and dining to explore around the region.
To help scout out the best events in the Valley, we reached out to local tourism directors from Albany to Westchester for their top picks for things to do. Check out their selections, then get planning!
Albany County
The Moral Arc Toward Freedom: Lincoln, King, and the Emancipation Proclamation
New York State Museum, Albany
February 15, 7 p.m.
Marking the launch of a new temporary exhibit at the New York State Museum, this lively program will feature poetry, excerpt readings of historical documents, and the only surviving Emancipation Proclamation document in Abraham Lincoln’s own hand. The preliminary draft of the historic document will be accompanied by an audio recording of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivering a speech on the 100-year anniversary of the Proclamation.
Albany Amour! Historic Love Stories and Cider Pairings
Nine Pin Ciderworks, Albany
February 17, 6–7 p.m.
Back for 2024, this popular Valentine’s Day event includes an evening of stories showcasing sweet, scandalous, and downright notorious lovers throughout Albany’s history. Select stories will be paired with a specialty cider handpicked by Nine Pin that embodies the spirit of the couple’s tale.
Carl Sprague: Setting the Stage Exhibit
Opalka Gallery at Russell Sage College, Albany
Through February 24
Legendary stage and screen designer Carl Sprague has led a remarkable career in film. His work has been featured in a series of critically acclaimed movies including 12 Years a Slave, The Age of Innocence, and La La Land. This exhibition showcases Sprague’s work across multiple projects with a special tour with the designer himself on February 2.
Columbia County
All My Sons
Ghent Playhouse, Ghent
February 9–11, 16–18
This classic drama by Arthur Miller paints a picture of a post-war American family in the midst of a tragic downfall of lies, greed, love, and loss. How far would a man go to protect his family, his interests, and his legacy? Catch this popular play at the Ghent Playhouse.
Neon Lights Laser Show
Catamount Mountain Resort, Hillsdale
February 17
Now in its second year, Catamount’s popular laser show is back for a night of fun, lights, and night skiing. Whether you joined others at the mountain last year or are coming for the first time this February, the free show is sure to dazzle guests of all ages. Head to the back patio for a festival-like atmosphere and watch the sky fill with lasers and projections, all set to music.
Dutchess County
Hudson Valley Wingfest
MJN Convention Center, Poughkeepsie
February 3, 3:30–10 p.m.
The original Wingfest is back for the 17th year, and it promises to be the biggest and most delicious wing event ever. Savor amazing and unique flavors from more wing restaurants, food trucks, and caterers than before. At the end of the day, vote for your favorite wings as the best of the best battle it out, and enjoy live music, games, and prizes along the way.
The Eleanor Roosevelt Bravery in Literature Awards Ceremony
The Fisher Center at Bard College, Annandale-on-Hudson
February 17, 7:30 p.m.
Celebrating intellectual freedom, the inaugural Eleanor Roosevelt Award for Bravery in Literature will be an extension of the prestigious Eleanor Roosevelt Medals, which have honored leaders who have embraced Eleanor’s values and the call to build a better world.
Wassaic Project Open Studios
Maxon Mills, Wassaic
February 24, 3–5 p.m.
The Wassaic Project’s artists-in-residence open the doors to their studios and welcome visitors to peek at their creative processes. Maxon Mills is a unique exhibition space: a historic, seven-story wooden grain elevator along the train tracks that has been repurposed into a magnificent gallery for contemporary artists to display their creations.
Putnam County
Live Music at The Freight House Café
The Freight House Café, Mahopac
Fridays in February
Cozy up at this lively café in Mahopac for amazing coffee, delicious sandwiches, and vegan and gluten-free options. The Freight House Café is open seven days a week with live music on Friday nights from 7–10 p.m. This February, the café will also feature The Vagina Monologues for the 11th year to support the Putnam Northern Westchester Women’s Resource Center.
Salinger's Orchard
Brewster
All February
Visit Salinger’s Orchard year-round for a one-stop-shop experience. The Brewster orchard stocks handmade items and products from small businesses in the Hudson Valley, and the market at Salinger’s is sure to provide you with everything you need. Grab a bite from the kitchen or find the perfect gift for someone special, and don’t miss out on pies, apple cider donuts, pastries, and more from the bakery.
Eagle Watching
Boscobel House & Gardens, Garrison
February 4, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Gear up in your warm clothes and head out to join Constitutional Marsh Audubon staff and Putnam Highlands Audubon Society volunteers for their ninth annual eagle viewing at Boscobel House and Gardens. Birding experts and staff will be at the event to help visitors spot soaring and roosting bald eagles.
Orange County
Port Jervis Cocoa Crawl
Port Jervis
February 3, 12–5 p.m.
Join the tour and visit participating local merchants as you sip warming hot chocolate in Port Jervis. Around the town, try samples of cocoa or other sweet treats along with some great deals after you pick up your cocoa crawl passport at any participating business. You’ll receive a stamp for purchases at each business for the chance to win prizes.
Valentine Craft Market
Drowned Lands Brewery, Warwick
February 10–11
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, this indoor craft market returns this February at Warwick’s Drowned Lands Brewery. Local vendors, artists, and crafts people will showcase their best items for sale, including jewelry, woodwork, candles, and other artisanal goods. Throughout the weekend, enjoy great beer, fine food, food trucks, and live music all day on Saturday and Sunday.
Valentine’s Murder Mystery Dinner Show
Blue Arrow Farm, Pine Island
February 14, 6–9 p.m.
Switch up the usual Valentine’s Day festivities for this murder mystery event. Spend the evening in suspense as you laugh the night away and participate with two of the most incompetent meter maids and other wannabe detectives stumbling their way through clues on their mission to crack the case and solve the classic whodunnit. The event is 18 and older and tickets are $60.
Westchester County
Teatown Hudson River EagleFest
Croton Point Park, Croton-on-Hudson
February 3, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Witness the majestic sight of bald eagles during their winter migration at Teatown’s 20th annual Hudson River EagleFest. The program includes thrilling live bird shows spotlighting birds of prey, bird walks during which visitors can view eagles through spotting scopes, heated tents filled with educational displays, and exhibits, crafts, and games for the kids. Grab a bite to eat from one of the food trucks throughout the day.
Winter Festival
Muscoot Farm, Katonah
February 10–11
Celebrate winter with live music, animals, treats, and more at Muscoot Farm’s first-ever Winter Festival. The two-day festival will also include hayrides, food, drinks, and other goods to purchase from vendors. Buy tickets online now for just $8 per person; children ages two and under receive free admission.
Portugal. The Man
The Capitol Theatre, Port Chester
February 18, 6:30 p.m.
Experience the live phenomenon that is Portugal. The Man in Westchester this February. The Portland-based band has established itself as one of rock’s most prized possessions with over 1,600 shows under its belt and a storied reputation as a festival favorite. Head to The Capitol Theatre to hear the infectious musical stylings, including the breakout single “Feel It Still.”