Issuu

Catskill Mountain Region

GUIDE

JANUARY 2026 COMPLIMENTARY issuu.com/ catskillmtnregionguide

Ski the Catskills!

January 2026 • GUIDE 1

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January 2026 • GUIDE 3

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COVER

IN THIS ISSUE 8 WINTER HOOT: A Winter Tradition for All Ages at the Ashokan Center

12 V SEASON IS BACK 14 BELLEAYRE MOUNTAIN STATS 15 WHAT’S NEW AT BELLEAYRE 18 WINDHAM MOUNTAIN CLUB STATS 19 NEW ON THE SLOPES AT

Photo courtesy of Belleayre Mountain

WINDHAM MOUNTAIN CLUB

22 HUNTER MOUNTAIN STATS 23 PLATTEKILL MOUNTAIN STATS 24 ULSTER COUNTY: Your Gateway to Catskills Adventure

28 ADAPTIVE SPORTS FOUNDATION

32 OFF THE SLOPES IN WINDHAM 34 THE SKI NY SKI & RIDE PASSPORT PROGRAM

36 CATSKILLS PAST: A Fishy Tale

by T.M. Bradshaw

38 OFF THE SLOPES 58 SUNLIGHT, YARN, AND THE ART OF SHOWING UP: A Conversation with May Elbaz Belschner and Zaïri Malcolm of The Knitting Room by Michael Koegel January 2026 • GUIDE 5

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BELL’S ETHAN ALLEN OF THE HUDSON VALLEY

64 A GREENE COUNTY GARDEN IN JANUARY: Birds in Winter by Margaret Donsbach Tomlinson

66 THE DAWNING OF A NEW AGE: The Catskills in 2026 by Greg Madden Photo by Wirestock Creators/shutterstock.com

70 THE GREAT OUTDOORS IN THE CATSKILLS

Photo courtesy of hikertrashhusbands.com

by Jeff Senterman

76 SNEAK PEEK: CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION 2026 PERFORMING ARTS SEASON

83 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

92 INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

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VOLUME 41, NUMBER 1 JANUARY 2026 PUBLISHERS Peter Finn, Chairman, Catskill Mountain Foundation Sarah Finn, President, Catskill Mountain Foundation Amy Scheibe, Executive Director, Catskill Mountain Foundation EDITORIAL DIRECTOR, CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION Sarah Taft ADVERTISING SALES Barbara Cobb CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS Adaptive Sports Foundation, Bell’s Ethan Allen, Belleayre Mountain, T.M. Bradshaw, Marc Bryan-Brown, HikerTrashHusbands.com, Michael Koegel, Greg Madden, Maude Adams Theater Hub, Mike Pellinni/shutterstock.com, Jeff Senterman, SKI NY, Margaret Donsbach Tomlinson, Ulster County Tourism, Windham Mountain Club, Wirestock Creators/shutterstock.com, and Sergey Zaykov/shutterstock.com. ADMINISTRATION & FINANCE Candy McKee Julie Bryan Kim McGalliard Kaitlyn Truax PRINTING Catskill Mountain Printing Services

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DISTRIBUTION Catskill Mountain Foundation EDITORIAL DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE: January 6

The Catskill Mountain Region Guide is published 12 times a year by the Catskill Mountain Foundation, Inc., Main Street, PO Box 924, Hunter, NY 12442. If you have events or programs that you would like to have covered, please send them by e-mail to tafts@catskillmtn.org. Please be sure to furnish a contact name and include your telephone number and e-mail address. To receive submission guidelines send a request to tafts@catskillmtn.org. The liability of the publisher for any error for which it may be held legally responsible will not exceed the cost of space ordered or occupied by the error. The publisher assumes no liability for errors in key numbers. The publisher will not, in any event, be liable for loss of income or profits or any consequent damages. The Catskill Mountain Region Guide office is located at 7971 Main Street, Hunter, NY 12442. The magazine can be found on-line at www.catskillmtn.org by clicking on the “Magazine” button, or by going directly to issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide The Catskill Mountain Region Guide is distributed each month free of charge at tourist information offices, restaurants, lodgings, retailers and other businesses throughout Greene, Delaware and Ulster counties, and at the Empire State Plaza Visitor Center in Albany. Home delivery of the Guide magazine is available, at an additional fee, to annual members of the Catskill Mountain Foundation at the $100 membership level or higher. ©2000 Catskill Mountain Foundation, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. The Catskill Mountain Region Guide is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts. All photographic rights reside with the photographer.

THE CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION 7971 MAIN STREET, P.O. BOX 924 • HUNTER, NY 12442 PHONE: 518 263 2000 • FAX: 518 263 2025 WWW.CATSKILLMTN.ORG

January 2026 • GUIDE 7

A Winter Tradition for All Ages at the Ashokan Center

oin the Ashokan Center from January 30-February 1 for the 13th Annual Winter Hoot — a heartwarming, down-toearth roots music gathering where everyone is welcome, and joy is abundant. Drop by for your favorite bands or activities or stay the whole weekend. Sliding scale is also available at the door. No one turned away for lack of funds.

Friday, January 30 We will kick off the weekend at 6:00 pm with a delightful, locally-sourced community meal crafted by Chef Bill Warnes. We encourage you to make your reservations in advance to ensure your spot at this special dining experience. The unforgettable evening continues at 7:30 pm with Jay Ungar & Molly Mason, celebrated folk musicians known for their heartfelt melodies and storytelling. Experience their rich harmonies and timeless tunes that resonate with audiences of all ages, and maybe a few special guests! At 9:00 pm experience an evening jam session celebrating creativity, tradition, and togetherness. Bring your instruments, your voices, or just come relax and enjoy the music while you sip a local drink. Beer, wine, cider, and immunescheine served at the Ashokan cash bar. 8 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide

saturday, January 31 The celebration continues all day and night Saturday starting at 9:30 am with a hike led by naturalist educator Del Orloske (weather permitting). Experience nature’s beauty together! Remember to bring water, wear plenty of layers, and appropriate shoes. There’s plenty of fun to be had throughout the day in the Kid’s Zone, including Winter Crafts, an Instrument Petting Zoo, Kid’s Movie Lounge, Blacksmithing, Attire Rotation Clothing Swap, and intimate recording sessions in the Pewter Shop. Throughout the afternoon and evening, witness phenomenal ice sculptor Thomas Brown at work just outside the performance hall. The finished piece will be illuminated at night. At 10:45 am beloved kids’ yoga pioneer and singer-songwriter Bari Koral brings her joyful Yogapalooza experience to the Winter Hoot for the first time. With catchy original songs, playful movement, and calming practices, Bari and her band help little ones (and their grownups!) ease anxiety, get moving, and have fun. A favorite of millions of families, Yogapalooza offers a spirited, heart-lifting break for all ages in an increasingly busy world.

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Grab the whole family at 11:45 am for a Family Square Dance, with rollicking old-time music by Buvas and welcoming dance games by caller Megan Downes. You don’t need a partner or any experience. All ages are welcome to jump in and dance! At 1:30 pm Hudson Valley favorites The Restless Age return to the Hoot with new songs, effortless three-part harmonies, and the kind of dexterous pop that’s made them indispensable collaborators. Having backed artists from Donald Fagen to Kate Pierson, this powerhouse trio brings the precision of seasoned session players with the spark of a band forging its own timeless sound. Their performances are intimate, joyful, and strikingly cohesive—music that feels both rooted and refreshingly new. At 3:00 pm Paper Wings brings exquisite harmonies, intricate fiddle-and-guitar interplay, and a timeless folk sensibility to their first-ever Winter Hoot appearance. Hailing from the West Coast, the duo blends old-time influences with beautifully crafted original songs. Their performances create an intimate, glowing atmosphere that draws listeners in from the very first note. At 4:30 pm Grammy-winning songwriter and Americana legend Jim Lauderdale brings his soulful voice, sharp wit, and genre-blending artistry to the Winter Hoot. A longtime pillar of Nashville’s creative community, he’s penned hits for icons while steadily crafting a remarkable catalog of his own. Onstage, his easy charm and masterful storytelling create an unforgettable, good-hearted musical ride. At 6:00 pm Sarah Lee Guthrie returns to the Hoot with her talented niece Serena and daughter Robin, performing together as the Guthrie Family Singers. Fresh from a fall tour through Spain and Italy, the trio brings luminous harmonies and the timeless ease of true folk tradition. Their songs invite everyone to join in, celebrating family, connection, and the joy of singing together. At 7:30 pm see the driving force behind the Hoot festivals, The Mammals, an Americana quintet led by songwriters Mike and Ruthy. With the captivating support of Will Bryant on keys, Brandon Morrison on bass, and Tim Morrison on drums, their 10 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide

performance promises to fill the room with soulful harmonies, down-home fiddle, and poignant lyrics that navigate the delicate balance between subversive and traditionalist. As noted by No Depression, they embody “…the defiant spirit needed to heal a damaged world.” At 9:00 pm join in a community Square Dance featuring Buvas, a spirited old-time string band from New York State, keeping traditional fiddle music alive while championing the joy and playfulness at its heart. With Jed Greenberg (fiddle), Ben Cooper (guitar), Mike Fleck (banjo), and Ben Gould (bass), their sound is both vintage and freshly inventive. Expect them to light up the floor with post-modern fiddle tunes perfect for a lively square dance with Megan Downes calling. No partner or prior experience necessary. Circle left, y’all! It’s time to cut loose! At 11:00 pm James Felice (founding member of The Felice Brothers) brings his trembling, unmistakable voice and rollicking accordion/piano magic to the Winter Hoot stage. His new solo work, The Little Ones, is an intimate, late-night world of wry heartache, tender humor, and beautifully crafted songs. A true Catskills troubadour, Felice invites listeners into stories that feel both timeless and deeply personal — the kind you can’t help but sing along to.

sunday, february 1 The Hoot winds down with Yoga and Community Sing. At 8:45 am join us for an all-levels morning yoga class with Sara Trapani to start your day centered and refreshed. Everyone is welcome to share this peaceful experience. At 10:00 am, a vibrant community singalong invites all to lead, follow, or simply listen, creating an atmosphere of joy and togetherness through shared music.

for more information and details The Ashokan Center is located at 477 Beaverkill Road in Olivebridge. For more information and details about the Winter Hoot, visit hoot.love/.

The Catskill Mountain Foundation presents

SATURDAY, JANUARY 17, 2026 AT 7:00 PM SUNDAY, JANUARY 18, 2026 AT 4:00 PM ORPHEUM PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 6050 Main Street • Tannersville, NY 12485

Tickets available at catskillmtn.org or 518 263 2063

Scan for tickets!

Catskill Mountain Foundation is supported in part by New York State Council on the Arts, the Greene County Cultural Fund administered by the Greene County Legislature, The Jarvis and Constance Doctorow Family Foundation, The Royce Family Foundation, The Samuel and Esther Doctorow Fund, The Orville and Ethel Slutzky Family Foundation, Platte Clove Bruderhof Community, Bank of Greene County Charitable Foundation, The Greene County Youth Bureau, Marshall & Sterling Insurance, All Souls’ Church, Stewarts Shops, Windham Foundation, and by private donations.

January 2026 • GUIDE 11

hen Maude Adams Theater Hub first stumbled on the idea of presenting three great plays over five fun days in 2021, they never thought the idea would work so well that it would be repeated for the next three winters. Now in its fourth year, V Season returns to the black box stage at the Weisberg Hall in Hunter, NY, from February 11 until February 15. Originally conceived as a way for actors and creatives to pop up shows in the dead of winter when little else is going on, V Season took its name from Valentine’s Day, and the idea of putting together plays that have some kind of connection to love. Which, of course, most plays do. Due to the very short rehearsal time (typically a mere six weeks from first read to on stage), it was decided that actors are allowed to use their scripts as little or as much as needed, and directors are encouraged to think of these stagings as works in process, which give the audiences a peek into how the productions get lifted off the ground. Even so, the V Season productions are surprisingly polished and professional, and the scripts disappear into the action like a handy prop. This V Season welcomes plays that are about art and transformation, starting with Six Degrees of Separation by John Guare, a prize-winning classic with a large cast and multiple unexpected twists. When art dealers Flan and Ouisa Kitteridge welcome a stranger into their apartment, their entire social circle is flipped on an edge, and everything they think about themselves and art is transformed by the end of the play. With stand-out performances

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by MATH newcomer Josh Perez and regional favorites Katrina Lantz, Marc Wolf, John Remington, and Jessica Gibbons, plus a star-studded cast of regional actors, V Season’s first play to be directed by Ben Rendich will get the week started with a bang. Hot on its heels is Neal LaBute’s likewise twisty drama about the power of artful transformation, The Shape of Things. Directing for the first time since last year’s sell-out True West, Jacob Shipley works his magic with another four-hander starring Ashley Hill, Jordan Zakka, Ashley Krysinski, and local HTC graduate Ernie Briskey. A modern-day update of the classic Pygmalion, The Shape of Things follows the relationships of three college students as their lives are turned inside-out by a newcomer with questionable intentions. Rounding out the pack is Circle Mirror Transformation by the award-winning playwright Annie Baker. Set in a small studio in Vermont, this riveting play brings together four acting students and their determined teacher, putting them all through emotional upheavals and unexpected revelations that dig deeply into their quiet humanity and vulnerability. Shelli Koffman, who co-directs the brilliant Columbia County Players’ annual summer Shakespeare at the Churchtown Dairy directs in her MATH debut. The power-house cast includes Jessica Gibbons, Maya Rock, Laila Monsen, Brian Flynn, and Bill Solley. V Season will run from February 11 through 15 at the Doctorow Center for the Arts in Hunter, NY. For the full schedule, more information and tickets, please visit catskillmtn.org.

January 2026 • GUIDE 13

BELLEAYRE MOUNTAIN

MOUNTAIN STATS:

ELEVATIONS:

Longest Run: 12,024’ Vertical Drop: 1,404’ Total Skiable Acres: 171 Snowmaking: 96% Uphill Lift Capacity: 12,980 people/hour

Belleayre Summit: 3,429’ Sunset Lodge (summit lodge): 3,325’ Overlook Lodge (mid mtn. lodge): 2,542’ Discovery Lodge (lower mtn. lodge): 2,025’

TRAILS, PARKS & GLADES:

9.2 km of trails. The cross country trails are free to use and are only open with natural snow. They are not patrolled or groomed.

62 Trails, including Glades & Parks 22% Easiest Trails 58% More Difficult Trails 20% Most Difficult Trails

CROSS COUNTRY TRAILS:

WINTER HOURS OF OPERATION: Lodges: 8:00am - 5:00pm | Lifts: 9:00am - 4:00pm Make sure to visit the Snow Report at belleayre.com/mountain/conditions/ to see a full listing of open lifts, trails and any changes in operations. Lock in your day on the slopes by purchasing your lift ticket online! If tickets sell out online, they will not be sold in-person at the window. The earlier you buy your tickets – the better the pricing. Beware of fraud. It is best to purchase tickets directly from our website. All lift tickets must be loaded onto our reusable SKI3 Cards. Already have one? Reload it online and head directly to the lift. If you do not already have a SKI3 Card, one can be added to your shopping cart (new card fee $5) at the time of purchase. Bring your e-ticket QR code to one of our contactless Ticket Pick-Up Boxes to receive your lift ticket loaded onto a new SKI3 Card. Save your new SKI3 Card to reload online for future visits! Lift Tickets are not transferable, and your SKI3 Card is associated exclusively with your guest profile.

181 Galli Curci Rd | Highmount, NY 12441 800-942-6904 (snow phone) | 845-254-5600 | belleayre.com

WHAT’S NEW AT BELLEAYRE

reathe in. The inside of your lungs feel ever the slightest singe as you take in the white-encrusted environment around you. Breathe out, and the cold smoke rises among the glittering specks that effortlessly fall around you, reflecting golden sun beams. Snow that feels akin to confectioners sugar lays beneath your feet, and you look out — ribbons of this surface stretch out ahead of you for seemingly miles. Beyond that, you’re surrounded by other towering mountain peaks, all similar in altitude where you are. It’s hard to believe that a setting like this exists just a stone’s throw from the center of the universe, but you don’t need to travel very far to enter a new world. Belleayre Mountain in Highmount, NY has transformed over the years into a place where winter truly thrives, and core memories that last for generations are made.

From humble beginnings all the way back in 1949, the mountain overcame triumphs and trials alike to become the epicenter of family-friendly outdoor recreation in the Catskill Region. Surrounded by the tallest peaks in the area, Belleayre rules as king, being the highest ski resort in the Catskills. Combined with major infrastructure upgrades and natural factors, it is also home to the longest season around, stretching from at times two weeks before Thanksgiving, all the way into mid-April, opening and closing weeks before and after others, respectively. The mountain has been growing more and more into itself especially over the past five years, and this winter is shaping up to be the one where its potential is fully on display. Tons of projects across Belleayre propel it into the modern era, with the centerpiece of them all being the January 2026 • GUIDE 15

completion of Phase 2 of the Discovery Lodge! 28,000 square feet of space has been added, thoughtfully designed to add comfort, convenience, and modern services to all guests coming through for years and years to come. On the main level of the lodge, the building’s Marketplace has been completely redesigned with a new layout and menu, full of all kinds of tasty eats to keep you fueled up for a big day of skiing and riding. Moving deeper into the lodge on the main level, a small ramp leads you into the new, expanded portion of the lodge. The space effectively doubles the entire lodge’s size, with even more seating for guests taking a rest in between laps. There is also an additional food option located in this area, which serves double duty as a coffee bar and sandwich carving station. With plenty of space to stretch out for some time, it also contains massive windows bringing in tons of sunlight, and showing off the sweeping views of the surrounding mountainsides. Heading down to the lower level of the Discovery Lodge, the reimagined rental center has received a complete overhaul. Long gone are the days of a simple tent structure adjacent to the lodge; it is now a full-time, permanent fixture of the building. The Rossignol Experience Center features a fleet of over 1,200 Rossignol skis and 300 Burton snowboards to make your fledgling experience of sliding on snow an easygoing one. A brand-new layout makes the process of picking up your equipment as seamless and straightforward as possible. The mountain has also invested in a high-tech, brand new Wintersteiger Jupiter machine, which can perform everything from stone grinding, ceramic edge sharpening, infrared waxing, and more to give your skis and snowboards a factory finish. Further up the mountain, another major project is underway. Since the 1950’s the Overlook Lodge has also been a home base for many families and guests who have

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called Belleayre home for multiple generations. After more than a half century of dedicated service, the mid-mountain lodge is in the process of receiving a critical process of restoration and renovation, to also bring the location up to the speed of the modern day skier and rider. When all is said and done, the facelifted Overlook Lodge will feature a new, more open and expanded floor layout on both levels with even better sweeping mountain views, new entryway, revamped Marketplace, and refreshed area for seasonal locker holders. However, even with the modern amenities being added, the wooden rustic feel and vibe that dedicated Belleayre skiers and riders know and love will be preserved. This is an ongoing project that is taking place throughout the winter. The Belleayre experience is more than what is found within the walls of lodges, however. After all, the reason for coming to the Catskills and specifically Belleayre is for the sake of spending time outdoors. The on-hill product has gotten just as much if not more attention, with various upgrades to the mountain’s snowmaking and grooming systems. This past summer, shipments of 20 brand new HKD low-energy tower snow guns, one HKD fan gun, and over 20,000 feet of snowmaking pipe were delivered and installed. This is all on top of over 800 new guns, and 150,000 feet of pipe that have already been installed over the past several years. The critical Howe’s Highway trail got widened with intentional snowmaking added, improving a major path for snow sliders looking to access the west side of the mountain from the east. But making snow is only half the effort – all those crystalline flakes need to be groomed! Right before the lifts began spinning for the winter, a brand new Prinoth Park Pro grooming machine got added to the fleet, improving the efficiency of creating the best corduroy a ski’s edges will touch in the Catskills.

All of the improvements, upgrades, and modernizations at Belleayre over the years were only attainable thanks to the people who make the place run. They are the true heart and soul of the mountain, and it’s an honor to have every single one of them on staff. Here are some of the many friendly faces that you may see on any given day!

Alex Sines, General Manager The word “Homegrown” is what comes to mind when you think about Belleayre’s newest General Manager, Alex Sines. Born and raised in the ski area’s shadow in Pine Hill, Alex has vivid memories of the mountain essentially serving as babysitter, and poaching powder turns while skiing all the way down the hill and into her backyard. As soon as she was able to, she got her start working at Belleayre as an intern, and fast forward 28 years things have come full circle. After working her way up through the ranks and having a hand in virtually every single department on the mountain from Group Sales to Resort Services Manager, she graciously took on the General Manager role at Belleayre in August 2025. Naturally a curious mind, her drive throughout her career has been the urge to learn and understand new things, and she enforces that mentality by diving headfirst into every challenge presented to the mountain each day. As Belleayre pushes into the modern era, its leader firmly keeps its roots true while keeping its vision pointed forward into the future. Dustin Hall - Lift Operator Sometimes, the greatest journeys are the ones you stumble across by accident. One of the longest tenured staff on the mountain, lift operator Dustin Hall got his start at Belleayre back in 2004, and spent every one of his 22 winters on the Lift Operations team after being dragged into it by his brother. Dustin’s charismatic attitude to co-

workers and guests alike is unmistakable, as you can feel his signature vibe long before you reach the bottom of the Belleayre Express lift, his usual perch throughout the winter season. Even after all this time, the job never gets old as he gets to welcome the thousands of skiers and riders who come through his lift each season with a smile and a bit of a dance. He absolutely loves chatting it up with everyone, and being part of a bigger picture aimed at giving everyone the best day ever! Rosina Montana - Ski Patrol It takes an unmatched level of dedication to commit 50 years to anything, let alone to a single organization. For virtually every sense of the phrase, ski patroller Rosina Montana is someone who has “been there since day 1”. Beginning when Belleayre was barely 25 years old, Rosina began her journey as a ski patroller at that time. While every trend in the ski industry came and went including neon colored onesies, the rise and fall of ski ballet, and skis going from long and narrow to short and wide, Rosina stayed locked in to providing an elevated standard of guest service and safety to Belleayre. Fast forward 50 years, and Rosina remains a fixture on the ski area’s ski patrol! Though she may not spend as much time on snow and jumping off lean-to’s as she used to, you will regularly find her inside the First Aid building helping our staff keep the operation on track, and mentoring the next generation of patrollers. This past fall, she was celebrated and honored for her 50 years of dedicated service not only to Belleayre, but the National Ski Patrol. January 2026 • GUIDE 17

WINDHAM MOUNTAIN CLUB

MOUNTAIN STATS: Top Elevation: 3,100’ Vertical Rise: 1,600’ Number of Trails: 54 Trail Length: 300’–12,500’ Number of Lifts: 11 1 high-speed 6 passenger, 3 high-speed quads, 1 triple, 1 double, 5 surface Total Acres: 732 Trail Acreage: 285 Snowmaking Coverage: 97% of trails Terrain Parks: 3

HOURS OF OPERATION: Weekdays: 9:00am – 4:00pm Weekends & Holidays: 8:00am – 4:00pm

19 Resort Dr. | Windham, NY 12496 518 734 4300 | windhammountainclub.com

NEW ON THE SLOPES AT WINDHAM MOUNTAIN CLUB

his winter brings a fresh wave of upgrades, new flavors, and elevated experiences to Windham Mountain Club. The mountain has been thoughtfully refreshed to make every visit feel memorable, polished, and full of possibility. From redesigned terrain parks and slopeside treats to reimagined dining concepts and warm gathering spaces at the base, there is something new to discover at every turn. Whether you are carving corduroy, connecting over après, or exploring new offerings, here everything is waiting for you this season.

A Reimagined Terrain Park Experience This winter, Windham Mountain Club introduces a renewed freestyle offering with three refreshed terrain parks designed for flow, creativity, and progression. Updated rail colors, improved snowmaking surfaces, smoother lanes, and a cohesive new visual identity give the parks a polished and energetic feel.

Wraparound Park Wraparound is the perfect entry point for new park riders. Small rails, gentle boxes, and friendly rollers create a safe and inviting area for learning the basics and building confidence. Warpath Park Warpath features a fun mix of rails, boxes, and jumps suited for a wide range of riders. The layout encourages smooth laps and natural progression, making it a go-to zone for intermediates and for riders working on style. Wilbur Park Wilbur brings the highest energy with creative setups, jumps, and lines that appeal to experienced riders. It is built for filming, flow, and all-day laps. Across all three parks, consistent shaping and improved grooming elevates the overall experience and gives riders more opportunities to progress. January 2026 • GUIDE 19

Seasons Mexicana, Reimagined with Vibrant Flavor Seasons has been refreshed for winter with a new direction inspired by the bright, lively character of modern Mexican cuisine. Guests will find fresh ingredients, creative dishes, and a warm, inviting dining room that overlooks the slopes. Tacos, shareable plates, cocktails, and festive weekend energy make Seasons an ideal spot to gather after exploring the mountain. Seasons brings color, flavor, and a welcoming spirit into the heart of the resort.

environment makes it a natural meeting point for friends and families. Whether you are taking a break, waiting for your group to come down, or enjoying the atmosphere at the base, Peaks brings simple comfort and mountain town warmth to your day.

Smoother Flow and Thoughtful Touches Around the Mountain

Okami brings refined Japanese cuisine to the mountain with fresh sushi, vibrant small plates, and cocktails crafted with precision in a sit-down restaurant. Led by Mr. Lee, Okami creates a peaceful yet elevated atmosphere that is perfect for après or a wind-down after a day on the snow. It blends artistry with comfort and gives guests a unique destination to enjoy with friends and family.

Windham Mountain Club continues to look for ways to make each day on the mountain feel easy and enjoyable. Guests will notice thoughtful details throughout the resort that support a smoother flow and a more comfortable experience. From the way the base area moves to how gathering spaces feel throughout the day, every part of the mountain has been considered with the guest journey in mind. These touches may feel subtle, but they help create a relaxed and welcoming environment that brings the spirit of the mountain to life. We want to help you make memories with your family.

The Waffle Hut

A Season Designed for More Moments

Located near the C Lift, this family favorite has been reimagined by Windham Mountain Club. The Waffle Hut offers warm Belgian-style waffles and cozy winter drinks that offer a sweet break between laps. It is the perfect place to warm up, share a treat with friends, or give younger skiers a moment to rest. It adds charm, comfort, and a touch of nostalgia to the mountain experience.

With refreshed terrain parks, new flavors, slopeside indulgences, and warm base area comforts, this winter at Windham Mountain Club is filled with exciting ways to enjoy the mountain. Whether you are learning new tricks, gathering around warm pretzels and beer cheese, or exploring updated dining experiences, the mountain has been shaped to elevate every visit. We are excited to welcome guests back for another unforgettable season. Take some runs, explore everything new, and then join us for après every Saturday on the patio where music, friends, and the winter energy come together. Winter is here, and we cannot wait to share it with you.

Okami, Elevated Sushi and Après

Peaks On The Patio Peaks introduces a new taste this winter with warm pretzels and creamy beer cheese. Located on The Patio at the base, it is the ideal stop for a savory snack without leaving the excitement of the mountain. The relaxed, social 20 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide

January 2026 • GUIDE 21

HUNTER MOUNTAIN

MOUNTAIN STATS: Base Elevation: 1,600’ (above sea level) Highest Elevation: 3,200’ (above sea level) Vertical Drop: 1,600’ Skiable Terrain: 320 acres Number of Lifts: 13 Number of Trails: 67 Terrain Parks: 4

PERCENTAGE OF TERRAIN: Beginner: 25% Intermediate: 30% Advanced: 45%

TICKET SALES HOURS: Guest Services Midweek 8:45 am – 4:00 pm Non-Peak weekends 8:15 am – 4:15 pm Peak Weekends 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Base Lodge Ticket Sales Midweek 8:45 am – 4:00 pm Non-Peak weekends 8:15 am – 4:00 pm Peak Weekends 8:00 am – 4:00 pm

Snow Tubing Ticket Sales Weekends & Holidays 11:45 am – 6:00 pm (Tubing Park open 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm) Learning Center Ticket Sales Midweek 8:45 am – 4:00 pm Non-Peak weekends 8:15 am – 4:00 pm Peak Weekends 8:00 am – 4:00 pm

**Non-weekend Holidays include Monday, January 19 & February 26

64 Klein Ave. | Hunter, NY 12442 800-HUNTERMTN | 800-486-8376 | huntermtn.com

Summit Elevation: 3,500’ Base Elevation: 2400’ Vertical: 1,100’ Number of Trails: 41 Number of Lifts: 4 Triple Chair, Double Chair, Two Carpet Lifts (Learning Center and Tubing Park) Longest Trail: 2 miles Average Snowfall: 175” Snowmaking: 75% Terrain Park: 1

PERCENTAGE OF TERRAIN: Easier: 20% Difficult: 40% More Difficult: 20% Most Difficult: 20%

HOURS OF OPERATION: SKIING & SNOWBOARDING: Friday-Sunday & Holidays (Holidays are through January 4, January 17-19, and February 14-22) 8:45 am-4:15 pm

SNOWTUBING: Saturdays, Sundays & Holidays 10:30 am-5:30 pm (two-hour time slots)

469 Plattekill Rd. | Roxbury, NY 12474 607 326 3500 | plattekill.com

PLATTEKILL MOUNTAIN

MOUNTAIN STATS:

Belleayre Mountain. All photos courtesy of Ulster County Tourism

ULSTER COUNTY

Your Gateway to Catskills Adventure

reaming of a destination that blends stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences? Welcome to Ulster County, where the majestic Catskills meet charming small towns. This upstate gem isn’t just a destination—it’s a way of life. Whether carving through mountain trails, exploring serene preserves, or savoring local flavors, Ulster County is exactly where you want to be. Here’s why this dynamic region should be your next adventure.

Belleayre Mountain: The Heart of Outdoor Adventure Nestled in the Catskills, Belleayre Mountain is Ulster County’s crown jewel for outdoor enthusiasts. With 64 trails catering to all skill levels, it’s the perfect spot for anyone looking to embrace the great outdoors. Beginners can enjoy gentle groomers, while thrill-seekers will find plenty of adrenaline-pumping black diamonds. For those who love challenging themselves, Belleayre’s terrain parks feature exciting elements for freestyle skiers and snowboarders. The Catskill Thunder Gondola adds a touch of magic to your adventure. As you ascend, soak in breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks before carving your way down. With a vertical 24 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide

drop of 1,404 feet and the region’s longest uninterrupted trail stretching over 12,000 feet, every run feels like a victory lap. Belleayre’s atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed—perfect for families, friends, or solo adventurers. The personalized ski school programs ensure everyone, from first-timers to seasoned pros, makes the most of their visit.

Beyond the Slopes: Year-Round Bliss While Belleayre shines during the colder months, its allure doesn’t stop when the snow melts. Come spring, the mountain transforms into a hub for hiking, mountain biking, and scenic gondola rides. It’s a year-round destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

Serene Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing Ulster County’s cross-country trails provide a peaceful retreat for those who prefer a slower pace. Swap the rush of downhill skiing for the tranquility of gliding through snow-dusted forests and rolling meadows. With trails that weave through the Mohonk Preserve, Minnewaska State Park Preserve, and Catskill Forest Preserve, immerse yourself in nature’s stillness.

January 2026 • GUIDE 25

Mohonk Preserve offers over 70 miles of trails, perfect for exploring scenic woodlands and catching glimpses of the iconic Shawangunk Ridge. Minnewaska’s groomed paths lead to frozen lakes and panoramic views, offering the right mix of challenge and beauty. For those who love forging their own path, the backcountry terrain of Catskill Forest Preserve is a must-visit. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing here are not just workouts—they’re meditative experiences that connect you with the natural world.

Vibrant Culture and Pride in Ulster County

Places to Stay: Comfort Meets Charm When it’s time to unwind, Ulster County offers accommodations to suit every style and budget. Choose from rustic cabins that put you right in the heart of nature, or treat yourself to a boutique hotel with luxurious amenities. Many lodgings offer cozy fireplaces, perfect for curling up with a good book after a day of exploration. Pro tip: Book early, especially if you’re visiting during events like the Pride Ski Weekend. Ulster’s popularity means rooms fill up fast!

Ulster County’s rich cultural scene adds a dynamic layer to your visit. One highlight? The New York State Pride Ski Weekend, happening February 7–9, 2025. This three-day extravaganza combines thrilling outdoor activities with inclusive celebrations in Kingston, one of the region’s most vibrant towns. By day, hit Belleayre’s trails for skiing and snowboarding; by night, explore Kingston’s lively LGBTQ+ scene. Enjoy boutique shops, farm-to-table dining, and festive parties like the Après Tea, featuring DJ RVMBA spinning high-energy beats. The Pride Ski Weekend is more than just a good time—it’s a community celebration, with proceeds supporting LGBTQ+ organizations and local businesses.

Why Ulster County Should be Your Next Adventure

Discover Ulster’s Hidden Gems

Natural Escapes: Mohonk Preserve and Minnewaska State Park Preserve provide breathtaking scenery and endless opportunities for adventure.

Ulster County offers so much more than outdoor recreation. Stroll through Kingston’s historic uptown district, where cobblestone streets lead you to eclectic shops, cozy cafés, and art galleries showcasing local talent. From handcrafted goods to vintage finds, every corner tells a story. Foodies will love exploring the area’s thriving culinary scene. Think locally sourced ingredients, inventive flavors, and farm-totable dining at its finest. Whether it’s a hearty meal at a familyowned diner or artisanal cocktails at a chic bar, Ulster County’s offerings are sure to delight. For a unique experience, visit the region’s breweries and wineries. Sample craft beers and local wines while soaking in the picturesque scenery. Ulster’s warm, inviting atmosphere makes every sip even more memorable.

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There’s something magical about Ulster County. It’s a place where natural beauty meets rich culture, where every adventure feels personal, and where the community welcomes you with open arms. Whether you’re skiing down Belleayre’s iconic slopes, finding your zen on a cross-country trail, or savoring local flavors in Kingston, Ulster County invites you to create your own story. Here’s what sets it apart: Belleayre Mountain: A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities year-round.

Vibrant Towns: Kingston and other charming communities showcase Ulster’s creative spirit and warm hospitality. Unmissable Events: The Pride Ski Weekend and other local festivals make Ulster a destination for celebration and connection. So why wait? Pack your bags and head to Ulster County, where every moment feels like a new beginning. Whether you’re here to explore, unwind, or celebrate, this enchanting region will leave you inspired. Adventure awaits—are you ready to answer the call? Start planning your trip today at VisitUlsterCountyNY.com

January 2026 • GUIDE 27

Instructors Will Brosnahan (left), Dean Tartaro (center) and Dennis Barnes (right) with injured veteran Jonathan Kohl (center). Photo by Marc Bryan-Brown

Adaptive Sports Foundation H

ave you ever visited Windham Mountain Club and noticed instructors in green coats working with students who have the biggest smiles on their faces while using equipment unfamiliar to you? What you saw was a lesson with the Adaptive Sports Foundation (ASF). For more than 40 years, the ASF has introduced the wonders of winter sports and empowered thousands of individuals with cognitive and physical disabilities right here in Windham, NY. The ASF is a nonprofit organization that provides year-round sports and recreation opportunities to children and adults with disabilities and chronic illnesses. Founded in 1984, it has grown into one of the largest adaptive sports programs in the Northeast, complete with its own slope-side lodge, the Gwen Allard Adaptive Sports Center. Participants often describe the outdoor activities and opportunities the ASF provides as “life-changing.”

Winter, Competition and Seasonal Programs The ASF’s roots are grounded in the winter months. Every weekend from mid-December through mid-March, the ASF conducts adaptive ski and snowboard lessons. Weekday lessons begin during the final week of December. For adaptive athletes who are more experienced on the slopes, the ASF offers a Competition Racing Program. This weekly program provides coaching, mentoring, technique development 28 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide

and tactics training for athletes with physical disabilities (Paralympic eligible) and intellectual disabilities (Special Olympics). Through hard work and guided coaching, ASF race team athletes earn the chance to participate in local, regional and national competitions. Several athletes have advanced from the winter program to the national stage in the Winter Paralympics, including Caitlin Sarubbi (Vancouver 2010) and Staci Manella (Sochi 2014). Currently, two athletes in the Competition Racing Program — Cecile Brown and Victoria Whiteley — are pursuing their own Paralympic dreams. Last winter was their first as Para Alpine-classified skiers, and this season they continue to chase their goals by racing across the country and competing against some of the top Paralympic athletes in the world. For skiers and snowboarders whose aspirations are more recreational and social, there is the ASF’s Sliders program. This seasonal weekend program teaches athletes how physical activity and a positive outlook can improve their health through a coordinated, student-first coaching philosophy.

Warriors in Motion® The ASF’s Warriors in Motion® (WIM) program provides injured U.S. servicemen and women with opportunities to build a foundation of wellness throughout the year. Each WIM event includes adaptive sports and nutrition instruction, along with other

The Catskill Mountain Foundation, in partnership with The Joyce Theater Foundation, presents

MALPASO DANCE COMPANY

Since its establishment in 2012, Malpaso Dance Company has become one of the most sought-after Cuban dance companies with a growing international profile. Emphasizing a collaborative creative process, Malpaso is committed to working with top international choreographers while also nurturing new voices in Cuban choreography. An Associate Company of Joyce Theater Productions, Malpaso — together with The Joyce— has commissioned original works from a number of prominent international choreographers, including Ron K. Brown, Aszure Barton, Emmy-award winning Sonya Tayeh, Robyn Mineko Williams and celebrated b-girl Asherie.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2026 7:00PM ORPHEUM PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 6050 Main Street • Tannersville, NY 12485

Tickets Purchased Ahead: $25; $20 seniors; $7 students (+processing fees. Higher at-the-door ticket prices apply)

Tickets available at catskillmtn.org or 518 263 2063

Scan for tickets!

Presented in partnership with The Joyce Theater Foundation.

January 2026 • GUIDE 29

lessons during the warm summer months. Big SNOW offers an ideal learning environment in a controlled climate where it is always 28 degrees and wintry, regardless of the season. When the warm sun shines in Windham, students trade snowboards for skateboards at the ASF’s adaptive skateboard camps. The ASF brings in professional coaches to offer top-tier training, whether participants are avid skateboarders or trying the sport for the first time. The ASF also hosts a multi-sport summer camp, where participants can learn and play team sports, hike, kayak and golf. Campers also visit a local alpaca farm, where they can interact with and feed the gentle animals. There is plenty to do during every season in the beautiful Catskills, and the ASF is thrilled to share those opportunities with people who may not realize they are capable of participating in such activities.

Volunteers

Wounded veteran Paul Guzman using outriggers for the first time while ASF instructor Edward Guterl looks on. Photo by Marc Bryan-Brown

healthful practices such as yoga and stress reduction techniques. Veterans also have time to interact with one another and share common experiences — an essential part of the healing process. Each winter, the ASF partners with the Wounded Warrior Project® to host the Bob Stubbs Warriors in Motion Winter Sports Weekend. Named for the late Bob Stubbs, a former ASF chairman and advocate for wounded veteran programs, this special event brings veterans from around the country to learn a winter sport. Spring and summer WIM events include cycling, mountain biking, kayaking and hiking. These programs give veterans a chance to get outdoors, exercise, relax and enjoy the Catskill Mountains while sharing a camaraderie that only fellow servicemen and women can fully understand. In addition to its regular programming, the ASF offers a Women Warriors Retreat in the summer, designed specifically for wounded female veterans. This retreat provides adaptive outdoor activities, wellness instruction and a supportive space for women to connect with fellow veterans who share similar experiences.

Summer Programs Just because the snow melts doesn’t mean the winter fun stops. The ASF partners with Big SNOW American Dream in East Rutherford, NJ, to provide indoor adaptive ski and snowboard 30 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide

Despite having fewer than 10 full-time employees, the ASF hosts events and programs year-round with support from its extensive volunteer network. Without these dedicated individuals who offer their time and energy, the ASF simply would not exist. Volunteer ski and snowboard instructors are always needed, but there are plenty of indoor roles as well, including helping in the ASF kitchen or assisting in the equipment room. During the summer months, volunteers can support various WIM programs and summer camps.

Fundraising Events As a nonprofit organization, the ASF relies on generous donations to provide these outdoor experiences for participants. Throughout the year, it hosts several fundraising events, including its popular Awareness Concert at Windham Mountain Club, featuring a January performance by “America’s Favorite Cover Band,” The Nerds. These events are not only fun to attend but also offer an opportunity for the ASF to educate guests about its work in the disability community.

Windham Mountain Club The ASF’s mission is made possible through the generous support of Windham Mountain Club. This winter marks the foundation’s 42nd season of providing adaptive skiing and snowboarding instruction to individuals with disabilities at the beloved Catskills resort.

To Learn More If you would like to learn more about the ASF, its programs and events, or if you are interested in volunteering or donating, please visit adaptivesportsfoundation.org.

January 2026 • GUIDE 31

OFF THE SLOPES IN WINDHAM T

he thrill this here! Fresh powder, bluebird skies, black diamonds and mountain moguls abound. Oh, and the scene … cool vibes, hot brands, club perks, après-ski socials. You can find it all throughout ski resorts in New York and New England. But what about life off the slopes? What happens after the adrenaline rush subsides? And how do you recharge the body and mind? That’s the time to mend, unwind, restock, and re-inspire. Vacations are essential to healthy living: the body and mind need to refocus and re-energize. The town of Windham, called “The Gem of the Catskills,” is uniquely positioned to provide a comprehensive vacation experience. Located at the base of Windham Mountain, it has been a winter vacation destination for generations. It also has a rich history in the arts, crafts, wellness and hospitality. Follow us as we walk through an inspired vacation day “offthe-slopes” in Windham. Start your day at one of the many cafes in town. The Windham Local Cafe (5410 Main Street) offers premium coffee, espresso, teas and matcha. Bloody Marys and Mimosas are also flowing and are a perfect accompaniment to the fresh baked pastries and full cafe menu, which includes the best homemade quiche around. While in town you can restock the wardrobe and grab a locally crafted gift for those you left behind. Windham is THE place for premium retail shopping in the Northern Catskills. Visit Gem Mercantile (5399 Main Street) across the street from The Windham Local for a curated selection of classic clothing labels and boutique brands alongside local handcrafted items, 32 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide

shoes, accessories and games. An easy stroll down Main St will bring you to Windham Fine Arts (5380 Main Street) and Studio Minimale (5348 Main Street). With just a short jaunt in the car, you’ll arrive at Briars and Brambles Bookstore and Gardenheir, both located in Alpine Garden Village on Route 296. All have a wonderful selection of clothing, books, gifts, art and local crafts. Wellness and healing are essential to a revitalizing vacation, The Windham Spa (16 Mitchell Hollow Road) offers an array of facial and massage options. Yoga classes are available at Mountain Breeze Yoga (1111 NY-23) or start your Sunday morning with a soulful Vinyasa Flow class with a guided meditation and full body yoga sequence at the Perch Hotel (7604 NY-23). Walk-ins allowed. Email beyouyogacatskills@gmail.com for more info. How about a day outdoors off the slopes? Outdoor recreation and natural beauty is what Windham is famous for. The Windham Path (4982 NY-23) offers a family and dog-friendly 1.5 mile loop where you’ll encounter woodlands, streams and beautiful views. A leash is required for your furry friends. The Elm Ridge Wild Forest has 25 miles of trails that can be used for hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and mountain-biking. CD Lane Park (281 Big Hollow Road) offers sledding and hiking. Remember to bring the binoculars as the park is home to a family of Bald Eagles. For guided hiking tours of the area’s most picturesque mountain top views, waterfalls and sunsets, visit upstatehiking.com. Windham also offers plenty of indoor recreation for those looking to stay warm and comfy inside. Take in a movie at the Windham Theatre (11 Vets Road). While there, the kids can

have fun at the arcade and gameroom. Do you love to knit and crochet? visit The Knitting Room (11111 NY-23) for supplies and a space to relax and enjoy your craft. Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts (35 Big Hollow Road in nearby Maplecrest) offers weekly workshops led by world-class arts instructors. A full listing of workshops and events throughout the seasons can be accessed at catskillmtn.org When the day’s activities are done, the restaurant and nightlife options in Windham are second to none in the region. The Windham Local (5410 Main Street) offers weekend dinner with authentic Thai entrees and handmade Dim Sum plus live music on Friday and Saturday nights at 7:00 pm. The Taphouse & Grille (5359 Main Street) has premium pub classics like beer battered fish & chips, fall-off-the-bone ribs, prime NY Strip Steak along with Asian-inspired dishes like Sushi and Poke Bowls and a full cocktail bar. Be sure to also check out the nightly entertainment at Taphouse which includes Trivia Mondays, Live Music Thursdays and Karaoke Fridays. For fine dining, both Prominence Restaurant (55 NY-296) and Brandywine (11157 NY-23) feature upscale Italian cuisine. Chicken Run Family Restaurant (5639 NY-23) is a great option for casual dining with large groups and children. Please use the QR code below for a comprehensive Visitor’s Guide and Town Map detailing all the wonderful businesses and activities that Windham has to offer. We look forward to seeing you on and off the slopes in Windham!

The Guide is on issuu.com!

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January 2026 • GUIDE 33

Photo courtesy of Windham Mountain Club

THE SKI NY SKI & RIDE PASSPORT PROGRAM

he SKI NY Passport Program-Kids Ski Free is back for the 2025-2026 Season! The program is good for 3rd, 4th and 5th graders, and like last year, more ski areas are accepting it during holiday periods! The Passport is valid seven days a week except for holiday periods at certain ski areas as noted. A full participation list, along with any exclusions and instructions for submitting your application, can be found at iskiny.com. The program offers free skiing for your 3rd, 4th and 5th graders with an adult ticket purchase, and can be used up to two times per participating ski area. You do not need to be a New York resident to participate—kids from any state or country are welcome! An adult lift ticket purchase is required and includes season passes as well. The program does not include rentals or lessons. 34 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide

Since the 1999-2000 ski season, the SKI NY Ski & Ride Passport program has helped get over 50,000 kids to ski or snowboard with their families. The program has introduced a new generation to the lifelong activity of skiing and riding as well as creating family memories. These days, when kids spend most of their time in front of a screen inside, this sport encourages them to get outside and enjoy winter. It also gets parents who may have an interest in skiing or snowboarding to enjoy the sport with their kids or get them back on skis or boards if they haven’t been on them since before starting their family. It has been noted that children who start skiing or riding when they are young typically turn into skiers for life.

At the end of the 2021-22 ski season, over 500 parents responded to a survey given by SKI NY about how their kids enjoyed the program and if they would call themselves avid skiers. In almost all responses the parents noted that the kids enjoyed the program and would call themselves skiers for life. In fact, kids who started in the program in the inaugural year when it was called the “4th Grade Ski & Ride Passport Program” are now having their kids go into the program too! During 2020-21, while other states stopped their kids’ programs, the SKI NY Board of Directors saw how important it was to get kids outside in the fresh air as a form of physical activity that they may not have been getting with schools shuttered. The Board decided to continue the program on weekdays only because of capacity concerns. Since many kids were learning from home instead of schools and parents were also working from home, parents were more flexible to take the kids skiing & riding during the week when crowds were less. This also gave the kids an outlet of having fun outside since all organized sports leagues and other facilities were shut down. Over 1,400 kids were able to take advantage of the program during the pandemic season and stuck with it since! Apply for the program at iskiny.com by clicking on the button that says “Click Here for Details and to Apply!”. During the process parents will upload proof of their child being in 3rd, 4th or 5th grade, provide a photo, and pay the $45 processing fee. This year once again the Passport is a digital “card” that you can

show on your phone or print off to take with you to the ski area and will include a photo of your child that you upload during the application on the Passport. Once your application is processed you will be emailed your Passport “digital card” that you can print or show on your phone. It is also available in your profile on our Passport system so you can access and email it to yourself anytime you wish. Passport cards will arrive via email. It is also available in your child’s profile anytime too. Once you receive your Passport in your email you can show the PDF on your phone or print and take with you to the ski area. The ski area will record the 16 digit number and once approved will give your child a ticket when you purchase one. If you purchase your ticket ahead online just take your child to the ski area with the Passport and present with your ticket at the ski area ticket window or guest services for redemption. There are no refunds—regardless of injury, weather or other factor and other items beyond our control. There will be no credits given for the next season. If there are questions about the program send an email to passport@iskiny.com. At the iskiny.com website there are full details on the program, including a full list of participating ski areas and frequently asked questions. The website also includes the latest ski conditions and mountain information, as well as safety information including the “Your Responsibility Code” that all skiers and riders should read and understand to ski and ride safely.

January 2026 • GUIDE 35

Seth Green from Trout Culture, 1870. Photo from wikimedia.org

Catskills Past

a fishy tale By T.M. Bradshaw

eth Green wasn’t born in the Catskills or ever lived here, but his work had a significant impact on Catskill’s waterways. As the founder of the first fish hatchery in the United States, Green was responsible for millions of fish being added to Catskill lakes and streams. Born March 19, 1817, on a farm in Rochester, New York, the son of Adonijah Green and Betty Bronson Green, Seth grew up spending as much time outdoors as possible. His education consisted of five or six years in the local district school and a wealth of knowledge about fishing acquired from his father and their Seneca neighbors. At twenty, Seth became a commercial fisherman on the Genesee River. After marrying Helen Cooke in 1848, they established a fish market in Rochester; his brother Monroe became a partner in the concern. It became the largest and most successful markets in the area, employing more than one hundred people. Green and the fishermen he employed supplied the market with up to three tons of fish daily. But another idea occurred to Green. A fish hatchery could provide the fish at a location close to market, without the effort and danger of wild catches, as well as provide young fish to restock waters on their way to being fished out. He first raised salmon and brook trout for market, later adding brown and rainbow trout and shad. He began experimenting in 1867 with methods for stocking shad in the Connecticut River near Holyoke, Massachusetts, resulting in the 1870 shad harvest there being 60 percent greater than the previous record, which had stood for almost sixty years. 36 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide

Green’s goal was to produce a large supply of affordable, nutritious food for as many people as possible. Commercial fishermen didn’t like it. The price of shad that had been selling for $40 per hundred dropped to $3 per hundred. As a businessman himself, he understood their desire to maintain prices, but also understood that doing so would eventually result in having no fish to sell, along with the wider problem of having none to eat. “[F]ish are local,” he said. “They have a home and they will not leave it until they are taken, and when they are all taken, there will never be any more in that place until they are put there.” Other people interested in the work were Horatio Seymour, former governor of New York, and Robert B. Roosevelt, who petitioned the legislature to create a state fishing commission. In 1868 Governor John T. Hoffman appointed Green, Seymour and Roosevelt fish commissioners, charged with the task of increasing the number of fish in New York waters, and provided $1,000 to do the work. The commission began honoring requests for fry to stock rivers and lakes free of charge, other than transportation costs. The stock was to come from Green’s hatchery, which eventually he sold to A. S. Collins, a friend and business partner. Perhaps the sale was to avoid a conflict of interest. In 1870, Green resigned as a commissioner and was appointed Superintendent of Fisheries. In 1875, the state purchased the hatchery. Stories explaining the program’s intent, notices offering the young fish and food for them, and stories of stocking successes as well as a few failures filled local papers for years.

The September 19, 1871, Stamford and Bloomville Mirror reported that “Seth Green writes that he has taken 8,815,000 eggs this year, and that there has been 8,290,000 young shad hatched. On the 5th of July, he turned loose in the Hudson River, over 240,000 young shad.” The May 20, 1873, Stamford and Bloomville Mirror noted that, “Seth Green was visited at Rochester a few days ago by a correspondent of the New York Herald, to whom he said: “I want to see every lake in the Union become a fish pond, and as there are 647 lakes in the state of New York, just see the waters we might stock with the peoples’ food.” On June 24, 1875, the New Paltz Times carried a note from one of their exchanges. “The Sturgeon Excitement—The Troy Budget says: ‘It was noticeable that all the bunting in Albany was flying on Saturday, and that her citizens wore an air of great rejoicing. Street corner blind men were swamped with pennies; dogs were unkicked all day long; guns were fired in the park, and misers hired their boots blacked. Why this demonstration? It was because sturgeon, the mother’s milk of Albanians, which had been swept from the waters of the Hudson, have been restored by grandpa Seth Green, and henceforth will be plentiful and cheap. Probably in three years Albany will recover her old style dignity and exclusiveness. S-t-u-r-g-e-o-n.’” “The bass and pickerel in Lake George think of calling a meeting to formally express their gratitude to Mr. Seth Green for the 70,000 young trout which he planted there. The trout are nearly all gone, and every little while a hungry pickerel puts his head out of the water to see if Seth is coming with more.” —Stamford Mirror, September 7, 1875. The following week the Mirror noted one of Green’s early achievements. “In 1868, Seth Green hatched shad in a common salt box in General Spinner’s office in Washington and also in the Capitol. They were the first shad ever hatched indoors. Mr. Green discovered the principle in the previous year.” —Stamford Mirror, September 14, 1875. “Seth Green gives notice that young brook trout will be delivered free of expense at the New York Hatching House in Caledonia, after February 15, 1876, to all persons desiring to stock public streams or ponds in this State, or they will be sent to any address if applicants will pay the traveling expenses of a messenger to accompany them.” —Franklin Register, January 11, 1876. The April 24, 1877, Stamford Mirror told of a fishy train trip. “Trout—Last week Tuesday, 17th, Express Messenger Stoddart brought out 24,000 Brook Trout on the Ulster and Delaware Railroad, and Seth Green’s agent put them in the Big Indian and Shandaken streams. They were 40 days old, about an inch long and lively as crickets. “50,000 salmon trout, from Seth Green’s hatching house have lately been placed in Hudson’s [Lake] and Caryl’s Lake, Worcester.” —Stamford Mirror, April 09, 1878. “Seth Green writes from Rochester to say that the New York fish commission will furnish fresh water shrimp to all persons

in the state of New York, wishing them to stock their streams or ponds with a good food for brook trout. They can be sent by express, and all the expense there will be is the express charges on the cans both ways.” —New Paltz Times, January 22, 1880. “The shad put into Lake Ontario last year by Seth Green, the American fish culturist, are dying by the thousands.” —Stamford Mirror, May 24, 1881. “Seth Green, superintendent of the state fish hatchery, at Caledonia, states that during the past year, up to May 1st, he has shipped 6,132,500 trout fry to be placed in the waters of the state. Delaware County’s quota was over 200,000.” —Delaware County Dairyman and Register, May 28, 1886. “Seth Green of the State fish hatchery has sent out 11,275,000 of fry to stock waters of this State this year.” —Hobart Independent, September 01, 1887. While much of Green’s work was in New York, he also stocked eastern waterways as far south as Georgia. And in June 1871, he transported 12,000 American Shad fry to Sacramento, California, although he had concerns about portions of the trip where a change of water might not be available. The first two changes, in Cleveland and Chicago, went well, and Green left some fish behind, 200 each in lakes Erie and Michigan. The water available in Omaha was not suitable, however. He supplemented with pails of water drawn from the supply on board for the passengers. He also had to keep adding ice a little at a time to the milk cans of fish to keep the water cool enough. But the river at Sacramento proved to be too turbulent for the fish to thrive, so he set off upriver with two California fish commissioners. Two hundred-seventy-five miles upriver, Green deposited the remaining thousand fry into the Sacramento River. On April 1, 1873, S. R. Throckmorton, a California fish commissioner, purchased the first shad ever caught on the Pacific Coast. By 1878 shad were regularly appearing in California markets at $10 each; twenty years later, fishermen had to limit their catches so as not to flood the market. The fishy gift was reciprocated. On June 30, 1882, the Franklin Register reported that “By a telegram from Seth Green, we learn that in a few days our streams will be supplied with California Mountain trout.” The Hancock Herald of Dec 31, 1885 announced that among others, Seth Green had joined the American Agriculturist as a contributing editor. Seth Green died August 18, 1888. A few weeks later the Hobart Independent reported “The State Fishery Commissioners have appointed Monroe A. Green as Seth Green’s successor in the superintendency of the Caledonia fish hatchery.”

T. M. Bradshaw shares other thoughts on history at tmbradshawbooks.com. January 2026 • GUIDE 37

Photo courtesy of Ulster County Tourism

Off the Slopes

ART GALLERY Windham Fine Arts 5380 Main Street Windham, NY 12496 windhamfinearts.com 518 734 6850 director@ windhamfinearts.com Windham Fine Arts (WFA) is a contemporary art gallery located in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, at the base of Windham Mountain Club. WFA represents more than 60 artists showcasing a diverse collection of original paintings, photography and sculptures. The gallery offers 3,000 square feet of curated artwork exhibited in inspiring landscapes, abstracts and figurative works, Hudson River School style and more. Windham Fine Arts—24 years in business, a gem of artistic inspiration. Custom-designed artwork by appointment. Open Friday and Saturday 11:00 am – 5:00 pm, Sunday 11:00 am– 4:00 pm. 38 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide

ART INSTRUCTION Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts 34 Big Hollow Road Maplecrest, NY 12454 sugarmaples.org A program of the Catskill Mountain Foundation, Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts offers short term adult workshop programming in ceramics, painting, drawing, fiber arts and weekly classes in ceramics and fiber arts during the summer season, as well as year-round short courses for adults and youth in ceramics, painting, and drawing. All classes are led by artists who are renowned and celebrated in their field.

ATTRACTION Catskill Mountain Foundation Piano Performance Museum 7971 Main Street Hunter, NY 12442 For appointments, email weisbergp@catskillmtn.org The home of the Steven E. Greenstein Piano Collection, a one-of-a-kind collection of historic pianos and musical artifacts. A destination unlike any other in the U.S., the Piano Performance Museum offers a unique glimpse into the development of pianos in Europe and America over the past four centuries. The collection includes early and modern keyboard instruments, including 200-year-old historic European pianos as well as American pianos built in the early 19th and 20th centuries.

BANK Ulster Savings Bank

profits are reinvested back into the communities we serve. We are proud to be the recipient of numerous community awards reflecting our belief that helping community changes lives. We invite you to stop by our location in beautiful Phoenicia to experience the local difference with US. Bank where you matter!

CAR DEALERSHIP Thorpe’s GMC 5964 Main Street Tannersville, NY 12485 thorpesgmcinc.com 518 589 7142 Thorpe’s unmatched service and diverse GMC inventory have set them apart as the preferred dealer in Tannersville. With a full-service team of sales and service professionals, visit them today to discover why they have the best reputation in the area. They offer one of the largest GMC inventories in New York, and their trained sales staff will help you every step of the way. Photo courtesy of Minnewaska State Park Preserve

58 Main Street Phoenicia, NY 12464 Ulstersavings.com 845 688 5965 ATM available Ulster Savings Bank is a locally focused and operated mutual savings bank with locations throughout the Hudson Valley. As a bank with no stockholders, our

January 2026 • GUIDE 39

CATERING

DELI & MARKET Chef Deanna

Main Street Market

1645 County Highway 6 Bovina Center, NY 13740 chefdeanna.com Weddings and special event catering, with delivery available for larger events! Chef Deanna is on the cutting edge of the sustainable food. Surrounded by farmers and local food makers, Chef Deanna creates beautiful dishes using her Sicilian heritage and her love of everything sweet and savory.

5344 NY-23 Windham, NY 12496 518 734 4134 The oldest operating Italian deli, market, and butcher in the community, Main Street Market has been a purveyor of quality goods in the community for over 40 years. All your favorite Italian specialiaties are right here: fresh baked goods, meats, cheeses, grocery items, freshly made Italian heros, and fresh meat and fish. We cater!

COMMUNITY RESOURCE

FARMS & FARMERS MARKETS

Phoenix Web Collective 7947 Main Street Hunter, NY 12442 phoenixwebcollective.com 518 628 5101 Local artist shop, makers’ space, and a free mart, where you can get gently used and vintage clothing, home goods, food, toys, books, music, movies, jewelry, electronics, and more for free or pay-what-you-can. We also host small events and workshops.

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Pure Catskills purecatskills.com A regional, buy local campaign developed by the Watershed Agricultural Council to improve the economic viability of the local community, sustain the working landscapes of the Catskills and preserve water quality in the NYC Watershed Region. Pure Catskills works to promote hundreds of farm, forest and local businesses throughout Delaware, Greene, Otsego, Schoharie, Sullivan and Ulster Counties. Search their website for local products, or pick up a copy of the Guide to Pure Catskills Products!

The Windham Farmers Market at Gem Mercantile 5399 Main Street Windham, NY 12496 On Instagram @WindhamFarmersMarket Fresh local produce, meat, cheese, flowers, honey and handcrafts every Saturday from June through October from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm with live music from 10:00 am to noon. Located outside at the Gem Mercantile retail store.

FISH & SEAFOOD Shawn’s Fresh Fish 5150 Route 28 Mount Tremper, NY 12457 On Instagram: @ShawnsFreshFish 845 702 2120 Located at the Migliorelli Farm Stand. We carry a large selection of fresh fish and seafood. Also, try our fresh made soups, salads and locally smoked fish. Requests welcomed.

FURNITURE & INTERIOR DESIGN Bell’s Ethan Allen 94 N Plank Road Newburgh, NY 12550 bellsethanallen.com 845 565 6000 Bell’s Ethan Allen Design Center offers a full line of interior design services, including color choices, design and fabrication of custom window treatments, furniture placement, assistance with purchasing furniture and accessories, and more. Our designers will listen to your needs and wants and help you refresh your space, whether it’s a small project or a complete re-design of your home’s interior. Because we are locally owned and operated, we know the area and understand local preferences. All of our product and services are selected with the needs and tastes of the local community in mind. We are here to help you today, and we will be here in the future, when you may need us again.

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GARDEN & NURSERY Gardens by Trista The Plant Centre 4865 County Route 23C Jewett, NY 12444 GardensByTrista.com 518 708 7202 Custom landscape design & installation; foundation plantings & perennial gardens; kitchen & herb gardens; and garden maintenance. The Plant Centre is now your ultimate plant destination in the heart of the Catskills! Once home to Kern’s Nursery, The Plant Centre proudly carries on the legacy of premium plants and expert gardening advice. We grow much of our selection right here, ensuring each plant thrives in our unique Catskill climate. From vibrant annuals and hardy vegetable starts to stunning shrubs and trees, we offer everything you need to create a thriving garden. Now offering winter apple and fruit tree pruning! Contact us today to schedule your winter pruning and landscape design services. Photo courtesy of Belleayre Mountain

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HARDWARE & LUMBER GNH Lumber and Home 5477 Route 23 Windham, NY 12496 518 734 3760 11513 NY-32 Greenville, NY 12083 518 966 5333 Online at GNHlumber.com Renovating your home or building new? Ask our Team of Experts for inspiration, help, and on-site delivery. We offer: Lumber & Building Materials • Plumbing & Electrical Supplies • Cabinets, Countertops & Design Services • Tools, Paints, Stains & More! Discover why GNH has a reputation for highquality products and friendly customer service since 1937.

Houst Hardware 4 Mill Hill Road Woodstock, NY 12498 housthardware.com 845 679 2115 Shop local with Houst Hardware, independent and family owned for over 90 years. For all your projects, Houst Has IT. Benjamin Moore Paints, Equipment Rentals, Tools, Plumbing, Electrical, Organic and Heirloom Garden Seeds, Organic Soils and Fertilizers, Housewares, Weber grills, Seasonal products, Camping and Toys. Everything you need for work and play.

Windham Hardware 5390 Main Street Windham, NY 12496 518 734 4433 General hardware, housewares, plumbing, electrical supplies, window and screen repair, paint supplies, garden supplies, and keys made. Built as a Hardware store in 1887, Windham Hardware has been here for the residents of Windham, and those who come to visit, for over 120 years. Windham Hardware has been in the Lawrence family for almost 50 years, and we’re proud to be a part of this community.

PERFORMING ARTS Catskill Mountain Foundation Doctorow Center for the Arts 7971 Main St., Hunter, NY 12442 Orpheum Performing Arts Center 6050 Main St., Tannersville, NY 12485 catskillmtn.org Ticket line: 518 263 2063 Our 2026 Performing Arts season kicks off with the acclaimed Aquila Theatre, who will bring their production of The Hound of the Baskervilles to the Orpheum for two performances on January 17 and 18. This spine-tingling tale follows the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes and his loyal companion Dr. Watson as they investigate the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville, rumored to be the victim of a supernatural, ghostly hound. The virtual In-

ternational Fortepiano Salons will streaming online in 2026, beginning on Sunday, January 4 with Reimagining Mozart’s Pantomime, featuring a re-creation of musical sketches Mozart wrote for a pantomime of the commedia dell’arte.

LODGING The Graham & Co. 80 Route 214 Phoenicia, NY 12464 thegrahamandco.com 845 688 7871 Viewed as a trailblazer in the Catskills hotel design revolution, the 20-room Phoenicia hotel recently celebrated its 10th anniversary and continues to provide lodging to guests looking for a true Catskills experience. The three-acre property has a vibe some have called, “a sophisticated summer camp for grown-ups.” Inspired by the heritage of the Catskills, the Graham and Co. is a modern take on the upstate getaway. The hotel is located just two blocks off Phoenicia’s main street. Close to hiking, fishing and skiing, The Graham & Co. is the perfect place to stay in all four seasons. Photo courtesy of Windham Mountain Club

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Greenville Arms 11135 State Route 32 Greenville, NY 12083 greenvillearms.com 518 966 5219 Originally built in 1889, our historically registered Inn is situated on six acres of gardens, lawns, and woodlands. The Queen Anne Revival-style main house, renovated Carriage House, and recently constructed Cottage building are host to 16 guest rooms open year-round to guests. Every guest room is uniquely decorated with a blend of antiques and modern amenities. A hot, cooked-to-order breakfast is included with each room.

Hampton Inn 1307 Ulster Avenue Kingston, NY 12401 Kingston.hamptoninn.com 845 382 2600 Additional location in New Paltz: 4 S. Putt Corners Road New Paltz, NY 12561 Newpaltz.hamptoninn.com 845 255 4200 Our hotel is near I-87, with several restaurants within walking distance. Historic Downtown Waterfront and Uptown Kingston are both just four miles away with many local shops and dining options. Spend some family time at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds, seven miles away. An hour drive or less from 3 popular ski mountains. Unwind in our indoor saltwater pool. Enjoy complimentary hot breakfast and free WiFi.

Windham Manor 1161 Co Rd 10 Windham, NY 12496 windhammanor.com 518 944 1448 Windham Manor is the premiere wedding and event venue in The Catskill Mountains. Our 45-acre property features The Manor House, a Victorian Estate with 12 beautiful guest suites. The property also boasts The Barn, a luxurious space which can hold 300+ guests for dinner, dancing, seminars, and other events, and two incredible outdoor ceremony spaces—The Lawn and The Enchanted Forest.

MASSAGE & WELLNESS Illuminating Wellness/Mountain Top Massage illuminatingwellness.care 518 718 4228 Transformative therapeutic massage practice combines elements of many of the healing arts such as Acupressure, Reflexology, Reiki, Chiropractic adjustment and many forms of massage. BioPhoton Light Therapy – Biontology is a European healing process that finds the root cause of any symptom-producing malady and neutralizes it, raising the body’s immune system. 44 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide

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MOVIE THEATER Catskill Mountain Foundation Mountain Cinema 7971 Main Street Hunter, NY 12442 catskillmtn.org 518 263 4702 Hollywood, foreign & independent films just a mile west of Hunter Mountain and a short drive from Windham. Shows running Friday through Sunday. Also available for rental. The Mountain Cinema also hosts our monthly Independent Film Series, featuring independent makers and places. Coming up on Thursday, January 15: Reviving the Legend and Queen of the Catskills. Reviving the Legend tells the story of how the skiing community saved a mountain. Queen of the Catskills tells the story of a high school English teacher from the South Bronx, who embarked ona quest to become the first woman to ski 33 of the highest peaks in the Catskill Mountains—alone. The screenings will be followed by a Q&A with directors Jamie Kennard and Ian McGrew.

Queen of the Catskills, screening at the Mountain Cinema this January

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NATURAL MARKET Sunflower Market 75 Mill Hill Road Woodstock, NY 12498 24 Garden Street Rhinebeck, NY, 12572 sunflowernatural.com 845 679 5361 (Woodstock) • 845 876 2555 (Rhinebeck) Sunflower is dedicated to providing products you can feel good about sharing with people you love. Prioritizing working with local farms, families, and business, we know where our food comes from. Sunflower is devoted to providing clean and sustainably sourced food, 100% organic produce and a selection of carefully curated items that fit all dietary needs.

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS Catskill Mountain Foundation 7971 Main Street Hunter, NY 12442 catskillmtn.org 518 263 2000 Entering its 28th year in 2026, the Catskill Mountain Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit organization which offers a variety of programs and workshops centered on the arts. It owns and runs The Orpheum Performing Arts Center, The Doctorow Center for the Arts (which includes the Mountain Cinema, a performance space, and the Piano Performance Museum),

Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts, a Natural Agriculture farm and the Guide Magazine. The Foundation has long term partnership programs with The Joyce Theater Foundation, Works & Process at the Guggenheim, the National Dance Institute and Catskill Mountain Shakespeare, and is also home to the Hunter International Music Festival, The Academy of Fortepiano Performance, the Orpheum Dance Program, and the Maude Adams Theater Hub.

Windham Foundation windhamfoundation.org info@windhamfoundation.org 518 734 9636 Our mission is to enhance and enrich our community by providing charitable grants for historical preservation, the arts, education, recreation, and initiatives deemed to make Windham an extraordinary place to live, work, and visit. Established in 2004, the Windham Foundation is run by an allvolunteer Board. Donations are tax deductible. Photo courtesy of Windham Mountain Club

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PHARMACY

PLUMBING & HEATING Wellness RX LLC

53 Main Street Phoenicia, NY 12464 wellnessrxllc.com 518 688 0188 Wellness Rx had a great summer of 2025 being of service to others, treating all patients and customers equally without judgment. We grew our pharmacy department by 22%, realized our first profit/surplus for the first six months of 2025 and continued to strengthen our operations for sustainability and permanence. Our Patient Assistant Fund provided $887 to 42 patients. Donations continue to come from our locals and out of state visitors who love our not-for-profit story

PHOTOGRAPHER Images of the Northern Catskills by Francis X. Driscoll francisxdriscoll.com A frequent contributor to the Guide magazine, Francis X. Driscoll is an award-winning nature photographer whose work involves total immersion in a setting so that he might capture that rare glimpse. His primary subject is the Catskill Forest Preserve.

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Rice Plumbing and Heating Accord: riceplumbingandheating@gmail.com 845 626 5088 Boiceville: riceplumbingboiceville@gmail.com 845 657 7423 riceplumbingandheating.com Whether you’re dealing with a leaky faucet, a clogged drain, or a plumbing emergency, we’ve got you covered. Our team of experienced and licensed plumbers, our commitment to quality craftsmanship, prompt service, and customer satisfaction sets us apart. From plumbing repairs and installations to maintenance and inspections, we take pride in using the latest industry techniques and high-quality materials to ensure reliable and long-lasting solutions for all your plumbing needs. We offer quick response times and strive to complete every job efficiently and effectively.

RADIO STATIONS WIOX 91.3FM MTC Cable Channel 20 WIOXRADIO.ORG on computers and smartphones WIOX Community Radio—where public access meets public service to build public trust. WIOX programming is wildly diverse, live, local, and non-commercial, broadcasting from the Catskill Mountains, in the heart of the New York City

Watershed. WIOX talk and music programs range from farming to brewing to cooking, forestry to healthcare, Rock to Pop, Bach and Goth, Blues, Folk, Country, Americana, Jazz and Salsa. WIOX: produced and supported—by you!

WRIP 97.9FM wripfm.com Streaming at rip979.com The radio voice of the Mountaintop and Valley. Broadcasting 24/7 with the equivalent of 6,000 watts of power, we are the only radio station covering the entire region between the Hudson Valley and Oneonta. WRIP is independently owned and operated. WRIP is heard on these FM frequencies: 97.9 in Windham & Hunter, 97.5 in Durham & Greenville, 103.7 in Catskill & Hudson, 104.5 in Stamford & Delaware County, and streaming worldwide at rip979.com.

REAL ESTATE

Brainard Ridge Realty 237 South Street Windham, NY 12496 brainardridge.com 518 734 5333 Specializing in Windham Mountain and the surrounding area for over 35 years. Visit our web site at brainardridge.com for a variety of listings both on and off the mountain: Homes, Townhomes, Rentals and Land. Whatever your needs we are here for you. Call us today!

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Shaw Country Realty 5359 State Route 23 Windham, NY 12496 518 734 3500 I have been a real estate broker in the mountain top area for nearly four decades, representing buyers and sellers, as well as dealing with various types of properties such as homes, land, and country homes, rentals, indicates a broad expertise in the local real estate market. With our many years in the industry, Shaw Country Realty has built a strong network, deep understanding of the market trends, and a keen ability to match buyers with suitable properties and help sellers navigate successful transactions. If you have any specific questions about real estate feel free to ask!

Windstar Realty Group 5316 State Route 23 Windham, NY 12496 518 734 6600 85 Main Street Stamford, NY 12167 607 442 4000 windstarrealty.com Windstar Realty Group is a full-service Real Estate Agency serving the Greene, Columbia, Schoharie, Otsego, and Delaware County areas of NY. The Catskill region offers the perfect balance of adventure and serenity—you owe it to yourself to choose the best team in the area to represent 50 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide

your real estate needs! Whether you are buying or selling a home, property, or business in the Upstate NY area, Windstar Realty Group is the agency for you! We have the most well-rounded team in the region.

REGIONAL INFORMATION Catskill Center for Conservation & Development 43355 Route 28 Arkville, NY 12406 catskillcenter.org 845 586 2611 Since 1969, the Catskill Center has led the effort to protect the more than 700,000 acres of the Catskill Park and Catskill Forest Preserve. Their mission is to protect and foster the environmental, cultural,and economic well-being of the Catskill Region.

Catskill Visitor’s Center 5096 State Route 28 Mt. Tremper, NY 12457 catskillsvisitorscenter.org 845 688 3369 Your gateway to Catskills, where you can learn about the vast outdoor recreational opportunities in the area as well as discover the cultural and natural history of the Region. The center features educational exhibits along with maps, books, gear, and gifts, as well a friendly and knowledgeable staff.

Greene County Economic Development Corporation 411 Main Street Catskill, NY 12414 greenecountyedc.com 518 719 3290 Your gateway to establishing your business in Greene County. Their team connects entrepreneurs, developers, and corporate leadership with resources, municipalities, and investment incentives for job-creating businesses.

Ulster County Tourism VisitUlsterCountyNY.com Dreaming of a destination that blends stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences? Welcome to Ulster County, where the majestic Catskills meet charming small towns. This upstate gem isn’t just a destination—it’s a way of life. Whether carving through mountain trails, exploring serene preserves, or savoring local flavors, Ulster County is exactly where you want to be. Here’s why this dynamic region should be your next adventure.

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RESTAURANTS A Slice of Italy 1316 Ulster Avenue Kingston, NY 12401 asliceofitaly7115.com 845 336 7115 The finest Italian dishes, pizza, hot and cold subs, salads and more made with the freshest ingredients and served with five star customer service. Full bar featuring a range of red and white wines, bottled beers, beers on tap and liquor. We also cater, and pride ourselves on being able to deliver our quality restaurant dishes right to your door. Whatever the event, no matter how many or how few, we are there for you. Open Monday through Saturday from 11 am to 10 pm, closed on Sundays.

Angela’s Pizza 1923 Ulster Avenue Lake Katrine, NY 12401 angelaspizzamenu.com 845 382 2211 Angela’s is more than just pizza! Soups, salads, pastas, subs, wraps, Italian dinners, desserts … our pizza is awesome, too! Try our specialty pies or build your

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own! Eat in or take out, and delivery is available. Catering is also available! Download Angela’s mobile app for instant access to online ordering, Angela’s Loyalty Program, coupons, dining & catering menus, wing flavors and much more!

Barnwood Restaurant 14 Deer Lane Catskill, NY 12414 barnwooddining.com 518 943 2200 Nominated for 9 Best of Greene County 2024 awards, Barnwood Restaurant proudly offers up a vast selection of home cooked American comfort cuisine, delicious brick oven pizza, and authentic BBQ options in a welcoming, rustic environment! Located only 5 minutes from Thruway exit 21 in beautiful Catskill NY.

Brandywine 11157 State Route 23 Windham, NY 12496 brandywinewindham.com 518 734 3838 For the past 35 years, this full-service Italian restaurant has offered great food and impeccable service. Share wonderful memories with your loved ones as we fill your table with delicious Italian cuisine. Born

and raised in Southern Italy, owner Louis Caracciolo mastered the art of Italian cookery, and passed it on to his son Joseph, who has continued that art and tradition as chef in the restaurant. We know the formula to capture the rich flavor of your favorite Italian dishes.

Catamount Restaurant 5340 Route 28 Mount Tremper, NY 12457 EmersonResort.com 845 688 2828 Catamount is the kind of place you’ll want to linger, with a cozy atmosphere surrounded by wintry mountain and creek views. A favorite of locals and resort guests, it’s ideal for breakfast, dinner, or weekend brunch. Enjoy contemporary comfort food crafted with locally sourced ingredients, complemented by seasonal specials and cocktails. Whether you’re catching up with friends or simply warming up by the fireplace, Catamount offers a relaxed dining experience that keeps people coming back.

Gracie’s Luncheonette 969 Main Street Leeds, NY 12451 graciesny.com 518 943 9363 Diner-style burgers, fried chicken sandwich, loaded fries and donuts are our signature menu items. All of our breads, pastries and desserts are made fresh in house every day. We make all of our own condiments and even our own cheese. We buy whole beef from Josef Meiller’s farm in Pine Plains and grind our own special blend for our burgers and cut our own steaks. We also cure and smoke our own bacon, pastrami and other meats. Even the potatoes for our French fries are grown right in Catskill at Story’s Farm and hand-cut daily!

Mama’s Boy Burgers 6067 Main Street (at the traffic light) Tannersville, NY 12485 Mamasboyburgers.com 518 589 6667 Established in 2015, Mama’s Boy Burgers was voted the “Best Burger Shack” in the Hudson Valley by Hudson Valley Magazine. We are all about fresh and local ingredients. Our burgers are made from local, black Angus beef from a farm 6 miles away. Our seasonal produce comes from Story Farms, our ice cream is made in the Hudson Valley. We also offer vegetarian and vegan options.

Pancho Villa’s Mexican Restaurant 6037 Main Street Tannersville, NY 12485 panchovillamex.com 518 589 5134 The Best Mexican Food this side of the Border! Pancho Villa’s is owned and operated by the Oscar and Patricia Azcue family. They have been proudly serving authentic Mexican food on Main Street in Tannersville since 1992. Rooted in tradition, their passion is sharing great food and good company. All of the traditional Mexican favorites are served here, from enchiladas and burritos to chimichangas and flautas...plus great margaritas and daiquiris! Open every day except Tuesday.

La Cabaña Mexican Restaurant & Bar 966 Main St. Fleischmanns, NY 12442 lacabanarestaurantny.com 845 254 4966 Family owned and operated, La Cabaña is rich in tradition and authenticity. Our dinners are prepared with the freshest ingredients available. You’ll find all of your favorites here: enchiladas, burritos, tacos, chimichangas, flautas, chile relleños, carne asada, nachos, quesadillas, flan, fried ice cream and churros. Vegetarian options are available.

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Pantry on Main 6022 Main Street Tannersville, NY 12485 pantryonmain.com 518 589 4027 Pantry on Main is a family-owned and operated specialty food business, a one-stop-shop for all your culinary needs. Whether it be your forever or vacation home, we have what you need to create a delicious meal. Open for breakfast and lunch with a menu that changes daily, The Pantry also offers a rotating menu of prepared foods to go as well as catering for all of your needs, whether it be a 250 person wedding or intimate dinner party we have got you covered!

Taphouse & Grille 5359 Main Street Windham, NY 12496 taphousegrillwindham.com 518 734 9090 Experience Windham in our lively community bar & restaurant. Serving specialty cocktails, craft beer, classic entrees, Asian fusion and pub food favorites. We also have a beautiful private room for your next special event. And fun events througout the week like live music Thursdays and Karaoke Fridays. Open 7 days/week from noon to midnight.

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The Windham Local Café and Restaurant 5410 Main Street Windham, NY 12496 thewindhamlocal.com 518 750 8300 Lively community cafe and restaurant serving premium coffee and espresso along with the area’s only Thai Food and Handmade Dim Sum. Plus live music on Saturday nights from 7:00 to 9:00 pm.

RETAIL

Catskill Mountain Foundation Gift Shop 6042 Main Street Tannersville, NY 12485 518 589 7500 Operated by the Catskill Mountain Foundation and located next door to the Orpheum Performing Arts Center, our shop features a curated selection of home decor items and gifts from around the Region and around the world. Open Friday through Sunday and holiday Mondays from 11 am to 6 pm.

Gem Mercantile Retail Store Belleayre Ski Shop

22 Galli Curci Road Highmount NY 12441 belleayreskishop.com 845 254 5338 The Belleayre Ski Shop, sitting at the base of Belleayre Mountain, has been open since 1978. Current employees have 20+ years of experience in the ski industry. With a fully stocked Retail and Rental area, we can meet all your needs. Our full Retail Store has everything you need to experience a great day on the mountain. Expert staff members are here to assist you in getting the perfect fit. However you choose to spend the day, we have you covered. Season Pass Holders receive a 10% discount on Retail purchases. Our rental fleet features Elan skis and Dalbello boots. We also offer demos on all current season skis. If you are not looking to buy but want a better ski, we offer High-Performance rentals. Need ski/board rentals? Reserve your skis ahead of time, save time!

Camp Catskill 6006 Main Street Tannersville, NY 12485 campcatskill.co 518 303 6050 Your destination for sustainable gear & gifts, including clothing, footwear, backpacks, and hiking gear. Our mission is to help you feel good about what you buy, what you wear, and the gear you use (and reuse) in the wild. We work with brands that care about their impact on the planet and its people, and we donate 1% of our revenue to environmental nonprofits here in the Catskills.

5399 Main Street Windham, NY 12496 gemofthecatskills.com 518 662 0303 Beautiful retail store located in a historic home on Main St in Windham. We carry quality clothing, footwear, accessories, gifts and locally made handcrafts. Also home to the Windham Farmer’s Market every Saturday from 9am - 1pm.

The Knitting Room WINDHAM LOCATION 11111 State Route 23 Windham, NY 12496 518 768 1944 NEW LOCATION 6036 Main Street Tannersville, NY 12485 theknittingroomny.com The Knitting Room Windham is a cozy, community-focused yarn shop known for its quality fibers, welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, engaging workshops, and helpful knitting advice. A brand‑new location was added in Tannersville last summer, featuring an expanded selection of luxurious new yarn—ranging from wool blends to vibrant hand‑dyed skeins. Both locations offer updated opening hours to better accommodate crafters: Windham is open Thursday through Sunday 12:00-5:00 pm, and Tannersville is open Thursday, Friday and Monday 12:00-5:00 pm and 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on weekends.

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The Nest Egg 84 Main Street Phoenicia, NY 12464 thenesteggcountrystore.com nesteggshop.com 845 688 5851 An old-fashioned country store in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, offering relaxed shopping and mountain hospitality. You’ll find lots of specialty and artisan crafted foods here, from local maple syrup, honey, jams, jellies and preserves, to nostalgic candies and gourmet chocolate, to gourmet peanut butter, and more! Your source for mountain clothing and souvenirs, including Minnetonka Moccasins, t-shirts & sweatshirts, local area books and hiking maps, candles, soaps, incense, jewelry, toys, puzzles, games and souvenirs. Our home-made delicious fudge is worth the trip!

Tannersville Works 6041 Main Street Tannersville, NY 12485 tannersvilleworks.com 518 589 4017 Visit Tannersville Works — the Catskills’ go-to destination for stylish, one-of-akind treasures. Nestled on Main Street, Tannersville Works offers a curated selection of new and vintage items: stylish housewares, original artwork, apparel, handcrafted candles, jewelry, bespoke gifts, and more. Discover distinctive pieces that elevate your home with memorable design and refined craftsmanship. Inviting displays and attentive service turn every visit into a boutique-worthy treasure hunt, full of delightful finds in the Catskills.

Windham Mountain Outfitters 61 State Route 296 Windham, NY 12496 WindhamOutfitters.com 518 734 4700 Windham Outfitters offers top of the line outdoor gear and equipment for rental or purchase year-round activities. We have everything you need to enjoy the area whether it is skiing and boarding on the area’s slopes, or snowshoeing or cross-country skiing the wooded area trails. Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, we carry all the top industry brands in any size and budget. This full-service shop also does repairs and tune-ups. Open 7 days. Open late on Fridays! Visit our new rental shop across the street, appropriately named Across the Street Ski & Board Rentals!

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SKIING & SNOWBOARDING Adaptive Sports Foundation 100 Silverman Way Windham, NY 12496 adaptivesportsfoundation.org 518 734 5070 For more than 40 years, the ASF has introduced the wonders of winter sports and empowered thousands of individuals with cognitive and physical disabilities in Windham, NY. The ASF is a nonprofit organization that provides year-round sports and recreation opportunities to children and adults with disabilities and chronic illnesses. Founded in 1984, it has grown into one of the largest adaptive sports programs in the Northeast, complete with its own slope-side lodge, the Gwen Allard Adaptive Sports Center. Participants often describe the outdoor activities and opportunities the ASF provides as “life-changing.”

Belleayre Mountain 181 Galli Curci Road Highmount, NY 12441 belleayre.com 845 254 5600 Belleayre is a family-friendly mountain, located in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, where you can find something for the entire family—long cruising trails, bumps, glades, parks, steeps, and a whole bunch of fun. There are eight lifts (including a high-speed gondola and detachable quad); 171 skiable acres; 62 trails, parks and glades; 9.2 km of cross country trails; and four lodges. Lessons are offered at the mountain and can be purchased online. Choose from private lessons or beginner/novice group lessons for adults, teens, and kids.

SKI NY PO Box 375 Jamesville, NY 13078 iskiny.com 315 696 6550 Ski Areas of New York, Inc. is dedicated to the continued growth of the New York snow sports industry by working on behalf of its membership through legislation, marketing, and education to enhance public awareness of snow sports in New York. SKI NY is also the sponsor of the Passport Program, which offers free skiing for your third, fourth and fifth graders with an adult purchase at many ski areas.

Catskill Mountain Foundation’s Piano Performance Museum presents

INTERNATIONAL FORTEPIANO SALON SERIES ONLINE Windham Mountain Club 19 Resort Drive Windham, NY 12496 windhammountainclub.com 800 754 9463 Your all-season escape into Upstate New York’s premier wintersport, culinary, and memory-making destination for generations to come. Windham Mountain Club is an exclusive outdoor wonderland for the discerning set, find world-class skiing, golfing, dining, outdoor pursuits, and memory-making for generations to come. A restorative escape for more than 60 years, Windham Mountain Club has evolved to bring an elevated destination and exclusive year-round amenities and activities for the whole family to enjoy.

WINE & LIQUOR

REIMAGINING MOZART’S PANTOMIME SUNDAY, JANUARY 4 @ 2:00 PM Streaming LIVE on Facebook and YouTube Robi Arce-Martinez (professor, UNC Greensboro), Federico Ercoli (Cornell University), and Roger Moseley (Cornell University) will join moderators, Patricia Garcia Gil, Maria Rose and Yi-heng Yang. We will see clips from their reconstruction (with IFS host Patricia GarciaGil) of musical sketches Mozart wrote for a pantomime of the commedia dell’arte and discuss the history and spirit with which they rendered their creative, animated performance.

MORE INFORMATION: www.catskillmtn.org or www.internationalfortepianosalon.com This event is made possible in part through the support of the Jarvis and Constance Doctorow Family Foundation.

IMAGES OF THE NORTHERN CATSKILLS By Francis X. Driscoll

Windham Wine & Liquors 5448 State Route 23 Windham, NY 12496 518 734 3474 Windham Wine & Liquors is the Mountaintop’s premier destination for the best offerings of wines and spirits since 2003. Our ever-expanding selction is sure to please every palate and price range. Let us help with your special event or gift. Visit us at the west end of town. Open every day of the year except Christmas Day.

My work is available for purchase at: Tannersville Antiques & Artisans: 518 589 5600 Rustic Mountain Antiques: 518 589 1202 Smitty’s Nursery: 518 734 3489

For more information about my work, visit www.francisxdriscoll.com January 2026 • GUIDE 57

Sunlight, Yarn, and The Art of Showing Up

A Conversation with May Elbaz Belschner and Zaïri Malcolm of The Knitting Room By Michael Koegel “Do you mind if I knit?” It’s not the usual way an interview begins—but then again, nothing about The Knitting Room feels ordinary. On a sun-soaked October afternoon, I met co-owners May Elbaz Belschner and Zairi Malcolm in their second outpost in Tannersville, where golden light streamed through enormous windows and caught on shelves stacked with yarn like a rainbow in soft focus. The space radiated warmth; just sitting there, you felt as if someone had draped a freshly finished sweater across your shoulders. Their first location, opened in Windham in 2018, grew into an unexpected kind of community center—a place where knitters and curious newcomers gathered to swap tips, troubleshoot stitches, and simply be together. The newer Tannersville shop brings that same spirit to a more retail-forward setting, with curated gifts tucked between skeins and tools. Both shops buzz with classes in knitting, crochet, embroidery, loom weaving, and more. And if you’re ever stuck mid-project, they’ll happily guide you through with a private lesson. 58 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide

Since I know absolutely nothing about knitting I started with the basics.

Why yarn? Zaïri: Why not? May: Why yarn? Wow. I don’t know how the whole world isn’t obsessed with yarn. Knitting—or any craft where you have to concentrate, that’s creative and social, which not all crafts are—is really good for the mind, for the soul, for your entire constitution. The idea started because we needed it. We needed a place that would be our future, and that would include this in it.

When you say “include this,” what is this? May: I like to say we are a community space, and the side hustle is retail. That’s how we pay for our main product, which is education. We have an amazing teacher—she’s certified by the guild …

Hold on … there’s a guild? May: There’s a knitting and crochet guild that goes back hundreds of years, and there are certifications you can earn. To maintain your certification, you keep taking classes to enrich yourself. Our teacher is Lynn Biegel—knitting is her core career.

And what does she teach? Zaïri: Beginning and advanced knitting and crochet group classes. She also gives individual help with your project— we call it Project Help. Whatever you want to make, she’ll help you pick the yarn, pick the pattern, and guide you every step of the way.

If someone wants to take a class here, how do they do that? May: Classes are Thursdays and Sundays, but also by appointment.

And appointments are for one-on-one classes? May: Yes. Some people get it faster and some need more time, so it’s hourly. Our most popular product is a class pass—a punch card for six classes, but you only pay for five. It’s $100.

Twenty dollars an hour? That’s a great deal. May: It is. But you can spend 10 or 12 hours learning to make a pair of socks, and then people think they spent $200 on socks, which sends them into a spiral.

It’s like saying, “Why should I grow tomatoes for six months when I can just buy them?” You do it because you love gardening—not because you need tomatoes. Zaïri: Okay, I’m going to use that. May: We want both kinds of people—the ones who love to eat tomatoes and the ones who love to grow them.

And Lynn is the only official teacher now? May: Yes. We were lucky to find her. Not everyone is a gifted teacher. Zaïri: And with group classes, while she’s teaching someone else, you’re also learning. You make friends, exchange numbers—it’s so much fun.

Who shows up to these classes? May: A mix. Mostly full-timers. Winter is prime knitting season—there’s nothing to do except ski, and sometimes you can’t even do that. People want a place outside their house where they feel at home for a couple of hours.

What’s the average class size? May: We’ve never had more than four people.

So you get a lot of attention. May: You get top-notch education. The first three years, Zaïri and I taught, and I’m not afraid to tell you it was crap.

So this place is really built on community. Do you welcome people who just want to sit and knit? Can they just show up? May: That’s what we’d like.

So people can bring a friend, bring tea… I doubt that. Zaïri: People thought we were great. May: I thought it was crap. Zaïri: We were teaching, but we had so much else to do. When we said we were hiring a new teacher, there was almost a mutiny—everyone was like, “NO, UH UH!” And now they love her.

May: Bring food, bring their own yarn—they don’t have to buy anything here. Zaïri: And even if our teacher isn’t here, if other people are knitting, they’ll help.

It’s nice to be around like-minded people. Zaïri: That’s how we learned. January 2026 • GUIDE 59

How so? May: We learned in a group that met every Tuesday at Whole Foods or around Manhattan. And if people come up for a weekend and a couple of them don’t ski, they have something to do. If my friends planned a ski trip to Colorado and there was a yarn store there, I’d be much more enthusiastic about going. So it’s not just for locals—it’s for weekenders too. We have a class called Hat in a Day. It’s three hours, you make a hat with a pom-pom, and it has a 100% success rate.

Let’s talk about your yarn. Zaïri: We love wool and natural fibers. May: We made a list of priorities: natural fibers—plant or animal—but no acrylic. And in Windham, we decided we wanted yarn we couldn’t afford, because why else own a store? That yarn is usually unique, often local—hand-dyed in the Hudson Valley or from local sheep or goats… Zaïri: Or alpaca. May: Or the business is U.S.-based. We want to support small, independent businesses, which makes for expensive yarn. Prices range from $29 a skein—and you need five or six for a sweater—to $50 a skein for cashmere. Then we started carrying more affordable yarns—factory-made but still with positive attributes, like eco-friendly practices, animal welfare commitments, and fair trade.

When you opened in Windham you sold very highend yarn. Do you still? May: When we opened the Tannersville store, we created a different concept: lower-end, but not lower quality. It’s factory-made instead of handmade, so it’s half the price. Zaïri: About $11.

So Zaïri, if I wanted to make the sweater you’re wearing right now using the factory-made yarn, how much would that cost? May: (After much calculating between them.) About $60.

That’s it? May: In Windham, with handmade yarn, it would be about $90.

Is there a higher-end version? May: Oh yeah—cashmere. That’d be around $250.

So I could make a version of this sweater for anywhere between $60 and $250, depending on what I want to spend. That flexibility is great. Zaïri: And the sweater I’m wearing is like no other sweater in the world.

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If a neophyte like me walks into The Knitting Room completely uninitiated to the concept of knitting, what do you say to them? May: A lot of people come in and say “I don’t have time for this.” The reality is that nobody has time for anything. Still, there’s nothing more satisfying than creating. It’s God-like: I’m making this thread into a garment. Zaïri: One more thing, since we opened the yarn store in Windham, I would say that 90% of my friends I met through the yarn store, and we still all hang out together. If we never had the yarn store, who would I know? May: My life’s pursuit is to make everybody knit. I want people to walk around Windham and see knitting everywhere. I’ve seen that in Scandinavia—especially Iceland and Denmark—people knit everywhere, and I’m starting to see it in Windham. And now we’re coming to Tannersville. This interview has been lightly edited for length and clarity. The Knitting Room: A community space as well as a retail store, for all of your knitting, macrame, embroidery, needlepoint, crochet, and loom spinning needs. The Tannersville store also has a beautiful selection of gifts and notions as well. Their two locations are in Tannersville at 6036 Main Stree and 11111 Rt. 23 in Windham. Check their website at theknittingroomny.com for their hours of operation and their class schedules. Michael Koegel is a writer and director who lives in East Jewett, NY. He is the owner of Mama’s Boy Burgers in Tannersville.

January 2026 • GUIDE 61

Left: The designers at Bell’s Ethan Allen of the Hudson Valley.

BELL’S ETHAN ALLEN OF THE HUDSON VALLEY

our home is your backdrop for life’s most important moments. Whether you’re hosting, relaxing or working from home, every space deserves to feel intentional. Bell’s Ethan Allen delivers on that promise by combining timeless furniture with tailored design guidance. Here are three reasons savvy homeowners choose Bell’s Ethan Allen: 1. Bespoke Furniture with Authentic Quality Ethan Allen builds on decades of heritage in craftsmanship — already more than 90 years in the business. You’ll find furniture assembled with care, custom upholstery options, and materials selected for durability and sustainability. That level of detail elevates homes from good to exceptional. 2. Personalized Design Support — No Extra Cost Bell’s Ethan Allen sees you as a partner in design. Their in-store design team helps you map out layouts, select finishes and coordinate fabrics so your spaces feel cohesive. Free design service means you get professional guidance without guessing. 3. A One-Stop Destination for Every Room From living and dining rooms to outdoor patios, home offices and custom Hunter Douglas window treatments, Bell’s Ethan Allen covers it all. It’s about creating spaces you’ll love now and for years.

THE EXPERIENCE YOU’LL FIND Walk into Bell’s Ethan Allen and you’ll immediately sense a difference. Rooms are staged thoughtfully to help you imagine how 62 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide

each piece works in the real world. A designer will take time to listen: what you need, how you live, how you envision your space. Then, they collaborate with you on fabrics, finishes and layouts that reflect your taste and lifestyle. Imagine planning a dining room that shifts effortlessly from weekday meals to elegant entertaining. Or a living space where every piece — sofa, rug, lighting — aligns with both comfort and style. Bell’s design professionals guide you through decisions with clarity, ensuring your investment delivers lasting impact.

ACTIONABLE TIPS BEFORE YOU VISIT Bring photos of your space plus measurements. That helps the design team work faster and more precisely. Ask about custom-finish options. Unique details like wood tone or upholstery texture set your design apart. Consider your entire space, not just one room. The best designs flow from room to room with consistency and purpose. Set a realistic budget—and share it. Bell’s team can show quality options that meet your spending goals and help avoid surprises. Schedule a design consultation. Free sessions fill up, so reserving your time ensures dedicated support. When you partner with Bell’s Ethan Allen, you’re not just buying furniture—you’re crafting your home with intention. Let your environment reflect who you are and how you live. Visit Bell’s Ethan Allen today and step confidently into a space that is authentic, confident and designed to perform. Bell’s Ethan Allen is located at 94 N. Plank Road in Newburgh. For more information, visit their website at bellsethanallen.com or call them at 845 565 6000.

2026 WINTER COURSES CERAMICS OPEN STUDIO

2D STUDIO

JANUARY 7 – FEBRUARY 25 (8 WEEKS)

JANUARY 7 - FEBRUARY 25 (8 WEEKS)

Saturdays, 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm Sundays, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm Wednesdays, 10:00 am - 8:00 pm Course Fee: $250 + Lab Fee: $75 [includes 25 lbs. stoneware clay and firing] + Registration Fee: $40 Sugar Maples Center for the Creative Arts offers the best equipped studio in the Mountain Top region. If you’re a potter/sculptor working with clay, come enjoy working at your own pace on your ideas/visions. There will be bisque firings, cone 6 oxidation firings, and participation in one cone 10 soda firing at the conclusion of the course. This unique opportunity is for makers who have a knowledge of the ceramics processes with which they need to continue to develop their ‘voice.’ Additional clay is available for purchase.

Sundays, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Course Fee: $250 + Lab Fee: $30 + Registration Fee: $40 Are you interested in learning/continuing to draw, paint and collage but don’t know where to start or would like to polish up your skills? This class is perfect for you! This 8-week course is designed for artists of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting your artistic journey, you’ll find inspiration and guidance in a supportive learning environment. Refine your techniques, skills and (re)discover your unique style under the guidance of experienced instructors. Expand your artistic vocabulary and develop your unique style. With a focus on individual growth, this class nurtures creativity and builds confidence.

WHEEL THROWING: MAKING GREAT POTS JANUARY 11 - MARCH 1 (8 WEEKS) Sundays, 10:00am – 1:00 pm Course Fee: $250 + Lab Fee: $75 [includes 25 lbs. stoneware clay and firing] + Registration Fee: $40 This exciting course is for folks who want to learn how to make pots on the potter’s wheel or are interested in continuing to develop skills and knowledge. Students will be taught the A to Z about preparing clay and using tools that are unique to this fascinating process of creating functional pottery. Glazing and firing techniques will be covered. There will be demonstrations, heaps of individual attention, and lots of discussions about ceramics’ rich history. Join us here in the most beautiful ceramics studio in the Catskill region! Sugar Maples is a great place to spend a winter’s day learning new skills and having fun while at it! Additional clay is available for purchase.

HANDBUILDING CERAMICS JANUARY 11 - MARCH 1 (8 WEEKS) Sundays, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm Course Fee: $250 + Lab Fee: $75 [includes 25 lbs. stoneware clay and firing] + Registration Fee: $40 This dynamic and enjoyable course is intended for anyone who has the desire to build with clay those ‘things’ that their minds’ eye can imagine! Come join us in our sunny and well-equipped studio at the foot of Thomas Cole Mountain and put your hands to work. Basic techniques such as coil building, slab construction, scoring, and pinch forming will be taught. You don’t have to have any experience delving into this exciting world of creating sculptures, vessels, or any other form that crosses your mind. Applying engobes, underglazes, and glazes will be presented through demonstrations, exercises, with time to practice! Additional clay is available for purchase.

34 Big Hollow Road | Maplecrest, NY 12454 www.catskillmtn.org On Instagram: @sugarmaples_art_center

January 2026 • GUIDE 63

Carolina Chickadee in winter. Photo by Wirestock Creators/shutterstock.com

A Greene County Garden in January: Birds in Winter By Margaret Donsbach Tomlinson

any of our local birds do not migrate. Blue jays, cardinals, chickadees, titmice, nuthatches, sparrows, and more are still visiting our Greene County gardens this January. How do they survive? Feathers help keep them warm and dry. Their outer feathers are a waterproof wind barrier, provided they groom them often to keep the vanes—the filaments radiating out from the feather’s central rib (called the rachis)—smoothly attached to each other by the barbs along each vane. When you see a bird smoothing its feathers by passing them through its beak, this is what it’s doing. Closer to their skin, a layer of down, like the down in high quality pillows and comforters, insulates them from the cold and can be fluffed to create a thicker layer. Tucking its head under a wing can help a bird warm this less feathered part of its body. Chickadees weigh just half an ounce, so their small size makes them especially vulnerable to cold. They need lots of highfat food in winter. During summer and fall, they will cache seeds in crevices in the bark of trees; they have a remarkable ability to remember where they have cached food—in fall, the part of their brain devoted to memory actually gets bigger. Even so, they are twice as likely to survive a very cold winter when temperatures drop as low as 10° in an area where homeowners put out birdfeeders. When roosting overnight, chickadees can go into a state of torpor, lowering their body temperatures to use fewer fat reserves. In the morning, they will shiver to warm up before flying off to find food to restore their energy. 64 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide

Carolina wrens and northern cardinals are also among the many birds that visit birdfeeders, and have been extending their range northward in recent years, probably at least partly because of birdfeeders filled with high-fat seeds like sunflower. Birds have higher body temperatures than us humans, usually somewhere from 102-104° F. About 90% of a bird’s metabolism is devoted to keeping it warm, so they need a lot of fat to burn in winter. Before people began putting out birdfeeders, birds ate high-fat native berries to help them survive the cold. Northern bayberries (Myrica pensylvanica) are almost 50% fat—early settlers boiled them to skim off the fat and use it for candles. Although not all birds can digest bayberries, many can, including yellowrumped warblers, tufted titmice and gray catbirds. Arrowwood viburnum (Viburnum dentatum) and Northern spicebush (Lindera benzoin) produce berries with a fat content of 40-50%. Other native shrubs with high-fat berries include gray dogwood (Cornus racemosa) and black elderberry (Sambucus canadensis). Birds are amazing and lovely creatures, which is why we love watching them in our gardens. Keeping a birdfeeder filled during winter or planting native berry-producing shrubs helps keep them alive and thriving.

Margaret Donsbach Tomlinson enjoys gardening in Catskill. She also writes a weekly Substack series, The Generous Garden, online at mtomlinson.substack.com.

The MOUNTAIN CINEMA Open Friday-Sunday Visit catskillmtn.org for complete schedule Showing the best of Hollywood & Independent films

DOCTOROW CENTER FOR THE ARTS 7971 Main Street Hunter, NY 12442

UPCOMING FILMS AVATAR: FIRE AND ASH

MARTY SUPREME

Jake and Neytiri’s family grapples with grief after Neteyam’s death, as the conflict on Pandora escalates and a new moral focus emerges. 1/2-1/4, 1/9-1/11

Marty Mauser, a young man with a dream no one respects, goes to hell and back in pursuit of greatness. 1/9-1/11, 1/16-1/18

THE SPONGEBOB MOVIE: SEARCH FOR SQUAREPANTS

HAMNET

SpongeBob journeys to the ocean’s depths to face the Flying Dutchman’s ghost. 1/2-1/4

Imagines the life and devastating loss of William Shakespeare’s family in 16th-century England, focusing on his wife, Agne, and their children, especially the twins Hamnet and Judith, whose death from plague in 1596 inspires Shakespeare’s play Hamlet. 1/16-1/18

SENTIMENTAL VALUE An intimate exploration of family, memories, and the reconciliatory power of art. 1/2-1/4

ETERNITY In an afterlife where souls have one week to decide where to spend eternity, Joan is faced with the impossible choice between the man she spent her life with and her first love, who died young and has waited decades for her to arrive. 1/9-1/11, 1/16-1/18

THE CHORAL A choral society’s male members enlist in World War I, leaving the demanding Dr. Guthrie to recruit teenagers. Together, they experience the joy of singing while the young boys grapple with their impending conscription into the army. 1/23-1/25, 1/30-2/1

View each week’s schedule, view trailers and purchase tickets at catskillmtn.org

www.catskillmtn.org • 518 263 4702

January 2026 • GUIDE 65

Photo by Mike Pellinni/shutterstock.com

The Dawning of a New Age: The Catskills in 2026 By Greg Madden

s we put away all the splendor that was the recent holiday season, with all the decorations and trimmings, having watched the ball drop (or the replay of the ball dropping) in Times Square, some of us will get out our crystal ball and look ahead deeper into the new year that is 2026. What does it all mean and who can know the future? Should we know the future … for all that matters really is now, the present time? The past gives us experience for what we have encountered and the future is where we apply those lessons to build, shape and direct our lives, and those who matter most to us, going forward. The folks who follow numerology will relate that the universal vibration of the year is “1” (2+0+2+6=10, and 10 is further reduced to just 1). For those numerologists, this numbered path symbolizes new beginnings, leadership and individual expression. The Oneness of it all. One energy. January counts. This energy suggests a global focus on innovation, transformative shifts in systems and movements toward great freedom and creativity. Perhaps new leaders will emerge and pioneer our future. That sounds wonderful, but others caution that it will require resilience, clarity and faith to navigate the challenging times that lay before us. Each year turns like a slow, deliberate page, predictable in most everything but its outcomes.

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Here in the Catskill Mountains, a hush settles over the rimrock and the bare trunks of beech and maple while the valley inhales winter and holds it. For people everywhere, a new year is both a punctuation mark and a fresh sheet, a promise that we can begin again, repair what was frayed, and carry forward what is dear to us. Yet every new beginning is braided to what came before: memory, weather, politics, science, and a thousand small acts that add up. This is a story of the new, uncharted and yet to be explored moments ahead for 2026. Will fear and worry nudge out possible joy-filled moments of great anticipation, or will the flood gates of love unleashed unbridled and endless moments of exuberance? Since we have no choice but to soldier on, we forge ahead into the region’s quiet resilience, our nation’s complicated hopes, and our planet’s urgent call to action, read through the lenses of tradition, modern forecasting, and even fulfilling old prophecies. In small Catskill townships, old houses lean toward their porches like people resting after a long day. The rivers and kills that once cut mills into our hills keeps its slow counsel while the air smells of wood smoke and frozen earth. Farmers and foresters check their tools and their calendars. In basements, dens and on kitchen tables, people write lists for the year ahead, preparing seeds to sow, repairs to plan, and small resolutions that feel like stones dropped into a still pond.

There’s a peculiar buoyancy and stillness in that first January morning, following the revelry that said goodbye to 2025. This is where the newness of hope is simple, cheap, and immediate. It costs nothing to believe a little more in kindness. It costs nothing to plan ahead. And for many in the Catskill Mountains, planning includes listening to long-range weather whispers, not because almanacs are infallible, but because communities have long used every scrap of wisdom they can to ready themselves for seasons of plenty. January is used to prepare. Clean, bright, cold, calm, calculated and with purpose. The hustle and bustle of last year disappears straight away into the open space of the first quarter of 2026 with no revelry or pressing deadlines. Now, the planning begins. The Old Farmer’s Almanac (since 1792) and similar longrange forecasts remain part of that conversation, offering regionby-region outlooks for winter and planting that families and small businesses still consult as one input among many. Did you know there are two farmer’s almanacs? It’s true. The traditional “older” version (the yellow one) is staying, but sadly the other (newer) Almanac, is in its final publishing year, and it states Catskillians are in for one “wild ride” with a cycle of “chill, snow, repeat,” with significant, dramatic temperature swings. So dust off your shovels, neighbors, and when the snow finally stops be ready for a hotter and drier summer ahead. Extremes seem to be the new normal, meaning shorter spring and autumn seasons, two of the best for my liking. For 2026, the picture many forecasters paint is cautiously mixed: modest global growth, continued inflationary pressure in some places, and persistent downside risks tied to trade tensions and political uncertainty. For a place like the Catskills, that means accepting all outcomes as the year progresses. Colder or warmer winters, and their effect on changes in snowfall and runoff, affect streams and drinking-water reservoirs, and greater variability in the planting season, all of which put pressure on ecosystems and livelihoods. State and regional climate assessments reinforce this local picture, urging planners to strengthen infrastructure, protect forests, and support the small farmers and tourism businesses that knit the region’s economy together. The imperative is both practical and moral: to build resilience where we can, and to reduce the risks we can still prevent. January may seem quiet after December, but the rest of the year relies on those who mitigate risk to all that matters. For those who look for meaning beyond numbers, old prophecies like the quatrains of Nostradamus sometimes re-enter public conversation at turning points. He is not a scientist or an economist; his verses are ambiguous, polysemous, and endlessly reinterpreted and argued. Readers find in them whatever anxieties or hopes they carry. In 2026, as in many years before, commentators sifted his lines for symbolic resonance with eclipses, political tension, or technological change.

These readings tell us less about the future itself and more about our need for stories that help us frame the uncertainty of tomorrow. The careful way to regard such interpretations is as a cultural signal or a human attempt to narrativize a chaotic world, rather than as evidence-based forecasting. Still, what the scientists, economists, almanac-makers, and dreamers agree on in spirit is this: beginnings are actionable. The joy of a new year is not naïve, it is a muscle that must be exercised. In the Catskills, local cooperatives and farmers’ markets plan to diversify crops and extend community-supported agriculture models to cushion small farms from late-season frosts or extreme heat events. Trail crews and conservationists map erosion hotspots and begin projects to stabilize streams and protect headwaters. Those are concrete acts of hope. They are small investments now that could save substantial heartbreak or disaster later. Similarly, at national and global scales, policies to improve energy efficiency, protect vulnerable communities, and invest in clean technologies are the practical equivalent of a New Year’s resolution kept by whole societies. The difference between a wish and a beginning is work. January is work that restarts everything. Anticipation carries its own friction. Our Catskills are home to seasonal economies that depend on consistent winters for skiing and steady springs and summers for hikers and anglers. Warmer winters and more erratic precipitation complicate business models—some who run lodges or ski hills are experimenting with off-season attractions and year-round programming, while others weather short term losses and lobby for support. At the national level, households wrestle with bills, health costs, and the challenge of paying for childcare and education amid uncertain labor markets. The forecasts that economists and climatologists release become tools for prioritization, data that help our governments (and our communities) decide where to shore up the levees, which bridges to fix first, and which social programs to protect. They are not comfortable, but they are a map. January gets busy. There is an intimacy to beginning anew that big reports sometimes miss. A teacher in a Catskills school system revamps a curriculum to include local ecology, so children learn the names of native plants and the reason stream buffers matter. A retired carpenter teaches young neighbors how to fix a roof. A community center hosts a meeting about heat waves and stockpiling water, then provides the first round of home weatherization kits for seniors. January is learning. These acts are small, but resilience is mostly the sum of small acts: a repaired roof keeps the family dry through the storm; a diversified crop keeps a farm afloat through an early frost; better insulation reduces energy bills and emissions. The new year’s quiet work begins … patching, planting, teaching, this is where joy and survival meet. January renews. We should also acknowledge the harder edges of this moment. Change is uneven, and the burdens of transition fall more January 2026 • GUIDE 67

heavily on those with the least capacity to adapt. Policies and community planning must reckon with equity. Importantly, who gets the new jobs that come with green investment and who bears the costs of relocating from flood-prone homes. Who has access to training and capital. January is repeatedly curious. Forecasts — whether from almanacs, economic reports, or climate models — must therefore be paired with civic choices that prioritize fairness. Hope without justice is brittle. And yet, even accounting for risk, complexity, and difficult trade-offs, there is an irreducible human delight to starting over. Wiping the slate clean and leaving behind what didn’t fit or work out. Anticipation pulses through small rituals: the first sunrise run, the list left on the refrigerator, the seed catalog opened with a warm cup of coffee, the promise to phone a distant friend more often. January boosts fresh starts. In the Catskills, the landscape supplies a yearly theater of renewal: buds under the snow, trout returning to streams, and the steady, patient work of woodpeckers and beavers. On a broader stage, communities choose to invest in clean-energy projects, train displaced workers for new industries, and restore wetlands that both store carbon and calm floods. These choices do not guarantee success, but they tilt the odds. The story of a new year is not a prophecy, it is a decision to try once again. January is patient. Finally, if prophecy and prediction have taught us anything in the modern age, it is humility. Models and forecasts, whether economic, meteorological, or interpretive are just tools, not oracles. They help us prepare; they do not relieve us of responsibility. The first days of a new year can be a collective rehearsal for neighbors to check on elders, for towns to plan cooling centers Photo by Sergey Zaykov/shutterstock.com

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and evacuation routes, for states and nations to fund research and to protect the commons. January initiates. Hope is not a passive state. It is deliberate, often inconvenient work that begins with small, practical acts and scales up when people organize and when institutions cooperate. So the Catskill Mountains breathe in, and the people living here and across the nation breathe with them. They fold forecasts into plans, listen to both science and the wisdom of the land, and find in the ritual of January, a reason to act. Whether you read the almanac or the climate change reports, whether you scan financial forecasts or folklore, the lesson is similar: beginnings matter less as a blank slate and more as a choicepoint. Take modest, daily steps, make durable investments and carry forward the joy. The year ahead will be hard in places and kind in others. That is always the case. What is new is the clarity we have been given about which choices make harm likelier and which make hope possible. In that choosing, in that stubborn, communal practice of starting again, there is the bright pulse of possibility. January is brand new and 2026 has arrived. Happy New Year Everyone!! Greg Madden is a freelance writer, public relations, branding and marketing specialist who practices ancient healing modalities like Tui-Na Medical Massage and BioPhoton LightTherapy (Biontology.com) right here in the Catskill Mountains. More at IlluminatingWellness.care.

The Catskill Mountain Foundation’s Independent Film Series presents

THURSDAY, JANUARY 15, 2026 AT 6:00 PM Reviving the Legend (dir. Ian McGrew, 25 minutes) The story of how the skiing community saved a mountain.

Queen of the Catskills (dir. Jamie Kennard, 15 minutes) A high school English teacher in the South Bronx embarks on a quest to become the first woman to ski 33 of the highest peaks in the Catskill Mountains—alone.

Featuring a Q&A with directors Jamie Kennard and Ian McGrew

Mountain Cinema at the Doctorow Center for the Arts 7971 Main Street • Hunter, NY 12442 Scan for tickets!

TICKETS ARE FREE • Reserve online at catskillmtn.org January 2026 • GUIDE 69

THE GREAT OUTDOORS IN THE CATSKILLS By Jeff Senterman

The author snowshoeing. Photo courtesy of hikertrashhusbands.com

ere in the Catskills, winter is in full swing, and it is one of the best times of year to get outside and explore the mountains in a whole new way. As the temperatures drop through January and February, local ski areas spin more lifts and open more terrain, backcountry routes fill in with snow, and familiar hiking trails transform into snowshoe and cross‑country ski adventures. Instead of hunkering down inside, winter in the Catskill Mountains is an invitation to experience the same peaks, forests, and valleys you love in summer, now draped in snow and sparkling under crisp, clear skies. If you are planning to spend time outdoors this January, a few simple steps can make your winter days safer and more enjoyable: dress in layers, carry extra warm clothing, stay dry, and plan your route with a good map and a realistic turnaround time. Each year, it is worth revisiting these basics: packing insulating layers; traction for icy sections; and plenty of food and water. All so that cold, wind, or changing conditions do not cut your day short. January is also when New York State’s budget negotiations ramp up, and that matters for the Catskill Park and its communities. By speaking up for trail stewardship, visitor services, and community investment, residents and visitors alike can help ensure the Catskills get the funding and attention this landscape deserves. 70 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide

Catskills Visitor Center & Catskill Park Trail Conditions The Catskills Visitor Center in Mount Tremper is open Friday through Monday, 9:30 am through 4:00 pm, offering expert advice, maps, gift shop with unique Catskills products, and hiking gear for purchase or rent. Connect with staff in person, at info@catskillcenter.org, or at 845 688 3369. Visitors can enjoy the Visitor Center’s exhibits and gift shop, 1.5 miles of trails, and the 80-foot Upper Esopus Fire Tower with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Esopus Creek valley. Explore online at catskillsvisitorcenter.org, or follow them on Facebook and Instagram at @catskills.visitor.center. Trail conditions in the Catskills are always changing. Before setting out, visit the Catskills Visitor Center’s Trail Conditions page at catskillstrailconditions.com for the latest updates on trails, campgrounds, and outdoor activities.

Tips to Enjoy Outdoor Sports in the Winter Hikes, cross country ski trips, and snowshoe trips can all be fun, adventurous and beautiful in the winter, but they do require advanced planning. There is less room for mistakes and errors on a winter excursion because of the cold temperatures, generally higher winds, snow, ice and limited daylight hours.

Keeping Warm You should always be prepared on any hike, ski or snowshoe trip to keep warm and sheltered with nothing more than what you are carrying with you. You should not count on a campfire or stove to keep you warm. You should learn how to layer your clothing to maximize warmth. You must always stay alert to the dangers of hypothermia and frostbite: know the signs on both and learn how to treat them. Daylight Unlike the long hours of daylight for hikes in the summertime, winter days are very short and darkness can easily surprise anyone in the woods with its quick arrival. Always plan out your trips to maximize your use of daylight. Always carry a flashlight and headlamp in case you are stuck in the darkness and still need to make your way out to the trailhead. Skiing and Snowshoeing Hiking in the snow takes a lot of effort since most often hikers without snowshoes “post-hole” their way along a trail. That is, with each step, a hiker sinks into the snow creating what looks like a hole for a post with every step. Cross country skis and snowshoes, on the other hand, keep you on top of the snow and let you travel further with less energy than trying to hike on your own. Skiing and snowshoeing open up a whole new way to look at the trails of the Catskill Mountains too, with adventures around every corner. Trail Markers Luckily in the Catskills we do not have white trail markers, but even so, the familiar red, blue and yellow trail markers may be hidden by deep snows, especially on mountain summits. Having a map and compass is always a good idea, but it is a necessity in the wintertime to make sure you do not lose your way. Get yourself a printed map from the Catskills Visitor Center’s gift shop for your hikes and don’t rely on battery powered devices—cold weather causes them to lose a charge much faster.

#RecreateResponsibly in the Catskills Time in nature, and outdoor recreation has proven to be essential for all. Especially during uncertain times, all of us, from seasoned outdoor enthusiasts, to families heading out to their local park for the first time, can turn to community and simple reminders about how to safely & responsibly recreate outdoors while caring for one another. The Recreate Responsibly guidelines came together to offer a starting point for getting outside to keep yourself and others safe while working to maintain access to our beloved natural spaces. Read on to learn the primary tips on how to responsibly recreate outdoors. Each edition of the guidelines have been developed by bringing together topline issues and experts to distill key concepts that when implemented, build a community of care in the outdoors.

Learn more at recreateresponsibly.org

Know Before you Go Check the status of the place you want to visit for closures, fire restrictions, and weather.

Plan and Prepare Reservations and permits may be required. Make sure you have the gear you need and a back-up plan

Build an Inclusive Outdoors Be an active part of making the outdoors safe and welcoming for all identities and abilities.

Respect Others There is space for everyone and countless outdoor activities. Be kind to all who use the outdoors and nature differently.

Leave No Trace Respect the land, water, wildlife, & Native communities. Follow the seven Leave No Trace principles. Learn more at LeaveNoTrace.org

Make It Better We all have a responsibility to sustain the places we love. Volunteer, donate, and advocate for the outdoors.

January 2026 • GUIDE 71

Tips and Tricks Here are some additional ideas, tips and suggestions for winter hiking, skiing and snowshoeing trips: Stay dry and waterproof. Make sure you manage your core temperature while hiking to prevent sweating, which gets your clothes wet and limits their insulative value. Wear gaiters to help keep your legs dry, and pop your hood over your head when trekking through overhanging trees to prevent snow from getting in at the neck and getting you wet. Winter is the wrong time to think you need to pack lightly. Carry many insulating layers including a spare set of long underwear tops and bottoms — putting on dry, cold clothes may shock the system initially but you will feel warmer quickly. Make sure your equipment works. Finding out your water bottle is cracked when it is 10 below at lunchtime is the wrong time to learn about it. Be aware that solid food items freeze. Cut up those Snickers bars ahead of time … even cold cuts can freeze! Drink constantly. You will not feel as thirsty in cold weather as you do during summer activities. Know how to repair snowshoe and crampon/creeper bindings so a broken binding doesn’t become an emergency deep in the woods. Don’t use those ski pole wrist loops. A downhill fall can wrench a shoulder if you go one way and your ski pole stays put. Ideally know your winter hike ahead of time. Trail finding is tricky with deep snow so knowing the route well is a good idea. Favor hikes with few stream crossings. Crossings are dangerous as both a water hazard and possibly soaking everything you are wearing and carrying. Even just getting your snowshoes wet can result in heavy globs of ice stuck on. If you’re hiking with a dog, check their paws for icing. Make sure they are staying adequately hydrated and are staying warm. Be especially careful if conditions are icy. Crampons and creepers only work if you stay on your feet. If you are a beginner winter hiker, consider a group hike to learn more about trail conditions and preparation. With proper planning, the right skills and the right equipment, winter is a great time to get out and enjoy the Catskills. One of the best ways to fight off cabin fever is to get out of the cabin and get into the woods! If you’d like some extra guidance, be sure to stop by the Catskills Visitor Center in Mount Tremper where the staff can help you find adventures that fit your skill and experience levels. 72 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide

Catskill Park Coalition Priorities for 2026: You Can Help Support the Catskills! The Catskill Park Coalition represents dozens of organizations who work in and care for the Catskill Park and the surrounding Catskill Region. Every year the Coalition prepares priorities for the upcoming NYS budget and advocates for equitable funding of the Catskill Park and Catskills communities. Many of the members of the Coalition partner with New York State, local governments, and other stakeholders to implement critical Catskill Park programs to conserve open space, steward our existing recreational resources, protect and improve water quality, promote responsible forest stewardship, build community resilience, and create new trails and public access. The Coalition knows that investments in the Catskill Park protect our natural resources, support important jobs for our region, and provide clean drinking water protection for millions of New Yorkers. The priorities for the Coalition in the upcoming NYS Budget affirm tourism opportunities, natural resource protections, clean water, public health protections, climate resilience, recreational access, job creation, and quality of life for residents of and visitors to the Catskill Park. Public Safety and Catskill Park Management: The NYSDEC must be adequately staffed, including new staff in the Division of Lands and Forests and annual Forest Ranger Academies, the Catskill Park Coordinator role must be adequately funded, Aid to Localities funding of $100,000 is necessary for Catskill Park Stewardship Programs by Catskill Mountainkeeper and Catskill Center. Environmental Protection Fund (EPF): Fully fund the Environmental Protection Fund at $425 million. Within the EPF, maintain existing funding lines for the Catskills including: $10 million Forest Preserve line; $250,000 line for the Catskills Visitor Center; $200,000 line for Catskill Science Collaborative; $500,000 for the “Save the Hemlocks” initiative; and $300,000 in dedicated Catskills funding for Smart Growth Grants. Supporting Local Economies: Support Catskills communities by investing in projects with direct community benefits. Improve cellular service, support construction of the U&D Rail Trail, expand affordable housing, and improve trail connectivity to downtown main streets. What can you do to help? Contact your local elected officials (the Governor, State Senators, and State Assemblymembers especially and let them know that you support the Catskill Park and the priorities of the Catskill Park Coalition. It doesn’t matter where in New York you live, but your elected officials need to know you support the Catskills! Visit catskillcenter.org/advocacy to learn more about how you can help the Catskill Center speak up and advocate for the Catskills.

Calling all musicians, music lovers, history buffs & antique aficionados! There is a piano museum in Hunter with one of the largest collections of historical pianos in America.

Catskill Mountain Foundation Piano Performance Museum Featuring the Steven E. Greenstein Collection 7971 Route 23A Village of Hunter, NY 12442 www.catskillmtn.org The Piano Performance Museum is funded in part by the Jarvis and Constance Doctorow Family Foundation and private contributions.

Come see the history of this splendid instrument with original instruments from the days of Mozart to the modern era: Clavichord • Harpsichord Spinet • Melodion Fortepiano Grands and Squares Modern Piano Era You can play them all! Come book a group tour from 4 up to 25 people Admission: $10/person For further info: weisbergp@catskillmtn.org

January 2026 • GUIDE 73

Catskills Hiking Guides with the Hiker Trash Husbands on YouTube and the Web Looking to explore the trails of the Catskills (and beyond) before you hit the trail? My husband and I have a YouTube channel showcasing our hiking adventures in the Catskills and beyond! You can find The Hiker Trash Husbands on YouTube at youtube. com/thehikertrashhusbands. If you’re in the Catskills and have cable provided by MTC, you can catch our videos on CatskillsAir, MTC Channel 1. For the two of us, The Hiker Trash Husbands is not only a way to show friends and family our hiking adventures, but an effort to provide positive LGBTQ+ representation in the hiking world, while providing the general public with useful hiking information and guides. We love to showcase our own hiking adventures, along with other queer outdoors folks. You can learn more about our efforts, along with detailed hike descriptions and hiking guides, by visiting our website at hikertrashhusbands.com.

Catskills Adventure Challenge Take the Catskills Adventure Challenge! Choose from eight signature hikes and complete six to earn your patch. Detailed guides are available at the Catskills Visitor Center or catskillsadventurechallenge.com.

Catskill Park Advisory Committee Huckleberry Point. Photo courtesy of hikertrashhusbands.com

Visit the Catskill Park’s Visitor Center Located at 5096 Route 28 in Mount Tremper, the Congressman Maurice D. Hinchey Catskills Visitor Center (CVC) is the official visitor center for the Catskill Park. A program of the Catskill Center, staff are available at the CVC with information, maps and all the advice needed to plan a Catskill adventure. The CVC is open Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays from 9:30 am through 4:00 pm from December 1 through March 31, offering expert advice, maps, gift shop with unique Catskills products, and hiking gear for purchase or rent. Visitors can get their Catskill questions answered in person, get the beautiful and useful Catskill Map and Guide, browse tourism materials, and shop at the CVC’s gift shop that includes hiking maps, regional books, and much more. CVC staff are also available to answer questions about the Catskills and the Catskill Park via email at info@catskillcenter.org or phone at 845 688 3369 during normal business hours. In addition, there are 1.5 miles of trails on the CVC’s grounds and the 80-foot tall Upper Esopus Fire Tower, offering unrivaled views of the surrounding mountains and Esopus Creek valley. Visitors can explore the ever expanding resources available online for the CVC on the web at catskillsvisitorcenter.org, the CVC’s Facebook page at facebook.com/catskillsvisitorcenter, and the CVC on Instagram at @catskills.visitor.center. 74 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide

Curious about how decisions are made for the Catskill Park? The Catskill Park Advisory Committee, chaired by the Catskill Center, meets quarterly to foster communication and collaboration among local governments and organizations. Public participation is welcome: email cccd@catskillcenter.org to join our mailing list or attend a meeting.

Give Back to the Catskills Protecting the Catskill Park and all its treasures takes community support. By joining or donating to the Catskill Center, you help steward these lands, foster partnerships, and support cultural and educational programs. Become a member or donate online at www.catskillcenter.org/donate or mail a check to Catskill Center, PO Box 504, Arkville, NY 12406. Let’s keep the Catskills vibrant—now and for the future. See you on the trail! Jeff Senterman has been the Executive Director of the Catskill Center for Conservation and Development in Arkville, NY since 2015, was appointed by the Governor to represent environmental stakeholders on the Board of Directors of the Catskill Watershed Corporation starting in 2018, and is a board member of the Central Catskills Chamber of Commerce. Jeff graduated with a degree in Environmental Science from Lyndon State College and worked for many years as an Environmental Planner in New England before coming back to the Catskills working in the nonprofit sector.

The Independent Film Series that the CMF hosted last year were very successful, with great attendance and lots of participant interest and enthusiasm. Curator Caitlin McColl will return in 2026 with a new series of films!

MOUNTAIN CINEMA

Independent Film Series FREE Midweek Showings Mountain Cinema at the Doctorow Center for the Arts 7971 Main Street Hunter, NY 12442

Discover, Discuss, and Watch Cinema in the Catskills, Featuring Independent Makers and Places

View schedule at www.catskillmtn.org

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2026 AT 6:00 PM Worst Possible Illusion: The Curiosity Cabinet of Vik Muniz Otherwise known as one of the art world’s rising young stars, the Brazilian artist invites viewers on a tour of his life, work and mind. The documentary follows Vik on a whimsical, world-hopping journey from his studio in Brooklyn, New York; to his native Brazil for a visit to his grandmother; to Chicago, his first home in the United States where he worked as a gas-station attendant and pushed carts in a grocery store; to Arizona, where he creates a gigantic bone “excavation” in the desert and goes to extraordinary lengths to capture it on film.. Featuring a Q&A with Writer/Editor Iris Cahn January 2026 • GUIDE 75

2026 PERFORMING ARTS

SEASON

PURCHASE TICKETS AT CATSKILLMTN.ORG January 17 & 18

SATURDAY, JANUARY 17 AT 7:00PM SUNDAY, JANUARY 18 AT 4:00 PM

AQUILA THEATRE PRESENTS THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES Orpheum Performing Arts Center The excellent Aquila, an extraordinary, inventive and disciplined outfit. -The New York Times Aquila Theatre is proud to present a thrilling new production of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s iconic mystery, The Hound of the Baskervilles. Set in the eerie, fog-shrouded moors of England, this spine-tingling tale follows the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes and his loyal companion Dr. Watson as they investigate the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville, rumored to be the victim of a supernatural, ghostly hound. As they uncover chilling secrets and dark family histories, Holmes must use his razor-sharp intellect to solve a case where logic and superstition collide.True to Aquila’s renowned reputation for high-quality, innovative performances, this production will blend suspense, sharp wit, and dynamic storytelling, bringing Doyle’s classic detective tale to vivid life. With Aquila’s legendary style and precision in bringing complex narratives to the stage, audiences will be captivated by unexpected twists, high drama, humor, and the thrill of one of literature’s most celebrated mysteries. Don’t miss this unforgettable theatrical experience—where mystery, suspense, and Aquila’s trademark excellence are sure to leave you on the edge of your seat.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7 AT 7:00PM

MALPASO DANCE

February 7: Malpaso Dance

Presented in partnership with The Joyce Theater Foundation Orpheum Performing Arts Center In the twelve years since its establishment in 2012, Malpaso Dance Company has become one of the most sought after Cuban dance companies with a growing international profile. Emphasizing a collaborative creative process, Malpaso is committed to working with top international choreographers while also nurturing new voices in Cuban choreography. The company tours with 11 dancers and is led by its original three founders; resident choreographer and Artistic Director Osnel Delgado, Executive Director Fernando Sáez, and dancer, choreographer and cofounder Daile Carrazana. An Associate Company of Joyce Theater Productions, Malpaso — together with The Joyce— has commissioned original works from a number of prominent international choreographers, including Ron K. Brown (Why You Follow), Trey McIntyre (Under Fire), Aszure Barton (Indomitable Waltz and Stillness in Bloom), Emmy-award winning Sonya Tayeh (Face the Torrent), Robyn Mineko Williams (Elemental) and celebrated Ephrat Asherie (Floor… y ando!).

FEBRUARY 11-15

V-SEASON Maude Adams Theater Hub Catskill Mountain Foundation Doctorow Center for the Arts WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 7:00PM SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2:00PM Six Degrees of Separation by John Guare THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 7:00PM SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 7:00PM The Shape of Things by Neil LaBute FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 7:00PM SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2:00PM Circle Mirror Transformation by Annie Baker MATH’s 4th Annual V Season: three plays that will transport you from your mid-winter blues and into small worlds of wonder. February 15: Million Dollar Reunion

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2026 AT 7:00 PM

MILLION DOLLAR REUNION THE GENESIS OF ROCK ‘N’ ROLL: ELVIS, JERRY LEE LEWIS, JOHNNY CASH & CARL PERKINS Orpheum Performing Arts Center Produced by Broadway veteran Bobby Taylor, and featuring former cast members of the worldwide hit show Million Dollar Quartet, the MILLION DOLLAR REUNION takes the audience on a spirited journey to an earlier time, with dynamic performances of some of the greatest hits of Rock and Roll. No one can ever forget Jerry Lee Lewis’, “Whole Lot of Shakin’ Goin’ On”, Johnny Cash’s, “Folsom Prison Blues”, Carl Perkins’, “Blue Suede Shoes”, or Elvis Presley’s, “Good Rockin’ Tonight”. All of these hits, and many more, will remind the audience of a time when a musical revolution was occurring in America and soon the entire world. So, come join us, as we take a musical trip back in time, when the Blues, Country, and Gospel music had a baby, and they named it ROCK AND ROLL!

INTERNATIONAL FORTEPIANO SALONS ONLINE Yi-heng Yang, Maria Rose & Patricia García-Gil Hosts Streaming LIVE on Facebook and YouTube

The International Fortepiano Salon ONLINE was started in 2020 as a way of connecting fortepianists and music lovers around the world. www.internationalfortepianosalon.com. With our interactive discussions, warm and collegial atmosphere, and curated performances and presentations by many of the leading fortepianists and musical scholars of our time, hosts Patricia Garcia-Gil, Maria Rose and Yi-heng Yang, curate an ongoing Salon community in the spirit of famous European Salons of the past. With an enthusiastic and growing viewership and the support of the Catskill Mountain Foundation, the International Fortepiano Salon is in its fourth season and continues to feature and promote the best in ongoing research, performance and excellence in the historical keyboard field. SUNDAY, JANUARY 4, 2:00PM REIMAGINING MOZART’S PANTOMIME Robi Arce-Martinez (professor, UNC Greensboro), Federico Ercoli (Cornell University), Roger Moseley (Cornell University) will join moderators, Patricia Garcia Gil, Maria Rose and Yiheng Yang. We will see clips from their reconstruction (with IFS host Patricia Garcia-Gil) of musical sketches Mozart wrote for a pantomime of the commedia dell’arte and discuss the history and spirit with which they rendered their creative, animated performance. SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2:00PM FORTEPIANIST TUIJA HAKKILA We are pleased to be joined by guest artist Tuija Hakkila, professor at the Sibelius Academy in Finland and renowned fortepianist.

SATURDAY, MARCH 21, 2:00PM

“A MIRACLE”: ROSE FAMILY CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT CONCERTS & CONVERSATIONS Piano Performance Museum Doctorow Center for the Arts Pianist Maria Rose, founder and director of the annual Academy of Fortepiano Performance at CMF, is joined by her three children, Vanessa Rose (violin), Monica Rose (viola), and Jonathan Rose (cello) for an afternoon of chamber music. The program includes selections from an arrangement of Haydn’s symphony no. 96, named “The Miracle,”, and works by Mozart, Hummel, Schubert, and Schumann.

Charles Taws square piano, Philadelphia, 1794 Photo courtesy of the Sigal Museum

SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2:00PM EARLY AMERICAN PIANOS AT THE SIGAL MUSEUM Tom Strange, curator of the Sigal Music Museum in Greenville, SC joins us for a Salon which celebrates the United State’s 250th anniversary in an episode featuring remarkable early American pianos from the Sigal Museum.

MARCH 28-29, 7:00PM

KIMBERLY AKIMBO A PLAY BY DAVID LINDSAY-ABAIRE Maude Adams Theater Hub Catskill Mountain Foundation In the Round at Scribner’s Apex Lounge, 13 Scribner Hollow Road, Hunter Kimberly is about to turn 16 and recently moved with her family to a new town in suburban New Jersey. In this “howlingly funny heartbreaker of a show” (The New Yorker), Kim is forced to navigate family dysfunction, a rare genetic condition, her first crush…and possible felony charges. Ever the optimist, she is determined to find happiness against all odds and embark on a great adventure in the play on which the hit Broadway musical was based. April 4: The Chase Brock Experience

John Behrant grand piano, Philadelphia, 1775

THROUGHOUT THE YEAR, DATES TO BE CONFIRMED

GIVE ME LIBERTY, GIVE ME SONG: AMERICA’S JOURNEY AT 250 Presented by the Catskill Mountain Foundation’s Piano Performance Museum, Hunter, NY Sigal Music Museum, Greenville, SC Cornell Center for Historical Keyboards, Ithaca, NY A multi-institutional concert series marking the nation’s 250th Anniversary. Spanning 1775 through the late nineteenth century, the series traces America’s piano story with rare instruments from each collection—including a 1775 Berent grand, an 1830 Geib square, and early Nunns, Babcock, Hazleton, and Steinway pianos. Interdisciplinary talks and contextual programs anchor the music, while a shared roster of performers links events across venues. Dates and details will appear in CMF’s upcoming season brochure and on partner websites including: catskillmtn.org historicalkeyboards.as.cornell.edu sigalmusicmuseum.org

SATURDAY, APRIL 4 AT 7:00PM

THE CHASE BROCK EXPERIENCE: COME HOME

SATURDAY, APRIL 25, 2:00PM PATRICIA GARCIA-GIL, FORTEPIANO TOM STRANGE, LECTURE CONCERTS & CONVERSATIONS Piano Performance Museum Doctorow Center for the Arts

DIRECTION AND CHOREOGRAPHY BY CHASE BROCK

SATURDAY, MAY 2 AT 7:00PM Presented in partnership with Works & Process at the Guggenheim Orpheum Performing Arts Center Propelled by shanties and songs of the sea, this foot-stomping evening of strapping and evocative dance conjures a crew of restless mariners hurling themselves through salt and spray toward first light. Chronogram writes, “Come Home channels the vigor of sea shanties into stomping rhythms, spray-tossed movement and a surge of maritime myth crashing through contemporary choreography.”

CATSKILL MOUNTAIN SHAKESPEARE PRESENTS HAMLET DIRECTED BY SYDNEY BERK Doctorow Center for the Arts Our 2026 Community Tour reimagines Hamlet in the punk-charged Reagan era, highlighting themes of authority, identity, and resistance through a fresh, accessible lens. This 90-minute production is designed to tour across the region, bringing high-energy, fast-paced Shakespeare directly to communities throughout the Catskills and New York State. Engaging, immediate, and intentionally crafted for a wide range of audiences, this adaptation makes Shakespeare feel urgent and alive.

MAY 14-16

A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE, BY TENNESSEE WILLIAMS Maude Adams Theater Hub Catskill Mountain Foundation The Lodge at Hotel Lilien, 6629 Route 23A, Tannersville When fading southern belle Blanche Dubois arrives to stay with her sister Stella in a crowded, boisterous corner of New Orleans, her delusions of grandeur bring her into conflict with Stella’s crude, brutish husband, Stanley. Eventually their inevitable collision causes Blanche’s fragile sense of identity to crumble in what is considered to be Williams’ masterwork.

SATURDAY, MAY 23 AT 2:00PM

ORPHEUM DANCE PROGRAM BALLET CLASS ANNUAL RECITAL

THURSDAY, JULY 2 AT 6:30 PM FRIDAY, JULY 3 AT 2:00 PM & 6:30 PM SUNDAY, JULY 5 AT 6:30 PM

ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA, THE MUSICAL MUSIC/LYRICS BY TIM MINCIN, BOOK BY DENNIS KELLY Maude Adams Theater Hub Catskill Mountain Foundation Orpheum Performing Arts Center Come experience Roald Dahl’s most exuberant—and a little bit naughty—story of a young girl who finds she has special powers within her wild imagination. MATH brings the community together for its annual summer musical featuring the area’s most dedicated and talented performers and creatives of all ages. Adrian Danchig-Waring and Anthony Roth Costanzo performing “Desire” by Lar Lubovitch (World Premiere), December 5, 2023. Photo: Works & Process /Erick Munari

Orpheum Performing Arts Center The Orpheum Dance Program Community Ballet Class is a year-round program of ballet instruction for children of all ages which includes an annual student dance recital and participation in two ballets each year–Cinderella and The Nutcracker. All performances take place at the Orpheum Performing Arts Center in Tannersville, NY. The recital showcases the work of all students of Director Victoria Rinaldi and can also include alumni who have joined acclaimed ballet companies or who are studying dance at major universities. Ms. Rinaldi is a former ballerina with the New York Metropolitan Opera ballet corps.

RESIDENCY: MAY 27-JUNE 9

ACADEMY OF FORTEPIANO PERFORMANCE FESTIVAL Directors: Audrey Axinn, Maria Rose Doctorow Center for the Arts academyfortepiano.org An annual event celebrating the works of famed early composers performed on historical keyboards from the Piano Performance Museum. MAY 27-29 WORKSHOP ON MAINTAINING HISTORICAL PIANOS, HARPSICHORDS, AND CLAVICHORDS Directors: Masayuki Maki and Richard Hester SATURDAY, MAY 30 AT 7:00 PM FACULTY AND GUEST ARTIST CONCERT A concert of piano music featuring faculty and guest artists from the Academy of Fortepiano Performance. Performed on pianos from the Piano Performance Museum Collection

SUNDAY, JULY 12

CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION BENEFIT FEATURING A PERFORMANCE BY DANCERS FROM THE NEW YORK CITY BALLET Orpheum Performing Arts Center

A partnership program with Works & Process at the Guggenheim Star dancers from the New York City Ballet return to the mountain top for a new annual tradition. The performance is under the Direction of New York City Ballet Principal Adrian Danchig-Waring.

MONTH OF JULY

CATSKILL MOUNTAIN SHAKESPEARE PRESENTS MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING DIRECTED BY CONNER WILSON

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, JUNE 6 & 7 AT 7:00 PM STUDENT CONCERTS Outdoors & Under the Tent Behind the Big Red Barn Catskill Mountain Shakespeare’s 2026 Main Stage production of Much Ado About Nothing unfolds outdoors under our Catskills summer tent … lush, romantic, and filled with laughter. Set against the backdrop of the mountains, this beautiful, high-spirited production brings Shakespeare’s sharp wit and joyful chaos to life in the open air. A vibrant exploration of love, mischief, and community, it captures the heart of CMS’s summer season. Visit catskillmountainshakespeare.com for more information!

JULY 14-26

August 29: Trisha Brown Dance Company Photo by Maria Baranova

THROUGH THE MALE LENS HORTON BY THE STREAM’S 32ND SEASON

Doctorow Center for the Arts hortonbythestream.org Horton by the Stream, a NYC based theater project whose 32 summers up in Hunter NY have been a celebration of the work of Horton Foote, is branching out to include new plays, classic American voices and films. Their 2026 season includes work by Tennessee Williams, Bill Bowers and Tommy Heleringer as well as a short New Play Festival. Through the Male Lens, our 2026 Celebration of dramatic work by and about the male experience, will be bookended by new plays by authors from across the region. Exciting collaborations to be announced! Suggested Donation for all events: $25 Info and Reservations: 917 991 9537 SATURDAY, JULY 18 AT 2:00 PM THE GLASS MENAGERIE With Tom Hemeringer SUNDAY, JULY 19 AT 2:00 PM BEYOND WORDS: MIME LIFE IN WORDS AND PICTURES With Bill Bowers WEDNESDAY, JULY 22 THROUGH FRIDAY, JULY 24 THROUGH THE MALE LENS: READINGS OF NEW PLAYS BY EST PLAYWRIGHTS SATURDAY, JULY 25 AT 2:00 PM BEYOND WORDS: MIME LIFE IN WORDS AND PICTURES With Bill Bowers SATURDAY, JULY 25 AT 7:00 PM SCREENING OF THE ONE ARMED MAN A film directed by Tim Guinea of a play by Horton Foote. Wine and cheese reception to follow SATURDAY, JULY 26 AT 2:00 PM THE GLASS MENAGERIE With Tom Hemeringer

SATURDAY, AUGUST 29 AT 7:00PM

TRISHA BROWN DANCE COMPANY

Presented in partnership with Works & Process at the Guggenheim Orpheum Performing Arts Center The Trisha Brown Dance Company is proud to invite current company member Burr Johnson to create a new work on the dancers. Drawing on his love of embodied archival research, Johnson will explore recovered remnants; unrealized movement materials within the Trisha Brown archive. Rather than replicating the past, he aims to activate it by reinterpreting and recombining these “scraps” with his own choreographic sensibilities. His affinity with the post-modern lineage (shaped by Trisha Brown and Merce Cunningham) informs the rigor and curiosity he brings to this process. As Johnson describes, “I’m seeking guidance and reassurance in the scientific fact that when someone dies, the matter and energy of their body does not disappear or cease to exist, it transforms. Perhaps this applies to memories of them, as well.” By building a bridge from bodies then to bodies now, Johnson illuminates what memory, lineage, and lived experience can carry forward into the present moment. The work-in-progress will be shared following a three-week choreographic residency at the Catskill Mountain Foundation, alongside excerpts from Trisha Brown’s repertory, on August 29 at 7:00 PM at The Orpheum Performing Arts Center. Community classes will also be offered as part of the residency.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 1 AT 2:00PM & 7:00PM SUNDAY, AUGUST 2 AT 2:00PM

RETREAT: SEPTEMBER 7-13 PERFORMANCE: SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 AT 7:00 PM

CINDERELLA

THE MUSIC OASIS

A New Ballet presented by the Orpheum Dance Program Victoria Rinaldi, Director Orpheum Performing Arts Center Based on the 1697 fairytale by Charles Perrault, and featuring music by Jules Massenet, this original production will feature both dance and spoken word and have the hallmarks one expects: ravishing dancing, comedy, a Fairy Godmother, a glass slipper and … a happy ending!

Led by Greg Dayton & Marlon Saunders Orpheum Performing Arts Center At The Music Oasis, we believe in music as a bridge between people. This retreat is where everyday individuals—artists, dreamers, professionals, and music lovers—come together to create, perform, and rediscover what truly moves them! The week of singing, writing, recording and performing workshops at the Doctorow Center for the Arts in Hunter culminates in a show at the beautiful Orpheum Performing Arts Center in Tannersville. Visit themusicoasis.com for more information!

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 AT 7:00PM

THE MOSS ENSEMBLE

November 21: Mountaintop Variety Hour Photo by Phil Merritt

Darcy Dunn, Soprano Marshall Coid, Countertenor/Violin/Composer Mary Wooten, Cello Elizabeth Rodgers, Piano Doctorow Center for the Arts Please join this quartet of world-class performers for an evening of musical gems from the Baroque through Contemporary periods, exciting pieces newly commissioned by Moss, as well as repertory favorites requested by devoted audience members.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9 AT 7:00PM SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10 AT 7:00PM SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11 AT 2:00PM

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21 AT 7:00PM

PLAZA SUITE, BY NEIL SIMON

MOUNTAINTOP VARIETY HOUR (AND A HALF)

Maude Adams Theater Hub Catskill Mountain Foundation Doctorow Center for the Arts After the runaway success of 2025’s Barefoot in the Park, MATH returns to the prolific Neil Simon with this three-part production of a timeless classic. One suite, three couples, three unique stories of matrimonial bliss and disharmony power the laughs and tears behind the door of room 719.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28 AT 7:00PM

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17 AT 2:00PM

THE MUSIC OF AMY BEACH CONCERTS & CONVERSATIONS Dr. Joanne Polk, Piano Dr. Jeffrey Langford, Musicologist Doctorow Center for the Arts Drs. Joanne Polk and Jeffrey Langford return to the CMF to present a program appropriate for the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the USA, as they explore the music and times of Amy Marcy Cheney Beach, America’s first great female composer.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24 AT 7:00PM

TWELFTH NIGHT WITH YI-HENG YANG, FORTEPIANIST Rachell Ellen Wong, director and violinist David Belkovski, director and conductor Doctorow Center for the Arts Step into an age of ideas, upheaval, and discovery in a concert celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States. The dynamic period ensemble Twelfth Night and fortepianist Yiheng Yang brings to life the symphonies Mozart and Haydn as well as a rarely played, virtuosic fortepiano concerto by Julie Candeille. Candeille was a composer, pianist, actress, and singer who rose to prominence during the French Revolution, when her works and performances reflected both the turbulence of the era and the new opportunities it afforded women in the arts. More than elegant entertainment, this music from the 18th century Enlightenment reflects a world in transformation: reason challenging tradition, individuals seeking freedom, and art becoming a voice for change. Join us as we explore how history’s greatest composers turned the ideals of their time into timeless sound. The program includes Julie Candeille Piano Concerto op. 2 in D major and Mozart “Jupiter” Symphony no. 41.

Doctorow Center for the Arts Join Mark Singer, Darcy Dunn, Julia Mendelsohn and their talented friends from both New York City and the Greene County Mountaintop for an evening of music and comedy. The Variety Hour (and a half) will feature original comic plays and skits and wonderful music from the American Songbook in the rich entertainment tradition of the old Catskill Mountain resorts.

WINDHAM FESTIVAL CHAMBER ORCHESTRA Alexander Platt, Music Director Orpheum Performing Arts Center Windham Festival Chamber Orchestra was formed in 2000 by conductor Robert Manno. Now under the direction of conductor Alexander Platt, the orchestra is comprised of the finest musicians from the New York area and includes current and former members of some of the world’s most esteemed orchestras and ensembles.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5 AT 2:00 & 7:00 PM SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 AT 2:00 PM SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12 AT 2:00 & 7:00 PM SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13 AT 2:00 PM

THE NUTCRACKER Orpheum Dance Program Victoria Rinaldi, Director Featuring Dancers from Joffrey Ballet School New York, Ballet Hispánico School of Ballet, and the Orpheum Dance Program Orpheum Performing Arts Center The CMF Nutcracker, now in its eleventh year, has become a holiday favorite of residents of the surrounding Catskills and Hudson Valley. Featuring ballet stars of the future, this spectacular production has become one of the finest Nutcrackers in upstate New York.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18 (SNOW DATE: DECEMBER 19)

MAUDE ADAMS THEATER HUB HOLIDAY SHOW Maude Adams Theater Hub Catskill Mountain Foundation Orpheum Performing Arts Center This December, the community gathers once more to sing, read, and share in the seasonal spirit for the 4th Annual Holiday Spectacular. All are welcome to be a part of the performance!

The Catskill Mountain Foundation presents

THE GENESIS OF ROCK ‘N’ ROLL:

ELVIS, JERRY LEE LEWIS, JOHNNY CASH & CARL PERKINS

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2026, 7:00PM ORPHEUM PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 6050 Main Street • Tannersville, NY 12485 Tickets Purchased Ahead: $35 (+processing fees. Higher at-the-door ticket prices apply)

Tickets available at catskillmtn.org or 518 263 2063

Scan for tickets!

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS This is just a sampling of all of the events in the Catskills this January. To request that your event be included in future calendars, please email tafts@catskillmtn.org

Please call ahead or visit the website for each event to confirm details, including any admission costs. ONGOING Meet the Artist CPW’s “Meet the Artist” takes place every Thursday evening. This series provides an opportunity for attendees to learn more about the work of other local and visiting artists, including CPW’s artists-in-residence. Join us to discover new work, explore artists’ processes, and meet other local artists. These events are free and open to the public. Location: CPW, 25 Dederick Street, Kingston Day & Times: Every Monday, 6:00 pm More Info: cpw.org

Phoenicia Winter Farmers Market Phoenicia Farmers Market is a volunteer-led movement to increase access to locally-grown foods. We bring together local farms, artisanal makers, full-time residents, and seasonal visitors to a weekly market to shop, learn, gather, and compost. EBT/SNAP Benefits are accepted. Location: Pine Hill Community Center, 287 Main St, Pine Hill Hours: Every Sunday November 9-March 29, 11:00 am-2:00 pm More Info: phoeniciafarmersmarket.org Online Meditation with Bushel Meditation sessions that include guided meditation, group interaction, and support. New sitters and seasoned sitters are welcome. Location: Join via Zoom Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30-7:00 am More Info & Zoom Link: bushelcollective.org/meditation-calendar/

Experiences at Frederick Farm Goat Sanctuary Experience Adventure Hikes with the Herd, Hugs & Hikes with the Herd, and Art with Heart: Paint with Rescue Goats. By reservation only. Location: Frederick Farm Goats, 12 Sholam Road, Napanoch More Info: frederickfarmgoats.com

Iyengar Yoga with Carolyn Christie Iyengar yoga practice gives strength mobility to the body, stability to the mind. Open to all; class is for all levels. Fee payable to instructor. Location: Bushel Collective, 106 Main St, Delhi Time: Saturdays, 10:00-11:30 am More Info: bushelcollective.org

Delhi Farmers Market An amazing line up of farmers, bakers, producers, herbalists, and craftspeople selling fresh bread, farm fresh cheeses, vegetables, jams, poultry and more. Location: Delhi American Legion, 41 Page Avenue, Delhi Hours: Every Wednesday, 9:00 am-2:00 pm Kingston Farmers Market A wide variety of produce, baked goods, alcohol, goodies and gift items. Location: County Courthouse parking lot, 285 Wall St Kingston Hours: Every Saturday through November 23, 9:00 am-1:00 pm More Info: kingstonfarmersmarket.org Pakatakan Farmers Market A wide array of food vendors, farmers, producers, herbalists, and craftspeople in a charming barn setting. Location: 46676 NY-30, Halcottsville Hours: Every Saturday through November 25, 9:00 am-1:00 pm

Magic On Main— An Intimate Parlor Experience Join Magician Sean Doolan for a magic show in his private library located in a historic building on Main Street in Windham. Sean will weave his personal story of transitioning from a trial lawyer to a magician in interactive magical routines. In this parlor show, By reservation only, no walkins. Dates and times subject to change without notice, see website for updated calendar. Location: 5428 NY Route 23 (Main Street), Windham Dates & Times: Check website for most up-todate schedule Tickets: $20/person More Info: MagicOnMainWindham.com

2026 Close Looking Series Join monthly close-looking discussions that focus on different paintings or items in our collections and special exhibitions. Information & tickets coming soon. Location: Thomas Cole House, 218 Spring Street, Catskill Days: Select dates through December 2026 More Info: thomascole.org 2026 Curator’s Tours Join monthly guided tours of our collections and special exhibitions with Kate Menconeri, Thomas Cole Site Chief Curator, and Amanda Malmstrom, Thomas Cole Site Associate Curator. Information & tickets coming soon. Location: Thomas Cole House, 218 Spring Street, Catskill Days: Select dates through December 2026 More Info: thomascole.org 2026 Family Tour & Play Explore during monthly quiet hours to take a closer look at select artworks from our collections and special exhibitions, sketching in the galleries, and playtime in the historic gardens. Information & tickets coming soon. Location: Thomas Cole House, 218 Spring Street, Catskill Days: Select dates through December 2026 More Info: thomascole.org 2026 Second Saturdays Join monthly making activities inspired by the themes of the Thomas Cole Site’s historic property and special exhibitions on view. Information & tickets coming soon. Location: Thomas Cole House, 218 Spring Street, Catskill Days: Every second Saturday of the month through December 2026 More Info: thomascole.org 2026 Sunday Salons The Sunday Salon series presents monthly tours or lectures with leading thinkers on American art. Information & tickets coming soon. Location: Thomas Cole House, 218 Spring Street, Catskill Days: Select Sundays through December 2026 More Info: thomascole.org

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CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH THE ARTS

FOUN

THROUGH JANUARY 4 Holiday Invitational Exhibit plus Group Show Longyear Gallery’s annual holiday exhibit. Location: Longyear Gallery, 785 Main Street, Margaretville Gallery Hours: Friday-Sunday and holiday Mondays from 11:00 am-4:00 pm More Info: longyeargallery.org

WIN

Exhibition: Steamroller Print Exhibit An exhibition of works created during the 2025 Steamroller Print Fest. Location: D.R.A.W. Gallery, 22-24 Iwo Jima Lane, Kingston Gallery Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 1:00-6:00 pm, Friday 1:00-5:00 pm, Saturday 12:00-4:00 pm More Info: drawkingston.org

THANK YOU TO OUR FUNDERS & SUPPORTERS!

THROUGH JANUARY 3

Education, Recreation, Arts, and Community Initiatives

Nancy de Flon, “Ocean Waves in Winter”

THROUGH JANUARY 9

7971 Main Street, Village of Hunter 518 263 2001 • www.catskillmtn.org

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Exhibition: The Elements An exhibition featuring works inspired by earth, air, water, and fire. Local artists explore the forces that shape our world through painting, [photography] … and mixed media, capturing both the strength and subtlety of the natural elements. Step into a gallery alive with energy, movement, and imagination. Location: Main Street Community Center, 5494 State Route 23, Windham More Info: mainstreetcenter.org

THROUGH JANUARY 11 Exhibition: Everyday Culture: Seven Projects by Documentary Arts This exhibition explores aspects of everyday culture via seven key projects of the pioneering cultural organization Documentary Arts. The seven projects embody a unique approach to using film and photography to record and document marginalized cultural forms such as tattooing, blues music, traditional artisanal skills, and community photography. Location: CPW, 25 Dederick Street, Kingston Gallery Hours: Thurs.-Sun., 11:00 am-5:00 pm More Info: cpw.org Exhibition: Time Between Photographs: Art of the Photobook A showcase of photobooks in various stages of development, and framed work from those books. The books were developed in two classes held at CPW this year, led by photographer Adrianna Ault. Location: CPW, 25 Dederick Street, Kingston Gallery Hours: Thurs.-Sun., 11:00 am-5:00 pm More Info: cpw.org

Exhibition: Kinship & Community: Selections from the Texas African American Photography Archive During the twentieth century, nearly every small town in the United States boasted a local studio photographer. These skilled image makers were dedicated to recording the portraits and events of their communities. Much of this vernacular visual culture has been dispersed or destroyed. Kinship & Community takes a look at a rare slice of that history, focusing on the work of Black community photographers working in urban neighborhoods in Dallas and Houston and small towns in East Texas from 1942 to 1984. Location: CPW, 25 Dederick Street, Kingston Gallery Hours: Thurs.-Sun., 11:00 am-5:00 pm More Info: cpw.org Exhibition: Rahim Fortune: Between a Memory and Me The work of Rahim Fortune (b. 1994). Born in Austin, TX and raised in the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma, Fortune uses photography to interrogate American identity, exploring the connections between the families and communities he photographs and the land they inhabit, the histories embedded in the landscape of the American South, and the traditions they carry forward. Location: CPW, 25 Dederick Street, Kingston Gallery Hours: Thurs.-Sun., 11:00 am-5:00 pm More Info: cpw.org

THROUGH JANUARY 31 Community Photo Show 2025 Featuring work by community members of all ages and at all stages in their creative development. Location: Headwaters Art Center, 66 Main Street, Stamford More Info: roxburyartsgroup.org

THROUGH FEBRUARY 15 Exhibition: Esperanza, Hope: Portraits of Migration & Change in Athens, NY Photographs by Thierry Casias Through portraiture, landscape, and archival imagery, Esperanza, Hope traces the many migrations that have shaped Athens, New York, from the region’s Indigenous roots and Underground Railroad history to the arrival of Italian settlers, African American laborers, and today’s migrant and queer communities. Thierry Casias brings these stories into focus through intimate photographic portraits and site-based research, honoring the people whose lives have woven the town’s complex cultural fabric. Both a meditation and an act of recognition, Esperanza, Hope reflects on displacement, freedom, and belonging, asking how memory and migration

continue to define place. By connecting past and present, Casias invites viewers to consider how the movement of people shapes identity, and how, in Athens, the echoes of history still live in the faces of its residents. Location: Athens Cultural Center, 24 2nd Street, Athens First Friday Receptions: Friday, January 2 & Friday, February 6, 5:00-7:00 pm Gallery Hours: Saturdays & Sundays, 12:005:00 pm More Info: athensculturalcenter.org

JANUARY 1 First Day Events at Olana First Day Hike with the “Dogs of Olana” at 10:00 am: Channel 19th century artist Frederic Church’s taste for exploration during a special pup-friendly hike of the winter landscape at Olana State Historic Site. First Day Hike in the Afternoon at 12:00 pm: Channel 19th century artist Frederic Church’s taste for exploration during this special hike of the winter landscape and explore Olana’s 250-acres. New Year’s Day Drawing at 1:00 pm: After exploring Olana’s winter landscape, drop by the Wagon House Education Center any time to participate in special drawing prompts and warm up with seasonal refreshments. Location: Wagon House Education Center, Olana State Historic Site, 5720 Route 9G, Hudson Time: 10:00 am-3:00 pm More Info: olana.org

JANUARY 2 Karaoke Night Come and join us for a super fun night with host DJ Pat Del spinning lots of fun party hits and karaoke too. Now’s your chance to sing along to all your favorite tunes. Welcome all ages and families. Location: Plattekill Mountain, 469 Plattekill Road, Roxbury Time: 3:00-7:00 pm More Info: plattekill.com First Fridays Athens The Athens Cultural Center opens its doors to celebrate the rich tapestry of culture and creativity that defines our community. Location: Athens Cultural Center, 24 Second Street, Athens Time: 5:00-7:00 pm More Info: friendsofathens.org First Fridays Catskill Local shops are open late, most until 8 pm, offering specials like sips & snacks, pop-ups, music, discounts, and FUN! Location: Main Street & Bridge Street, Catskill More Info: firstfridayscatskill.com Walton First Fridays Local shops in Walton stay open late with deals and events for the community to enjoy! Location: Walton More Info: instagram.com/waltonfirstfridays Roadhouse 60’s — A Tribute to the Music of the 1960’s Groove to the sounds of the 60’s and sing along to your favorite classic rock hits all night long! Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com

Isabelle Dupuy, “Sycamores along Autumn Streams”

JANUARY 1-31 Exhibition: Isabelle Dupuy Happy New Year from Windham Fine Arts! Fittingly, our first featured artist of the new year is our newest artist: Isabelle Dupuy. Isabelle was born in France in 1969 and spent her childhood in the Provençal countryside. She studied at the École des Beaux Arts in Valence, France. Like her favorite artists, Monet and Van Gogh, she seeks to capture impressions of light and make permanent works from ephemeral, vivid colors. Isabelle puts her own contemporary spin on the Impressionist style, developing heavily textured canvases that are objects in their own right, painted even on the edges and unencumbered by a traditional frame. This 3D Impressionism as Isabelle calls it is bold and dramatic yet still approachable by both the sophisticated art lover and the child within. Her beautiful works are just the thing to ring in the new year; full of color, verve and optimism to which we can all aspire. Location: Windham Fine Arts, 5380 Main Street, Windham More Info: director@windhamfinearts.com, 518 734 6850, or windhamfinearts.com

JANUARY 3 Misty Mountain Ramblers The hits keep coming with the Misty Mountain Ramblers playing all your favorites by Dylan, The Band, Allman Brothers, Traffic, The Beatles, Dr. John, Tom Petty, Phish, Pink Floyd, Elvis Costello, Bruce Cockburn, and even Grand Master Flash and Patti Smith. Oh yeah, and the good ol’ Grateful Dead. Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com

JANUARY 4 The Outcrops & Lincoln Durham The Outcrops were named “NJ Band of the Year” (The Aquarian, 2020) for “three reasons: a work ethic that makes them one of the Dirty Jerz’s hardest-working bands, guitar-playing that fuses the sounds of Duane Allman and Jerry Garcia, and a refreshing fusion of roots, soul, blues, funk, and psychedelic rock that sounds wholly new while comfortably familiar.” They have dug their roots into the music of rock’n’roll, blues, jazz, funk, folk, and soul legends, choosing B-side tunes to put their own spin on. Within their show, they may pay homage to bands

such as the Grateful Dead & the Band, or artists such as BB King & Aretha Franklin. Their original music stems from that same soulful soil, ranging from gritty blues to upbeat Americana. Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com

Harvey Citron

JANUARY 7 Soul Patrol Featuring Harvey Citron Soul Patrol celebrates the music of Motown, Soul, and R&B. Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com

JANUARY 7-FEBRUARY 25 Workshop: Ceramics Open Studio Sugar Maples Center for the Creative Arts offers the best equipped studio in the Mountain Top region. If you’re a potter/sculptor working with clay, come enjoy working at your own pace on your ideas/visions. There will be bisque firings, cone 6 oxidation firings, and participation in one cone 10 soda firing at the conclusion of the course. This unique opportunity is for makers who have a knowledge of the ceramics processes with which they need to continue to develop their ‘voice.’ Location: Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts, 34 Big Hollow Road, Maplecrest Time: Saturdays, 12:00-8:00 pm; Sundays 5:008:00 pm; Wednesdays 10:00 am-8:00 pm More Info: catskillmtn.org Workshop: 2D Studio Are you interested in learning/continuing to draw, paint and collage but don’t know where to start or would like to polish up your skills? This class is perfect for you! This 8-week course is designed for artists of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting your artistic journey, you’ll find inspiration and guidance in a supportive learning environment. Refine your techniques, skills and (re)discover your unique style under the guidance of experienced instructors. Expand your artistic vocabulary and develop your unique style. With a focus on individual growth, this class nurtures creativity and builds confidence. Location: Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts, 34 Big Hollow Road, Maplecrest Time: Sundays 6:00-8:00 pm More Info: catskillmtn.org

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JANUARY 8 Sonny Rock’s Pro Jam #49 Be prepared for an amazing night of music, friends, food and more! Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com

JANUARY 9-FEBRUARY 1 Mary Poppins The jack-of-all trades, Bert, introduces us to England in 1910 and the troubled Banks family. Young Jane and Michael have sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives on their doorstep. Using a combination of magic and common sense, she must teach the family members how to value each other again. Mary Poppins takes the children on many magical and memorable adventures, but Jane and Michael aren’t the only ones upon whom she has a profound effect. Even grown-ups can learn a lesson or two from the nanny who advises that “Anything can happen if you let it.” Location: The CENTER for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck, 661 Route 308, Rhinebeck Days & Times: Friday & Saturday @ 8:00 pm; Sunday @ 3:00 pm More Info: CenterforPerformingArts.org

JANUARY 10 Second Saturday Trunk Sale Shopping for a Cause! Presented by Cultivate Catskill: Come for the selling, shopping, and socializing! Location: Greene County Water Street Parking Lot, situated behind the Greene County office building Time: 9:00 am-1:00 pm More information: cultivatecatskill.org Chainsaw Maintenance Workshop with Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop Does this sound familiar? You’re headed out for a day of cordwood cutting and you pull out your chainsaw, bar oil, fuel, and tools. You get set up at your work site and begin to start your saw, and then it won’t start. Or your saw starts but begins to smoke. How about your chain is slowly creeping around the bar and your hand is not even on the throttle? Or you’re trying to cut and keep creating fine saw dust and not blasting out wood chips? This can all be avoided! Come and learn 10 ways (at least) to keep your saw running efficiently and cutting great! BYOS – Bring your own saw, tools, and PPE (and things you have questions about). Snacks and beverages will be provided! Registration is $125 and is required. Location: Mountain Top Arboretum, 4 Maude Adams Road, Tannersville Time: 9:00 am-1:00 pm More Info: mtarboretum.org

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Knitting Circle On the second Saturday of every month, come hang out at Made X Hudson for Knitting Circle. Bring whatever you’re working on and join the fun in our beautiful shop, where we’ve got a wall of yarns and crafting supplies for you. For knitting help, whether you are a first-time knitter or more advanced, Cecilia from Nor’Easter Yarns is here for you. Location: Made X Hudson, 391 Main Street , Catskill Time: 2:00-5:00 pm More Info: madexhudson.com Glow Tubing @ Bubly Tubing Park Wear your glow-iest gear and get your glow on for evening tubing. Each guest must purchase a ticket for the 5pm tubing timeslot. We recommend purchasing your ticket(s) in advance. Location: Hunter Mountain, 64 Klein Avenue, Hunter Time: 5:00 pm More Info: huntermtn.com Robert Burke Warren’s Bowie Birthday Bash ‘26 Robert Burke Warren’s much-beloved annual Bowie Birthday Bash returns to Colony Woodstock! With an ace seven-piece band, and an-always exciting list of Special Guests, RBW and his crew deliver an evening of David Bowie music spanning the icon’s entire career: 1969’s “Space Oddity,” selections from his 70s heyday, Serious Moonlight-era cuts, tunes from 2016’s Blackstar, and a few surprises. Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com

JANUARY 11 Member Event: “Gilded Butterflies”: Natural History Inside Olana’s Historic House Join us for this exclusive member-only tour of Olana’s Historic House, led by The Olana Partnership’s Research Archivist Clare Flemming, that will highlight the Church family’s naturalhistory collection found throughout the décor and furnishings. Location: Olana State Historic Site, 5720 Route 9G, Hudson Time: 10:00 am-12:00 pm More Info: olana.org Songwriters Circle The Songwriter’s Circle is a musical collective open to songwriters of all levels and genres. The group’s mission is to cultivate creativity, exchange resources, offer constructive critique (if desired), workshop ideas, share new work, and promote collaboration in a focused, supportive environment. Participants are expected to be actively engaged in their songwriting practice. Location: Bushel Collective, 106 Main St, Delhi Time: 11:00 am-12:30 pm More Info: bushelcollective.org Demo #1 Join us for Potter Brother’s Ski Shops and Burton’s first of two Demo Days at the mountain! Potter Brothers will be bringing a variety of all the lastest in ski gear and Burton will cover the boards. Location: Plattekill Mountain, 469 Plattekill Road, Roxbury Time: 9:00 am-3:00 pm More Info: plattekill.com

WSO Artistic Director, Mina Kim

Voices of Revolution: Woodstock Symphony Orchestra Concert WSO Artistic Director, Mina Kim, conducts a program that will include: Overture in C Major by Fanny Mendelssohn; Cello Concerto in A Minor, op. 129 by Robert Schumann featuring Christopher Santos, cello soloist; and Symphony No. 3 in E Flat Major, op. 55 “Eroica” by Ludwig van Beethoven. Location: Woodstock Playhouse, 103 Mill Hill Road, Woodstock Time: Friday & Saturday @ 7:00 pm; Sunday @ 2:00 pm More Info: woodstockplayhouse.org

New Yacht City – Yacht Rock Tribute Get ready to drop anchor and drift away on a wave of nostalgia. We are thrilled to announce that premier tribute act, New Yacht City, will headline a spectacular night of sun-kissed, sophisticated soft rock. New Yacht City is renowned for faithfully recreating the smooth, high-energy sounds of 70s and 80s Yacht Rock, covering classics from artists like Steely Dan, Toto, Michael McDonald, Kenny Loggins, and Christopher Cross. Known for their meticulous musical arrangements and polished stage presence, the band promises an evening of undeniable groove that captures the spirit of the genre. Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com

JANUARY 15

JANUARY 11-MARCH 1 Workshop: Wheel Throwing: Making Great Pots This exciting course is for folks who want to learn how to make pots on the potter’s wheel or are interested in continuing to develop skills and knowledge. Students will be taught the A to Z about preparing clay and using tools that are unique to this fascinating process of creating functional pottery. Glazing and firing techniques will be covered. There will be demonstrations, heaps of individual attention, and lots of discussions about ceramics’ rich history. Join us here in the most beautiful ceramics studio in the Catskill region! Sugar Maples is a great place to spend a winter’s day learning new skills and having fun while at it! Location: Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts, 34 Big Hollow Road, Maplecrest Time: Sundays 10:00 am-1:00 pm More Info: catskillmtn.org Workshop: Handbuilding Ceramics This dynamic and enjoyable course is intended for anyone who has the desire to build with clay those ‘things’ that their minds’ eye can imagine! Come join us in our sunny and well-equipped studio at the foot of Thomas Cole Mountain and put your hands to work. Basic techniques such as coil building, slab construction, scoring, and pinch forming will be taught. You don’t have to have any experience delving into this exciting world of creating sculptures, vessels, or any other form that crosses your mind. Applying engobes, underglazes, and glazes will be presented through demonstrations, exercises, with time to practice! Location: Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts, 34 Big Hollow Road, Maplecrest Time: Sundays 1:00-4:00 pm More Info: catskillmtn.org

JANUARY 14 Follow the River Lecture Series: Fossils to Foundations: How Geology Shaped New York Waterways Before the first dinosaurs, before the first mammals, just as the very first forests were beginning to form on Earth, the land that makes up New York state today was covered by an ancient ocean. How did the geology formed by this ancient world, nearly 400 million years ago, shape life and commerce along the Hudson River throughout the 1800’s and into the present? Admission is $10; $5 for HRMM members Location: Hudson River Maritime Museum, Wooden Boat School Classroom, 50 Rondout Landing, Kingston Time: 7:00 pm More Info: hrmm.org

Independent Film Series: Reviving the Legend and Queen of the Catskills Reviving the Legend (dir. Ian McGrew, 25 minutes): The story of how the skiing community saved a mountain. Queen of the Catskills (dir. Jamie Kennard, 15 minutes): A high school English teacher in the South Bronx embarks on a quest to become the first woman to ski 33 of the highest peaks in the Catskill Mountains— alone. Following the screenings will be a Q&A with directors Jamie Kennard and Ian McGrew Location: Mountain Cinema, Doctorow Center for the Arts, 7971 Main Street, Hunter Time: 6:00 pm More Info: catskillmtn.org Ray Bonneville w/ Stephen Clair Juno Award winning roots and blues artist Ray Bonneville has created and mastered a fusion of traditional American Roots and Blues music all his own, and deeply influenced by his upbringing in French Canada and the years he spent writing and playing music in New Orleans. He is known as the master of the slow burn, the groove and acclaimed for his harmonica tone. With a greasy guitar style, horn-like harmonica, smoky vocals and pulsing foot percussion he captivates audiences by being his own backing band. Known for his sparse evocative storytelling, Ray’s songs often feature characters living on the fringe of society, set down lonely roads, on long stretches of highway or in the belly of teeming cities. Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com

JANUARY 16 I Get Wild plays Talking Heads I Get Wild is a Brooklyn-based ensemble that honors the legacy of Talking Heads. With their renditions of iconic New Wave anthems, they channel the essence of the original songs while infusing their own character and style. As one of the premier tribute bands in Brooklyn, I Get Wild’s performances are a testament to their love and appreciation of Talking Heads music. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for a fresh take on classic tunes, I Get Wild’s electrifying live shows are guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience. Check them out and see for yourself why they are known for their wild, energetic performances. Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com

JANUARY 16-18 JAM-uary Weekend 2026 Do you play guitar, mandolin, banjo, fiddle, bass, or dobro? Come be part of a bluegrass jam weekend with Austin Scelzo. Location: The Ashokan Center 477 Beaverkill Rd, Olivebridge More Info: ashokancenter.org Booked on the Hudson Experience a cozy winter readers retreat along the Hudson River, featuring author talks, Q&A sessions, book signings, vendor displays, themed dining, and opportunities to connect with fellow book lovers. Choose an overnight stay package or attend the Saturday book fair for a day of literary fun. Location: The Wire Event Center at the James Newbury More Info: wireeventcenter.com/booked-onthe-hudson/

JANUARY 17 FREE Family Tour Participate in free, drop-in artmaking in the Wagon House Education Center from 1-4 PM and learn more about Frederic Church’s artistdesigned home and studio on the Hudson. This drop-in artmaking program is open to all ages and skill levels; all materials provided. FREE. No advanced registration required. Location: Olana State Historic Site Wagon House Education Center, 5720 Route 9G, Hudson Time: 1:00-2:00 pm More Info: olana.org Artmaking in the Afternoon Experience learning, looking closely, and conversation as a family during this series of special museum gallery program at Olana State Historic Site. Designed for families with children ages 3 and up. FREE. Advanced registration required. Location: Olana State Historic Site Sharp Family Gallery, 5720 Route 9G, Hudson Time: 1:00-4:00 pm More Info: olana.org Serve Yourself S’mores at the Summit presented by Nature Valley Ride the Kaatskill Flyer up to the summit to grab a stick, bar, mallow, and crackers! While supplies last. Location: Hunter Mountain, 64 Klein Avenue, Hunter Time: 2:00 pm while supplies last More Info: huntermtn.com

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JANUARY 20

The Junco Partners Mardi Gras Show The Junco Partners play uptown roots, groove, New Orleans soul music and features Jamie McLean on guitar (Aaron Neville/Dirty Dozen Brass Band), Andy Hess on bass (Black Crowes, Govt. Mule), Eric Kalb on drums (Sharon Jones Dap Kings, John Scofield), and Eric Finland keyboards (Joe Louis Walker, Marc Coen). Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com

JANUARY 17 & 18

Saturday Creature Features: 1950s Space Invasion Double Feature! This Island Earth (1955): Who is the mysterious “Exeter” (Jeff Morrow) and why has he assembled a team of Earth’s top scientists in an isolated countryside manor? The Monolith Monsters (1957): Gigantic alien monoliths crash across a California valley destroying everything in their path and threaten the entire planet! Can anything stop them? Plus writer Tony Albarella returns to introduce the films with fun backstories, trivia and behind the scene photos! Come by for two 1950s sci-fi classics with BIG THEATRE SOUND on the BIG SCREEN! Location: Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main Street, Rosendale Time: 7:00 pm More Info: rosendaletheatre.org Housepitality: House Music on the Hudson Housepitality is thrilled to announce that we’re bringing house music to the Hudson with our inaugural event in Woodstock at the legendary Bearsville Theater. We’ve put together a stellar lineup featuring Tiki Disco’s very own Andy Pry, joined by Housepitality co-founder Mikey Tello a.k.a. Lil’T, Sensay Shnay, and Sasha Z. Get ready for a night of energy, community, and deep vibes in the heart of the Catskills. Location: Bearsville Center, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm More Info: bearsvilletheater.com Ondara Presents: The Jet Stone Conspiracy Ondara’s new band, The Jet Stone Conspiracy, shares the songs from Tales of America, Tales of Isolation, and Spanish Villager No: 3– all brought to life for the first time in a full-band setting. Location: Levon Helm Studios, 160 Plochmann Lane, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm More Info: levonhelm.com

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Catskill Mountain Foundation presents Aquila Theatre’s production of The Hound of the Baskervilles Aquila Theatre is proud to present a thrilling new production of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s iconic mystery, The Hound of the Baskervilles. Set in the eerie, fog-shrouded moors of England, this spine-tingling tale follows the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes and his loyal companion Dr. Watson as they investigate the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville, rumored to be the victim of a supernatural, ghostly hound. As they uncover chilling secrets and dark family histories, Holmes must use his razor-sharp intellect to solve a case where logic and superstition collide.True to Aquila’s renowned reputation for high-quality, innovative performances, this production will blend suspense, sharp wit, and dynamic storytelling, bringing Doyle’s classic detective tale to vivid life. With Aquila’s legendary style and precision in bringing complex narratives to the stage, audiences will be captivated by unexpected twists, high drama, humor, and the thrill of one of literature’s most celebrated mysteries. Don’t miss this unforgettable theatrical experience—where mystery, suspense, and Aquila’s trademark excellence are sure to leave you on the edge of your seat. Location: Orpheum Performing Arts Center, 6050 Main Street, Tannersville Time: Saturday at 7:00 pm; Sunday at 4:00 pm More Info: catskillmtn.org

JANUARY 18 Upstate Reggae presents Love Jamaica Benefit Join us for a night of good vibes and great music at Colony with Upstate Reggae for a special Love Jamaica Benefit! All star music by John Sebastian, Cindy Cashdollar, The BobCats, Joey Eppard, Ras T Asheber, Songs of Solomon, Dis N Dat Band, and Marian Tortorella. Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: Silent Auction at 1:00 pm, Show at 6:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com Coffeehouse Concert: Paul Huh and Kent Kim Cello & keyboard: Brahms & Broadway musical theatre. FREE. Location: Walton Theatre, 30 Gardiner Street, Walton Time: 6:00 pm More Info: musiconthedelaware.org

EDUCATION: Layer the Walls This performance is appropriate for Grades 2 – 8. In one Lower East Side tenement, forty layers of wallpaper were found clinging to the walls—each piece applied by a new immigrant family. Using puppetry, masks and live action, Layer the Walls tells the incredible stories held within each layer. An Irish immigrant helps build the Brooklyn Bridge, Italian brothers survive the Great Blizzard of 1888, and two Russian Jewish garment workers join the Uprising of 20,000 to fight for safety. Location: Ulster Performing Arts Center 601 Broadway, Kingston Time: 10:00 am More Info: bardavon.org

JANUARY 22 Book Discussion: Fresh, Green Life by Sebastian Castillo After a year of self-imposed exile, a young writer attends a New Year’s Eve party in hopes of reconnecting with old classmates in a blackly humorous tale set on a single snowy night. Location: The Lost Bookshop, 120 Main Street, Delhi Time: 6:00 pm More Info: thelostbookshop.com

Hayley Jane Band w/ Elia Em Hayley pulls inspiration from a variety of styles, including 60s & 70s rock & pop, musical theater, folk, blues, soul, psychedelic, funk, and bluegrass. Just as varied, are the many ways she can captivate an audience. Whether the concentrated potency of her solo acoustic performance, the explosive energy & movement of her full band shows, or one of her theatrical performances, she always brings the charisma, humor and passion to move an audience. Her music has been praised by a wide range of musicians, producers and music lovers alike, for successfully combining a diverse sound with clever, over-the-top lyrics & Vaudevillian-style storytelling. Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com

JANUARY 23 Driftwood w/ Black Mountain Symphony Music has guided Driftwood to hallowed ground many times since its founding members, Joe Kollar and Dan Forsyth, started making music as high schoolers in Joe’s parents’ basement. Whether the Upstate New York folk rock group are converting new fans on a hardscrabble tour across the country or playing to a devoted crowd at hero Levon Helm’s Woodstock barn, the band’s shapeshifting approach to folk music

continues to break new ground. And yet in many ways Driftwood’s latest work, the transformative December Last Call, finds the group coming home. Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com

live music, unforgettable songs, and delightful characters. Appropriate for children aged 3+. Location: Ulster Performing Arts Center 601 Broadway, Kingston Time: 10:00 am More Info: bardavon.org

JANUARY 30 G. Love & Special Sauce Lemonade 20th Anniversary Tour with Special Guest MAKUA G. Love & Special Sauce is an American HipHop Blues band known for its unique fusion of hip-hop, blues, funk, and soul. Formed in 1993 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the band originally featured Garrett Dutton, aka G. Love, as the lead vocalist and guitarist, Jeffrey Clemens on drums, and Jim Prescott on bass. The trio quickly gained attention for their laid-back, groovy style and G. Love’s unique vocal delivery, blending rap-like spoken word with bluesy singing. Location: Bearsville Center, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm More Info: bearsvilletheater.com Josh Ritter Josh Ritter is a renowned singer, songwriter, musician, artist and best-selling author. One of today’s most thoughtful and prolific voices, he has released eleven studio albums including 2019’s widely acclaimed Fever Breaks of which NPR Music praised, “He remains a hydrant of ideas while embodying an endless capacity for empathy and indignation, often within a single song.” His twelfth studio album I Believe in You, My Honeydew is out now. Two-plus decades into his celebrated career, Ritter has written music that has transcended generations including luminaries such as Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and Bob Weir covering his songs. Location: Levon Helm Studios, 160 Plochmann Lane, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm More Info: levonhelm.com

JANUARY 24-MARCH 14 Exhibition: Sunny but Cold: Diaries of Farm Women This exhibition of works by Mary McFerran illuminates the often-unseen labor of women on New York State farms. Drawing on 19th- and 20th-century diaries, the project reveals daily life recorded in brief notes on weather, chores, family care, and community events—a testimony to women’s endurance and quiet optimism. The artist reception will be free and open to all. Location: Roxbury Arts Group, 5025 Vega Mountain Road, Roxbury Opening Reception: Saturday, January 24, 3:00-5:00 pm More Info: roxburyartsgroup.org

JANUARY 25 MK with WKZE Join us for a fun day at the mountain with radio station host MK is here LIVE with WKZE! Location: Plattekill Mountain, 469 Plattekill Road, Roxbury Time: 9:00 am-3:00 pm More Info: plattekill.com Honky Tonk Last Sunday w/ Hudson Valley Flyers The Flyers perform two-steps, waltzes, shuffles, and western-swing music for whatever suits you, whether it be dancing with a partner, drinking alone, or just reminiscing. You’ll hear songs from the 1930s, ‘40s and ‘50s, from singers such as Hank Williams, Webb Pierce, Ernest Tubb, Bob Wills, and many more. Give your best pal a call and come hear some genuine country music at the Colony, Honky Tonk Last Sunday with the Hudson Valley Flyers. Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com

JANUARY 24-25

JANUARY 27

LGBTQ+ Ski & Ride Weekend LOVE A Little More. Hunter Mountain invites the LGBTQ+ community and allies for special event programming including food & beverage, musical performances, and merchandise! Come and show your Pride. Location: Hunter Mountain, 64 Klein Avenue, Hunter More Info: huntermtn.com

The Hare & The Tortoise Two unlikely friends — the speedy, confident Hare and the calm, steady Tortoise — meet for the greatest race on Earth. A race filled with suspense, surprises, and a nail-biting, medalwinning finish. This playful and imaginative adaptation of Aesop’s classic fable is brought to life on stage in a vibrant performance. With three talented actors, musicians and a whole lot of energy, the story unfolds across the seasons. Guided by our storyteller, this heartwarming tale explores patience, friendship, and what it means to grow up. Tutti Frutti Productions brings you this much-loved story brimming with fun,

14th Annual Telefest Telemarkdown will be here with demos and we will also be having informal clinics too! Location: Plattekill Mountain, 469 Plattekill Road, Roxbury Time: 9:00 am-3:00 pm More Info: plattekill.com

JANUARY 30-FEBRUARY 1 Winter Hoot Join us for a weekend of exceptional roots music and good times for all ages during the annual Winter Hoot. Join us for a day or stay the whole weekend! Location: The Ashokan Center 477 Beaverkill Rd, Olivebridge More Info: ashokancenter.org Women’s Reading Retreat Each retreat centers on a new, trending novel or memoir, author talks, and activities like forest bathing, mushroom picking, meditation under the stars, and vineyard hopping. The featured book for the January retreat is The White Hot by Quiara Alegria Hudes. The novel explores themes of motherhood, identity, race, class, and self-discovery. The prose is stunning, and the author is a Pulitzer Prize winner and writer behind one of the most popular modern musicals, In the Heights. Location: Windham: exact location provided on booking. More Info: allbookedretreats.com

JANUARY 31 Animal Tracking in the Snow with Dan Yacobellis (Two Sessions) Join experienced tracker Dan Yacobellis as we explore habitats within the Arboretum to find animal tracks and clues that reveal a wealth of information about local wildlife. Dan will teach us to identify animals by their tracks, recognize scat and other animal signs, and recognize animal gaits and patterns. We will be able to piece together stories from the information that we gather and gain an insight into these animals’ lives. All are welcome—beginners and experienced trackers alike! Location: Mountain Top Arboretum, 4 Maude Adams Road, Tannersville Time: Session I: 10:00 am-12:00 pm. Session II: 12:30 pm-2:30 pm More Info: mtarboretum.org

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Opening Reception for CPW Winter 2026 Exhibitions Experience an evening celebrating four groundbreaking exhibitions—from Ocean Vuong’s first photographic showcase and Nona Faustine’s powerful retrospective to Qiana Mestrich’s award-winning archival interventions and Jiatong Lu’s searing documentary on chronic illness. Together, these artists illuminate overlooked histories, urgent social issues, and deeply personal narratives through bold, visionary image-making. Location: CPW, 25 Dederick Street, Kingston Day & Times: 5:00-8:00 pm More Info: cpw.org

Cornelia Murr On Cornelia Murr’s first LP in six years, Run To The Center, the London-born singer-songwriter delivers her most confident, expansive album yet. Across 10 hypnotic pop songs is a fully realized portrait of a woman and an artist in her thirties, standing triumphantly in uncertainties, asking the crucial questions one needs to sustain a life: How can you fit everything you want into a life? How can you do this if you want so much? Location: Levon Helm Studios, 160 Plochmann Lane, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm More Info: levonhelm.com

JANUARY 31-FEBRUARY 1 Black Ski & Ride Weekend Join us for a celebration of diversity on the slopes, featuring exhilarating skiing, snowboarding, and a vibrant community atmosphere. Location: Hunter Mountain, 64 Klein Avenue, Hunter More Info: huntermtn.com

FEBRUARY 6 MK with WKZE Join us for a fun day at the mountain with radio station host MK is here LIVE with WKZE! Location: Plattekill Mountain, 469 Plattekill Road, Roxbury Time: 9:00 am-3:00 pm More Info: plattekill.com First Fridays Athens The Athens Cultural Center opens its doors to celebrate the rich tapestry of culture and creativity that defines our community. Location: Athens Cultural Center, 24 Second Street, Athens Time: 5:00-7:00 pm More Info: friendsofathens.org

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First Fridays Catskill Local shops are open late, most until 8 pm, offering specials like sips & snacks, pop-ups, music, discounts, and FUN! Location: Main Street & Bridge Street, Catskill More Info: firstfridayscatskill.com Walton First Fridays Local shops in Walton stay open late with deals and events for the community to enjoy! Location: Walton More Info: instagram.com/waltonfirstfridays

FEBRUARY 7 Glow Tubing @ Bubly Tubing Park Wear your glow-iest gear and get your glow on for evening tubing. Each guest must purchase a ticket for the 5pm tubing timeslot. We recommend purchasing your ticket(s) in advance. Location: Hunter Mountain, 64 Klein Avenue, Hunter Time: 5:00 pm More Info: huntermtn.com

Classical Arts Entertainment Presents Swan Lake – International Ballet Stars Rescheduled from October 24, 2025. All tickets purchased for that performance will be honored. Experience the world’s most in-demand ballet, Swan Lake. This full-scale production features Tchaikovsky’s legendary score and brings the masterpiece choreography by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov to life. Be spellbound by the iconic variation of the Little Swans, Odile’s 32 fouettés, and the graceful movements of the talented ballet dancers. With over 200 custom scenery pieces adding grandeur and beauty, this production promises to be a spectacular visual treat. Featuring a brilliant cast of dancers from Italy, France, Georgia, Great Britain, Ukraine, Japan, Moldova, Armenia, and Kyrgyzstan, this tour celebrates the diversity and global excellence of classical ballet. Location: Ulster Performing Arts Center 601 Broadway, Kingston Time: 7:00 pm More Info: bardavon.org Catskill Mountain Foundation presents Malpaso Dance In the twelve years since its establishment in 2012, Malpaso Dance Company has become one of the most sought after Cuban dance companies with a growing international profile. Emphasizing a collaborative creative process, Malpaso is committed to working with top international choreographers while also nurturing new voices in Cuban choreography. The company tours with 11 dancers and is led by its original three founders; resident choreographer and Artistic Director Osnel Delgado, Executive Director Fernando Sáez, and dancer, choreog-

rapher and co-founder Daile Carrazana. Presented by the Catskill Mountain Foundation in partnership with The Joyce Theater Foundation. Location: Orpheum Performing Arts Center, 6050 Main Street, Tannersville Time: 7:00 pm More Info: catskillmtn.org

FEBRUARY 8 Songwriters Circle The Songwriter’s Circle is a musical collective open to songwriters of all levels and genres. The group’s mission is to cultivate creativity, exchange resources, offer constructive critique (if desired), workshop ideas, share new work, and promote collaboration in a focused, supportive environment. Participants are expected to be actively engaged in their songwriting practice. Location: Bushel Collective, 106 Main St, Delhi Time: 11:00 am-12:30 pm More Info: bushelcollective.org

FEBRUARY 11-15 Maude Adams Theater Hub presents V-Season MATH’s 4th Annual V Season: three plays that will transport you from your mid-winter blues and into small worlds of wonder. FEBRUARY 11 & 14: Six Degrees of Separation by John Guare FEBRUARY 12 & 14: The Shape of Things by Neil LaBute; FEBRUARY 13 & 15: Circle Mirror Transformation by Annie Baker Location: Doctorow Center for the Arts, 7971 Main Street, Hunter Time: See website for times More Info: catskillmtn.org

FEBRUARY 13 Pete Francis with Morrissey BLVD Pete Francis is a singer, songwriter, and multiinstrumentalist known for blending eclectic genres and collaborating across the musical spectrum. Initially one-third of the legendary New England indie band Dispatch, Pete and the group achieved monumental success. Pete launched a solo career in 2001, releasing seven albums. In 2019, he fully embraced his solo career. His 2023 album PTRN SKY! marked a major shift as his first self-recorded and self-produced effort. The album blends vibrant electronic beats with his signature style. Since then, he’s released several home-recorded singles and EPs. Location: Bearsville Center, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm More Info: bearsvilletheater.com

FEBRUARY 13-22 Skiing, Boarding, Tubing, Karaoke and Live Music All Week Join us for President’s Week break 2026! Location: Plattekill Mountain, 469 Plattekill Road, Roxbury More Info: plattekill.com Water for Elephants: High School Edition A Teens on Stage Production Water for Elephants, based on the bestselling novel by Sara Gruen, is a dazzling, heart-filled musical about Jacob, a young man desperate to escape his past, who jumps aboard a moving train uncertain of the road ahead. Finding himself on the ride of a lifetime, Jacob joins the colorful company of a traveling circus and is hired by the imperious ringmaster, August, as caretaker to the animals. Jacob soon develops an unspoken attraction to the star performer and August’s wife, Marlena. A last-ditch effort to save their struggling show brings an elephant into the troupe, drawing Marlena and Jacob dangerously close, forever changing the circus’s fate. Recommended for ages 9+ Location: The CENTER for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck, 661 Route 308, Rhinebeck Days & Times: Fridays @ 8:00 pm; Saturdays & Sundays @ 3:00 pm More Info: CenterforPerformingArts.org

The Weight Band Featuring Former Members of The Band & Levon Helm Band Performing the classic songs of The Band (“The Weight,” “Up on Cripple Creek”) alongside selections from their acclaimed current album Shines Like Gold, The Weight Band carries on the timeless spirit and sound of one of rock’s most beloved groups. Led by Jim Weider, who replaced Robbie Robertson in The Band and later performed with Levon Helm in the Levon Helm Band, The Weight Band was formed in 2013 inside Levon Helm’s legendary Woodstock barn. Weider and his bandmates deliver a dynamic set that blends classic Americana with roadhouse rock, funky swamp pop, blues, country soul, and folk. Their performances feature a mix of The Weight Band’s original material and fan favorites from The Band’s catalog, as well as songs by The Grateful Dead, The Allman Brothers, Bob Dylan, and more. Location: Bearsville Center, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm More Info: bearsvilletheater.com

FEBRUARY 14 Jake Xerxes Fussell with Dougie Poole Jake Xerxes Fussell has established himself as a contemplative interpreter of a vast array of so-called folk songs, lovingly sourced from a personal store of favorites. In their review of the his most recent studio album, When I’m Called, Pitchfork wrote: “No other American singer is repurposing our old folk scripts with so much authority or ingenuity.” Location: West Kortright Center, 49 W Kortright Church Road, East Meredith Time: 7:00 pm More Info: westkc.org

FEBRUARY 14 & 15 Serve Yourself S’mores presented by Nature Valley Grab a stick, bar, mallow, crackers, and a seat by one of our new fire pits on Danny’s Way! Location: Hunter Mountain, 64 Klein Avenue, Hunter Time: 3:00 pm while supplies last More Info: huntermtn.com

FEBRUARY 15 Hot Chocolate Fest 2026 Enjoy everyone’s favorite hot beverage choose from 8 delicious flavors in a lovely winter setting! Plus live music, kid’s activities, great food, guided hikes, and more! Location: The Ashokan Center 477 Beaverkill Rd, Olivebridge Time: 10:00 am-4:00 pm More Info: ashokancenter.org Coffeehouse Concert: Robin Seletsky and Friends An evening of jazz, blues, and a little klezmer. FREE. Location: Walton Theatre, 30 Gardiner Street, Walton Time: 6:00 pm More Info: musiconthedelaware.org Catskill Mountain Foundation presents Million Dollar Reunion Featuring former cast members of the worldwide hit show Million Dollar Quartet, the Million Dollar Reunion takes the audience on a spirited journey to an earlier time, with dynamic performances of some of the greatest hits of Rock and Roll. No one can ever forget the music of Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley. So, come join us, as we take a musical trip back in time, when the Blues, Country, and Gospel music had a baby, and they named it ROCK AND ROLL! Location: Orpheum Performing Arts Center, 6050 Main Street, Tannersville Time: 7:00 pm More Info: catskillmtn.org Upstate Reggae presents Bob Marley Tribute with Dis N Dat Band Pay tribute and vibe to Bob Marley with Dis N Dat. Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com

SUPPORT THE ARTS ON THE MOUNTAINTOP

The contribution you provide to the Catskill Mountain Foundation furthers our vision of bringing the arts to our community, enriching the lives of children and adults through arts education, and supporting artists and arts organizations in the development of new works.

Make a donation at catskillmtn.org/donation January 2026 • GUIDE 91

Please Support Our Advertisers! A Slice of Italy asliceofitaly7115.com See ad on page 47 Adaptive Sports Foundation adaptivesportsfoundation.org See ad on page 46 Angela’s Pizza angelaspizzarestaurant.com See ad on page 42 Barnwood Restaurant barnwooddining.com See ad on page 45 Bell’s Ethan Allen bellsethanallen.com See ad on page 3 Belleayre Mountain belleayre.com See ad on page 25 Belleayre Ski Shop belleayreskishop.com See ad on page 42 Brainard Ridge Realty brainardridge.com See ad on page 1 Brandywine brandywinewindham.com See ad on page 33 Camp Catskill campcatskill.co See ad on page 40 Catskill Center catskillcenter.org See ad on page 73 Catskills Visitors Center catskillsvisitorcenter.com See ad on page 73 Chef Deanna chefdeanna.com See ad on page 51 CMF Gift Shop catskillmtn.org See ad on page 61 CMF Piano Performance Museum catskillmtn.org See ad on page 73 CMF presents Aquila Theatre: The Hound of the Baskervilles catskillmtn.org See ad on page 11 CMF presents Independent Film Series catskillmtn.org See ads on page 69 & 75 CMF presents International Fortepiano Salon Online catskillmtn.org internationalfortepianosalon.com See ad on page 57 CMF presents Malpaso Dance Company catskillmtn.org See ad on page 29 CMF presents Million Dollar Reunion catskillmtn.org See ad on page 82 The Emerson Resort & Spa emersonresort.com See ad on Back Cover

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Francis X. Driscoll Photography: Images of the Northern Catskills francisxdriscoll.com See ad on page 57 Gardens by Trista gardensbytrista.com See ad on page 40 Gem Mercantile gemofthecatskills.com See ad on page 7 GNH Lumber gnhlumber.com See ad on page 27 Gracie’s Luncheonette graciesny.com See ad on page 47 The Graham & Co. thegrahamandco.com See ad on page 45 Greene County EDC greenecountyedc.com See ad on Inside Back Cover Greenville Arms greenvillearms.com See ad on page 44 Hampton Inn hamptoninn.com See ad on page 54 Houst Hardware housthardware.com See ad on page 44 The Knitting Room theknittingroomny.com See ad on page 39 La Cabaña lacabanarestaurantny.com See ad on page 53 Main Street Market 518 734 4134 See ad on page 45 Mama’s Boy Burgers mamasboyburgers.com See ad on page 47 MATH presents V-Season catskillmtn.org See ad on page 13 Mountain Cinema catskillmtn.org See ad on page 65 The Nest Egg nesteggshop.com See ad on page 45 Pancho Villa’s Mexican Restaurant panchovillamex.com See ad on page 43 The Pantry on Main pantryonmain.com See ad on page 48 Pure Catskills purecatskills.com See ad on page 4 Rice Plumbing & Heating riceplumbingandheating.com See ad on page 31 Shaw Country Realty Carol Shaw, Broker/Owner 518 734 3500 See ad on page 51

Shawn’s Fresh Fish On Instagram @shawnsfreshfish See ad on page 54 SKI NY ISkiNY.com See ad on page 35 Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts Winter Courses catskillmtn.org See ad on page 63 Sunflower Market SunflowerNatural.com See ad on Inside Front Cover Tannersville Works TannersvilleWorks.com See ad on page 39 Taphouse & Grille taphousegrillwindham.com See ad on page 7 Thorpe’s GMC thorpesgmcinc.com See ad on page 49 Ulster County VisitUlsterCountyNY.com See ad on page 2 Ulster Savings Bank Ulstersavings.com See ad on page 41 Wellness RX wellnessrxllc.com See ad on page 48 Windham Fine Arts windhamfinearts.com See ad on page 46 Windham Foundation windhamfoundation.com See ad on page 50 Windham Hardware 518 734 4433 See ad on page 54 Windham Local thewindhamlocal.com See ad on page 7 Windham Manor windhammanor.com See ad on page 49 Windham Mountain Club windhammountainclub.com See ad on page 21 Windham Mountain Outfitters WindhamOutfitters.com See ad on page 43 Windham Wine & Liquors 518 734 3474 See ad on page 49 Windstar Realty Group WindstarRealty.com See ad on page 9 WIOX 91.3FM wioxradio.org See ad on page 52 WRIP 97.9FM rip979.com See ad on page 33

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