July 2026 Guide: Summer in the Catskills

IN THIS ISSUE

BELLEAYRE SUMMER

SUMMERSCAPE 2026: Eight Weeks of Artistic Discovery in the Hudson Valley

SAUGERTIES ARTISTS STUDIO TOUR

“I HAVE AN IDEA”: Birthing an Arts-Centered Nonprofit by Peter

Finn

20 YEARS OF BETHEL WOODS: A Conversation with Eric Frances, CEO by Colleen

Kane

CINDERELLA: A New Production of the Orpheum Dance Program Comes to Tannersville this Summer by Sarah

Taft

WELCOME

by Jeff Senterman

by Maria Baranova

Photo

VOLUME 41, NUMBER 7 JULY 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

Koegel

80 82 84 86 88 94 97 108 THE ACCIDENTAL VINTNERS by Michael

A GREENE COUNTY GARDEN IN JULY: Dill by Margaret Donsbach Tomlinson

FORGED IN REVOLUTION: EARLY MILITARY ENCAMPMENT

A WORLD OF MUSIC RIGHT HERE IN THE CATSKILLS

HORTON BY THE STREAM’S 32ND SEASON

CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION 2026 PERFORMING ARTS SEASON

SUGAR MAPLES CENTER FOR CREATIVE ARTS 2026 SUMMER WORKSHOPS

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide

DISTRIBUTION

Catskill Mountain Foundation

EDITORIAL DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE: July 6

The Catskill Mountain Foundation Regional Guide is published 12 times a year by 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 Foundation Regional Guide office is located at 7971 Main Street, Hunter, NY 12442.

Maria Baranova, Bard College/Summerscape, Belleayre Mountain, T.M. Bradshaw, Ray Brizzi, Catskill Mountain Shakespeare, Karen Cox, DiscoverTannersville.com, Fran Driscoll/ francisxdriscoll.com, Fenimore Farm & Country Village, Peter Finn, Grey Fox Music Festival, Hiker Trash Husbands, Horton by the Stream, Colleen Kane, Michael Koegel, Jeffrey Langford, Greg Madden, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Mountain Cloves Scenic Byway, Music and Art Center of Greene County, Max Oppen/shutterstock.com, Saugerties Artists Studio Tour, Jeff Senterman, Carrie Sutton, Sarah Taft, and Margaret Donsbach Tomlinson.

ADMINISTRATION & FINANCE

Candy McKee

Julie Bryan

Kim McGalliard

Kaitlyn Truax

PRINTING

Catskill Mountain Printing Services

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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.

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All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. The Catskill Mountain Foundation Regional Guide is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts. All photographic rights reside with the photographer.

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Photo by Karen Cox

Like a rising tide, a wave of green rose out of the lower elevations of the Hudson Valley and crawled up the flanks of the highest peaks within a couple hours of New York City. Tucked among the largest of them, Belleayre Mountain in Highmount, NY has become a destination over the past few years regardless of the season. No longer just visited when the slopes are covered in white snow and cruised by skiers and snowboarders, recreationalists of all kinds now use the mountain as their base of outside adventure and fun 365 days a year!

A visit to Belleayre would naturally put you at one of the topmost accessible points in the Catskill Park. The highest ski area in the region delivers you to views that put you at eye level with the tallest peaks around. Viewpoints that are otherwise accessed by the local feathered aviaries are easily reached by a 12 minute ride on the Catskill Thunder Gondola — the only gondola in the Catskill Mountains — taking you to an elevation of 3,429 feet above sea level. The very top of Halcott Mountain towers right before you, while you look down at the quaintly charming town of Fleischmanns, sitting in a cushion of lush greenery. But one does not need to be restrained to the immediate vicinity of the Gondola: those who visit are encouraged to wander across Belleayre’s

ridged summit and take in the varied viewpoints, possibly even spotting some of the wildlife that call this place home.

The Catskills are synonymous with adventure located at the front door, and Belleayre is certainly integrated into that equation. If a gondola ride is a bit too on the straightforward side, a multitude of hiking routes can be combined together. Beginning at the Discovery Lodge at the base of the mountain, a combination of flowing, peacefully wooded singletrack trails on the lower mountain can be combined with the wide open spaces of Belleayre’s alpine trails as the views evolve all the way to the summit of the ski area. Those who are best equipped with the proper gear and know-how can successfully use Belleayre as a launch point and plan a truly adventurous hike off the mountain and deep into the adjacent Shandaken Wild Forest and Catskill Mountain wilderness.

But young adventurous souls need space to grow as well, and Belleayre stays steadfast on its family oriented mindset with a sizable list of outdoor opportunities for the little ones. Leisurely outings are easily achieved with the aforementioned singletrack trails on the lower mountain as they meander through the forest. The sides of them are dotted with signs that provide fun little

tidbits about the local area’s wildlife and vegetation. Kids can turn their hike into a fun, interactive experience with printable hiking-themed bingo cards or scavenger hunt sheets available on the Belleayre website, turning a simple walk into an educational treasure hunt. Along the summit of the mountain, a Story Walk runs alongside the trail, as youthful minds go through a whimsical themed journey along their stroll.

Before long, the truly endless, hot days of summer that sit deep in our core memories will be here! What usually pairs well with those days is a common place for all to cool off and take a couple degrees off the thermostat when it gets cranking. The Belleayre Beach is just a minute down the road from the Discovery Lodge in the lovely hamlet of Pine Hill, and plays host to a multitude of water-themed activities. Of course you have your typical swimming, but you can add to it by gliding across the lake surface in a kayak or splashing your way around on a pedal boat. Paddleboards are also available and welcome, and you can even add some funky fun to the day by hopping onto a towering, giant water tricycle. The lakeside vibes are always relaxed with friendly competition regularly breaking out in the volleyball court and horseshoe pits.

Much like that playlist you carefully curate for your warm weathered roadtrips, music is an integral part of warm season enjoyment. For its fourth year running, the fan and local favorite free Music on the Belle series will be returning to the Discovery Lodge, transforming it into a lively hotspot every Friday evening

from July 24 all the way through August 28. A well balanced mix of genres keep locals, regulars, and visitors dancing through summer under a warm golden sky. Everything from the roots of Rock N’ Roll with Lara Hope & the Ark-Tones to Rhythm & Blues from the Saints, to even some Bluegrass by Lily of the Valley will be on tuned display, vibrating outward into the clean Catskill air. Matching the sonic flavors, Belleayre’s Marketplace and some food trucks will be on hand with meals to keep you fueled and quenched. The evening sunsets sure look spectacular, especially from the summit of the mountain as Scenic Gondola Rides run altered hours to give you a new, awe-inspiring view of the range.

Another event that is seeing its fourth iteration, Belleayre is proud to be once again hosting Climb It for Climate, a trail running race hosted by The Running Kind. The best trail runners in the region make the pilgrimage each summer to conquer not only the slopes of Belleayre, but also the rugged Catskill Mountain backcountry. It is a heart-pumping adventure (for many reasons) that supports environmental causes as competitors can choose between an 8K race that takes you from the Discovery Lodge all the way to the top of the mountain and back, or an absolutely grueling 25K that takes you off the backside of Belleayre’s peak and into the adjacent Shandaken Wild Forest and Big Indian Wilderness zones.

For a bit more laid back atmosphere, family friendly Arts & Crafts at the Beach days will be returning, allowing kids of every age to flex their creative muscles between bird house decorating, tie dye, and sun catcher making!

An intriguingly curious sight can also be found, fleetingly soaring between green foliage: Belleayre is home to an 18 hole Disc Golf course, and if you’re wondering exactly what disc golf is … it’s exactly as it sounds! It reopened alongside the remainder of the mountain’s summer activities in June, and has become a favorite among disc throwing enthusiasts and fun for all! The course is small enough to be accessible and non-intimidating to beginner throwers, yet provides some technical challenge for veteran players. The “Lower 9” wraps around the gondola and Discovery Lodge area, while the “Upper 9” takes players across the scenic summit ridge, offering panoramic views that are as rewarding as a perfectly tossed putt.

Even though the mountains are covered in green instead of white and we put our skis away for now, the atmosphere surrounding the mountain and local communities remain as laid back and friendly as always. Whether you’re finding solace on the mountain top, taking in a grand view, taking a dip to beat the heat, or dancing your way through the summer, there’s an everlasting feel that this summer is one for you to mold, and Belleayre is the perfect backdrop for the story to unfold. It is a place for relaxation and recreation for all; consider this your invitation to escape to the Catskills to recharge, reconnect, and make the most of every daylight hour this summer has to offer. Make sure to visit belleayre.com for additional information about summer activities and events.

SUMMERSCAPE 2026

Eight Weeks of Artistic Discovery in the Hudson Valley

“A hotbed of intellectual and aesthetic adventure.” —The New York Times

Just 90 miles north of New York City, where the Hudson River widens and the Catskill Mountains rise in the distance, Bard College’s campus becomes one of the country’s most compelling summer arts destinations. Anchored by Frank Gehry’s soaring Fisher Center for the Performing Arts—a landmark of contemporary architecture set amid rolling lawns and river views—SummerScape returns through August 16 with eight weeks of opera, dance, music, cabaret, and late-night revelry.

Suddenly Last Summer (Through

July 19)

“MacArthur Genius, Courtney Bryan, fuses different styles for a sound that is entirely her own.” —The New York Times

SummerScape opens with the world premiere of Suddenly Last Summer (through July 19), a new opera by 2023 MacArthur Fellow Courtney Bryan, with a libretto by Fisher Center Artistic Director and Chief Executive Gideon Lester and acclaimed director Daniel Fish, based on Tennessee Williams’s fever-dream of a play. Bryan, described by The New York Times as a “pianist and composer of panoramic interests,” transforms Williams’s Southern Gothic drama into a hybrid music-theater work, weaving a ravish-

ing score in and around the spoken drama. Set between the Mediterranean coast and the Garden District of New Orleans—Bryan’s hometown—the opera follows the wealthy Venable family and a young woman’s struggle to speak truth to power.

Directed by Fish, whose radical reimagining of Oklahoma! began at Bard before winning Tony and Olivier Awards, the production brings radiant new life to Williams’s study of power, desire, and the lengths a family will go to protect its legacy. A co-production with Opera Philadelphia, the work is the first of the Fisher Center LAB’s inaugural Civis Hope Commissions.

Richard Strauss’s The Egyptian Helen (July 24 – August 2)

“A haven for important operas.” —The New York Times

SummerScape’s annual operatic rediscovery arrives in the form of Richard Strauss’s rarely performed The Egyptian Helen (Die ägyptische Helena), presented July 24 through August 2 with the American Symphony Orchestra conducted by Leon Botstein and directed by Christian Räth.

A hypnotic blend of myth, melodrama, and psychological intrigue, the opera reimagines the Helen of Troy legend in the af-

Richard J. Fisher Center. Photo by Peter Aaron

termath of the Trojan War. Strauss and librettist Hugo von Hofmannsthal transform the familiar myth into a tale of doubling, illusion, and desire, exploring the contradictions of love, sexuality, and marriage through one of the composer’s most sumptuous scores.

Returning for his fourth Bard SummerScape production, Räth approaches the opera through a prism of fame, fantasy, and identity. Anchored by the American Symphony Orchestra and an international cast led by soprano Ambur Braid in the title role, the production continues Bard’s decades-long tradition of presenting rare operatic gems with artists of the highest caliber.

Mozart and His World (August 7 – 16)

and Andy Monk once again hosting the popular After Hours series, the Spiegeltent creates a uniquely welcoming space where artists and audiences mingle long after the curtain falls.

“The summer’s most stimulating music festival.” —Los Angeles Times

Every August, the Bard Music Festival turns its attention to a single composer, placing their life, work, and cultural context under a scholarly and musical microscope. For its 36th season, the festival explores one of the most celebrated names in classical music with Mozart and His World (August 7–9 and 13–16).

Few composers have inspired more biographies, myths, and cultural fascination than Wolfgang Amadé Mozart. Yet the Bard Music Festival seeks to move beyond familiar narratives, examining Mozart’s life and work within the political, intellectual, and artistic currents of the eighteenth-century Habsburg Empire.

Across eleven themed concerts, orchestral performances, lectures, and discussions, audiences will encounter Mozart alongside contemporaries including Joseph Haydn, Michael Haydn, Antonio Salieri, Johann Christian Bach, and Marianna Martines. The festival culminates in a semi-staged performance of The Abduction from the Seraglio. As always, the festival’s hallmark is context: illuminating not just a composer, but the world that shaped their genius.

Nights

at

the Spiegeltent

(Through August 15)

“Fresh, eclectic, and glamorous.” —Chronogram

Returning for its 19th year, the majestic handmade mirrored pavilion serves as the festival’s social heart, offering an eclectic mix of live music, comedy, cabaret, and dancing through August 15. Curated by Jason Collins, with Adrienne Truscott returning as emcee

This year’s lineup includes returning favorites Justin Vivian Bond, Martha Redbone, Chanel Ali, the Tray Wellington Band, and Truscott herself, alongside first-time appearances by BenDeLaCreme, James Austin Johnson, Samora Pinderhughes, and Jaqueline Novak. The popular Bluegrass on Hudson series also returns for a fourth season.

Taken together, the 2026 season captures what has made SummerScape one of America’s most distinctive arts festivals. Against the backdrop of the Hudson River Valley, inside a Gehry-designed cultural landmark and on the cusp of a major expansion led by Maya Lin, the Fisher Center continues to create a space where new work thrives, forgotten masterpieces are rediscovered, and audiences are invited into experiences that are as adventurous as they are unforgettable.

Plan Your Visit

SummerScape 2026

Through August 16, 2026

Fisher Center for the Performing Arts at Bard College

Annandale-on-Hudson, New York

Tickets & Information (845) 758-7900 fishercenter.bard.edu

Visit the website for performance schedules, ticket packages, dining and lodging recommendations, accessibility information, and transportation options from New York City.

Spiegeltent. Photo by Maria Baranova

Celebrating its 24th anniversary, the 2026 Saugerties Artists

Studio Tour features 46 studios, the largest tour since its inception in 2002. Participating painters, sculptors, collagists, ceramists, print makers, photographers, videographers and multimedia artists are eager to embrace the opportunity to once again open their studios for art lovers who want to experience the place where art is made. This year many new artists have joined ranks with this evergrowing Saugerties artists’ community. All of the artists have been plying their skills to create new work, tinker with new techniques and mediums, and review past endeavors, finding new meaning in earlier explorations.

During the tour, you will see completed work and works in progress in a wide array of mediums and styles. Whatever your interest, the tour has something for you — painters working in oils, acrylics, watercolor and inks, as well as artists working with digital tools; collage makers, printmakers, and artists who choose drawing as their medium; photographers and video artists; sculptors working in steel or industrial debris, or creating earth art, such as stone cairn creations; ceramic artists whose work ranges from figurative to functional. Any and all materials can be transformed into artfully created pieces, including handcrafted furniture and home furnishings made of fine wood or vintage barn wood.

On the tour’s website short videos introduce visitors to some of the artists in an up-close, and personal way, telling their stories in their own words and offering demonstrations of how they do what they do best. Learn more about all of the artists by clicking on an artist’s name in the menu; you will be taken to their own personal page where you will find images of their work and artist statements.

This is the tour’s 24th year of shining a light on local talent. It all kicks off with an opening reception on Friday, July 10, at the Dutch Barn Art & Heritage Gallery, 119 Main Street, Saugerties, from 5 to 7 pm, where you can pick up a map for this free selfguided tour. Gallery hours are July 11-July 26, Saturdays, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Sundays, 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

More Information

Open studio days are Saturday and Sunday, August 8-9, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Please check the website at saugertiesarttour.org for more information about the Tour and the 2026 artists. There is no charge to attend the opening reception and the open studio tour is a free, self-guided event, registration is not required. To request that a free tour map be mailed directly to you, send your surface mail address to bbravo@hvc.rr.com.

Clockwise from top right: Marsha Kaufman-Rubinstein, Izabella Shealy, Joanne Pagano Weber

“I Have an Idea”: Birthing an Arts-Centered Nonprofit

By Peter Finn

In 1998, with his wife Sarah, Peter Finn founded the Catskill Mountain Foundation (CMF), which supports a wide range of artistic and cultural activities in the region—including this magazine. In his new book Driven to Build, Guided by Values: Leading for Success in the For-Profit and Nonprofit Worlds, Finn offers stories and insights from his parallel careers in the philanthropic and business arenas. The excerpt below recounts how he and Sarah launched CMF, discovering in the process that an unlikely idea driven by a love of place and supported by friends with talent and creativity can lead to surprising results.

The Catskills have a long tradition as a center of creative activity.

“Of all the scenery of the Hudson,” wrote Washington Irving, creator of the storied Rip Van Winkle, “the Kaatskill Mountains had the most witching effect on my boyish imagination.” In the mid-19th century, the Hudson River School was at the forefront of an American art movement led by a group of landscape painters like Thomas Cole and Frederic Church who produced sweeping views of the Hudson River Valley and the mountains beyond.

Other early trendsetters included the Byrdcliffe Arts Colony, which spearheaded the arts and crafts movement of the late 19th century, and Onteora Park, now a private community in the village of Tannersville in the town of Hunter. Onteora Park was originally a place where prominent New Yorkers gathered in “an experiment in plain living with high thinking.” Mark Twain, actress Maude

Adams, and designer Candace Wheeler were among the wellknown residents or frequent visitors.

The same spectacular scenery and respite from the big city that drew artists and writers to the Catskills prompted my great-grandparents to begin spending summers in Hunter. My great-grandfather Louis Borgenicht and my great-grandmother Regina had 12 children. My grandmother Sadie fell somewhere in the middle. In 1907, Louis and Regina bought a summer home in Hunter, where in 1911 their youngest child, my great-uncle Jacob (called Jack), was born.

Along with the two generations that preceded me, I fell in love with the Catskills. As children, my three sisters and I visited Hunter less frequently, but the family homestead remained a special place for me. There was a reason that, during the second semes-

The Red Barn. Photo by Jeffrey Langford

ter of our freshman year at Brown University, one of the first things Sarah and I did together was a road trip to the village of Hunter to see our family house and the surrounding mountains. The house had known better days, but the view of the surrounding mountain scenery was just as I remembered. Sarah and I daydreamed about a future in which we lived off the land, growing our own food in our own garden. In a few years, I would be thinking about graduate school as a way to prepare for an academic career, but in the years after Sarah and I returned from that visit to Hunter, we went so far as to research organic farming, ways to build a superinsulated home, and how to power it with renewable energy. I guess many would say we were hippies. I had long hair, we had met in a meditation class, and we were vegetarians.

In the early years of our marriage, Sarah and I visited Hunter infrequently. By the late 1980s, the family home had fallen into serious disrepair. It was jointly owned by my father and his two siblings along with one of their cousins. All told, more than a dozen family members were in line to inherit the house. Since everyone owned it, no one did, making decisions about upkeep or renovations problematic. (I guess home ownership is not a collaborative enterprise!)

In 1991, Sarah and I came to an agreement to buy the shares owned by my father, his brother, and his sister’s family, and by the following year, we had completed the purchase. For the next few years, Sarah and I and our children, Noah and Emily, spent weekends and holidays in Hunter, doing a complete gut renovation. We doubled the size of our part of the house by expanding the living room and kitchen and adding two bedrooms on the second floor. We had the help of a carpenter, but Sarah, Noah, and I did a lot of the work ourselves. We learned as we went, and with every nail we pounded, every piece of sheet rock we screwed in, Sarah and I felt more and more committed to the house and to Hunter. In fact, to protect our slice of heaven, we purchased

the five-and-a-half-acre parcel adjacent to our house that we could see from our back yard, which was in foreclosure.

Sarah and I didn’t know it yet, but once we started, we wouldn’t stop.

From the edge of our five and a half acres, we could see another two and half acres that stretched almost to Main Street. We bought that parcel, too, which included an old dairy barn that had been turned into a series of nightclubs but had been vacant for years. The first time we walked into that building, it was clear that animals had been living in the building and the floors were partially rotted out. We weren’t sure what we’d do with the property, but I planned to buy a tractor and I needed a place to store it. So my first thought was that the barn would be a perfect place for that. Then, Sarah and I started to think about turning the barn into a larger home for our family. After several years of renovating the building, it became known as the Red Barn on Main Street in the village of Hunter.

Sarah and I began to wonder what else we could do to make a difference in the community. On our round-trip weekend drives from our home in New Rochelle to Hunter, we constantly talked about ways in which we might be able to engage with the mountaintop community in a meaningful way, beyond being just property owners.

Sarah and I are huge movie fans, and most of our Saturdays in Hunter ended with an evening at the movie theater on Main Street. Like most of the buildings in town, however, the musty theater had seen better days. Not surprisingly, it also had a For Sale sign next to the front entrance. It was surrounded by an antique shop, a beauty parlor that was open only a few days a week, a grocery store that had closed, and a ski-repair shop open only during ski season. Main Street was pretty quiet, to say the least. On most Saturday nights, the four Finns were a large percentage of the audience in the movie theater. Sometimes we were the only audience. But we enjoyed ourselves.

Panoramic view of Main Street in Hunter before renovations.

The Doctorow Center for the Arts today. Photo by Jeffrey Langford

After exiting the theater one evening, I told Sarah. “I have an idea.” That was a phrase that Sarah would come to know meant trouble.

“Why don’t we buy the movie theatre?” I suggested. It would be fun to choose the movies, and I thought that taking over a small business would be our first step in really becoming a part of the community. I envisioned a modest enterprise. We’d only need to hire a projectionist and someone to sell tickets and concessions. Maybe in the lobby we could have a small art gallery, and perhaps even a tiny bookstore in the corner.

Sarah was seeing the first glimpse of what would become a pattern. I’d have these ideas related to Hunter, most of them proposing activities we’d never even imagined trying before, and somehow the two of us would make them happen. She worried about the investments needed, but she also liked the potential of what I described. If we pulled it off, the result would be a movie theater, but also a gallery and a bookstore—a real asset to Main Street. And as we talked, the idea continued to grow. Maybe once in a while we’d use it to present a live performance. Our son Noah had become the technical director of his high school’s theater program; maybe we could invite the company to perform on the small movie theater stage. Maybe we could even attract other live performances. And what about reviving our decades-old dream of operating an organic farm to raise healthy and environmentally sustainable produce? I was getting ahead of myself, but I had heard stories about how, by investing in the arts, communities had succeeded in creating a bright new future. Could we do the same?

Sarah heard me out, and after thinking about it, she decided to encourage my dreams.

I mentioned all of this to our new friend Sean Byrne, whom we’d met while walking on Main Street one day. He suggested that the Hunter Foundation create a theater committee that could spearhead my efforts. That’s where I met Barry Kerr and Linda Nichols, who were also enthusiastic about bringing live performances to our

Catskill community. Both of them had much more experience than I did in this regard, and I soon discovered that working with talented people and allowing them to do their thing would be the most important ingredient in any success I was to have in Hunter, Manhattan, or anywhere else. Linda was a teacher at the local high school and the director of the Greene Room Players, a community theater company, while Barry’s background was as a producer of films and live theater. In the 1970s he had worked on the conversion of Manhattan’s famed Beacon Theater back into a live performance space, and later in the Catskills he created Reel Teens, an annual festival of films by young people from around the world. He also later became a board member and a producer at the Playhouse Community Theatre in Phoenicia, 30 minutes south of Hunter.

When I told Barry of my plans to buy the movie theater and run it as a small business, he suggested that instead, I might want to consider creating a nonprofit. This idea made me a bit nervous: If I set up a nonprofit, I’d have to provide the funds to purchase the theater and would never be able to recoup my investment. But Barry pointed out the obvious—that I’d never get a return on my investment anyway. The local movie theater was not exactly a cash cow. If I operated it as a nonprofit, I could get other people to help fund its operation, and all our contributions would be taxdeductible.

In February of 1998, Sarah and I filed the paperwork to create a 501(c)(3) organization that we named the Catskill Mountain Foundation (CMF). Sarah and I were fortunate that, serendipitously, Pam Weisberg was available to help us.

For more than two decades, Pam and her husband Judd had operated a nonprofit named Art Awareness from an historic building in Lexington, New York—about a ten-minute drive from Hunter—which had been owned by Judd’s family for three generations. In addition to gallery openings and outdoor sculpture installations, Art Awareness had a particular focus on experimental dance.

SUPPORT THE ARTS ON THE MOUNTAINTOP

Sarah and I visited the gallery and introduced ourselves. I knew Pam and Judd had a dance company in residence, and Pam proposed that we have the dancers present a minishow in Hunter. We hadn’t purchased the movie theater yet, so Pam suggested we invite the dancers to perform in the big space we considered our future living room at the Red Barn.

The event became our opportunity to announce the launch of CMF and discuss our plans with the community. We must have had 50 people at that first event, and most of them expressed excitement that there was someone investing in the local community through the arts. That was encouraging, and Sarah and I began to get excited about building something that might even go beyond our current plans.

At the reception after that first performance, Pam explained that for a number of reasons (mostly financial), she and Judd were in the process of closing down Art Awareness. I asked about her future plans, and she told me that she’d be looking for work. The timing was perfect. Sarah and I hired Pam as CMF’s director of performing arts programming, a position she continues to hold today.

Pam was so connected to the Catskill art scene that we were able to hit the ground running. She paved our way to the many collaborations to come—not only with local artists like the Windham Chamber Music Festival and the Catskill Jazz Factory, but also with national companies like American Ballet Theatre, Capitol Steps, and the Paul Taylor Dance Company. Pam’s experience with government agencies also proved crucial to our early fundraising

efforts. Before moving to Lexington, she had worked on a program for the New York State Council on the Arts that dispensed grants to artists throughout New York state, so she had extensive experience applying for grants from local, state, and federal agencies.

Our plan at the time was to eventually present performances at the movie theater, but Pam suggested we start off using the Red Barn for performances until we could renovate the theater. Sarah and I were unsure about this, since we had renovated the Red Barn to become our beautiful new home. We had built an addition to serve as our bedroom, and there was a huge open area that would be a terrific living room and dining room. There was one problem, however. After we agreed to host the foundation’s first few concerts at the Red Barn, people kept telling us what a wonderful performance space it was. All the while, we kept saying to anyone who would listen that this was going to be our home. Most people chose to ignore us. As the foundation began to use the barn more and more, Sarah and I kept putting off our move. We kept telling ourselves there was no rush.

Today, we’ve finally given up. For many years now, the Red Barn has been used every day by the Catskill Mountain Foundation for performances, for dance classes for young people in the area, and for artist residencies.

Copyright © 2026 by Peter Finn. Adapted from Driven to Build, Guided by Value: Leading for Success in the For-Profit and Nonprofit Worlds, by Peter Finn (Rivertowns Books).

20 Years of Bethel Woods: A Conversation with Eric Frances, CEO

By Colleen Kane

Bethel Woods CEO Eric Frances recalls his first days on the job in 2006 as Chief Financial Officer, moving into the top spot in 2020 just as the Covid pandemic was hitting, and what the nonprofit looks like 20 years later.

“Twenty years later, some details of my first day are definitely blurrier than they used to be — but a few things still stand out pretty clearly.

“I remember showing up wearing a jacket and tie because everyone who interviewed me had been dressed impeccably. I genuinely thought I was entering a very formal corporate environment and figured I’d better dust off my suits after coming from a much more business-casual workplace. Sometime that afternoon, though, my boss popped into my office and basically told me, ‘You can relax a little — it’s rock and roll.’ That was probably the first clue that Bethel Woods had its own personality.

“The campus was still under construction, so there was constant activity everywhere. The office next to mine belonged to one of the construction supervisors — an extremely colorful guy from Romania who spent most of the day either loudly cursing or chainsmoking cigarettes. Sitting next door to him was both hilarious and terrifying. It definitely wasn’t the polished first day I had imagined, but in hindsight, it perfectly captured the mix of ambition, intensity, and unpredictability that defined those early days.

“There was also an energy in the air that’s hard to describe now. Everyone understood we were building something important — not just another venue, but a place tied to an incredible piece of American cultural history. Even before the gates opened, you could feel that.”

In January of 2020, Eric was appointed Chief Executive Officer of Bethel Woods, just months before Covid would shut the venue down for the season, causing him to rethink how the nonprofit would operate in the year ahead.

“While Covid was incredibly difficult on so many levels, there are also moments from it that I’ll never forget because they revealed the character of this organization and the people behind it.

“One moment that stays with me was a phone call with our chairman, Alan Gerry, early in the uncertainty. Everything around us felt unstable, and none of us really knew what the coming months would look like. Alan calmly told me, ‘Everything is going to be fine. I’ve been around a long time and this feels like something we will see our way through.’ Alan’s ability to remain steady,

calm, and optimistic — is why I took the job and what gave me comfort during those times.

“Not long after, despite the fact that regulations had effectively shut down our operations, the Board made the decision to continue paying staff and avoid furloughs. That decision said a lot about the values of this organization.

“When we were finally able to come back onsite in limited ways, the staff split into teams and tackled whatever needed to get done. People who normally worked in offices were outside painting barns, patching roofs, raking leaves, and helping maintain the grounds. There was something oddly grounding and unifying about that experience.

“And then, out of that difficult period, came Peace, Love & Lights. What started as a creative response to unprecedented circumstances became a new tradition and an example of how Bethel Woods has always tried to adapt, innovate, and keep serving the community even during challenging times.

“In the beginning, Bethel Woods was organized chaos. We were only weeks away from opening and still discovering basic things we hadn’t planned for yet — including realizing, incredibly late in the process, that we hadn’t even ordered uniforms for staff.

“Every day felt like a race against the clock, literally, because in one of our conference rooms, there was a clock counting down the months, weeks, days, and hours to the first note of the New York Philharmonic on July 1, 2006.

“Back then, there was a lot of improvising, problem-solving, and figuring things out in real time. The campus itself was still raw and unfinished in places. We were operating on a mix of adrenaline and sheer momentum because just like 1969, despite all the plan-

Left: Early construction at Bethel Woods; Right: Bethel Woods today.

ning, no one truly knows what a place like this will become until the gates finally open.

“Today, what strikes me most is how deeply Bethel Woods has woven itself into people’s lives and into the region. We’ve evolved from being ‘the new venue on the Woodstock site’ into a true cultural institution — one that means different things to different people. For some, it’s where they saw their favorite artist for the first time. For others, it’s a place of education, inspiration, escape, or community connection.

“Back then, we were hoping people would come. Today, I’ll stand backstage on a show day and realize there are so many cool things happening across campus, and I can’t possibly see all of them. It’s surreal to witness what the place has become after seeing it before it even opened. One of the biggest differences now is seeing families return year after year — and in some cases, seeing children who grew up attending programs here come back as adults, staff members, artists, or parents themselves. That’s when you realize Bethel Woods has become something enduring.

“Even during construction, you could tell this was going to be an impressive place physically. But what changed my perspective was seeing how people reacted once they actually arrived here and experienced it for themselves.

“When the campus opened and guests began walking the grounds, visiting the Museum, and gathering for concerts and programs, you could feel something deeper happening.  Often I talk

about this one particular Bad Company show in the early years where I came over the crest of the lawn during the finale when they sang their signature hit “Shooting Star” and the house lights were up and everyone was on their feet singing the chorus to the song.  You could feel the unifying power of music – it was unlike anything I had experienced.

“I also think back to Mysteryland, the EDM festival we hosted in 2014. When a group of younger kids came through the gates and made it to the historic field, one guy immediately threw himself into the grass and started flailing around like he was making a snow angel. “This place is heaven,” he said. It was fulfilling to see someone young, with no real connection to Woodstock, still feel the magic of the place — and I remember him telling me he didn’t drink or do drugs.

“I realized people might arrive for a concert or a specific performer … but somewhere during the experience, many of them found something deeper — connection, memory, meaning, and even healing. That changed the way I thought about Bethel Woods. It stopped feeling like “the office” or work and started feeling like a sacred place that deserved to be shared with the world.

“Over time, I’ve watched guests arrive as tourists and leave feeling emotionally connected to the site in ways they didn’t expect. That’s when you realize Bethel Woods is not just preserving history — it’s continuing it.”

Cinderella

A New Production of the Orpheum Dance Program Comes to Tannersville this Summer

On Saturday & Sunday, August 1 & 2, Victoria Rinaldi and the Orpheum Dance Program will present a newly conceived production, Cinderella, at the Orpheum Performing Arts Center in Tannersville. Based on the fairytale by Charles Perrault and featuring music by Jules Massenet, this original production will feature both dance and spoken word and have all the hallmarks one expects: ravishing dancing, comedy, a Fairy Godmother, a glass slipper, and a happy ending!

Audiences since 2019 have come to love the Orpheum Dance Program’s summer production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. But this year Victoria wanted to up the ante and create a brand new production for audiences. “I’ve long wanted to create a trio of summer productions that we can present on a rotating basis. We have a lovely magical Shakespeare comedy with Midsummer, and Cinderella will be our classic fairytale. Now I just need to come up with an equally engaging third production and the trio will be complete,” laughs Victoria.

This new production of Cinderella is very different from the Prokofiev ballet: “I find that score to be very dark,” said Victoria. “I wanted something lighter and more joyful for this production.” So she turned to her past as a professional dancer for inspiration. “In 1985 I was in the Massenet opera Cendrillon with the New

By Sarah Taft

York City Opera,” she said, “and it was a beautiful production, with beautiful dancing.” The problem, though, was that there isn’t enough music in the ballet suite to stage a full-length production. “So I went through Massenet’s music and created the score that we’ll be using,” she said. “Then I went through and wrote out the whole production, from the story to the dance parts to the spoken word roles that help carry the story,” creating a totally new, totally fresh summer production presented only in Tannersville.

“This is going to be a much bigger show than Midsummer,” said Victoria, “with more props, more scenes, and more interaction between the dancers, the actors, and the audience.” Designing a new production like this one presented exciting challenges. “I really had to sit down with the score and ask what can I do to make this a magical, engaging experience for the audience,” said Victoria. “So I had to work out what kind of stagecraft do I have to use so that it’s not contrived and to make it magical for the audience? How will the pumpkin carriage appear? How can I make Cinderella’s first appearance at the ball as magical as possible?” These are all questions that Victoria has been working through for the past year, and the audience is sure to be enchanted by the results.

Starring as Cinderella is Sydney Henson, one of Victoria’s first students on the Mountain Top, now a professional ballerina with

Students of the Orpheum Dance Program at a recent recital. Photos by Carrie Sutton

the Cleveland Ballet. Audiences will remember Sydney as the very first Clara in the Orpheum Dance Program’s production of The Nutcracker in 2015; that ballet has grown over the past 11 years to be one of the finest Nutcrackers in upstate New York. Sydney will be joined by another dancer with the Cleveland Ballet, Levian Mondville, as the Prince. Other dance roles will be filled by students in the pre-professional program at Joffrey Ballet School New York, which has been an important partner of the Orpheum Dance Program in past productions.

Spoken word is also an important part of this production, as it is with Midsummer, “but I really wanted the spoken word to be better integrated into this production,” said Victoria. Rebecca Reaney, who audiences may remember as Peter Quince from last year’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, will play Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother. Favorite local actors from the Maude Adams Theater Hub will step into the roles of the stepmother and stepsisters. Jessica Gibbons will play the stepmother, and Hedda Flynn and Lillian Gracia will play the stepsisters. “Since the dance and spoken word are so much more integrated in this production,” said Victoria, “I really wanted to use local actors so that they’re more accessible for rehearsals. And luckily there’s some really wonderful talent on the Mountain Top.”

The Orpheum Dance Program

The beginnings of the Orpheum Dance Program lay with a production of The Nutcracker in 2015. That first production cast Victoria’s advanced students alongside local children. “The classes originally started after I did my first production of The Nutcracker, which was a thank you to the Catskill Mountain Foundation for the use of their facilities to teach my first students,” said Victoria. “I involved a lot of kids from the community in The Nutcracker, and they were coming to me begging for classes so that they could learn to dance like the professional dancers I was bringing in.” First known as simply the Community Dance Classes, these classes have grown into the Orpheum Dance Program, which teaches ballet, jazz and contemporary dance to local kids starting as young as age 5.

“Teaching these kids has been such a rewarding experience,” said Victoria. “Since I’m teaching at all levels, I’ve had to develop skills that I definitely did not have in my own dance training. I’ve had to learn how to teach kids, to remember what it felt like to learn these moves, to develop an awareness of how kids react to different situations, and how to read a room filled with young children and to switch gears when I see I’m losing them.”

Play is an important part of that process. “I use a lot of fun props and games,” said Victoria. “I’ll put something fun like a stuffed cupcake at various spots in the room, and have the kids run or skip to it. That teaches them how to move through a space in both straight lines and diagonals. I’ll ask them to imagine a puddle in the middle of the room, and ask them to jump over it ... they’re essentially learning a grand jeté, without realizing it.”

It’s not all play, though: there’s a lot of hard work involved. “Victoria’s very good with giving clear directions because she wants you to move the correct way. She definitely trains you for perfec-

tion,” says Avery Goodwin, who has been a student of the Orpheum Dance Program since it started. While some may be intimidated by the hard work, it’s fun, too. “It’s a wonderful experience,” added Aria Shoffler. “I would encourage other people to do it … it’s a lot of fun.” And the hard work does pay off. “Victoria is strict, definitely,” says Kensi Dempsey. “Kids who don’t really commit often quit, but if you stick with it, it pays off.” That dedication to hard work has certainly paid off for Elvis d’Ambrosia, another long-time student of the program, who recently completed an advanced ballet class in New York with the famed dancer Valentina Kozlova.

For some of these students, a career in dance is something that they’re very interested in pursuing; for others, taking these classes is an important life experience that teaches them lessons that they’ll carry throughout the rest of their lives. “There’s nothing else that these kids can do that will teach them the same lessons that dance will,” said Victoria. “It’s not like sports, where you’re asked to perfect certain moves in an asymmetrical way. In dance, you’re negotiating with your body all the time, taking a sequence of steps that you’ve learned and making split-second decisions about how you’re going to land, all while counting music at the same time.” Avery adds, “my body awareness and how I interact with a space has definitely gotten better.” Kensi’s mother Alisa says that she “literally dances around the house, and twirls from room to room. And her posture is perfect ... she also rides horses, and her equestrian instructor said that ballerinas who ride horses are the best.”

These classes also teach skills that are important in other parts of life. Aria has learned the importance of “being on time, staying organized, and staying focused.” Elvis has also learned the importance of being on time: “I don’t really like to be late,” she said. “I’ve learned a lot of discipline from these classes.”

“I feel honored that the Orpheum Dance Program and the performances are a big part of their childhood memories,” said Victoria. “Things will adapt and change, but the one thing I can do is to create a fan base for ballet, and they will carry that for the rest of their lives.”

What’s New for The Orpheum Dance Program

Ongoing renovations at the Orpheum Performing Arts Center will bring new opportunities for the program to grow. “I want to make this program bigger,” said Victoria. “The renovations at the Orpheum are looking really good, and we’re looking forward to their completion—it will be our chance to really up the ante on this program, maybe even develop a multi-week summer intensive program.” For information about the program or to register for classes, visit catskillmtn.org/orpheum-dance-program.

Cinderella

Performances of Cinderella are on Saturday, August 1 at 2:00 & 6:00 pm and on Sunday, August 2 at 2:00 pm. The Orpheum Performing Arts Center is located at 6050 Main Street, Tannersville, NY 12485. For tickets, go to catskillmtn.org.

Welcome to Hunter and Tannersville!

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.

5980 Main Street

Tannersville, NY 12485

dejabrew2.com

518 589 4102

Deja Brew Specialty Coffees is a family-owned and operated café offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Known for their expertly brewed specialty coffees, the café also delights customers with an assortment of freshly made pastries, soups, empanadas, and gourmet sandwiches. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm, Sunday from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Deja Brew Bakery & Cafe

Photo: Jeffrey Langford

BRAVE THE FLAMES

So, let’s say you’re spending the day in the Catskills. Maybe you’re hiking. Maybe you’re shopping. Maybe you’re just driving around pretending you know where you’re going. Eventually, you’re going to get hungry. When that happens, locals will probably point you toward Brave The Flames in Tannersville.

At first glance, it looks like a comfortable neighborhood restaurant. Then the food shows up.

Brave The Flames has become known for serving fresh, made-to-order food that doesn’t believe in being boring. The smash burgers have developed a bit of a following, and for good reason. They’re juicy, loaded with flavor, and somehow manage to disappear faster than your promise to “only eat half.”

But burgers are only part of the story.

The menu jumps from crispy chicken tenders and hearty sandwiches to tacos, seafood features, fresh salads, vegan options, and weekly creations that keep regular customers checking back to see what’s new. The kitchen enjoys taking familiar comfort foods and giving them a little personality. Sometimes that personality is smoky. Sometimes spicy. Sometimes it shows up wearing flavors from halfway around the world.

One of the best things about Brave The Flames is that it doesn’t try to fit into a single category. It’s casual enough for lunch after a hike, comfortable enough for family dinner, and convenient enough when nobody feels like cooking. (Let’s be honest, that’s most days.)

The portions are generous, the atmosphere is welcoming, and the food is made with the kind of attention that’s becoming harder and harder to find these days. It’s the type of place where visitors stop in once and then make a point of returning the next time they’re in town.

In short, Brave The Flames is proof that great food doesn’t need white tablecloths, tiny portions, or a dictionary to explain the menu. It just needs fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and enough napkins to survive the experience.

Shandaken Bake

6036 Main Street

Tannersville, NY 12485

On Instagram:

@shandakenbake

518 589 4171

Home of the Chubby Squirrel! Serving seductively delicious pastries, pies, tarts, cakes and tea snacks. Open Saturdays & Sundays 9 am to 2 pm and rustic afternoon tea on Thursdays 2 pm to 6 pm. For more information, give us a jingle or visit us on Instagram!

BANK

Bank of Greene County

6176 Main Street

Tannersville, NY 12485

Additional locations throughout Greene County tbogc.com

518 943 2600

Bank of Greene County has been proudly serving the Capital Region and Hudson Valley with relationship focused financial solutions for over 135 years. Our select products and services include checking and savings accounts, commercial and residential loans and mortgages, investment services, and our Visa® Rewards and Greene Loyalty program. Give us a call, stop by your local branch, or visit our website to see how we can help you achieve your financial goals.

CAR DEALERSHIP

Thorpe’s GMC

5964 Main Street

Tannersville, NY 12485

thorpesgmcinc.com

518 589 7142

Thorpe’s unmatched service and diverse 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.

DEJA BREW

Nestled in the heart of the beautiful mountain town of Tannersville, Deja Brew Bakery & Cafe is more than just a coffee shop, it’s a place where community, comfort, and handcrafted quality come together.

From the moment you walk through our doors, you’re welcomed by the aroma of freshly brewed Don Pello Puerto Rican coffee, homemade soups, freshly baked pastries, and our signature crafted sandwiches. Whether you’re stopping in after a hike, warming up after a day on the slopes, meeting friends for lunch, or simply looking for a great cup of coffee, we strive to make every guest feel at home.

As a family-owned business, Deja Brew was created with a simple goal: to provide a warm, inviting space where people can gather, relax, and enjoy delicious food and drinks made with care. Guests have come to love our signature crafted sandwiches, comforting soups, decadent pastries, and the rich, smooth flavor of our coffee, a favorite among both locals and visitors.

Deja Brew is also home to Kimberly Joan and El Guapo, artisan beauty collections created by owner Kimberly Villafane. With over 17 years of experience crafting natural body care products, Kimberly offers luxurious soaps, skincare, fragrances, and wellness products designed to bring a touch of everyday indulgence to life. Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift or treating yourself, you’ll find something special to enjoy.

More than anything, Deja Brew reflects the warmth and charm of Catskill mountain life. It’s a place where visitors become friends, conversations happen naturally, and everyone is greeted with a smile. We are grateful for the support of our community and proud to create not only great food, signature crafted sandwiches, exceptional coffee, but memorable experiences for every guest who walks through our doors.

CATSKILLS CANDLE STUDIO

Born out of the idea that a beautifully smelling, aesthetically please candle can be available at a guiltfree price point, Catskills Candle Studio has grown from a small passion project to a nationally recognized candle maker, on the shelves of over 80 stores nationwide.

Mentioned in Martha Stewart and Parade Home and Garden, as well as named by ELLE Decor as one of “The 9 Best Candle Shops Worth a Plane Ride” along with other world famous brands like Trudon in Paris and Santa Maria Novella in Florence, Catskills Candle Studio is proudly based in Tannersville, where every candle is hand-poured by our team in the Catskills. Our Tannersville Studio is not only our storefront, it is where the entire brand comes to life. From pouring and labeling to packing orders headed all over the nation, everything happens inside our small mountain town studio. Inspired by the beautiful nature that surrounds us as well as our own histories, Catskills Candle Studio has become known for creating fragrances that feel both luxurious and approachable. Our bestselling scent, Campfire + Fir, has become known as “The Scent of The Catskills” and has become a way of bringing The Catskills home with you, wherever home may be.

Catskill Mountain Foundation

Doctorow Center for the Arts

7971 Main Street

Hunter, NY 12442

Orpheum Performing Arts Center

6050 Main Street

Tannersville, NY 12485

catskillmtn.org

Ticket line: 518 263 2063

The Maude Adams Theater Hub kicks off the month of July with Matilda, the Musical, presented at the Orpheum on July 2, 3 and 5. 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. On Saturday, July 4 at the Windham Civic & Performing Arts Center in Windham, see OMNY Taiko Drummers in their annual performance of taiko drumming. Join us on July 12 for Catskill Mountain Foundation’s annual summer Benefit. Presented in partnership with Works & Process at the Guggenheim, we’ll once again welcome star dancers from the New York City Ballet, who will perform under the direction of NYCB Principal Adrian Danchig-Waring. They’ll be joined on stage with young dancers from the Orpheum Dance Program, and the performance will be preceded by a song by the cast of Matilda. CMF also welcomes two partner

Matilda, July 2-5

arts organizations to our stages in July. From July 11 through July 26, Catskill Mountain Shakespeare will present Much Ado About Nothing outdoors and under the tent behind the Big Red Barn. From July 18 through July 26, Horton by the Stream, a NYC-based theater project will present a season of new plays, classic American voices, and films at the Doctorow Center for the Arts.

LODGING

Creekside Suites

6022 Main Street

Tannersville, NY 12485

Find Us on airbnb.com or expedia.com

CreeksideSuites@outlook.com

518 589 4027

Conveniently located in downtown Tannersville, where you are a short distance to multiple restaurants, shops, hiking trails, and Hunter Mountain. Make yourself at home in one of the two individually decorated guestrooms, featuring kitchenettes with refrigerators, ovens and coffee/tea makers; 55-inch Smart TVs with digital programming; and rainfall showerheads. Free WiFi and self parking. Each stay comes with a 20% discount to Pantry on Main, where you can grab breakfast, coffee, dinner items, snacks, beer and wine.

PANCHO VILLA’S

Since opening in 1993, Pancho Villa’s has been more than just a restaurant in Tannersville, NY — it has been a gathering place for family, friends, and community. Founded by Oscar and Patricia Azcue and still proudly family-owned and operated today, Pancho Villa’s has welcomed generations of guests through its doors for over 30 years.

What started as a dream built through hard work, family values, and a passion for sharing authentic food and hospitality has grown into a local tradition. Over the years, we have watched children grow up, return with families of their own, and continue the traditions started around our tables. Many of our customers have become like extended family, and those relationships are what make this journey so meaningful.

At Pancho Villa’s, we believe great food brings people together. From celebrations and vacations in the Catskills to weeknight dinners and lifelong memories, we are grateful to have been part of so many special moments in our community.

As we reflect on more than three decades in Tannersville, we want to thank everyone who has supported us along the way. Your loyalty, friendships, and continued support have allowed our family restaurant to thrive across generations. We are proud to continue serving the community that has embraced us since 1993, and we look forward to welcoming families for many years to come!

THORPE’S GMC

Founded in 1930, Thorpe’s GMC has been a family-owned business serving our community for nearly 100 years. What started as a small operation built on hard work and honest service has grown through four generations of the Thorpe family. Even as times have changed, our values have stayed the same.

Over the years, we have seen many changes in the automotive industry, from simple work trucks and repair shops to today’s modern vehicles and technology. Through it all, Thorpe’s GMC has remained focused on treating customers the right way. To us, customers are more than just sales; they are friends, neighbors, and families who continue to return generation after generation.

Being family-owned is a big part of who we are. Each generation has worked together to continue the business while learning the importance of honesty, respect, and supporting the community that has supported us for so many years.

We are proud of the history our family has built since 1930 and thankful for the loyal customers and dedicated employees who have helped make Thorpe’s GMC what it is today. As we look to the future, we remain committed to the same values that have guided our business for four generations: trust, quality service, and community.

MOVIE THEATER

518 263 4702

Catskill Mountain Foundation

Mountain Cinema

7971 Main Street Hunter, NY 12442 catskillmtn.org

Hollywood, foreign & independent films running Friday through Mondays. Also available for rental for birthday parties and gatherings.

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

Catskill Mountain Foundation

7971 Main Street Hunter, NY 12442 catskillmtn.org

518 263 2000

Now in its 28th year, Catskill Mountain Foundation is a non-profit organization that offers a variety of programs centered on the arts. It owns and runs The Orpheum Performing Arts Center, The Doctorow Center for the Arts (which includes Mountain Cinema, the Evelyn Weisberg Concert Hall, and the Piano Performance Museum), Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts, a Natural Agriculture farm and the Guide Magazine. The Foundation has partnership programs with The Joyce Theater Foundation, Works & Process at the Guggenheim, and Catskill Mountain Shakespeare, and is also home to the Academy of Fortepiano Performance, Orpheum Dance Program, and Maude Adams Theater Hub.

Hunter Foundation

5994 Main Street

Tannersville, NY 12485 hunterfoundation.org

518 589 5050

The Hunter Foundation is a not for profit 501C3 organization located in the Village of Tannersville, within the Town of Hunter, NY. The Hunter Foundation is responsible for over 20 million dollars invested into the community to promote economic development and tourism in our region. Jobs have been provided, local contractors used and we have helped to create thriving businesses. Join us for our 2026 annual fundraising Garden Gala on Sunday, August 9 at the Colonial Golf Course.

BANKING LOCAL. INVESTING LOCAL. GROWING TOGETHER. BANK OF GREENE COUNTY

For over 135 years, Bank of Greene County has helped generations of families in the Hudson Valley and Capital Region achieve their financial goals.

We offer a full range of personal and business banking services, including checking and savings accounts, residential and commercial lending and mortgages, wealth management services, and convenient digital banking tools. Decisions are made locally by people who live and work in the communities we serve. We understand the unique needs of our customers because they’re our neighbors, friends, families, and fellow community members.

Our commitment extends beyond just banking. Through charitable giving, volunteerism, and community partnerships, we proudly support the organizations, events, and initiatives that help strengthen our communities. Since its inception in 1998, Bank of Greene County Charitable Foundation has contributed over $4 million to local nonprofit organizations making a difference in our communities. From local schools and nonprofits to community development projects and small businesses, we believe in investing in the places we call home.

While banking continues to change, our commitment to exceptional service has remained the same. Whether you’re opening your first savings account, financing a home, expanding your business, or planning for retirement, our team is here to help every step of the way.

At Bank of Greene County, we’re more than a bank. We’re a trusted financial partner dedicated to helping our customers and communities. Our unique ownership structure ensures that we remain local, independent, and community oriented for generations to come so you can rest assured that we will always be here for you and your banking needs.

Visit us at tbgoc.com, give us a call at 518 943 2600 or visit one of our conveniently located branches to learn more about how we can help you achieve your financial goals.

THE KNITTING ROOM

Tucked along Main Street in the heart of Tannersville, The Knitting Room has quietly become a vibrant hub for fiber lovers over the past year. A sister shop to its Windham location, the Tannersville store brings the same welcoming spirit and thoughtfully curated selection that knitters and crocheters have come to love.

Since opening its doors, The Knitting Room has focused on offering high-quality yarns at approachable, affordable price points—making it easy for both beginners and seasoned makers to find something inspiring. The shelves are filled with carefully chosen fibers in a wide range of textures and colors, inviting creativity at every level.

But what truly sets the shop apart is its sense of community. Regular classes provide a supportive space to learn new skills or build on existing ones, while events like knit-alongs (KALs) bring people together around shared projects. In the colder months, the shop hosts cozy movie screenings, turning winter evenings into something to look forward to. The schedule is packed with classes and workshops for beginners and advanced knitters alike, and on Thursdays, a spinning group gathers, adding another layer to the shop’s rich fiber culture.

The Knitting Room isn’t just a place to shop—it’s a place to linger. Visitors are warmly invited to spend time in the shared backyard space with Shandaken Bake, where yarn and fresh pastries make for a perfect pairing. Whether you’re stopping in for supplies, joining a class, or simply looking for a welcoming place to sit and stitch, The Knitting Room offers a space to connect, create, and feel at home in the heart of the Catskills. Open Thursday through Monday, 12:00-5:00 pm.

RESTAURANTS

Brave the Flames

6080 Main Street

Tannersville, NY 12485

bravetheflames.com 518 718 4095

Brave The Flames has become known for serving fresh, made-to-order food that doesn’t believe in being boring. The smash burgers have developed a bit of a following, and for good reason. They’re juicy, loaded with flavor, and somehow manage to disappear faster than your promise to “only eat half.” But burgers are only part of the story. The menu jumps from crispy chicken tenders and hearty sandwiches to tacos, seafood features, fresh salads, vegan options, and weekly creations that keep regular customers checking back to see what’s new. Every Saturday we bring our Seafood Boils to Tannersville, offering something fresh, something fun and a little messy. Every Tuesday we show off our origin story with a creative fusion taco takeover. For one night, our Build-YourOwn menu takes a break so Twisted Taco can step in and bring you bold flavors, fresh ideas, and a seriously good time.

MAMA’S BOY BURGERS

Tucked into the heart of the Catskills, Mama’s Boy Burgers has become one of those dependable local spots that feels equally welcoming to weekend visitors and year-round residents alike. Located on Main Street in Tannersville, the casual burger stand embraces a nostalgic roadside charm without feeling overly manufactured or self-conscious.

What makes Mama’s Boy stand out is its balance of simplicity and care. The restaurant serves grass-fed Black Angus burgers sourced from a nearby family farm, alongside turkey burgers, vegetarian options, hand-cut fries, onion rings, hot dogs, and an unusually extensive lineup of shakes and frozen custard. The menu is playful but grounded, with specialty burgers like the “Big Daddy” — topped with bacon and blue cheese — and the “El Niño,” layered with guacamole, pico de gallo, and jalapeño bacon, sitting comfortably beside classic cheeseburgers, local ice cream, and old-fashioned frozen custard.

The atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious. Guests order at the outdoor window, grab a table inside or outside, and settle into the easy rhythm of a mountain town that still values small businesses and familiar faces. Mama’s Boy Burgers is family-friendly, pet-friendly, and especially popular after hikes, ski trips, or scenic drives through the Catskills.

Part of the restaurant’s appeal is how naturally it fits into the character of Tannersville itself. Brightly painted storefronts, mountain air, and a steady mix of locals and travelers give the area an easygoing energy that pairs perfectly with a casual meal and a milkshake on a warm afternoon. Whether stopping in for a quick lunch or lingering after a day outdoors, visitors tend to leave feeling like they’ve discovered a place that genuinely reflects the spirit of the Catskills.

In a region increasingly crowded with curated “destination” restaurants, Mama’s Boy Burgers succeeds by staying approachable. It focuses on doing the fundamentals well: quality local ingredients, generous portions, friendly service, and a setting that feels unmistakably Catskills. For many visitors passing through Tannersville, that combination has made it a reliable stop and an easy favorite.

PANTRY ON MAIN

Located in the heart of Tannersville, Pantry on Main is your go-to destination for exceptional dining that caters to every palate. We are family owned and operated; with deep community values. We pride ourselves on being more than just a restaurant; we are a culinary hub specializing in a diverse array of catering options, convenient to-go meals, and a tantalizing breakfast and lunch menu, highlighted by our unforgettable brunch on Sundays.

At Pantry on Main, we believe that every meal should be a celebration of flavor and fresh ingredients. Our breakfast offerings range from hearty classics to innovative dishes that cater to all dietary preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for fluffy pancakes, savory egg dishes, or a unique skillet, we have something that will ignite your taste buds and start your day off right.

Come lunchtime, our menu features a selection of sandwiches, salads, and soups made with locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring every bite is bursting with freshness. Our catering service is ideal for all occasions—be it intimate gatherings, corporate events, or celebratory feasts. We work closely with you to create a customized menu that meets your unique needs, making your event memorable and stress-free.

Join us on weekends for a vibrant brunch experience that combines classic favorites with a few delightful twists. With an inviting atmosphere and friendly service, Pantry on Main is a place where friends and family can gather, enjoy hearty meals, and create lasting memories.

Visit us today and indulge in the culinary delights that await at Pantry on Main—where every dish is crafted with love and passion, right here in the picturesque village of Tannersville.

Fred’s Coffee & Donuts

6715 Route 23A

Tannersville, NY 12485

fredsdonuts.com

Fred’s Coffee & Donuts is known for its fresh donuts and good coffee. They use high-quality ingredients and have a wide variety of donuts to choose from, including classics like glazed and chocolate glazed, as well as more unique flavors like maple bacon and hot apple cider. They also offer a variety of brewed coffees, espresso drinks, and cold brews.

Open every day, 7:00 am to 3:00 pm Monday through Friday, and 7:00 am to 5:00 pm Saturday and Sunday.

Johnson’s Barbecue at The Boathouse

On Lake Rip Van Winkle

27 Lake Road

Tannersville, NY 12485

johnsonsbarbecue.com

518 589 1186

BBQ Has Arrived at the Lake! Johnson’s Barbecue is taking the reins at Tanners Boathouse this summer for special events, private parties, equipment rentals and everything happening lakeside! Johnson’s Barbecue brings over 35 years of chef-driven expertise to every plate. We smoke our meats the traditional way on an offset smoker, marrying Kansas City boldness with Central Texas simplicity to create a regional New York State barbecue that’s uniquely Hudson Valley.

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!

TANNERSVILLE WORKS

Tannersville Works sits at the heart of Tannersville Village as the Northern Catskills’ must-visit art destination. Inside our sunny Main Street gallery and gift shop you’ll discover an inspired mix of contemporary artwork and curated vintage finds—Catskills wool blankets, mid-century glassware, needlepoint pillows, refined jewelry, handcrafted candles, stylish housewares, and bespoke gifts that feel handpicked.

Owner Tim Patrick left a New York City corporate life for mountain living during the pandemic, and that leap sparked a passion for community-focused retail. Alongside his partner Stephen Corsello and business partner Matthew Izzo, Tim converted a former co-working space into a lively boutique that celebrates local makers and timeless design. The result is a warm, playful environment where every corner invites discovery.

Displays are thoughtfully composed to spark ideas for your home; rotating exhibitions spotlight regional artists, and the mix of new and vintage pieces means you’ll find both functional accents and standout conversation starters. Knowledgeable staff make browsing effortless— suggesting framed art, assembling gift-ready bundles, or pointing you to unique finds you didn’t know you needed.

Tannersville Works welcomes locals and visitors who appreciate thoughtful craftsmanship, distinct personality, and standout design. Whether you’re seeking a Catskills keepsake or updating your home with artisan pieces, every visit becomes a joyful, boutique-style treasure hunt.

Visit Tannersville Works on Main Street to experience a curated fusion of art, design, and small-town charm— where every visit reveals something special.

Shop online at TannersvilleWorks.com. Now featuring over 1,000 unique artworks, vintage treasures, and oneof-a-kind gifts.

Pantry on Main

6022 Main Street

Tannersville, NY 12485

pantryonmain.com

518 589 4027

Pantry on Main is a familyowned 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!

RETAIL

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.

Catskills Candle Studio

5977 Main Street

Tannersville, NY 12485

catskillscandlestudio.com

518 203 3181

Catskills Candle Studio is a proudly female-owned business based in the stunning Great Northern Catskill Mountains of New York. Our goal is to bring the natural experience of The Catskills into any modern setting by mixing contemporary design aesthetic with an artisanal approach. Each order, whether from a new or returning customer, is an honor for us. We’re grateful to be welcomed into your homes, and hope our candles become part of your own, lasting traditions.

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.

The Knitting Room

6036 Main Street

Tannersville, NY 12485

11111 State Route 23

Windham, NY 12496

theknittingroomny.com

518 768 1944

The Knitting Room 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.

Tannersville Works

6041 Main Street

Tannersville, NY 12485

TannersvilleWorks.com

Visit Tannersville Works, the Catskills’ premier destination for stylish, one-of-a-kind treasures.

Conveniently located on Main Street, the shop showcases a carefully curated mix of new and vintage pieces — fashionable housewares, original artwork, apparel, handcrafted candles, jewelry, bespoke gifts, and more. Each item is chosen for its distinctive design and refined craftsmanship, offering the perfect accent for any home. Warm, attentive service and thoughtfully arranged displays turn every visit into a boutique-worthy treasure hunt, inviting you to uncover delightful finds throughout the Catskills.

GARDENS BY TRISTA PLANT CENTRE

By Trista Shultes

We are thrilled to be opening for our second season at Gardens by Trista Plant Centre in Jewett, formerly Kerns Nursery. As we welcome both returning customers and new visitors, we are grateful for the overwhelmingly positive response to our plant selections and commitment to quality.

At the heart of our business are our homegrown annuals, carefully cultivated by greenhouse grower Andrew Koehn. A longtime horticulturist and plantsman in the Catskills, Andrew brings decades of expertise and passion to every plant he grows. As he often says, “It’s all about the plants,” and that philosophy guides everything we do at the Plant Centre.

Our Retail Manager, Sheena Jaeger, works hard to ensure we are fully stocked with a diverse selection of perennials, shrubs, and trees, including both native and non-native varieties. If there is something a customer is looking for that we do not currently have in stock, we are always happy to source it.

After nearly 20 years of operating Gardens by Trista, a garden design, build, and maintenance company based in Gilboa, I will admit I was hesitant about adding a retail component to the business. Looking back, I can confidently say it has been the perfect complement to the work we already do.

The most rewarding aspect of the Plant Centre has been sharing our love of plants with others. It is inspiring to meet people who are excited to discover new varieties, learn more about gardening, and create beautiful outdoor spaces of their own. We have also enjoyed getting to know our neighbors throughout Jewett and the mountaintop communities.

The Catskills are a special place, and we are proud to be part of this community. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just getting started, we welcome you to visit and grow with us.

DiscoverTannersville.com

Nestled in the heart of the Catskills, Tannersville delivers easy access to outdoor adventure, arts and culture, and genuine small-town hospitality. DiscoverTannersville.com is the one-stop resource that makes planning your trip effortless: curated listings for shopping, dining, spas, attractions, and lodging help you spend less time searching and more time enjoying the mountains.

Why use DiscoverTannersville.com

Convenience: Centralized, up-to-date listings for shops, restaurants, spas, attractions, and places to stay—everything you need on one site.

Local Expertise: Handpicked businesses and attractions showcase authentic Catskills experiences, from speciality shops and services to farm-fresh markets.

Time Savings: Quickly explore and find details on local shops, restaurants, attractions, lodging, and more.

Where to Shop

Tannersville’s Main Street is a shopper’s delight. DiscoverTannersville.com highlights spots like Tannersville Works for original art and curated home goods, Bones and Stones for handcrafted jewelry and decor, and Camp Catskill for ethical outdoor gear. Specialty stops include Rooted Flowers & Gifts, Fromer Market Gardens for organic produce, and the Knitting Room for fibers and craft supplies—perfect for finding meaningful souvenirs or outfitting your next hike.

Where to Dine

The site makes it simple to choose a meal for any mood: casual breakfasts at Deja Brew or Fred’s Coffee & Donuts, craft beer and pub fare at Hunter Mountain Brewery, elevated New American

at Prospect at Scribner’s, and cozy lodge dining at Deer Mountain Inn. International flavors and comfort classics are easy to locate—Lucky Catskills, Fortune Garden, Mama’s Boy Burgers, and long-standing local gems like Last Chance Cheese ensure every appetite is satisfied.

Where to Spa/Salon

After a day on the trails, DiscoverTannersville.com points you to rejuvenating options: Emerson Resort & Spa for full-service wellness, Après Medi Spa for medical-grade treatments, Serenity Skincare for facials and massage, and boutique services like Freebird Barber & Goods.

What to Do — Local Attractions

Plan outdoor adventures with direct access to trailheads, waterfalls, and parks. Use the site to find hikes to Kaaterskill Falls and the Escarpment Trail, paddle Colgate Lake, or explore North/South Lake and Mountain Top Arboretum. Cultural options such as the Orpheum Performing Arts Center and the Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts are included for rainy days or evening entertainment.

Where to Stay

DiscoverTannersville.com lists lodging to match your trip expeditions: cozy inns like Deer Mountain Inn, modern boutique stays like Hotel Lilien and Hotel Mountain Brook, family-friendly Creekside Suites, or luxe cabins like Lion’s Lair for a memorable Catskills retreat.

Bottom Line

DiscoverTannersville.com streamlines trip planning so you can focus on experiences—hiking, dining, shopping, and relaxing— without the hassle. Use the site as your ultimate Catskills guide to create a seamless, memorable escape to Tannersville.

Controlling Visitation at Kaaterskill Falls

The Mountain Cloves Scenic Byway (MCSB) in the northern Catskills of Greene County passes through some of the most iconic scenic and natural attractions in New York State. Generally it follows Rt. 23A west from Palenville up through Kaaterskill Clove, one of two prominent gashes in the Catskill Eastern Escarpment with legs branching off to North/South Lake Campground and Route 214 through Stony Clove Notch. In addition to the magnificent cloves and vast recreational offerings, the Byway knits together communities along its picturesque drive and strives to provide an appealing, safe and functional transportation experience, especially given the increase in tourists in the Kaaterskill Clove region.

Visitation to this part of the Catskill Forest Preserve has been on the rise, creating visitor use management challenges for New York State Department of Conservation (DEC), the agency that manages the Forest Preserve lands in Kaaterskill Clove including the iconic Kaaterskill Falls, which has become one of the most, if not the most popular attraction in the Catskills. In response, DEC contracted with consultants used by the US Park Service to help with controlling crowds in the National Parks. Their report was recently released to the public (available on the NYSDEC website under Visitor Use Management Pilot Project for Kaaterskill Clove). The report’s central premise — managing demand primarily through restricting access — has generated significant concern among municipal leaders, regional organizations, and community stakeholders including the MCSB organization.

Across a broad cross-section of interested parties—including local governments, conservation groups, tourism organizations, business associations, and community development agencies — there is strong support for responsible stewardship of the Forest

Preserve and for addressing the very real challenges at Kaaterskill Clove. At the same time, there is a consistent and widely held view that the proposed approach does not adequately reflect the specific conditions, needs, and economic realities of this particular region.

Specifically, emphasis on restricting access may yield unintended effects. Local officials in the Town of Hunter have cautioned that such measures “will have real consequences for local business, jobs, and the broader economy.” Similarly, leaders at the Catskill Center have expressed concern about permit systems that could unnecessarily limit public access to the Forest Preserve.

Others have emphasized that practical, on-the-ground solutions have not been fully implemented or evaluated. Additionally, there is broad agreement that effective management must balance environmental protection with economic vitality and public accessibility rather than prioritizing one at the expense of the others. Moreover, effective management strategies should not only address local concerns but also improve overall visitor experience. Measures that have been proposed for consideration are:

• Increased staffing for site stewardship, visitor services, and natural resource protection. Additional personnel could help provide:

• Information about trails, scenic viewpoints, wildlife, natural resources, and site history

• Guidance on activities such as hiking, birding, and available services and amenities

• Visitor safety oversight, including education about proper preparation, appropriate behavior, and Leave No Trace practices

Kaaterskill Falls.

Photo by Fran Driscoll, francisxdriscoll.com

• Improved signage and clearer site circulation patterns to reduce confusion and congestion

• More active and coordinated traffic and parking management strategies to improve safety and efficiency

• Better communication with visitors regarding parking availability, crowding conditions, and trail access before and during their visit

• Work with organizations that offer hiking alternatives to disperse visitors, such as the Hunter Area Trail Committee and the Mountain Top Historical Society

Such approaches reflect a practical management framework focused on protecting the resource, supporting surrounding communities, and creating a safer and more enjoyable experience for visitors.

It has been said by many that the Kaaterskill Clove area, in almost any other state, would be a National or State Park. Its significance needs to be treated like one with commensurate funding to promote safe, equitable, and inclusive access to the Forest Preserve, while protecting natural, historical, and scenic resources and the quality and character of visitors’ experiences.

A prime example is the long-standing recommendation to install gateway signs upon entering the Catskill Park. Gateway signs

convey a “sense of place” and set the stage for the visitors’ experience. Installing such a sign in Palenville as the gateway to the northern Catskills and the MCSB will convey to visitors they have arrived at a special place. It is time to implement that recommendation.

As DEC considers next steps and how to achieve direct visitor use management in the Kaaterskill Clove Project Area, measures that build upon and support the partnerships that have developed over the years is the direction to take, not restricting access through a reservation system.

There is strong alignment among stakeholders on the need for a more collaborative approach moving forward addressing the overuse issues within Kaaterskill Clove. The MCSB joins the Town of Hunter and others in urging DEC to work in close partnership with local governments and regional organizations to develop a strategy that is both practical and responsive to real-world conditions.

The Mountain Cloves Scenic Byway Inc. is a not-for-profit organization governed by a twelve-member board representing local governments and regional organizations. More information can be found at greatnortherncatskills.com/attractions/scenic-byways/mountain-clove, or by calling 518 589 6871 ext. 1.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS IN THE CATSKILLS

By Jeff Senterman

By July, the Catskills are fully in their summer rhythm. The mountains are deep green, the days are long, and the season invites us outdoors, whether that means a backyard cookout, an evening concert, a paddle on a reservoir, or a long hike to a favorite overlook. It is one of the best times of year to be reminded just how much the Catskills offer, both to those of us who live here and to the many people who come to experience this remarkable region.

Summer also makes visible the work it takes to care for a place as loved as the Catskills. Our protected public lands, our small towns and hamlets, and the trails, roads, fire towers, and waterways that connect them all depend on thoughtful stewardship, good information, and a shared commitment to protecting what makes this region special. That is especially true in July, when visitor use is high and the need for education, guidance, and on-the-ground presence is at its peak.

Catskill Stewards Across the Region

Summer in the Catskills brings high use to some of the Park’s most popular destinations, and that is where the Catskill Center’s Catskill Stewards Program makes a real difference. Established in 2018, the program has become a core part of visitor engagement and resource protection in the Catskill Park, placing trained seasonal stewards at high-use locations to welcome visitors, answer questions, and encourage responsible recreation.

The Catskill Center’s stewards work in partnership with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation at places like Peekamoose Blue Hole, Kaaterskill Falls, Platte Clove Preserve, the Devils Path corridor, and the Catskill Fire Towers. Their job is not just to greet people, but to help protect these special places by explaining why it matters to stay on trail, pack out trash, respect posted rules, and follow Leave No Trace and Recreate Responsibly principles.

That work adds up quickly. Since the program was established in 2018, more than 610,000 visitors to the Catskill Park have been engaged by Stewards. This welcoming engagement from Catskill Stewards helps reduce impacts, prevent parking problems, provide first aid, and connect people with safer or less crowded alternatives.

Stewards are also an important link between visitors and local communities. They help people understand the Catskill Park, point them toward the Catskills Visitor Center for additional resources, and direct them to nearby main streets, businesses, and attractions — supporting both natural resource protection and the local economy. In a busy summer season, that welcoming, educational presence can make all the difference.

To learn more about the Catskill Stewards Program, visit catskillcenter.org/stewards. Programs like this are only possible because of public support and the generosity of donors who believe in caring for the Catskills.

Photo courtesy of the Hiker Trash Husbands, hikertrashhusbands.com

Hike Highlight: Indian Head Mountain Loop

If you are looking for a classic Catskills summer hike with rugged terrain, dramatic ledges, and sweeping views, Indian Head Mountain is a terrific choice. Part of the Devil’s Path in the northeastern Catskills, this loop is one of the most rewarding hikes in the Park, combining serious mountain character with some of the best viewpoints in the range.

The Indian Head Mountain loop is about 7 miles long, with roughly 1,700 feet of elevation gain, and is best suited for hikers comfortable with a long, strenuous day in the mountains. Starting from the Prediger Road trailhead, the hike follows the Devil’s Path, climbing gently across the base of the mountain before turning and climbing steeply before reaching the summit ridgeline, where a series of ledges open up to views of the Hudson Valley, the Blackhead Range, and surrounding Catskill peaks. From there the trail descends steeply to Jimmy Dolan Notch and the Jimmy Dolan Notch Trail, which you follow back to your starting point.

What makes this hike especially memorable is the variety of terrain. There are steep climbs, scrambly rock sections, wooded stretches, and frequent viewpoints that make it easy to stop, catch your breath, and take in the landscape around you. It is a hike that feels wild and unmistakably Catskills, and on a clear July day, it is hard to beat.

For a full trail description, map information, and video of the hike, visit hikertrashhusbands.com and search for “Indian Head

Mountain” or visit directly at hikertrashhusbands.com/home/indian-head-mountain-one-of-the-best-loop-hikes-in-the-catskills.

Catskill Park Trail Conditions

Conditions in the Catskill Park can change quickly, even in midsummer. Storm damage, muddy stretches, trail work, high water, and temporary road or trail closures can all affect a trip, so it is always worth checking conditions before heading out. The Catskills Visitor Center’s Trail Conditions page at catskillstrailconditions. com remains one of the best places to find updates on trails, campgrounds, camping, boating, and more across the Park.

Hike the Catskills with the Hiker Trash Husbands

If you like to scout a hike before you lace up your boots, my husband and I share our Catskills (and beyond) hiking adventures on our YouTube channel, The Hiker Trash Husbands, at youtube.com/thehikertrashhusbands. We’re two hikers exploring our world one hike and one adventure at a time, and our project is all about welcoming more people into the outdoors and showing that everyone belongs on the trail. You can learn more and find trail guides, stories, and gear recommendations at hikertrashhusbands. com.

If you live in the central Catskills and have cable through MTC, you can also catch our videos on CatskillsAir, MTC Channel 1.

Visit the Catskill Park’s Visitor Center

The Congressman Maurice D. Hinchey Catskills Visitor Center in Mount Tremper is the official visitor center for the Catskill Park and one of the best starting points for any Catskills adventure. Open daily in the summer season, the Visitor Center offers maps, current trail and road information, advice on hiking and paddling, and a gift shop with maps, books, regional products, and select outdoor gear — including bear canisters for rent. Staff are also available to answer questions by email at info@catskillcenter.org or by phone at 845 688 3369.

Visitors can enjoy about 1.5 miles of trails on the property and climb the 80-foot Upper Esopus Fire Tower for sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and Esopus Creek valley. The grounds are open daily during daylight hours, and the Visitor Center continues to serve as a gateway to the Park for both first-time visitors and longtime Catskills explorers.

Catskill Park Advisory Committee

The Catskill Park Advisory Committee, chaired by the Catskill Center, brings together local governments and organizations to discuss Catskill Park and watershed issues and advise state and city agencies. CPAC meets quarterly, meetings are open to the public, and you can learn more or join the mailing list by calling 845 586 2611 or emailing cccd@catskillcenter.org with “CPAC” in the subject line.

Give Back to the Catskills

The Catskills are a treasure, and their future depends on the choices we make today. By supporting the Catskill Center, you help protect critical habitats, care for the Forest Preserve, welcome visitors, and strengthen the communities and local economies that make this region so special.

You can give or become a member at catskillcenter.org/ donate, or mail a check to Catskill Center, PO Box 504, Arkville, NY 12406. You can also volunteer with programs like the Catskill Fire Tower Project, Catskill Stewards, and other hands-on conservation and community initiatives across the Catskills.

Jeff Senterman is the Executive Director of the Catskill Center for Conservation and Development in Arkville, NY, a member of the Board of Directors for the Catskill Watershed Corporation, a New York State licensed hiking and camping guide, and coowner of Hike On Guides, an outdoor guiding company based in the Catskills. He graduated with a degree in Environmental Science from Lyndon State College and worked for many years as an environmental planner in New England before returning to New York and the Catskills to work in the nonprofit sector. To learn more about the work of the Catskill Center in the Catskills, visit catskillcenter.org.

#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 togethe 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, and 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.

Music and Art Center of Greene County Festival 2026

The Music and Art Center of Greene County is delighted to announce its 44th Season of “Music at Grazhda,” the oldest and beloved classical music festival in Greene County, presented with a series of exceptional concerts, courses, and workshops, all set in the picturesque Catskills.

The season opens July 11 with a recital by duo Natalia Khoma (cello) and Volodymyr Vynnytsky (piano), a dynamic partnership of two highly regarded artists.

On July 18, the Grazhda Chamber Music Society presents compositions by Mozart, Skoryk, and Schumann featuring violinist Nazar Pylatyuk, People’s Artist of Ukraine; Vasyl Zatsikha, Concertmaster of the Orchestra della Svizzera Italiana; Richard Young, violist with the Vermeer String Quartet; Natalia Khoma, Tchaikovsky Competition laureate and cello professor at the College of Charleston; and pianist Pavlo Gintov, top prizewinner at the Takamatsu, Bradshaw & Buono, and World Competitions.

The 2026 season is especially meaningful as it marks the centennial of the birth of the festival’s founder, Ukrainian composer Ihor Sonevytsky, in whose memory the festival is dedicating its July 25 concert. It will feature the Grazhda Chamber Music Society art-

ists Anna Kosachevich, soprano, featured soloist at the Manhattan School of Music, and Volodymyr Vynnytsky, pianist, the Festival’s Artistic Director, performing works by Sonevytsky, Skoryk, and Smetana, as well as the premiere of a piano trio by composer Iryna Aleksijchuk dedicated to Ihor Sonevytsky.

An exciting crossover program on August 8 will feature twotime GRAMMY® Award-winning pianist and composer Taylor Eigsti; cellist and multi-disciplinary artist Marta Bagratuni; and GRAMMY®-nominated hammered dulcimer virtuoso MaxZT.

The season concludes August 29 with baritone Ihor Mostovoi, of the Opéra National de Paris and Opera for Peace, and pianistSerhiy Salov, winner of many prestigious competitions, including the Montreal International music competition, performing Schubert’s Winterreise alongside Ukrainian arias and songs.

Concerts begin at 8 pm at the historic Grazhda Hall, a wooden masterpiece renowned for its warm acoustics, located at 46 Ukraine Road, Hunter, NY 12442. Join us for a memorable summer of music, culture, and artistic inspiration! Visit GrazhdaMusicandArt.org to purchase tickets or for more information about the summer season.

Shakespeare Under the Stars

Catskill Mountain Shakespeare Returns with a Lush, Turn-of-the-Century Much Ado About Nothing

There are few summer traditions in the Catskills as beloved as gathering beneath a tent as the sun dips behind the mountains, picnic baskets in hand, and settling in for an evening of Shakespeare. For audiences seeking culture, connection, and a distinctly Catskills experience, Catskill Mountain Shakespeare continues to offer something truly special: professional theater rooted deeply in community.

Now entering its seventh season, Catskill Mountain Shakespeare has become a cultural cornerstone of the region, drawing local residents, weekenders, and visitors from across New York and beyond. Through the magic of live performance and clear, engaging storytelling, CMS creates a shared space where audiences from all walks of life can gather, laugh, reflect, and experience great stories together.

At the heart of the company is a commitment to both artistic excellence and inclusion. Every production is designed to be accessible, welcoming, and deeply connected to the community it serves. The result is theater that feels both professional and personal, a rare combination that has helped CMS build a loyal following throughout the Catskills.

This summer, that tradition continues with a vibrant new Main Stage production of Shakespeare’s beloved comedy Much Ado About Nothing, running July 11 through July 26, outdoors and under the tent at The Red Barn on Main Street in Hunter.

Set at the turn of the twentieth century, this fresh interpretation of Shakespeare’s romantic comedy promises all the wit, humor, and heart audiences have come to expect, while placing the story within a world of garden parties, social expectations, and changing times.

At its center is one of Shakespeare’s most enduring relationships: the spirited battle of wits between Beatrice and Benedick. Their sharp-tongued banter and reluctant attraction have delighted audiences for centuries, offering a refreshingly modern portrait of two people who challenge one another at every turn. Alongside their story runs the romance of young Claudio and Hero, whose relationship is tested by jealousy, deception, and public scandal.

What begins as a playful comedy soon reveals deeper questions about trust, vulnerability, and forgiveness. Through mistaken identities, elaborate schemes, and plenty of comic mischief, Much Ado About Nothing explores what it takes to risk opening one’s heart, and what it means to find the courage to trust again.

Against the backdrop of the Catskill Mountains, these timeless themes take on new resonance. As audiences gather beneath the tent surrounded by summer blooms and mountain air, Shakespeare’s world feels remarkably close to our own.

Leading this year’s production is director Conner Wilson, whose recent work includes serving as Assistant Director on the Broadway production of Waiting for Godot starring Keanu Reeves. Wilson brings both classical expertise and contemporary sensibility to the production, creating an approach that honors Shakespeare’s language while ensuring it feels immediate and accessible for modern audiences.

The cast features a blend of familiar CMS favorites and exciting new artists, continuing the company’s tradition of bringing together exceptional performers from both the region and beyond. Audiences who have attended previous seasons will recognize many returning faces, while newcomers will help bring fresh energy to the production.

Adding another layer of theatrical magic is an original live score by composer and musician Mark Mazzarella. Returning after his memorable composing work on CMS’s 2023 production of As You Like It, Mazzarella’s music promises to weave throughout the evening, enhancing the romance, comedy, and emotional depth of the story. Live music has become one of the hallmarks of CMS productions, helping create an immersive atmosphere that transforms each performance into a full theatrical event.

Yet Catskill Mountain Shakespeare offers more than just a play. Over the years, the organization has cultivated an experience that feels as much like a community gathering as a theatrical performance.

Visitors are welcome to arrive early to enjoy the grounds, picnic with friends, and take in the breathtaking mountain scenery before the show begins. As twilight settles over Hunter and the lights come up beneath the tent, audiences become part of a uniquely Catskills tradition, one that celebrates art, place, and connection.

This year’s season includes a variety of special events designed to welcome audiences of all backgrounds and interests.

The season officially opens on July 11 with an Opening Night Performance and Celebration, marking the start of another exciting summer under the tent.

For those seeking affordable access to professional theater, CMS continues its commitment to accessibility through Pay What You Can performances on July 15 and July 22, ensuring that financial barriers never stand in the way of experiencing live art.

Community-building remains central to the company’s mission. On July 17, CMS will host its 5th Annual LGBTQ+ Midsummer Social, sponsored by West Kill Brewing. The event has become a cherished summer gathering that celebrates inclusivity and connection while bringing together community members and visitors alike.

A Relaxed Performance on July 19 will offer a welcoming environment for audience members who may benefit from a more

flexible theater experience, including individuals with sensory sensitivities, neurodivergent patrons, families, and others who appreciate a less formal performance setting. Free tent-side babysitting is provided.

Those interested in learning more about the artistic process can attend a post-show talkback with the creative team on July 24, providing an opportunity to hear directly from the artists behind the production.

New this season is the company’s first-ever Vendor and Artist Fair on July 25. The event will showcase local makers, artists, and small businesses, further strengthening the connection between Catskill Mountain Shakespeare and the broader community. Visitors can browse local businesses, discover handcrafted goods, meet regional creatives, and celebrate the vibrant cultural ecosystem that makes the Catskills such a dynamic destination.

Throughout the season, community book clubs, in partnership with local book stores and libraries, will also offer audiences opportunities to engage more deeply with the poetry, themes, and ideas of Shakespeare’s work.

As the Catskills continue to evolve as a destination for arts, culture, and outdoor recreation, organizations like Catskill Mountain Shakespeare play an increasingly important role in defining the region’s identity. By pairing professional artistic standards with genuine community engagement, CMS demonstrates how theater can bring people together across backgrounds, generations, and perspectives.

For visitors planning a summer getaway, an evening at Catskill Mountain Shakespeare offers something increasingly rare: the chance to slow down, gather with others, and share a live experience in a spectacular natural setting.

There will be flowers. There will certainly be laughter. There will be music and romance. And beneath the tent in Hunter, against the backdrop of the mountains, there will once again be Shakespeare, alive, immediate, and unmistakably of the Catskills.

For more information and tickets go to catskillmountainshakespeare.com

Full Cast, Romeo and Juliet 2025

Summer in the Catskills

Greyrock Gallery

Greenhouse & Gardens

4899 Co Rd 23C

Jewett, NY 12444

greyrockgallery.com

518 424 0797

A new gallery located in Jewett NY at the former Kerns Nursery, currently featuring paintings and ceramic art by Patricia Kerns as well as house plants that can be potted in original hand thrown pots. Gardens are open seasonally to enjoy when the gallery is open. Gift shop is also attached. Open Saturday & Sunday afternoons or by appointment. Check the website for more information or text/call.

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 65 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, figuratives, Hudson River School style and more. Established in 2001, Windham Fine Arts is 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.

ART GALLERIES

Photo

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.

ARTIST STUDIO TOURS

2026 AMR Open Studios Tour

July 24- 26

11:00 am-6:00 pm daily

Throughout Delaware County

Opening Reception: Thursday, July 23 @ 1053 Gallery, Fleischmanns amropenstudios.org

This FREE self-guided artists tour returns in late July. A cultural event where 45 fine artists across seven Delaware County towns open the doors to their private workspaces. Join the kick-off party at 1053 Gallery on Thursday, July 23 and view the Roxbury Central School stu-

dents exhibition at Plattekill Mountain. For details and an interactive map, visit www.amropenstudios.org. Special thanks to our local sponsors the Lindsay & Olive B. O’Connor Foundation.

24th Annual Saugerties

Artists Studio Tour

August 8-9

10:00 am-6:00 pm daily

Throughout Saugerties

Opening Reception: Friday, July 10, @ Dutch Barn Art & Heritage Gallery, 119 Main Street, Saugerties Gallery Hours: July 11-26, Saturdays 10:00 am-5:00 pm & Sundays, 1:00 pm-5:00 pm saugertiesarttour.org

Celebrating its 24th anniversary the painters, sculptors, collagists, ceramists, print makers, photographers, videographers and multimedia artists of the Saugerties Artists Studio Tour are eager to embrace the opportunity to once again open their studios for art lovers who want to experience the place where art is made. This year many new artists have joined ranks with this ever-growing Saugerties artists’ community. All of the artists have been plying their skills to create new work, tinker with new techniques and mediums, and review past endeavors, finding new meaning in earlier explorations. The 2026 open studios tour features 46 studios, the largest tour since its inception in 2002, who are preparing for visitors, and where you will see completed work and works in progress in a wide array of mediums and styles.

Catskill Mountain Railroad

55 Kingston Plaza Road

Kingston, NY 12401

CatskillMountainRailroad.com

845 332 4854

If you’re looking for a great Family Fun Train Ride the Catskill Mountain Railroad is just the place to buy your ticket. Celebrating 43 years of operation as Ulster County’s only heritage railroad the CMRR offers a whole season full of special events that are fun for children and adults alike. All trains depart from the Westbrook Station in the Kingston Plaza for a 90 minute round trip ride. Folks can enjoy the views from the vintage coaches or open air cars. The CMRR also offer renting the entire train for charters and events as well as a single car within the Catskill Flyer schedule for birthday parties, weddings, and other special occasions.

Fenimore Farm & Country Village

5775 State Highway 80 Cooperstown, NY 13326

fenimorefarm.org

Fenimore Farm and Country Village is celebrating America’s 250th birthday this summer. The museum’s Forged in Revolution: Early Military Encampment exhibit will be the immersive interpretive event of the season. From July 20 to August 2, museum visitors can explore military tents from the American Revolution, War of 1812, and Civil War to engage with interpreters to learn about military camp life. Guests can discover what soldiers ate, what they packed for battle, and even try out marching

in some military drills themselves. Other interactive offerings include decoding codes and messages around the village, which are inspired by the work and times of Washington’s spies. The sounds of bugles and drum calls to action will fill the air as visitors try on a reproduction soldier’s uniform and take a selfie at our photo station.

Hanford Mills Museum

51 County Highway 12 East Meredith, NY 13757

hanfordmills.org

607 278 5744

Join Hanford Mills Museum on Saturday, July 4 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm for our Fourth of July Celebration! Enjoy homemade vanilla ice cream, chilled with ice harvested from the mill pond in January. Machine demonstrations featuring our waterwheel and steam engine will take place throughout the day. Visit with vendors including the Dragon Wagon and Helen’s Little Kitchen Food Truck. For more information visit www.hanfordmills.org or follow us on social media.

BANK

Ulster Savings Bank

68 Mill Hill Road

Woodstock, NY 12498

Ulstersavings.com

845 679 8384

ATM & Drive-through 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 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. As we celebrate our 175-year anniversary, we invite you to stop by our location in historic Woodstock and say hi to branch manager Alexis Nastaszewski. Experience the local difference with US and bank where you matter. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

BOAT RENTALS & CHARTERS

Catskill Charters

Boarding from Hop-O-Nose Marina & Creekside Restaurant & Bar

160 West Main Street

Catskill, NY 12414

catskillcharters.com

518 965 1933

Catskill Charters is more than just boat rentals and charters. We specialize in providing the ultimate experience on the water in the beautiful Catskill Mountains, so you can enjoy all the Hudson River has to offer. Historic lighthouses, swimming or fishing at local nearby islands, beautiful sunsets, and waterfront restaurants are just a few of the experiences our guests enjoy on our boats. Private yacht charters, pontoon boat and kayak rental, boat parties, overnight yacht stays.

CATERING & POP-UP RESTAURANT

Chef Deanna X Bramble Hill “Pop-up” Restaurant & Catering

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. Now offering Chef Deanna X Bramble Hill “Pop-up” restaurant & catering in Bovina Center. Event dates available on Resy.

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!

FISH & SEAFOOD

Shawn’s Fresh Fish

5150 Route 28

Mount Tremper, NY 12457 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.

Augustine Nursery

9W & Van Kleecks Lane

Kingston, NY 12401

AugustineNursery.com

845 338 4936

We’ve been creating landscapes of distinction throughout the Hudson Valley since 1974. We started small in our hometown of Kingston. Today, Augustine Nursery has grown to become one of the leading residential and commercial landscape design firms and the “nursery of choice” among high-end landscape architects, independent contractors and discerning homeowners. We offer a stunning selection of larger scale, estate-grade trees, shrubs and plants. There are hundreds of varieties, ranging from the most popular to the new and emerging. We also offer a full menu of nursery services, from planning and design to installation and dress finish for greenscapes and hardscapes.

The Garden of Stone

5444 State Route 23

Windham, NY 12496

518 734 4730

Shop our eclectic selection of cast stone pieces for your garden and home. We hand-cast animal statuary, birdbaths, angels, gnomes and more. We offer fresh-cut flowers by the stem or bouquet and can help with your special event. Shop for houseplants and unusual items–vintage and new. Browsing is encouraged!

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, offering premium plants and expert gardening advice. We grow much of our selection right here, ensuring each plant thrives in the Catskill climate. From vibrant annuals and perennials to hardy vegetable starts to stunning shrubs and trees, we offer everything you need to create a thriving garden.

HEATING & COOLING

advancedcomfortllc.com

845 943 9564

Advanced Comfort Systems

289 Clifton Avenue

Kingston, NY 12401

A second generation heating & cooling business with over 40 years’ experience in the trade. We specialize in cold climate heat pumps with thousands of units installed throughout the Catskill Region and Hudson Valley. Let us help you with your heating & cooling needs. No job is too big or too small. Contact us for Heat Pump sales, service & cleanings.

ICE CREAM

The Ice Cream Station

76 Main Street

Phoenicia, NY 12464

phoeniciaicecream.com

845 688 3333

A dessert oasis awaits you inside the Ice Cream Station in Phoenicia. A bounty of traditional and unique ice-cream flavors is ready to be scooped into a dish, cone, milkshake, or whatever else strikes your fancy. The Ice Cream Station offers hard and soft ice cream, shakes, cones, sundaes, malts, candy, and homemade fudge. The Ice Cream Station is owned by the Kirk Family, who also operate The Nest Egg just up the road.

LIVE PERFORMANCES

Bard Summerscape

Fisher Center for the Performing Arts at Bard College

Annandale-on-Hudson fishercenter.bard.edu

845 758 7900

Just 90 miles north of New York City, where the Hudson River widens and the Catskill Mountains rise in the distance, Bard College’s campus becomes one of the country’s most compelling summer arts destinations. Anchored by Frank Gehry’s soaring Fisher Center for the Performing Arts—

a landmark of contemporary architecture set amid rolling lawns and river views—SummerScape returns through August 16 with eight weeks of opera, dance, music, cabaret, and late-night revelry.

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts

200 Hurd Rd

Bethel, NY 12720

bethelwoodscenter.org

845-583-2000

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, located at the National Register Historic Site of the 1969 Woodstock festival, is committed to building upon our rich history of peace and music by providing extraordinary experiences and access to the arts. Located 90 miles from New York City, our 1,000-acre campus includes a Pavilion Stage amphitheater with a seating capacity of 16,000, an intimate 422-seat indoor Event Gallery, the award-winning Museum at Bethel Woods, and two studios for creative learning programs for all ages.

Maverick Concerts

120 Maverick Road

Woodstock, NY 12498

maverickconcerts.org

845 241 7721

Get ready for another unforgettable summer of live music in the heart of the Catskills! Maverick Concerts proudly announces its 2026 Summer Music Season, featur-

Photo: Maria Baranova

ing a stellar lineup of performances in the historic Maverick Concert Hall. Nestled in the woods, this rustic, barnlike structure, famed for its brilliant acoustics, offers audiences an intimate musical experience like no other. This year’s season features three beloved series: the Sunday afternoon Maverick Chamber Music Festival, the dynamic Maverick Saturday Nights featuring Jazz at the Maverick, world, and contemporary music, and the free Maverick Family Concerts on Saturday mornings, designed especially for young listeners.

“Middletown and the Revolution”

July 11 & 12

At the Open Eye Theater 960 Main Street Margaretville, NY 12455 mtownhistory.org 845 586 2400

Eight local actors in period costume will describe how their lives were upended by the rupture with Great Britain in 1776. Middletown was part of Ulster County at the time, and the area along the East Branch of the Delaware River was considered the “frontier” between Indian territory to the west and the more heavily populated and strategically important Hudson Valley. “Voices” will introduce audiences to survivors of battles and prisons, to a local Loyalist who sided with Britain, to area settlers kidnapped, murdered and burned out of their homes. There is even a doomed love story in the mix!

Music and Art Center of Greene County

Route 23A

Jewett, NY 12444

GrazhdaMusicandArt.org

The Music and Art Center of Greene County was established in 1983 by Dr. Ihor Sonevytsky, a Ukrainian-born composer and musicologist. As the longest running classical music summer concert series in the northern Catskills, it offers an extraordinarily rich classical music program, presented on Saturday evenings in July and August in the hall of the Grazhda, which is part of one of the most architecturally unique building complexes in the Catskills, situated along scenic Route 23A in Jewett.

LODGING

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. 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 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.

MUSIC FESTIVAL

Grey Fox Music Festival

July 15-19, 2026

On the Walsh Farm

1 Poultney Road

Oak Hill, NY 12460

GreyFoxBluegrass.com

The four-day celebration of bluegrass, newgrass, and roots music returns to Oak Hill, NY July 15–19, 2026 with 40 bands across six stages, plus workshops, late-night dancing, campground picking circles, family programming, great food, and the welcoming community spirit Grey Fox is known for.

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)

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.

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 all-volunteer Board. Donations are tax deductible.

OUTDOOR RECREATION

Belleayre Mountain

181 Galli Curci Road

Highmount, NY 12441

belleayre.com

845 254 5600

Belleayre has become a yearround hub of adventure, fun, and relaxation in the center of the Catskills! Whether you’re an adventurous spirit looking to immerse yourself in the quiet shaded forests, take a dip in the fresh mountain water, or simply looking for a family friendly activity that will be good for the little ones, adventures of all kinds can be based out of the highest ski area in the Catskills.

Windham Mountain Club

19 Resort Drive

Windham, NY 12496

windhammountainclub.com

800 754 9463

Windham Mountain Club is an exclusive outdoor wonderland for the discerning set: find world-class golfing, dining, outdoor pursuits, and memorymaking 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.

PLUMBING

& HEATING

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

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!

Coldwell Banker—

Timberland Properties

TimberlandProperties.com

CatskillPremier.com

Margaretville: 845 586 3321

Boiceville/Mt. Tremper: 845 657 4177

Delhi: 607 746 7400

Stamford: 607 652 2220

Sidney: 607 604 4394

Roscoe: 607 290 4130

Start your real estate career today! Unrivaled agent support & the best training in the region. Call or email to learn more: Debra G. Danner, Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker/ Branch Manager: 518 937 0924 or Debra.Danner@Timberlandproperties.net.

WIOX 91.3FM

MTC Cable Channel 20

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 rentals. 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!

REGIONAL

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.

Ulster County Tourism

VisitUlsterCountyNY.com

Ulster County, nestled in the heart of the Hudson Valley and home to a stretch of the majestic Catskill Mountains, offers a travel experience that is not only rich in natural beauty and culture but also committed to inclusivity and accessibility. Through its “Wild Access” initiative, Ulster County opens up a world of adaptive adventures for travelers of all ages with mobility challenges, sensory processing disorders, and

developmental disabilities. Whether exploring trails, diving into local history, or savoring farm-to-table meals, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere where every visitor is celebrated.

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 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 in 14 categories in this year’s Best of Greene County 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

On Facebook: Brandywinerest.net/ 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.

Just Jollof Kitchen

39 W Main Street

Middletown, NY 10940

justjollofkitchen.com

Explore our delicious food options and sides for a satisfying meal. Don’t be afraid to try new things and make each meal a culinary masterpiece. Indulge in our extensive menu featuring over 100 freshly prepared dishes, all made from scratch and to order daily. From traditional African classics to innovative creations, there’s something to delight every taste bud.

La Cabaña

Mexican Restaurant & Bar 966 Main Street

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.

Phoenicia Diner Canteen

Inside Blue Duck Brewing Company 79 Hurley Avenue

Kingston, NY 12401

pdcanteen.com

info@pdcanteen.com

We’re bringing the Phoenicia Diner to the brand-new Blue Duck Brewing taproom in Kingston. You’ll find our famous diner classics (hello, pancakes!) along with a new lunch and dinner menu, seasonal specials, and more! Online ordering available for takeout.

Catskill Collectibles

386 Main Street

Catskill, NY 12414

catskillcollectibles.com

845 978 3178

At Catskill Collectibles, we celebrate the charm and history of the Catskills. Our shop curates vintage treasures, local art, and nostalgic souvenirs that bring the magic of the mountains home. Whether you’re a longtime visitor or discovering the Catskills for the first time, you’ll find a piece of its story to take with you.

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 pre-

serves, 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 homemade delicious fudge is worth the trip!

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. Our large selection of summer bike equipment for purchase or rental includes top of the line front suspension mountain bikes, demo bikes, clothing and accessories to get you geared up to ride. Our summer mountain bikes are for all skill levels and we’re happy to help you find the perfect fit for you goals and budget. Our technicians are available to expertly tune and repair your gear to keep it in top form. In the winter, 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.

The Emerson Spa

5340 Route 28

Mount Tremper, NY 12457

EmersonResort.com

845 688 2828

Welcome to a serene escape where nature, balance, and restoration come together. The award-winning Emerson Spa offers a thoughtful menu of therapeutic massages, rejuvenating facials, and restorative body treatments—all designed to help you reconnect and recharge. A standout among the Catskills, it’s a retreat like no other. Perfect for a solo self-care day, couples massage, or a group experience, The Emerson Spa invites you to slow down and truly unwind.

Olivia’s Wine & Spirits

128 South Street

Windham, NY 12496

oliviaswineandspirits.com

518 750 8026

Wine connoisseur Robert Giordano has traveled the world learning about wine, and brings his vast knowledge and passion for wines from all over the world to Windham. Olivia’s Wine & Spirits offers a diverse selection of wines at a variety of competitive price points, as well as a variety of bourbons, whiskeys, and other liquors. Open every day.

Roxbury Bottle Shop

53484 NY 30

Roxbury, NY. 12474

hello@roxburybottleshop.com

roxburybottleshop.com

607 326 6200

Roxbury Bottle Shop offers an extensive selection of curated wines and spirits catering to diverse tastes and occasions. Discover new robust reds, crisp whites, orange wines, smooth bourbons, aged rums, artisanal gins, premium vodkas, local ciders, pre-made cocktails, and much more - all sourced from renowned vineyards, emerging regions, natural and biodynamic growers, and local producers. Join us at one of our monthly tastings! Follow @roxburywine and roxburybottleshop.com Open MondaySaturday 12-7pm.

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 selection 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.

Catskills Past

BOOM!

By T.M. Bradshaw

Fireworks have been in existence for over one thousand years.

A newspaper search for early accounts of them in this country yielded some interesting results, although the first few references were not in local Catskill papers, which didn’t become widespread until a bit later in the nineteenth century.

The New-York Evening Post of June 26, 1802, included an ad for a lengthy evening’s entertainment consisting of a five-act comedy, an opera, one act of which depicted a tornado, and a collection of bird calls presented between opera acts.

The finale to such a lengthy extravaganza? “After the play, Mr. Robertson will exhibit the phenomenon of THE ANTIPODEAN WHIRLIGIG on top of a common candlestick, and surrounded with FIREWORKS; in which manner with fireworks attached to various parts of [his] body, he will WHIRL ROUND ON HIS HEAD, at the rate of 250 times a minute, without the assistance of his hands.” Perhaps breakdancing is older than we thought.

The New-York Evening Post of July 8, 1826, reported on much bigger news than fireworks. The lead story that day was the death of Thomas Jefferson, with the article noting that just the day before they had reported John Adams’ death. Both had died on July 4th. Several related items covered what hadn’t happened on the holiday — rain postponed New York’s fireworks; they were rescheduled for Saturday, the 8th, but postponed again in recognition of the presidents’ deaths. Copies of letters that had appeared in the July 4th National Intelligencer were also published, including two with dates in late June, one from Adams, one from Jefferson, both appreciative of invitations to Washington for the holiday festivities, both declining, citing ill health.

The earliest Catskills’ reference to fireworks I found comes from the May 24, 1853, Bloomville Mirror. The newspaper was local, but the fireworks were not. “The New York City Council intend to have a public celebration on the 4th of July, at the city’s expense, as usual. They have just appropriated $3500 for fireworks and other burning manifestations of patriotism.” On July 18 of the following year, the Mirror reported “Our exchanges are almost entirely filled with the proceedings had in celebration of ‘the glorious Fourth’ all over the state. … Orations, toasts, fun, frolic, and fireworks were the order of the day everywhere.”

One of the odder events reported on in the Mirror is in its July 15, 1862, edition. “One of the amusements of the 4th, in New York, was a display of fireworks in front of the Institute for the Blind.”

Not all fireworks references reported on were holiday related or even actual fireworks. In 1873, the Mirror, which by then had become the Bloomville and Stamford Mirror, noted on June 24 that,

“There’s a fire in one of the Shandaken mountains. At night it looks like a great fire-serpent crawling up the mountain side. It’s a kind of fireworks that man can’t surpass.”

A few weeks later, on July 8, the Mirror reported on various holiday events around the area.

The glorious Fourth at Stamford was not observed in any formal manner, yet everybody seemed to celebrate on his own book. The day was ushered in by the ringing of bells, the firing of cannon, screeching of the Railroad engine whistle, singing of birds, &c. A matched game of ball attracted a large crowd. The Railroad trains brought many visitors, and our streets were thronged. The firing of guns and all sorts of missiles continued during the day. In the evening there was a fine display of fireworks in front of the Delaware House, as also at the residence of Col. Judson.

We can’t know exactly what those fireworks looked like, but we have a description of a different pyrotechnics show Judson presented in Stamford in 1877 in honor of Washington’s birthday. It ended with “New York Weekly” (his publisher) flashed across the sky in fiery script. Col. Judson (who never actually achieved that rank) was perhaps better known by his nom de plume, Ned Buntline. He presented a fireworks show annually in the field opposite his home on South Delaware St.

The Sullivan County Record of July 12, 1900, told of “Impatient Fireworks.” On the third, a store window display erupted— “Sky rockets shot through the large plated glass window, … the pinwheels put on the paper caps and went around visiting while the balloons went up in smoke.” A bucket brigade got it under control and the store, and even some of the fireworks, were saved.

The Delaware Republican of June 26, 1926, reported on holiday plans in Delhi for Monday, July 5, including about 6 column inches of the descriptive names of fireworks expected. In addition

Photo by Ray Brizzi

to magnolia blossoms changing to sunflowers, a flight of willow tree rockets, Australian Boomerang Geysers, and Halley Comet Shells producing a deluge of blazing fire and loud detonations, the finale was a fire portrait of George Washington displayed with the dates 1776–1926, along with an American flag waving.

The Catskill Mountain News of July 9, 1926, reported on the event under a headline of “15,000 Crowd to Delhi for July 4th Celebration.” Sixteen hundred people marched in the parade held that day. For the fireworks “The roads on both sides of the river for two miles were lined solidly with parked cars of persons who either couldn’t get their machines on the ground or who preferred to witness the spectacle from a distance.”

Fifty years later, the Catskill Mountain News of July 8, listed news of staggered holiday events from several area towns and villages. “Phoenicia was besieged by record crowds Saturday [July 3], enjoying the climactic events of the town of Shandaken’s extended celebration of the nation’s Bicentennial. It was estimated that more than 1,000 were on hand for the fireworks that evening.” The following week in Margaretville, “An air show led by Bob Munro of Roxbury will perform Saturday night before the fireworks. Mr. Munro expects to have ten planes which will fly from Maben airport at Prattsville over Margaretville.” In another feature of the Margaretville celebration, “the Brothers of the Brush will hold their judging of the beards and other facial adornments raised by local men in connection with the Bicentennial.”

Roxbury and Pine Hill held their holiday events that year on the weekend of July 17–18. Parades featured in both towns.

On the same page of that issue of the Catskill Mountain News a small item had a headline that may have been meant as double entendre—“Nudes Were Stoned.”

Phoenicia, July 8—Shandaken constables, called Saturday on a complaint of nude bathing in the Esopus, found the bathers had gone before their arrival. Constable Brian Kelly reported that he had been told that the nude bathers had been driven away by stones thrown at them by campers at a nearby campground.

Back to the 1920s, the June 29, 1927, Stamford Mirror-Recorder announced what one could expect from the upcoming July 4th festivities to be held at the Stamford Country Club. Over one hundred special effects were planned, some that are easily imagined, others very difficult to visualize. Fortunately, the article described the more unusual items in detail. The lineup included aerial bouquets, fire fountains, an American flag suspended 500 feet in the air from a parachute illuminated with magnesium flares, a portrait of Lindbergh drawn in fire, Niagara Falls by moonlight, melee of the dragons, grove of jeweled palms, and a crossword puzzle wheel. The Fiery Spider Bombshell was described as being “produced by the discharge of two 15-inch three-break bombshells releasing 72 gold and comet stars which resemble a score of mighty colossal spiders creeping across the sky in a web of golden fire. This shell is said to easily spread 750 feet.”

The Sunburst Bombshell “is produced by the discharge of an 18-inch two-break shell giving a cloud burst mixture of colors beginning in pale blue and passing through all the other tints of cloudland and sunrise, finishing with a prismatic burst of color. Six heavy batteries sending forth beautiful columns of fire, accompanied with myriads of stars and ending with a beautiful rainbow, are used to produce the piece called Popping Corn Amongst the Clouds.”

World War II had a limiting effect on holiday celebrations. The Catskill Mountain News of June 18, 1943, has an item describing plans for the fourth in Andes. In an effort spearheaded by Andes Hotel owner Vincent Martucci, a group of businessmen raised funds to purchase fireworks. The article points out that, “These fireworks do not in any way conflict with the war effort as they are made from chemicals that are not essential.” A softball game and dance were also planned, noting that local activities helped to limit unnecessary pleasure driving.

Happy July 4th; no doubt there will be booms everywhere.

T. M. Bradshaw shares other thoughts on history at tmbradshawbooks.com.

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America, and the Catskills, at 250

By Greg Madden

Each month, I attempt to share a personal involvement in the articles I write. As I began this month’s column, reviewing the Catskill Mountain’s impact on a big moment for all Americans this summer, I wanted to see if I might find a personal angle to this story.

Armed with some knowledge of my family history, I broke open the internet to research whether or not I was related to any authors or signers to the Declaration of Independence, a mere few centuries ago.

Throughout my life, the elders in our family would often speak with pride of our familial connection to Thomas Fitzsimons (October 11, 1741-August 26, 1811), an Irish-born merchant, banker, politician (two term United States Congressman) and American Founding Father from Philadelphia, who proudly signed the Constitution of the United States of America.

This summer, the United States of America celebrates the 250th anniversary of the monumental adoption of our Declaration of Independence, one of the most powerful and influential political documents in human history.

Across our nation, cities, towns, battlefields, historic communities and regions, we are all reflecting on what the Declaration meant in 1776 and what it means today.

Few regions have felt the echoes of America’s founding story quite like the Catskill Mountains and the Hudson Valley, where the Hudson River was a most important transportation avenue for an awakening and birthing young nation.

The Catskills are often viewed as a peaceful retreat of forests, waterfalls, small towns, and mountain villages. They are associated with tourism, art, folklore, and natural beauty. But hidden beneath that scenic identity is a region deeply connected to the birth of our nation.

As America reaches this remarkable 250-year milestone, an important question emerges. Was the American Revolution and the Declaration of Independence truly successful for America and more importantly the Catskills?

The answer is complicated. The Declaration transformed the Catskills into a symbol of American opportunity, expansion, and identity. Yet the same forces that brought prosperity also created demanding hardship, environmental destruction, economic inequality, and cultural change that still shape the region today, mirroring the larger American experience itself.

Long before the Europeans arrived, the Catskills were home to vast communities of Indigenous peoples including the Lenape and the Mohican. The mountains, rivers, kills and valleys were regarded not simply as resources but, as sacred living landscapes connected to spirituality, trade, and survival.

When Dutch explorers arrived here in the early 1600’s, including the legendary Henry Hudson during his voyage of 1609, the region became increasingly important to colonial trade and settlement. Fur trapping, timber harvesting, and farming slowly altered the landscape and wilderness. By the mid-1700s, tension

“View on the Catskill—Early Autumn,” Oil on canvas byThomas Cole (1836–37). Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York

between the fledgling American colonies and the British Crown was spreading throughout the northeast.

The Catskills were not isolated by any means from revolutionary politics of the time. In fact, the Hudson Valley corridor was strategically vital during the American Revolution: control of the Hudson River meant control of any movement between New England and the southern colonies. Local communities became deeply involved in the increasingly popular independence movement.

One of the most fascinating historical moments occurred here in Greene County, where local residents signed the “Coxsackie Articles of Association” in 1775, just a little more than a year before the Declaration of Independence was formally adopted in Philadelphia. Historians often describe this as an early regional declaration against British rule.

The Coxsackie Declaration of Independence was a resolution adopted on May 17, 1775, by 225 freeholders and inhabitants of the Coxsackie District in Albany County, New York (now Greene County), affirming their commitment to resist British ministerial designs to impose revenue measures on the American colonies and expressing solidarity with the events in Massachusetts Bay following the battles at Lexington and Concord.

The document, primarily drafted and signed by Dutch-descended landowners at the home of Leonard Bronk, resolved that the signers would “never become Slaves” and associate under ties of religion, honor, and patriotism to implement directives from the Continental Congress or Provincial Convention aimed at opposing “arbitrary and oppressive Acts of the British Parliament” while maintaining peace, order, and property rights until constitutional reconciliation could be achieved.

This local pledge, predating the national Declaration of Independence by over a year, exemplified the escalating grassroots revolutionary fervor among rural Hudson Valley communities, with signers including militia leaders like Colonel Anthony Van Bergen and the Reverend John Schuneman, presumed author of the text.

Its preservation, owing to the document’s failure to reach New York authorities, leading to its rediscovery in an Albany attic in 1923 and subsequent authentication by state historians, renders it a rare artifact illustrating the colonies’ incremental shift toward organized defiance, though its signers included enslavers whose own property holdings in human beings contrasted with their proclaimed aversion to subjugation.

For residents of the Catskills at the time, the Declaration represented several powerful ideas. First, it promised freedom from monarchy and foreign rule. Second, it opened the possibility of westward expansion and land ownership. Third, it encouraged the belief that ordinary people could shape their own destiny rather than serve inherited aristocratic systems.

Those ideals profoundly changed the future of the region. After independence, the Catskills evolved from frontier wilderness into one of the symbolic landscapes of the new American republic. Roads improved, river traffic expanded, and eventually canals and

railroads connected the mountains to the growing metropolis of New York City.

The new nation needed symbols of identity. Europe had ancient castles and cathedrals, but America needed its own mythology. The Catskills helped provide it.

During the early 1800s, artists of the Hudson River School transformed the Catskills into a spiritual symbol of the American wilderness. Painters such as Thomas Cole portrayed the mountains as majestic, untamed, and divinely inspired landscapes that represented the promise of the young republic.

The success of these paintings cannot be separated from the ideals of the Declaration of Independence. America needed cultural confidence. It needed landscapes that could rival Europe’s grandeur. The Catskills became part of that national identity.

At the same time, writers including Washington Irving used the region as the setting for uniquely American stories like “Rip Van Winkle.” Irving’s sleepy mountain villages and mysterious wilderness helped establish the Catskills as a place where American folklore could thrive.

In this sense, the Declaration succeeded brilliantly. Independence helped transform the region from colonial backwater into a cultural treasure of the nation.

Economically, the revolution and the growth of the new republic brought enormous change. By the 19th century, the Catskills became deeply connected to America’s expanding industrial economy. Timber, leather tanning, bluestone quarrying, agriculture, and transportation all flourished. Next to explode was tourism.

The opening of the famous Catskill Mountain House in 1824 marked a turning point in American leisure culture. Wealthy travelers from New York City came north seeking fresh air, mountain scenery, and escape from urban life. The Catskills became one of America’s first great vacation destinations.

Over time, the region evolved into a tourism empire of grand hotels, bungalow colonies, summer camps, and resorts. By the 20th century, the Catskills had become internationally famous as the “Borscht Belt,” where generations of Jewish-American families vacationed and comedians developed careers that later shaped American entertainment. So we have a sense of humor.

Would any of this have happened without the Declaration of Independence and the rise of the United States? Maybe, but probably not in the same way.

The ideals of liberty and mobility unleashed enormous economic energy. Americans increasingly believed they had the right to pursue happiness, travel freely, own land, and reinvent themselves. The Catskills benefited enormously from those beliefs. Yet there is another side to the story.

The same American expansion fueled by independence also damaged the natural and cultural foundations of the Catskills. Forests were heavily stripped during the 1800s. Hemlock trees were destroyed for tanning industries. Rivers were polluted. Wildlife populations collapsed. Wolves, elk, and mountain lions disappeared from the region.

Ironically, the very wilderness celebrated by artists was simultaneously being consumed by industrial growth. This contradiction sits at the heart of the American experience. The Declaration proclaimed liberty and equality, yet the nation expanded through relentless exploitation of land and resources. Indigenous peoples were displaced. Economic inequality widened. Entire landscapes were transformed for profit. So, was this a success?

For some, yes. The Catskills became prosperous and nationally celebrated. For others, the cost was immense. By the late 19th century, concern over environmental destruction led New York State to create protections for the Catskills watershed and forest preserve. This ultimately helped preserve large portions of the mountains from complete industrial collapse. Many historians view the Catskills as one of the birthplaces of the American conservation movement.

Again, the ideals of the Declaration played a role. Americans increasingly argued that natural beauty belonged to the public, not just private interests. The belief that citizens possessed rights and shared ownership of the republic eventually expanded into ideas about preserving prized public land.

The success of America, at least in the Catskills, may therefore lie not in perfection but in adaptation and the ability to recognize mistakes and attempt to correct them. Today, 250 years after independence, the Catskills stand at another crossroads.

The region has experienced economic decline in some communities and explosive growth in others. Tourism has returned strongly in recent years. Thousands of city residents moved here after the COVID-19 pandemic, transforming housing markets and local culture. Some residents celebrate this revival while others fear displacement and overdevelopment.

This debate reflects an old American tension dating back to the founding era itself. Who truly benefits from freedom and opportunity?

The modern Catskills contain both optimism and anxiety. Most old hotels and motels have become ruins, luxury retreats or important housing for local workers. Historic villages are reviving through art, food, music, and tourism. Young entrepreneurs are re-

discovering small-town life. Yet rising housing costs and economic pressures leave many longtime residents uncertain about the future.

Still, there remains something deeply symbolic about the Catskills in the American imagination.

The mountains continue to represent escape, renewal, reinvention, and possibility. Visitors still arrive searching for something difficult to define, like peace, inspiration, healing, connection, or perhaps even a sense of the older America that once seemed simpler and more rooted. That emotional connection may be one of the Declaration’s greatest legacies.

The Declaration of Independence was never merely a political document. It was a statement of aspiration, an imperfect promise that people could shape their future and pursue lives of meaning and dignity. The Catskills became one of the regions where Americans attempted to live out that dream. So, was the experiment successful?

Measured purely by ideals, America has often fallen short. Inequality persists. Political division remains intense. Environmental pressures continue. The promises of liberty and equality have never been fully realized for everyone.

But measured historically, the transformation of the Catskills over the past 250 years is extraordinary. A remote colonial frontier became a center of so much, an American identity itself. Perhaps success should not be viewed as a final achievement but as an ongoing work in progress, the never ending story.

The Catskills endure because they continually reinvent themselves while preserving popular echoes of the past. These mountains have witnessed revolution, industrialization, artistic awakening, environmental destruction, cultural rebirth, and modern rediscovery. Few American regions encapsulate the nation’s complicated journey so completely.

As fireworks mark America’s 250th, the Catskills will likely celebrate quietly, through historic reenactments, museum exhibits, festivals, music, and storytelling. Yet beneath those celebrations lies a deeper truth.

The Catskills are not merely spectators to American history and like my relative Thomas Fitzsimons, they are part of the American story itself.

Greg Madden practices ancient healing modalities Tui-Na Massage, BioPhoton Light Therapy (needle-less acupuncture) and Sound Healing (tuning forks/gong bath) by appointment only at Illuminating Wellness, located at 5980 Main Street, Tannersville, NY. 518 718 4228 or IlluminatingWellness.care.

Photo by Fran Driscoll, francisxdriscoll.com

The Accidental Vintners

The duo behind The Roxbury Bottle Shop are bringing education, storytelling, and a global perspective to Main Street

By Michael Koegel

When Jennifer Rhodes and Caroline Fauvel took over The Roxbury Bottle Shop in October 2025, they felt a little bit like imposters. After all, what did they know about wine and spirits?

Still, as customers of the shop before they became its owners, they understood the rhythms of the town and the people who walked through the door. Their path to the wine business may have been unconventional, but they have embraced the challenge with curiosity and a willingness to learn. Today, The Bottle Shop is a fixture on Roxbury’s Main Street and an important stop for locals, weekenders, and visitors alike.

And they realized that they knew a lot more than they initially thought.

MK: So, your Catskills origin story is pretty familiar.

Jennifer: Yeah, same story as everybody else, I think. We were weekenders starting in 2015, coming up to Halcottsville, the next town over. We were living in Brooklyn, and when the pandemic hit in 2020, we came up and ended up staying. We’d always planned to move here eventually—the pandemic just accelerated the timeline. We wound down our businesses in Brooklyn and made the move permanent.

MK: What businesses were you running?

Jennifer: Real estate.

MK: Both of you?

Caroline: I did a few other things before real estate, mainly headhunting.

MK: So how do you go from real estate to owning a wine and spirits store?

Jennifer: We were customers of the previous owners and would always joke about buying the store. Eventually, somehow, it started to make sense, and we did it.

MK: What was that transition like?

Jennifer: In some ways it felt completely random, although we both have family backgrounds connected to wine and spirits. It was a brand-new business, but it also felt surprisingly comfortable. In the beginning it felt like we were “playing store” a little bit. Sometimes it still does.

MK: You mentioned family connections. Did either of you have a background in wine before opening the store?

Jennifer: My dad was a wine and spirits buyer for the military, so we lived mostly in Europe. He traveled extensively to wineries and bought in enormous quantities. As kids, we sometimes went with him, so I was immersed in that world.

On my mom’s side, my family is French and makes Champagne. They’re fifth-generation producers in the Champagne region, so I grew up seeing that side of the business as well. We’ve even been able to bring their Champagne into the store.

MK: So there is a pretty serious wine background here.

Jennifer: Plus Caroline is French.

Caroline: That’s my pedigree. It was always kind of a joke—I’m French, so obviously I know wine.

MK: And do you?

Caroline: Yeah, actually I do. I know French wine very well—the regions, the appellations, the soils, which are incredibly important in winemaking. I grew up with it.

MK: Were you raised in France?

Caroline: Yes. Born and raised there. I’ve been in the U.S. for about 20 years.

MK: So wine was just part of everyday life.

Caroline: There was always wine on the table. My parents were close friends with winemakers in the Loire Valley, and every summer we’d visit them. I remember running through the vineyards as a little kid.

Jennifer: Meals with Caroline’s family are very structured. There are courses, different drinks paired with different foods, and everyone talks about what they’re tasting. It’s detailed and never rushed. Caroline has an incredibly sensitive palate—she can pick up exactly what’s happening in a glass, and that’s been really helpful in the store.

MK: So maybe owning a wine shop wasn’t as random as it first seemed.

Jennifer: We didn’t really put two and two together until we were here and realized, “Wait a minute, we actually do have this background.”

Caroline: It was always there.

MK: Do you find yourselves gravitating toward French wines?

Caroline: That’s what my palate naturally responds to.

Jennifer: We probably carry more French wines than anything else.

Caroline: French winemaking—like Italian winemaking—is enormous. There’s just so much depth there.

MK: Do you also carry New York wines?

Caroline: We do. There weren’t many in the store when we took over, so we expanded that section. Tourists often want something local from upstate New York.

MK: What about spirits?

Caroline: The former owners were very wine-focused. We felt there was room to expand the spirits selection. Today we’re about 60% wine and 40% spirits.

MK: Are there local distilleries you like to highlight?

Jennifer: Union Grove is our closest distillery—they’re in Arkville—so we carry their products. We also recently connected with Rock Valley Spirits, about an hour away, and Bootlegger in Roscoe. The products are excellent, and the stories behind them are great.

Caroline: We also carry products from Brooklyn distilleries. What’s interesting is that many local distilleries focus on traditional expressions. If they’re making gin, it’s a classic juniper gin. In Brooklyn, you’ll find all kinds of creative variations—rose gin, elderflower gin, and so on. They’re making beautiful things.

MK: You’ve mentioned a product’s “story” a few times. How important is that when you’re choosing products?

Caroline: It has to taste good first. But we also look for a story. Organic or sustainable farming is important to us—no pesticides, no additives. And presentation matters too. When someone is looking at a wall full of bottles, their eye is often drawn to something they’ve never seen before.

Jennifer: Biodynamic farming is another thing we pay attention to.

MK: Biodynamic?

Jennifer: It’s a farming philosophy that focuses on the entire ecosystem surrounding production—the soil, pollinators, biodiversity, everything working together.

Caroline: They even farm according to lunar cycles.

MK: This recorder can’t pick up my eyes rolling.

Caroline: But we saw it!

MK: Sorry, sorry, sorry, I guess I’m a little out of my depth. Organic certification has strict standards, is biodynamic certification regulated too?

Caroline: Yes. There’s a certification process through Demeter, which sets the standards.

MK: Can you give me an example of a product whose story helped bring it into the store?

Jennifer: We recently brought in two gins from a woman Master Distiller in Mexico City called Condesa Gin.

Caroline: It tastes great, but we were also excited because we didn’t have a Mexican gin on the shelf. It’s women-owned, which we like

to support. We’re interested in the craft movement, plus women-owned, minority-owned, Black-owned, small family businesses. Of course we carry the major brands, too.

MK: You also host tastings, right?

Caroline: We do. Sometimes we pour the wines ourselves, and sometimes we bring in the producers. They’re always educational. We want people to understand what they’re drinking. Usually there’s a theme—light-bodied to full-bodied, for example. We want to demystify wine. In the summer we try to host tastings twice a month, and the schedule is on our website.

MK: How many people usually attend?

Jennifer: Typically 25 to 30 people. This summer we’ll be bringing in the folks from Rock Valley Spirits.

Caroline: And they have a great story.

Jennifer: It’s a husband-and-wife team. He’s a serious Scotch enthusiast, they’ve traveled all over the world tasting Scotch and then he’s set out to create his ideal version.

Caroline: Using local ingredients. It’s basically a Catskills take on Scotch.

Jennifer: Technically you can’t call it Scotch unless it’s made in Scotland.

Caroline: They also make vodka, gin, and flavored vodkas. The wife even forages ingredients like elderberries from their property.

MK: Last question. When you go out for a drink yourselves, what do you order?

Caroline: Usually something outside our comfort zone.

Jennifer: We like to try things we’ve never had before. It’s how we learn.

MK: So now drinking is homework!

Caroline: Exactly. And we can write it off!

The Roxbury Bottle Shop is open every day from 12-7. Closed Sundays. They are located at 53484 State Highway 30 in Roxbury, NY. 607 326 6200. Go to their website roxburybottleshop.com or instagram @roxburywine for information about upcoming wine tastings. Make sure to check out their wall of wines that sell for under $10 and $15.

Michael Koegel is a writer, director and the owner of Mama’s Boy Burgers in Tannersville.

A Greene County Garden in July: Dill

By Margaret Donsbach Tomlinson

Dill is an essential ingredient in dill pickles, but also adds a fresh flavor to a party dip or to a sauce over broiled or poached fish. That alone makes it worth including in a garden, especially since it’s so easy to grow.

Dill does a lot more in the garden, though. The flowers attract butterflies, bees and beneficial insects like hoverflies that prey on pest insects. Ladybugs, whose larvae are voracious aphid eaters, lay their eggs in dill foliage. Its feathery leaves make a lovely contrast with other garden plants, and its lacy yellow flowers in summer top plants that are three to four feet high.

Most gardeners in the Hudson Valley have to cope with the heavy clay soil, something this herb can do wonders to loosen. During the Ice Age, glaciers scraped across the land, grinding up rocks and soil and carrying them toward the mouth of the Hudson River. When the glaciers melted at the end of the Ice Age, the fine sediments in them settled to the bottom of the gigantic lake that is now the Hudson Valley. These clay soils are fertile, but where they were plowed, air and organic matter were released, leaving them heavy and inhospitable to plant roots. Plowing also kills mycorrhizae, leaving many of our clay soils heavier than before.

Mycorrhizae are beneficial fungi that form symbiotic relationships with plant roots, sending fine filaments through the soil that

help to loosen it and create passageways for air and water to circulate. Returning mycorrhizae to the soil can make it looser and more permeable. Dill forms especially vigorous relationships with mycorrhizae. Purchased spores can be sprinkled into a row of dill seeds to jump-start the process. Remnants of natural mycorrhizae in the soil can also bond with dill roots and multiply. Gardeners with heavy clay soil that is slow to dry out and warm up in spring may want to try planting dill to see what happens.

An annual, dill will sprinkle enough of its seeds around the garden to return the following year, though it’s not an aggressive self-seeder. Its fine foliage allows plenty of sun to shine through, making it a comfortable companion for other garden plants.

For an easy dip for chips and veggies, combine a block of cream cheese with enough milk to give it a creamy texture, or use plain Greek-style yogurt. Add two finely chopped scallions, green tops included, and about two tablespoons of chopped dill weed. Mix it all together, and you’ve got a refreshing summer party dip.

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

A tiny masked bee in the Hylaeus genus pollinating dill flowers

Forged in Revolution: Early Military Encampment

This July at Fenimore Farm & Country Village in Cooperstown

Fenimore Farm and Country Village is celebrating America’s 250th birthday this summer. The museum’s Forged in Revolution: Early Military Encampment exhibit will be the immersive interpretive event of the season.

From July 20 to August 2, museum visitors can explore military tents from the American Revolution, War of 1812, and Civil War to engage with interpreters to learn about military camp life. Guests can discover what soldiers ate, what they packed for battle, and even try out marching in some military drills themselves. Other interactive offerings include decoding codes and messages around the village, which are inspired by the work and times of Washington’s spies. The sounds of bugles and drum calls to action will fill the air as visitors try on a reproduction soldier’s uniform and take a selfie at our photo station.

The skilled craftspeople who work in the museum’s Historic Village are also getting in on the spirit of the era. The museum’s blacksmiths will demonstrate how musket balls were molded. At the pharmacy, interpreters will discuss the medical treatment available to soldiers on the battlefield. Guests can get a literal taste of the soldier’s life by sampling hard tack, a dense, dry cracker that was a shelf-stable staple of military camp life. For a sweeter treat, visitors can see victory cake being made at our farmstead kitchen and take home their own copy of the recipe.

Representing the homefront, quilting demonstrations will instruct how quilts and quilting circles aided the war effort. The museum’s in-house theater troupe, The Templeton Players, will stage dramatic reenactments of Patrick Henry’s “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death!” speech and Abigail Adams beseeching of her husband, John Adams, to “Remember the Ladies” when drawing up our founding documents.

The museum’s print shop will be printing a Commemorative 250th Anniversary Edition of the Freeman’s Journal featuring news articles from Fourth of Julys of the past. Grab one to bring home as a keepsake (while supplies last). All of this and more is only at Fenimore Farm & Country Village from July 20 through August 2, 2026.

Visitors can enjoy drinks, snacks and food at Crossroads Cafe, open daily from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm or feel free to pack a picnic lunch and spread out on the sprawling grounds or at one of the picnic tables found on the property.

Fenimore Farm is open seven days a week from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Purchase tickets in advance at fenimorefarm.org or at the door. Forged in Revolution: An Early Military Encampment is included with the price of admission and museum members receive free admission throughout the regular season. Fenimore Farm is located at 5775 NY-80 in Cooperstown.

MOUNTAIN CINEMA

TOY STORY 5

The gang’s jobs are challenged when they’re introduced to a new threat to playtime. 7/3-7/6

MINIONS & MONSTERS

Follows the Minions in 1920s Hollywood as they search for frightening creatures for their monster movie. OPENS 7/3

BACKROOMS

After a therapist’s patient disappears into a dimension beyond reality, she must venture into the unknown to save him. 7/3-7/6, 7/10-7/13

MOANA

Live-action adaptation of the 2016 Disney animated film. OPENS 7/10

THE ODYSSEY

After the Trojan War, Odysseus faces a dangerous voyage back to Ithaca. OPENS 7/17

MADDIE’S SECRET

A food influencer secretly struggles with bulimia as she navigates online fame, close friendships, and a painful past. 7/17-7/20, 7/24-7/27

SPIDER-MAN: BRAND NEW DAY

A forgotten Peter Parker lives alone as a full-time Spider-Man until a powerful new enemy emerges. OPENS 7/31

GAIL DAUGHTRY AND THE CELEBRITY SEX PASS

When her fiancé uses their “celebrity pass” agreement, Midwest bride Gail Daughtry travels to Hollywood seeking revenge by pursuing her own celebrity encounter. 7/31-8/3, 8/7-8/10

OPEN FRIDAY-MONDAY THROUGH THE SUMMER!

Located in the Doctorow Center for the Arts 7971 Main Street • Hunter, NY 12442

THREE SCREENS showing the best of Hollywood & Independent Films.

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

here are places that ask you to travel far to feel transported. And then there are places, closer to home, that quietly offer the same sense of escape. Each July, on the beautiful Walsh Farm in Oak Hill, Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival becomes just such a place—where the rhythm of the day is set not by clocks and cell phones, but by music drifting across the fields.

You arrive and become part of a pop-up tented village that seems to have risen overnight—lantern-lit, welcoming, and humming with life, a kind of Shangri-La where music drifts through the fields and time melts away. Neighbors become friends. Before long, there’s no reason to leave, and the music draws you in. The grounds open like a small town—paths leading to five shaded stages, including the wildly popular Catskill Dance Stage, the intimate Creekside Stage, the cozy Grass Roots Learning Stage, and user-friendly Jam Central Station—where workshops, dancing, and spontaneous moments of discovery unfold from morning to night.

Families find their rhythm here, too— with room for children to explore, learn, and be part of something larger. From the lively Family Stage to the Bluegrass Academy for Kids, Grey Fox kids are never far from discovery and fun. The festival is a place where generations gather easily, and where first-time visitors are met with a spirit of openness that feels increasingly rare.

While Grey Fox takes place on a large rustic farm, guests of all abilities can enjoy the weekend with ease. Accessible parking and camping, tented seating at all stages, a 24-hour First Aid station, and a dedicated HC Transportation team provide support across the grounds. A continuous shuttle connects key areas, including the High Meadow and Low Meadow stages, making it easy to get around and stay part of the music.

Food and craft vendors offer sustenance and small pleasures—local flavors, festival favorites, and handmade goods that invite wandering from booth to booth between sets. A stroll through the Instrument Makers Marketplace reveals a treasure trove of hand-crafted stringed in-

A WORLD OF MUSIC Right Here in the Catskills

In the rolling hills of the Great Northern Catskills, a summer weekend unfolds—welcoming, unhurried, and filled with song.

struments and music supplies to try out and take home.

And above all, there’s the music: electrifying performances from GRAMMYwinning artists, rising talent, Louisiana’s hottest dance bands, and performers from Quebec, Ireland, the UK, and Norway—all rooted in tradition and alive with possibility. From the rich, resonant voice of Rhiannon Giddens & The Old-Time Revue and the enduring mastery of The Del McCoury Band, to the inventive energy of The Infamous Stringdusters and the driving force of The SteelDrivers, the Grey Fox roster reads like a Who’s Who of Bluegrass and Roots Music. Musicians from around the world bring their own cultural voices to unique collaborations that keep the weekend spontaneous and surprising.

Music fans from across the U.S. and beyond come for the full weekend—camping under the stars, listening, dancing, and jamming into the wee hours. Others come for a day trip or two and quickly get hooked on the vibe. Across generations, music lov-

ers find their place—singles, couples, families, and grandparents alike. However you decide to take part, the magic of Grey Fox lingers long after the festival ends. In a season that moves quickly, Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival is a state of mind— an invitation to slow down. Be present. Listen. Laugh. Remember what it feels like to be part of a gathering shaped by music, landscape, and community—right here in the Catskills. Right here in your backyard.

Why go to Grey Fox?

Go for the music—come back for the feeling. Grey Fox is one of those rare places where everything comes together: incredible performances, a beautiful setting, and a community that’s genuinely welcoming. It’s easy to settle in, make friends, and belong.

What: Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival

Where: 1 Poultney Road, Oak Hill, NY When: July 15–19, 2026

How: GreyFoxBluegrass.com or 315 404 5738

Multiple GRAMMY award winner, Rhiannon Giddens & The Old Time Revue headlines this year’s Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival in Oak Hill, NY. Photo by Karen Cox.

Horton by the Stream’s 32nd Season

Celebrating its 32nd year, Horton by the Stream was originally located in Elka Park in the town of Hunter. The bucolic mountain setting framed this celebration of the work of Horton Foote, screenwriter, playwright, Pulitzer Prize and two-time Academy Award winner, on an outdoor stage until 2021. Frank Girardeau, Founder and Artistic Director, then collaborated with Catskill Mountain Foundation and moved the theater project into the Catskill Mountain Foundation’s Doctorow Center for the Arts on Main Street, Hunter.

Horton Foote wrote about life in small town Texas in the decades from 1900-2000. Like August Wilson, Horton Foote’s plays are rooted around a place, Wharton, Texas, which he names the fictional Harrison, TX. The One Armed Man, a play by Horton Foote, was adapted into a short film in 2014 directed by Tim Guinee, celebrated actor of theater, TV and film. Horton by the Stream presented this one act play twice and it was an audience favorite.

This year, HBTS will present Tim Guinee’s film as part of its Film Festival, now entering its third year. This screening will be paired with a short film called The Lion, directed by Abigail Zealey Bess & starring Judith Roberts. The Lion appeared in shorts Film Festivals nationally and was winner of The NY Short Film Festival Best Short Film in New York in June 2026. The two films will be screened on Saturday, July 25 at 5:00 pm with a wine and cheese talkback afterwards.

In interviews, Guinee discussed the film as a powerful, slowburning examination of debt, exploring how moral, social, and financial obligations eat away at the soul.

Set in early 20th-century East Texas, the movie centers on C.W. Rowe, the wealthiest man in town and a successful cotton gin owner, who is confronted by Ned, a young former employee demanding the return of his limb after losing his arm to Rowe’s cotton gin machinery.

Although it is set in the 1920s, Director Tim Guinee said the short film is relevant today. “It’s a really timely piece,” he said. “I think it has a lot to say about where we are now — CEO versus a guy on the shop floor and pay differences. I think it’s a relevant piece.” Guinee explained that it operates on both a literal and metaphorical level: “The cotton gin owner has an unshakeable belief in the capitalist system that enriched him and casually tosses pennies at problems to make them go away. The play uses the visceral premise of a man asking for his arm back to dissect the systemic indifference of the wealthy toward the working class.”

The film boasts an exceptionally accomplished ensemble of award-winning theater, television, and film veterans. The project made a massive splash on the global festival circuit, screening at over 50 festivals and securing 24 awards.

The core cast includes John Magaro as Ned, the former employee demanding his arm back. Magaro is highly acclaimed for

his lead role in the Oscar-nominated film Past Lives and his work in First Cow and The Big Short. He won a Distinctive Achievement Award for Best Supporting Actor for this short.

Charles Haid plays C.W. Rowe, the wealthy cotton gin owner. Haid is a two-time Primetime Emmy nominee famously known for playing Officer Andy Renko in Hill Street Blues

Terry Kinney plays Pinky. A prominent actor and theater director who co-founded Chicago’s legendary Steppenwolf Theatre Company. He won a WRIFF Award for Best Supporting Actor for this film.

Veteran actor Tim Guinee (Iron Man, Homeland, The Good Wife) made his directorial debut with this film. A passion project for the actor, the movie was written by Guinee’s late father-in-law, Horton Foote, who won an Oscar for his screenplay of To Kill a Mockingbird. Guinee and his wife, Playwright Daisy Foote, produced the project. He won Best Director (Short Film) at the Wild Rose Independent Film Festival.

The legendary playwright and screenwriter Horton Foote is posthumously credited for the script, adapted from his own play. Foote was a Pulitzer Prize winner and two-time Academy Award winner (To Kill a Mockingbird, Tender Mercies).

The beloved, Oscar-winning actor Philip Seymour Hoffman (Capote) served as an executive producer on the project via his company just before his tragic passing in 2014.

Hallie Foote, daughter of Horton Foote and a highly acclaimed, Drama Desk Award-winning stage actress who specializes in her father’s work served as producer.

The film will be shown at 5:00 pm on Saturday July 25, 2026 at the Doctorow Center for the Arts, located at 7971 Main Street in the village of Hunter. Wine and cheese will be served and a talkback with the artists will happen afterwards.

For more information about Horton by the Stream’s 32nd Season, please visit hortonbythestream.org or call 917 991 9537.

Tim Guinee (left) directs John Magaro in the short film, The One Armed Man

JULY-DECEMBER

2026 PERFORMING ARTS SEASON

PURCHASE TICKETS AT CATSKILLMTN.ORG

THURSDAY, JULY 2 AT 6:30 PM

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

SUNDAY, JULY 5 AT 2:00 PM

ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA, THE MUSICAL MUSIC/LYRICS BY TIM MINCHIN, 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.

JULY 11-26

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

Outdoors & Under the Tent Behind the Big Red Barn

Catskill Mountain Shakespeare’s 2026 Main Stage production 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. Visit catskillmountainshakespeare.com for more information!

SUNDAY, JULY 12

CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION BENEFIT FEATURING A PERFORMANCE BY DANCERS FROM THE NEW YORK CITY BALLET WITH DANCERS FROM THE ORPHEUM DANCE PROGRAM PLUS A PERFORMANCE BY THE CAST OF MATILDA

Orpheum Performing Arts Center

Presented in partnership with Works & Process at the Guggenheim Star dancers from the New York City Ballet return to the mountain top for a performance under the Direction of New York City Ballet Principal Adrian Danchig-Waring.

July 11-26

Catskill Mountain Shakespeare presents Much Ado About Nothing

JULY 14-26

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 have been a celebration of the work of Horton Foote, is branching out to include new plays, classic American voices and films. Through the Male Lens, our celebration of dramatic work by and about the male experience, will be bookended by new plays by authors from across the region.

Suggested Donation for all events: $25

Info and Reservations: 917 991 9537

SATURDAY, JULY 18 & SUNDAY, JULY 26 AT 2:00 PM

THE DR. RUTH SHOW, OR, FINDING DR. RUTH

With Annie O’Sullivan

SUNDAY, JULY 19 & SATURDAY, JULY 25 AT 2:00 PM BILL BOWERS: IT GOES WITHOUT SAYING

SATURDAY, JULY 25 AT 5:00 PM TWO FILMS: THE ONE ARMED MAN, BY HORTON FOOTE

Directed by Tim Guinee THE LION, WITH JUDITH ROBERTS

Directed by Abigail Zealey Bess

SATURDAY, AUGUST 1 AT 2:00PM & 6:00PM

SUNDAY, AUGUST 2 AT 2:00PM CINDERELLA

A New Ballet presented by the Orpheum Dance Program Victoria Rinaldi, Director Orpheum Performing Arts Center

Based on the 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!

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. 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. 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 workin-progress will be shared following a three-week choreographic residency at the Catskill Mountain Foundation, alongside excerpts from Trisha Brown’s repertory.

July 19 & 25: Bill Bowers: It Goes Without Saying

August 1 & 2: Cinderella

Photo by Carrie Sutton

August 29: Trisha Brown Dance Company

Photo by Maria Baranova

RETREAT: SEPTEMBER 7-13

SHOW: SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 AT 7:00 PM

THE MUSIC OASIS

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 culminates in a show at the Orpheum Performing Arts Center in Tannersville. Visit themusicoasis.com for more information!

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 AT 7:00PM

THE MOSS ENSEMBLE

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

MATH FALL STAGED PLAY

Maude Adams Theater Hub Catskill Mountain Foundation Doctorow Center for the Arts

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 U.S., 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. The program includes Julie Candeille Piano Concerto op. 2 in D major and Mozart “Jupiter” Symphony no. 41.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7 AT 4:00PM

JEAN-BERNARD CERIN, VOCALIST

EVE MILLER, CELLO CONCERTS & CONVERSATIONS

Piano Performance Museum

Doctorow Center for the Arts

Jean Bernard Cerin is a multifaceted artist and scholar who produces and performs in projects ranging from film, recital, oratorio, opera and folk music. Eve Miller is a cellist, baroque cellist, composer, and music historian. She performs as a baroque cellist in the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond, and is principal cellist of Philadelphia’s Bach Collegium and she is the assistant principal cellist of Philadelphia’s baroque orchestra, Tempesta di Mare. Recent scholarship includes exploration of “gigging life” in colonial and independent Philadelphia and in particular the effects of French immigration from mainland France and the French colonies on Philadelphia’s eighteenth century musical culture.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14 AT 3:00PM

ORPHEE MUSIQUE

Doctorow Center for the Arts

Association Orphee Musique will again bring talented young musicians from Paris as part of their 7 concerts in 7 days series. The musicians selected for 2026 are Daniel and Tabea Streicher who will perform as a piano duo. Tickets for this concert are “Pay What You Wish”. A reception with the artists will follow the performance.

November 7: Jean-Bernard Cerin

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21 AT 7:00PM

MOUNTAINTOP VARIETY HOUR (AND A HALF)

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.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28 AT 7:00PM

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 The Ballet Hispánico School 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.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18

(SNOW DATE: SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19)

MAUDE ADAMS THEATER HUB

5TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR

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 5th Annual Holiday Spectacular. All are welcome to be a part of the performance!

November 28: Windham Festival Chamber Orchestra, Alexander Platt, conductor

December 5 & 6 December 12 & 13

The Nutcracker

LOOKING BACK JANUARY-JUNE 2026 PERFORMANCES

SATURDAY, JANUARY 10 AT 7:00PM

BAYE & ASA OPEN REHEARSAL: AT THE ALTAR

Presented in partnership with Works & Process at the Guggenheim Orpheum Performing Arts Center

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

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7 AT 7:00PM MALPASO DANCE

Presented in partnership with The Joyce Theater Foundation Orpheum Performing Arts Center

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

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

SATURDAY, MARCH 14 AT 7:00PM

AN EVENING WITH THE BALLET HISPANICO SCHOOL’S BH2 CELEBRATED REPERTORY AND A NEW WORK IN RESIDENCE

Orpheum Performing Arts Center

SOLD OUT!

SATURDAY, MARCH 21 AT 2:00PM “A MIRACLE”: ROSE FAMILY CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT CONCERTS & CONVERSATIONS

Piano Performance Museum Doctorow Center for the Arts

TWO SHOWS SOLD OUT!

MARCH 26-28 AT 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

SATURDAY, APRIL 4 AT 7:00PM THE CHASE BROCK EXPERIENCE: COME HOME DIRECTION AND CHOREOGRAPHY BY CHASE BROCK

Presented in partnership with Works & Process at the Guggenheim

Orpheum Performing Arts Center

SATURDAY, APRIL 18 AT 3:00PM

SOLD OUT!

THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK BY FRANCES GOODRICH AND ALBERT HACKETT

Maude Adams Theater Hub

Catskill Mountain Foundation

The Hunter Synagogue 7879 Main Street, Hunter

SATURDAY, APRIL 25 AT 4:00PM GIVE ME LIBERTY, GIVE ME SONG: AMERICA’S JOURNEY AT 250 CONCERTS & CONVERSATIONS

Patricia Garcia-Gil, Fortepiano Tom Strange, Lecture

Piano Performance Museum Doctorow Center for the Arts

SATURDAY, MAY 2 AT 7:00PM CATSKILL MOUNTAIN SHAKESPEARE PRESENTS HAMLET

DIRECTED BY SYDNEY BERK

Doctorow Center for the Arts

OUT!

MAY 13 & 14, SHOW AT 7:30 PM

MAY 15, DINNER AT 6:00 PM, SHOW AT 7:30 PM

MAY 16, DINNER AT 6:00 PM, SHOW AT 7:30 PM

A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE, BY TENNESSEE WILLIAMS

Maude Adams Theater Hub Catskill Mountain Foundation

The Lodge at Hotel Lilien, 6629 Route 23A, Tannersville

SATURDAY, MAY 23 AT 2:00PM

ORPHEUM DANCE PROGRAM

ANNUAL RECITAL

Orpheum Performing Arts Center

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

KEYBOARD MUSIC FROM THE AGES FOR THE AGES: TIMELESS MUSIC FOR HARPSICHORD AND PIANO

A concert of harpsichord and piano music featuring faculty members Audrey Axinn, Masayuki Maki, Maria Rose, Andrew Willis and guest artist, violinist Cynthia Roberts.

TUESDAY, JUNE 2 AT 2:00 PM

FRIDAY, JUNE 5 AT 2:00 PM GUEST ARTIST CONCERTS

SATURDAY, JUNE 6 AT 7:00 PM SUNDAY, JUNE 7 AT 3:00 PM STUDENT CONCERTS

FRIDAY, JUNE 20 AT 7:00PM

PIANIST JEROME ROSE

Doctorow Center for the Arts

SATURDAY, JUNE 28 AT 2:00PM

OMNY TAIKO

Orpheum Performing Arts Center

INTERNATIONAL FORTEPIANO SALONS ONLINE

Yi-heng Yang, Maria Rose & Patricia García-Gil Hosts

Streaming LIVE on Facebook and YouTube www.internationalfortepianosalon.com

View all past Salons on our YouTube channel! youtube.com/catskillmountainfoundation

The International Fortepiano Salon ONLINE was started in 2020 as a way of connecting fortepianists and music lovers around the world. With our interactive discussions, warm & 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.

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.

SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2:00PM CELEBRATING THE PIANO PERFORMANCE MUSEUM AT THE CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION, PART II After four seasons of presenting many fortepianos and artists from around the world, the International Fortepiano Salon is delighted to feature its home venue, the Piano Performance Museum at the Catskill Mountain Foundation. Your hosts will perform on several instruments from the collection and will introduce the pianos in short lectures. The PPM program director, Pam Weisberg, and the piano technician, Richard Hester, will also join us to talk about the history of the collection and all the activities taking place around it.

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 250th anniversary of the United States in an episode featuring remarkable early American pianos from the Sigal Museum.

VIRTUAL PRESENTATIONS

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

WEEKLY CLASSES

2D STUDIO INDEPENDENT STUDY

Dates: July 1 – August 19 (8 weeks)

Time: 1:00pm – 4:00pm

Course Fee: $275

Lab Fee: $20

SUMMER 2026 WEEKLY CLASSES & WORKSHOPS

ABSTRACTED & CLASSIC CONSTRUCTIONS

Instructor: Donna Polseno

Dates: July 17-21 (5 days)

Course Fee: $550

Lab Fee: $65 [includes first bag of clay]

FLAT TO FUNCTIONAL: SLAB BUILT POTTERY FORMS

Instructor: Jen Allen

WEEKLY HAND-BUILDING CERAMICS

Dates: July 1 – August 19 (8 weeks)

Time: 10:00am – 1:00pm

Course Fee: $275

Lab Fee: $70 [includes first bag of clay]

WEEKLY WHEEL-THROWING POTTERY

Instructor: Meredith Kunhardt

Dates: July 1 – August 19 (8 weeks)

Time: 1:00pm – 4:00pm

Course Fee: $275

Lab Fee: $70 [includes first bag of clay]

CERAMICS WORKSHOPS

GET A HANDLE ON IT: STAMPS AS DECORATIVE SURFACE

Instructor: Rich Farrow

Dates: June 12-14 (3 days)

Course Fee: $330

Lab Fee: $55 [includes first bag of clay]

SODA FIRING & GLAZE LAYERING TECHNIQUES

Instructor: Dallas Wooten

Dates: June 19-23 (5 days)

Course Fee: $550

Lab Fee: $80 [includes first bag of clay]

REDUCTION COOLING IN ‘JULIA’ THE TRAIN KILN

Instructor: Dan Murphy

Dates: June 26-30 (5 days)

Course Fee: $600

Lab Fee: $120 [includes one bag of stoneware clay]

FIVE DAYS WITH ADJECTIVES

Instructor: John & Andrea Gill

Dates: July 3-7 (5 days)

Course Fee: $600

Lab Fee: $70 [includes first bag of clay]

EXPLORING THE MOON JAR

Instructor: Sophie Kang Min Yoon

Dates: July 10-14 (5 days)

Course Fee: $550

Lab Fee: $80 [includes first bag of clay]

Dates: July 24-28 (5 days)

Course Fee: $550

Lab Fee: $60 [first bag of clay included]

EVERYBODY MUST GET STONEWARED… AGAIN

Instructor: Doug Peltzman

Dates: July 24-28 (5 days)

Course Fee: $550

Lab Fee: $70 [includes first bag of clay]

INSPIRED BY HISTORY

Instructor: Margaret Bohls

Dates: July 31- August 4 (5 days)

Course Fee: $550

Lab Fee: $65 [includes first bag of clay]

INSPIRED BY HISTORY

Instructor: Suze Lindsay

Dates: July 31- August 4 (5 days)

Course Fee: $550

Lab Fee: $65 [includes first bag of clay]

THROWN AND ALTERED: AND THEN SOME

Instructor: Ray Brown

Dates: August 7-11 (5 days)

Course Fee: $550

Lab Fee: $70 [includes first bag of clay]

FULL OF LIFE: BUILDING BIG POTS ON THE WHEEL

Instructor: Jessica Thompson

Dates: August 14-18 (5 days)

Course Fee: $550

Lab Fee: $70 [includes first bag of clay]

EXPLORING AMACO MID-RANGE GLAZES

Instructor: Cory Brown

Dates: August 15-16 (2 days)

Course Fee: $170

Lab Fee: $25

PUT A LID ON IT

Instructor: David MacDonald

Dates: August 21-25 (5 days)

Course Fee: $550

Lab Fee: $60 [includes first bag of clay]

THE BIG BURN

Instructors: Bruce Dehnert & Steve Cook

Dates: August 28-Sept. 1 (5 days)

Course Fee: $600

Lab Fee: $130

2D PROGRAM WORKSHOPS

INTRODUCTION TO CYANOTYPE

Instructor: Bryan Whitney

Dates: June 20-21 (2 days)

Course Fee: $330

Lab Fee: $65

DISCOVERING YOUR CREATIVITY

Instructor: Karin Lowney -Seed

Dates: June 26-29 (4 days)

Course Fee: $440

Lab Fee: $60

DRAWING THE ALPHABET

Instructor: Cyrus Highsmith

Dates: July 24-25 (2 days)

Course Fee: $220

Lab Fee: $45

ABSTRACT PAINTING: WATER BASED MEDIUMS

Instructor: Loreen Oren

Dates: July 24-26 (3 days)

Course Fee: $330

Lab Fee: $50

EASIER WAYS TO MAKE REPRESENTATIONAL ART

Instructor: Betsy Jacks

Dates: July 31-August 2 (3 days)

Course Fee: $330

Lab Fee: $60

SAVOR THE MOMENT: INTRODUCING

OIL PAINTING WITH FOOD STILL LIFE

Instructor: Mia Brownell

Dates: August 7-10 (4 days)

Course Fee: $440

Lab Fee: $60

CARVE YOUR STORY: RELIEF PRINTING WORKSHOP

Instructor: Martin Kruck

Dates: August 7-8 (2 days)

Course Fee: $220

Lab Fee: $50

WILD COLOR WORKSHOP

Instructor: Lou Thorne

Dates: August 14-16 (3 days)

Course Fee: $330

Lab Fee: $50

FIBER WORKSHOPS

VISIBLE MENDING

Instructor: Megan Piontkowski

Dates: June 19-21 (3 days)

Course Fee: $330

Lab Fee: $50

CATTAIL WEAVING INTENSIVE

Instructor: Renee Baumann

Dates: July 17-19 (3 days)

Course Fee: $330

Lab Fee: $45

3D EMBROIDERY: THINGS THAT GO BUZZ

Instructor: Deborah Simon

Dates: July 17 – 19 (3 days)

Course Fee: $330

Lab Fee: $50

SCULPTURAL FELTING

Instructor: Mallory Zontag

Dates: August 28 – 30 (3 days)

Course Fee: $330

Lab Fee: $80

SPECIAL TOPICS

WRITING AS COLLAGE

Instructor: Ric Royer

Dates: June 12-14 (3 days)

Course Fee: $330

Lab Fee: $25

STAINED GLASS FOR BEGINNERS

Instructor: Lisa Gnos

Dates: August 21-23 (3 days)

Course Fee: $330

Lab Fee: $50

JAPANESE KNOTWEED CRAFT: BIODESIGN, STEWARDSHIP & ECOSOCIAL PRACTICE

Instructor: Timothy Furstnau

Dates: August 15-17 (3 days)

Course Fee: $330

Lab Fee: $45

THE STORIES WE TELL

Instructor: Vince Montague

Dates: August 21-23 (3 days)

Course Fee: $330

Lab Fee: $10

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

Unless otherwise noted online, all course times are 10 am to 4 pm.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

This is just a sampling of all of the events in the Catskills this July. 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

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

Delhi Farmers Market

A line up of dedicated farmers, bakers, producers, herbalists, craftspeople and more.

Location: Courthouse square, Delhi

Hours: Every Wednesday, 9:00 am-2:00 pm

Woodstock Farm Festival

Woodstock’s other festival, celebrating local food, live music, and our rockin’ community

Location: Mountainview Lot, Rock City Road, Woodstock

Hours: Every Wednesday, 3:00-7:00 pm

More Info: woodstockfarmfestival.org

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, 9:00 am-1:00 pm

More Info: kingstonfarmersmarket.org

Saugerties Farmers Market

All the best of local produce, pasture-raised meats, artisanal cheeses, eggs, maple syrup, honey, wines and spirits, baked goods, jams and jellies, prepared foods, and more.

Location: Cahill School Parking Lot, 115 Main St., Saugerties

Hours: Every Saturday, 10:00 am-2:00 pm

More Info: saugertiesfarmersmarket

Phoenicia Farmers Market

Phoenicia Farmers Market brings together local farms, artisanal makers, full-time residents, and seasonal visitors to a weekly market.

Location: Main Street, Phoenicia

Hours: Every Sunday, noon-4:00 pm

More Info: phoeniciafarmersmarket.org

Iyengar Yoga with Carolyn Christie

Iyengar yoga practice brings strength and 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

Magic On Main—

An Intimate Parlor Experience

Join Magician Sean Doolan for a magic show in his private library. By reservation only.

Location: 5428 NY Route 23 (Main Street), Windham

Dates & Times: Check website for most up-to-date schedule

Tickets: $20/person

More Info: MagicOnMainWindham.com

THROUGH

JULY 3

Exhibition: East Branch of the Delaware River Plein Air Painters Show Works by the members of the East Branch of the Delaware River Plein Air Painters.

Location: Roxbury Arts Group, 5025 Vega Mountain Road, Roxbury

More Info: roxburyartsgroup.org

THROUGH JULY 4

Western & Swing Week 2026

A full week of Vintage Jazz, Swing, WesternSwing, and Classic Country music and dancing. Location: The Ashokan Center 477 Beaverkill Rd, Olivebridge

More Info: ashokancenter.org

THROUGH JULY 19

Suddenly Last Summer

The world premiere of a new opera by Courtney Bryan, based on the Tennessee Williams play. Location: Fisher Center at Bard College, Annandale

More Info: fishercenter.bard.edu

THROUGH AUGUST 1

Exhibition: Paper + Skin

Exploring the versatility and creativity of eight tattoo artists from New York State.

Location: Headwaters Art Center, 66 Main Street, Stamford

More Info: roxburyartsgroup.org

Exhibition: Matthew Gilbert

A solo exhibition of the work of Matthew Gilbert. Location: Jane Street Art Center, 11 Jane Street, Ste A, Saugerties

More Info: janestreetartcenter.com

Exhibition: Tatana Kellner

A solo exhibition of the work of Tatana Kellner, from her recent series Apart

Location: The Sketchbook Gallery, Jane Street Art Center, 11 Jane Street, Ste A, Saugerties

More Info: janestreetartcenter.com

THROUGH AUGUST 2

Sunday QiGong with Jill Ann Schwartz

This ancient movement practice relaxes and rejuvenates body, heart, and mind.

Location: Opus 40, 356 George Sickle Rd, Saugerties

Days/Times: Every Sunday, 9:30 am

More Info: opus40.org

Vertex | Geometry of Edges

The paintings of Ginnie Gardiner, Whitney Hagen, Susanna Ronner, Lynne Tobin, and Kati Vilim fool the eye with color, form, and line. The sculptors, Osi Audu and Alex Kveton, contend with solid shapes and forms.

Location: The Richards Gallery at Opus 40, 356 George Sickle Rd, Saugerties

More Info: opus40.org

THROUGH AUGUST 8

Saturday Yoga with Shakti Yoga

Special outdoor sessions with a rotating set of amazing instructors from Shakti Yoga.

Location: Opus 40, 356 George Sickle Rd, Saugerties

Days/Times: Every Saturday, 9:30 am

More Info: opus40.org

THROUGH AUGUST 18

Exhibition: Animal Bodies

Drawing our attention to ways textile design and manufacturing express connections and relationships among wild and settled worlds.

Location: Athens Cultural Center, 24 Second Street, Athens

First Fridays: July 3 & August 7, 5:00-7:00 pm

Gallery Hours: Saturday & Sunday, 12:00-5:00 pm

More Info: athensculturalcenter.org

THROUGH AUGUST 29

Instructors Exhibition

Woodstock School of Art instructors exhibiting in a wide range of media.

Location: Woodstock School of Art, 2740 Route 212, Woodstock

Gallery Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

More Info: woodstockschoolofart.org

CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION

TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH THE ARTS

THANK YOU TO OUR FUNDERS & SUPPORTERS!

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.

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

THROUGH SEPTEMBER 6

Upstate Photography Biennial

The work of 39 artists celebrating the diversity and vitality of photographic practices in upstate New York.

Location: CPW, 25 Dederick Street, Kingston

Gallery Hours: Thurs.-Sun., 11:00 am-5:00 pm

More Info: cpw.org

THROUGH SEPTEMBER 7

Exhibition: The Linda McCartney Retrospective: From the Light Linda McCartney (1941–1998) was an exceptional photographer, known for her use of photography to share her enthusiasm for the people and passions that formed and informed her life story.

Location: Fenimore Art Museum, 5798 State Highway 80, Cooperstown

More Info: fenimoreartmuseum.org

THROUGH SEPTEMBER 18

Exhibition: Rock, Paper, Sister

A two-person exhibition featuring Kate Bingaman-Burt and Elizabeth Saloka, artists who explore how the mundane accrues significance. Location: Women’s Studio Workshop, 722 Binnewater Lane, Rosendale

More information: wsworkshop.org

THROUGH SEPTEMBER 26

Goat Yoga at Tiny House Resort

An hour of goat yoga. Family friendly, mats provided.

Location: Tiny House Resort, 2776 Route 23B, Cairo

Time: Saturdays, 9:30 am

More Info: atinyhouseresort.com

THROUGH DECEMBER 31

Exhibition: Faded Elegance: Portraits of Havana by Michael Eastman Michael Eastman’s monumental, often vividly colorful, prints pay homage to the architectural forms and textures that define a city.

Location: Fenimore Art Museum, 5798 State Highway 80, Cooperstown

More Info: fenimoreartmuseum.org

Exhibition: American Masterworks

Paintings by American master painters. Location: Fenimore Art Museum, 5798 State Highway 80, Cooperstown

More Info: fenimoreartmuseum.org

JULY 1

The Church: The Singles, 1980-2025

Experiencing a renaissance with their worldwide critically-hailed new albums, The Church has witnessed their continued impact to astonishingly grow exponentially in audience size and

media attention through not only their new albums but a world tour.

Location: Bearsville Center, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock

Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: bearsvilletheater.com

JULY 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29

Waterfront Wednesdays with Arm-of-the-Sea Theater Arm-of-the-Sea Theater’s weekly summer performance series, along with a variety of preshow activities and displays for all ages before the show.

Location: Arm-of-the-Sea Tidewater Center, 61 E Bridge Street, Saugerties Time: 6:00 pm

To Register: armofthesea.org

JULY 1-31

Exhibition: America 250: Through Our Artists’ Eyes

Featured works capture the enduring spirit of the American landscape. The Catskills, long an icon of American landscape painting, is prominently featured in this exhibition.

Location: Windham Fine Arts, 5380 Main Street, Windham

More Info: director@windhamfinearts.com, 518 734 6850, or windhamfinearts.com

JULY 2

Jesca Hoop

Across the rich and sumptuous tracks on Jesca Hoop’s Long Wave Home, Hoop deeply considers what it is that people owe to each other.

Location: Bearsville Center, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: bearsvilletheater.com

Bourbon Sprawl w/ Jackson Kincheloe Band (of Sister Sparrow) & Lewis Degrote Deep twang and country classic.

Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm

More Info: colonywoodstock.com

JULY 2, 3 & 5

Maude Adams Theater Hub presents Roald Dahl’s Matilda, the Musical 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.

Location: Orpheum Performing Arts Center, 6050 Main Street, Tannersville

Time: Thursday, July 2 @ 6:30 pm; Friday, July 3 @ 2:00 & 6:30 pm; Sunday, July 5 @ 2:00 pm

More Info: catskillmtn.org

JULY 3

Walkie Talkie with Us: Historic Rondout Walking Tour – Challenging

A walking tour of the Rondout waterfront from the Hudson River Maritime Museum. Tours marked “challenging” will include more uphill walking.

Location: Hudson River Maritime Museum, 50 Rondout Landing, Kingston Time: 10:00 am

More Info: hrmm.org

Curator’s Tour: Exhibition Tour of Cynthia Daignault’s Light Atlas

Join Amanda Malmstrom, Thomas Cole Site Associate Curator, for a guided tour of the special exhibition.

Location: Thomas Cole House, 218 Spring Street, Catskill Time: 11:30 am

More Info: thomascole.org

Greene County’s America 250 Celebration

Main & Church Streets in the village of Catskill will be closed for the celebration that includes a ceremony, performances, sidewalk sales, outdoor cafés, exhibits, children’s activities, live music, food trucks, and demonstrations.

Location: Main Street, Catskill Time: 3:00 pm

More Info: gchistory.org

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

The Pink Floyd Project

Performing all of your favorite songs from the iconic band Pink Floyd!

Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm

More Info: colonywoodstock.com

Independence Day (1996)

When massive alien spacecraft arrive above Earth’s major cities, humanity faces an unprecedented threat. As the extraterrestrials launch a devastating attack on the planet, a group of unlikely heroes must unite to lead a desperate counteroffensive.

Location: Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main Street, Rosendale Times: 7:00 pm

More Info: rosendaletheatre.org

Basso Vox

Award winning double bassist Nina Bernat and bassoonist Eleni Katz play chamber music that unlocks the expressive potential of two bass instruments together.

Location: Old School Baptist Church, County Road 36, Denver Time: 7:30 pm

More Info: roxburyartsgroup.org

Paul Simon

Venerated as one of the greatest songwriters of all time and “popular music’s premier poet of the human condition,” Simon has received 16 Grammy Awards and has been twice inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Location: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org

Maverick Friday Nights: ARKAI

An award-winning, genre-defying string duo that bridges the classical and the contemporary, weaving cinematic soundscapes with electrifying virtuosity into epic performances.

Location: Maverick Concerts, 120 Maverick Road, Woodstock

Time: 4:00 pm

More Info: maverickconcerts.org

JULY 3-19

Woodstock Playhouse Summer Theatre Festival: Newsies

The Tony-winning Broadway hit musical is set in turn-of-the century New York City and spins the tale of a charismatic newsboy leader who leads his fellow “newsies” to a better life.

Location: Woodstock Playhouse, 103 Mill Hill Road, Woodstock

Time: Fridays & Saturdays @ 7:30 pm; Sundays @ 2:00 pm

More Info: woodstockplayhouse.org

JULY 3-AUGUST 2

Two Solo Exhibitions:

Alan Powell & Irina Grinevitsky plus Members’ Group Show

Alan Powell’s fifty-year career encompasses sculpture, painting, and experimental videography as well as multichannel installations and audio compositions. Irina Grinevitsky is a visual artist with a summer studio in Catskills.

Location: Longyear Gallery, 785 Main Street, Margaretville

Opening Reception: Saturday, July 4, 3:00-5:00 pm

Gallery Hours: Friday-Sunday, 12:00-5:00 pm

More Info: longyeargallery.org

JULY 4

Fourth of July Celebration

Try a free sample of vanilla ice cream churned at the mill and chilled with ice from our 2026 ice harvest. Food will be available for purchase, and a variety of vendors will be on–site. Children’s games and activities.

Location: Hanford Mills Museum, 51 County Highway 12, East Meredith

Time: 10:00 am-4:00 pm

More Info: hanfordmills.org

Fourth of July Celebration

Start the day with the Annual Sand Castle Contest at CD Lane Park. Enjoy live music & entertainment, food trucks & family fun along Main Street. The parade steps off at 7:00 pm, with fireworks at Windham Mountain Club.

Location: Windham, NY

Time: 11:00 am

More Info: movingwindhamforward.com

Red, White & Wild at Bailiwick

A patriotic day of wildlife and summer fun at Bailiwick Animal Park & Riding Stables.

Location: Bailiwick Animal Park, 118 Castle Road, Catskill

Time: 10:00 am-5:00 pm

More Info: bailiwickranch.com

“The Pursuit of Happiness: The Revolution Along Huguenot Street,” a guided tour featuring the Daniel Hasbrouck House

Explore the historic Daniel Hasbrouck House, built in 1721, while learning how the war shaped Black patriots, Dutch loyalists, and other local revolutionaries.

Location: Historic Huguenot Street, 81 Huguenot Street, New Paltz

Time: 11:00 am-12:30 pm

More Info: huguenotstreet.org/rev-250

Maverick Family Saturdays:

Joel Harrison and Friends

These short interactive events are designed for enjoyment by children in grades K-6. Admission is free for children and adults. Guitarist, composer, arranger, lyricist, writer, educator, and vocalist

Joel Harrison has “created a new blueprint for jazz” (New Orleans Times-Picayune) by veering into classical, rock, country, and all manner of American roots music.

Location: Maverick Concerts, 120 Maverick Road, Woodstock

Time: 11:00 am

More Info: maverickconcerts.org

East Durham 4th of July Parade

Annual 4th of July Parade with Grand Marshall Lt. Col. Dermot J. Gavin.

Location: Town of Durham

Time: 11:30 am-5:00 pm

Celebrate America 250th

Independence Day at

The Village of Tannersville & Town of Hunter

A lively community parade, live music, familyfriendly activities, food, vendors, and a spectacular fireworks display.

Location: Parade down Main Street, Tannersville. Live music & festivities @ Upper Lake Park. Fireworks @ Rip van Winkle Lake, Hunter

Time: Parade @ 2:00 pm, fireworks @ 9:30 pm

OMNY Taiko

OMNY Taiko Drummers return to the mountaintop to share their eagerly anticipated performances.

Location: Windham Civic & Performing Arts Center, 5379 Route 23, Windham Time: 2:00 pm

July 4th Community Picnic Day

Join us for an afternoon and evening filled with games, music, food, fireworks, and fun!

Location: Coxsackie Riverside Park, Coxsackie Time: 3:00 pm

Local at Heart 2026 New Paltz Fireworks Celebration

Enjoy live music, food trucks, beer garden, kids zone, crafts area, and amazing fireworks by the world famous Santore family. Proceeds support local food pantries. $5 admission. Kids 10 and under free.

Location: Ulster County Fairgrounds, 249 Libertyville Road, New Paltz Time: 5:00-10:00 pm

More Info: localatheart.org

July 4th Fireworks Spectacular

With panoramic views from the world’s longest elevated pedestrian bridge, it’s an unforgettable way to experience the magic of the 4th of July.

Location: Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park, 87 Haviland Road, Highland Time: 6:00-9:30 pm

More Info: walkway.org

Santana & The Doobie Brothers

Carlos Santana is a pioneering force in music, fusing Afro-Latin, blues, rock, and jazz into a sound that transcends genre, culture, and generation. The Doobie Brothers deliver mindblowing, roots-based, harmony-laden, guitardriven rock and roll.

Location: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel Time: 7:00 pm

More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org

Maverick Saturday Nights: Joel Harrison and Friends: All Songs Lead Into One Guitarist, composer, arranger, lyricist, writer, educator, and vocalist Joel Harrison has “created a new blueprint for jazz” (New Orleans TimesPicayune). Harrison’s music may be founded on jazz but veers into classical, rock, country, and all manner of American roots music.

Location: Maverick Concerts, 120 Maverick Road, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: maverickconcerts.org

Late Night Major Mayhem Karaoke with Sabrina

Get ready for a wild night of singing your heart out at Major Mayhem Karaoke with Sabrina. Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 10:00 pm

More Info: colonywoodstock.com

JULY 5

The Beauty of Survival: An Introduction to Reptiles with Russ Walker

An introduction to reptiles, with an emphasis on reptiles of the Catskill Mountains.

Location: Mountain Top Arboretum Education Center, 4 Maude Adams Road, Tannersville Time: 10:00-11:30 am More Info: mtarboretum.org

Forest Farm Tour

A guided tour of our forest farm to discover how food, medicine, and other products can be sustainably cultivated in woodland ecosystems. Advance registration is required, and participation is limited to 20 guests.

Location: Wild Hudson Valley, 408 Lake Mills Road, Cairo

Time: 10:00 am-12:00 pm

More Info: wildhudsonvalley.com

Maverick Chamber Music Festival: Harlem Chamber Players

A collective of professional classical musicians dedicated to bringing high-caliber, affordable, accessible live classical music to people in the Harlem community and beyond.

Location: Maverick Concerts, 120 Maverick Road, Woodstock

Time: 4:00 pm

More Info: maverickconcerts.org

Rainbow Full of Sound x Dead Zep

A night of psychedelic rock fusion.

Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock

Time: 7:00 pm

More Info: colonywoodstock.com

Afro-Cuba! Ricardo Lemvo and Makina Loca! Pioneers blending irresistible Afro Cuban grooves from Congolese soukous, Angolan semba and kizomba to Cuban son and salsa. Location: Opus 40, 356 George Sickle Rd, Saugerties

Time: 7:30 pm

More Info: opus40.org

JULY 6-AUGUST 9

Artsites in the Village

Take a walking tour through Saugerties to catch a glimpse of artwork by the tour artists of the Saugerties Artists Studio Tour.

Location: Market, Main and Partition Streets, Saugerties

More Info: saugertiesarttour.org

JULY 6, 13, 20 & 27

The World Famous Colony Open Mic! House guitar & piano available. This is a very busy and long night, so just one song each! Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: colonywoodstock.com

JULY 7

Talk on the Declaration of Independence

A presentation on “The Declaration of Independence” by board member, Richard Muggeo. Suggested Donation: $10.

Location: Vedder Research Library, 90 County Highway 42, Coxsackie Time: 7:00 pm

More Info: gchistory.org

JULY 8

Bird Week & Spaghetti Eastern Music

Horizon Happy Hour

Vinyl DJ Set at 5:00 pm. Spaghetti Eastern Music at 5:45 pm: Spaghetti Eastern Music is the genre-blurring project of Hudson Valley guitarist and keyboardist Sal Cataldi, blending funky jazz-rock instrumentals, ambient soundscapes, and intimate acoustic ballads. Bird Week at 6:45 pm: Bird Week is a fuzzy, folk-ish indie rock band.

Location: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel Time: 5:00 pm

More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org

Chuck Ragan

Chuck Ragan’s Love And Lore is his first solo collection in ten years and one that’s being released as his band Hot Water Music take a well-deserved victory lap for their breakout album Vows, which came out earlier this year.

Location: Bearsville Center, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock

Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: bearsvilletheater.com

JULY 8, AUGUST 12, SEPTEMBER 9 & OCTOBER 14

Meditation and Awareness Practice with Steve Clorfeine

An introduction to the simple contemplative practice of mindfulness and awareness in daily life. All levels of experience welcome, including none! $10 suggested donation at the door.

Location: Bushel Collective, 106 Main St, Delhi

More Info: bushelcollective.org

JULY 9

Tim McGraw

McGraw’s unparalleled career includes sales of over 106 million records worldwide, 49 number one singles, 19 number one albums and countless industry awards and accolades.

Location: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel Time: 7:00 pm

More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org

Sean Rowe w/ Amelie Lucille

Songwriter Sean Rowe returns to Colony with his heartfelt songs with Amelie Lucille.

Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm

More Info: colonywoodstock.com

Jerry’s Middle Finger

Jerry’s Middle Finger do more than celebrate the Jerry Garcia Band’s catalog; they also broadcast it to a new generation.

Location: Bearsville Center, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock

Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: bearsvilletheater.com

JULY 9, 16, 23 & 30

Sunset Yoga with Shakti Yoga

End your day rooted in stillness, where ancient stone meets open sky, and the quiet strength of Opus 40 rises around you. These special

outdoor sessions will be led by a rotating set of amazing instructors from Shakti Yoga.

Location: Opus 40, 356 George Sickle Rd, Saugerties

Time: Gates open at 6:30 pm, class begins at 7:00 pm

More Info: opus40.org

JULY 9-26

Voice Theatre presents Job by Max Wolf Friedlich

Jane, an employee of a big tech company, has been placed on leave after becoming the subject of a viral video. She arrives in the office of Lloyd, a crisis therapist, determined to be reinstated in the job that gives her life meaning. MATURE CONTENT: not recommended for people under the age of 16.

Location: Bethany Hall, 272 Wall Street, Kingston

Time: Thursday-Saturday @ 7:00 pm; Saturday & Sunday matinees @ 2:00 pm

More Info: voicetheatre.org

JULY 10

Bed Bugs and Bats Curator Tour

Search for a good nights sleep in Times Past. Approximately two hours long. Admission: $25. Must be reserved in advance

Location: Greene County Historical Society, 90 County Highway 42, Coxsackie

Time: 2:00 pm

More Info: gchistory.org

The Canopy Dinner

Friends of Mountain Top Arboretum are opening their homes, gardens, and businesses to host a series of intimate dinners, united by a shared purpose: supporting the Arboretum.

Location: Location of dinner provided upon ticket purchase.

Time: 6:00 pm

More Info: mtarboretum.org

Mr. Sun

A night masterful Bluegrass & Americana music awaits with Mr. Sun!

Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm

More Info: colonywoodstock.com

An Evening With Band of Horses and Dinosaur Jr.

There might be no other band that was able to channel the generational anxiety in those early millennial years and turn it into such powerful and inclusive art quite like Band of Horses. Dinosaur Jr. emerged among the most highly regarded in alternative rock. By reintroducing volume and attack in his songs, J. Mascis shed the strict limitations of early 1980s hardcore.

Location: Ulster Performing Arts Center 601 Broadway, Kingston

Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: bardavon.org

Patty Griffin with Lucy Wainwright Roche

Patty Griffin is among the most consequential singer-songwriters of her generation. Over two decades, the 2x GRAMMY® Award winner – and

7x nominee – and Americana Music Association

Lifetime Achievement award winner, has crafted a remarkable body of work in progress.

Location: Bearsville Center, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: bearsvilletheater.com

Lindsay Stirling

Few artists embody boundless creativity quite like Lindsey Stirling. Not only a multi-awardwinning musician known for her genre-bending virtuosity on electronic violin, she’s endlessly dazzled audiences with her extraordinary talents as a dancer.

Location: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org

Charlie Parr

The Minnesota-born guitarist, songwriter, and interpreter of traditional music is a folk troubadour in the truest sense.

Location: Levon Helm Studios, 160 Plochmann Lane, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: levonhelm.com

JULY 10 & 11

Richard Thompson

Richard Thompson’s musical influence cannot be overstated. Having co-founded the groundbreaking group Fairport Convention in the ‘60s, he and his bandmates invented the distinctive strain of British Folk Rock. He left the group which was followed by a decade long musical partnership with his then-wife Linda, to over 30 years as a highly successful solo artist.

Location: Levon Helm Studios, 160 Plochmann Lane, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: levonhelm.com

JULY 10-26

Company

Company is largely regarded as a trailblazer of the dark-comedy, modern-musical genre. On the night of his 35th birthday, confirmed bachelor Robert contemplates his unmarried state. Over the course of a series of events, his friends explain the pros and cons of taking on a spouse. Company features a brilliantly brisk and energetic score containing many of Stephen Sondheim’s best known songs.

Location: The CENTER for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck, 661 Route 308, Rhinebeck Days & Times: Fridays & Saturdays @ 7:30 pm, Sundays @ 2:30 pm

More Info: CenterforPerformingArts.org

Art in the Barn

Showcasing stunning pieces from each artist on the Saugerties Artists Studio Tour, this unique exhibit offers a perfect preview of the creativity and craftsmanship that await.

Location: Dutch Barn Art & Heritage Gallery, 119 Main Street, Saugerties

Opening Reception: Friday July 10, 5:00-7:00 pm

Gallery Hours: Saturdays, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm; Sundays, 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm

More Info: saugertiesarttour.org

JULY 11

Plein Air Painting Group

The group will meet on the MTHS campus, presented with Thomas Cole National Historic Site. Supplies are limited.

Location: Mountain Top Historical Society 5132 Route 23A, Haines Falls

To Register: email mthsdirector@mths.org or call 518 589 6657

Second Saturday Trunk Sale

Shopping for a Cause! 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

Making Ikebana Mushroom Vases with Maureen Garcia

Educator Maureen Garcia provides instruction in making Ikebana Mushroom vases.

Location: Mountain Top Arboretum Education Center, 4 Maude Adams Road, Tannersville Time: 10:00 am

More Info: mtarboretum.org

Pony Palooza at Bailiwick

A special day celebrating our ponies and the joy of horseback experiences. This fun, handson event is perfect for young horse lovers who want to spend time around the barn and get up close with our ponies.

Location: Bailiwick Animal Park, 118 Castle Road, Catskill

Time: 10:00 am-5:00 pm

More Info: bailiwickranch.com

Ken Bray: Special Historic Site Golf Cart Tour

A special Historic Site golf cart tour with Ken Bray, Woodstock 1969 Silversmith. Ken was a jewelry vendor at the original Woodstock festival. Tickets very limited.

Location: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel

Time: 10:45 am

More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org

The Rock and Roll Playhouse: Pink Pony Party

The music of Taylor Swift, Chappell Roan, Miley Cyrus & KPop Demon Hunters.

Location: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel Time: 11:00 am

More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org

Maverick Family Saturdays:

Carnival of the Animals

These short interactive events, long a Maverick tradition, are designed for enjoyment by children in grades K-6. Admission is free for children and adults. The Carnival of the Animals, the humorous musical suite for children by the French composer Camille Saint-Saëns, performed live accompanied by a crankie and artistic puppetry, each followed by an instrument petting zoo.

Location: Maverick Concerts, 120 Maverick Road, Woodstock Time: 11:00 am

More Info: maverickconcerts.org

Second Saturday Workshop:

Pressed-Flower Votives with Julie H. Goon

Decorate your own recycled-glass candle jar with locally sourced pressed flowers.

Location: Thomas Cole House, 218 Spring Street, Catskill

Time: 11:00 am

More Info: thomascole.org

Golden: A K-Pop Kids Party

Prepare yourselves for a family-friendly dance party featuring remixes inspired by familiar soundtracks, K-Pop songs, remixes, and iconic pop anthems from the movies.

Location: Bearsville Center, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock

Time: 12:00 pm

More Info: bearsvilletheater.com

Pine Hill Pride

Join us for a day filled with rainbows and flare! Enjoy great live music, local flavor, cold drinks, and many great surprises. Whether you come to dance, connect, or just take it all in by the lake, this is your space to be fully yourself. Mark your calendar, bring friends, and come be part of something special.

Location: Main Street, Pine Hill

Time: 12:00-4:00 pm

More Info: pinehillny.com/pride-2026

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.

Location: Made X Hudson, 391 Main Street , Catskill

Time: 2:00-5:00 pm

More Info: madexhudson.com

The Brighton Beat x EMEFE

The epic horn funk sounds of Brighton Beat and EMEFE might just blow the roof off.

Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm

More Info: colonywoodstock.com

Flying Cat Music Series: Caroline and Tom Playing Irish traditional music on concertina and uilleann pipes.

Location: The Phoenicia Playhouse, 10 Church Street, Phoenicia Times: 7:00 pm

More Info: phoeniciaplayhouse.com

Little Shop of Horrors (1986)

Featuring the Apoca-Lips Cast

Meek flower shop assistant Seymour pines for co-worker Audrey. During a total eclipse, he discovers an unusual plant, which feeds only on human flesh and blood. The growing plant attracts a great deal of business for the previously struggling store … with bloodthirsty results.

Location: Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main Street, Rosendale Times: 7:00 pm

More Info: rosendaletheatre.org

Music at the Grazhda Season Opening Concert

Natalia Khoma, cello and Volodymyr Vynnytsky, piano. Works by Corelli, Chopin, Brahms, Popper and Vynnytsky.

Location: Grazhda Music and Art Center of Greene County, Route 23A, Jewett Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: grazhdamusicandart.org

Jazz at the Maverick: Isaiah J. Thompson Trio

Pianist and composer Isaiah J. Thompson joined the John Pizzarelli Trio in 2019 and has performed with other major artists. His recording debut was featured on Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Handful of Keys with Wynton Marsalis, and he has since released several recordings.

Location: Maverick Concerts, 120 Maverick Road, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: maverickconcerts.org

JULY 11 & 12

Stagecoach Run Art Festival

More than 40 artists in a variety of disciplines, from painting and sculpture to ceramics and mixed media. Maps of participating sites are available at many locations throughout the area and at each venue.

Location: Venues throughout Franklin, Treadwell and the surrounding area

Time: 10:00 am-5:00 pm

More Info: stagecoachrun.com

Vintage in the Hudson Valley Festival

A weekend filled with vintage vibes, live music, retro culture, local makers, antiques, food trucks, and family-friendly experiences.

Location: Ulster County Fairgrounds, 249 Libertyville Road, New Paltz

Time: 10:00 am-6:00 pm

More Info: vintageinthehudsonvalley.com

Middletown and the Revolution:

Voices from the Frontier

Eight local actors in period costume will describe how their lives were upended by the rupture with Great Britain in 1776. Middletown was part of Ulster County at the time, and the area along the East Branch of the Delaware River was considered the “frontier” between Indian territory to the west and the strategically important Hudson Valley.

Location: The Open Eye Theater, 960 Main Street, Margaretville

Time: July 11 @ 3:00 & 7:00 pm, July 12 @ 2:00 pm

More Info: mtownhistory.org

JULY 11 & 18

Woodstock Playhouse Productions Theatre for Young Audiences Company presents: Alice in Wonderland

Join your hostess and conjuror of regrettable dreams, Alice as she tumbles, floats and falls into every imaginable predicament in Wonderland. Then watch her fearless heart triumphantly turn the whole deck of Wonderland jabberers on their heads as she finds her voice!

Location: Woodstock Playhouse, 103 Mill Hill Road, Woodstock

Time: 2:00 pm

More Info: woodstockplayhouse.org

JULY 11 & 25

Fellow’s Maker Market

A rotating lineup of Catskills-based makers, artists, and small businesses. From handmade goods and vintage finds to delicious treats and more, it’s one of our favorite ways to spend a Saturday in the mountains.

Location: 7883 Main Street, Hunter Time: 11:00 am-2:00 pm

More Info: fellowmountaincafe.com/makersmarket

JULY 11-26

Catskill Mountain Shakespeare presents Much Ado About Nothing

Directed by Conner Wilson. Experience Shakespeare’s beloved comedy where passion, romance, and betrayal collide. Bursting with mischief, laughter, and redemption, Much Ado About Nothing explores the risks of love and the courage to trust again, all set against the sweeping beauty of the Catskills.

Location: Outdoors and under the tent at The Red Barn on Main Street in Hunter, NY Days & Times: Wednesday - Saturday evenings @ 7:30 pm; Sunday matinees @ 3:00 pm

More Info: catskillmountainshakespeare.com

JULY 11-SEPTEMBER 5

Exhibition: In the Fold

Paper and paper sculpture works by artists Audineh Asaf, Carole Kunstadt, Heidi Kyle, and Natalia Petkov.

Location: Roxbury Arts Group. 5025 Vega Mountain Road, Roxbury Opening Reception: Saturday, July 11, 4:00-6:00 pm

More Info: roxburyartsgroup.org

JULY 12

Circuit Hike of South Mountain Carpool to North South Lake. Hike to historic Puddingstone-Stone Hall, Star Rock, Boulder Rock, Druid Rocks, Fairy Spring and Lemon Squeezer. Some bushwhacking. Bring lunch or snacks. Difficulty: Moderate, 1.75 miles RT, 280’ elevation gain. Space is limited.

Location: Mountain Top Historical Society 5132 Route 23A, Haines Falls

Time: 9:00 am-12:00 pm

To Register: email mthsdirector@mths.org or call 518 589 6657

2026 Landscape and Garden Tour

The 35th annual tour to benefit the West Kortright Center will be a journey along beautiful country roads. Get a rare insider look at how local garden enthusiasts have enhanced the natural beauty of their outdoor environments. Rain or shine. No dogs, please. The tour will begin in Stamford at 183 Blackberry Street, Stamford

Location: Stamford, Jefferson & Hobart area

Time: Time slots at 10:30 and 11:00 am More Info: westkc.org

Songwriters Circle

A musical collective open to songwriters of all levels and genres. Participants are expected to be actively engaged in their songwriting practice. RSVP to Christina at livingarchive.catskills@ gmail.com.

Location: Bushel Collective, 106 Main St, Delhi Time: 11:00 am-12:30 pm More Info: bushelcollective.org

Summer Wild Harvest: Sharing Mother Nature’s Bounty Edible & Medicinal Plant Walk with Dina Falconi

Explore the plants of Opus 40. Using basic sensory skills, we’ll discover how these plants are used for food, medicine, and pleasure. This is a hands-on, interactive workshop. This walk will include practical information on harvest and preparation.

Location: Opus 40, 356 George Sickle Rd, Saugerties

Time: 11:00 am-1:00 pm

More Info: opus40.org

Catskill Mountain Foundation Annual Benefit: In the Company of Art

Star dancers from the New York City Ballet return to the mountain top for a performance also featuring dancers from the Orpheum Dance Program plus a performance by cast members of Matilda, the MATH summer musical.

Location: Orpheum Performing Arts Center, 6050 Main Street, Tannersville

Time: 12:00 pm

More Info: catskillmtn.org

Small Town Country Fest @ Gray Willow

This family-friendly event brings together the best of the countryside for a day of sun, fun, live music and outdoor BBQ.

Location: Gray Willow, 2168 Route 81, Earlton Time: 12:00-6:00 pm

More Info: graywillowny.com/events

“Gilding The Lily: Transforming the Deyo House,” a special tour led by Kevin Cook

Our special tour will take guests inside the historic Queen Anne style house, looking at the 19th century design influences of the home and speaking to the societal and political themes of the era that allowed for this ostentatious display of wealth.

Location: Historic Huguenot Street, 81 Huguenot Street, New Paltz Time: 2:00 pm

More Info: huguenotstreet.org

National Theater Live: Les Liaisons Dangeureuses

BAFTA Award-winner Lesley Manville (Phantom Thread) joins Aidan Turner (Rivals) in a striking new staging of Christopher Hampton’s celebrated adaptation of the classic novel, where among the glittering salons of the super-rich, one misstep can mean ruin. Filmed live on stage at the National Theatre, Marianne Elliott directs this game of love, lies, and social warfare.

Location: Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main Street, Rosendale Times: 3:00 pm

More Info: rosendaletheatre.org

Maverick Chamber Music Festival: Catalyst Quartet

Hailed by The New York Times at its Carnegie Hall debut as “invariably energetic and finely burnished … playing with earthy vigor,” the Grammy Award-winning Catalyst Quartet believes in the unity that can be achieved through music and imagine their programs and projects with this in mind, redefining and reimagining the classical music experience.

Location: Maverick Concerts, 120 Maverick Road, Woodstock Time: 4:00 pm

More Info: maverickconcerts.org

Buju Banton & Stephen Marley

Buju Banton is unequivocally one of the world’s greatest dancehall/reggae artists. For over three decades, he dominated the reggae/dancehall sub-genre with iconic collaborations, lyricism superior to peers, and a ministry committed to liberating the minds of oppressed people.

Location: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel Time: 7:00 pm

More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org

Bossa Blue presents: James Taylor ReIMAGINED

A Tribute To The James Taylor Songbook.

Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm

More Info: colonywoodstock.com

Alejandro Escovedo

Alejandro Escovedo’s new album Echo Dancing is an adventure in life. No one has really ever been able to define themselves and their music like singer-songwriter Alejandro Escovedo does. The sounds he makes take him places that he might not even predict, but once there, greatness always follows.

Location: Levon Helm Studios, 160 Plochmann Lane, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: levonhelm.com

JULY 13-18

Catskills Irish Arts Week

A premier summer celebration of Irish culture held each July. This week-long immersive cultural celebration brings together musicians, dancers, and cultural enthusiasts for a week of traditional Irish music classes, Irish dance instruction, and hands-on workshops.

Location: Michael J. Quill Irish Cultural & Sports Centre, 2267 Route 145, East Durham

More Info: catskillsirishartsweek.com

JULY 14

Forest Bathing with Beth Rennig

A 90-minute Forest Bathing experience helping to ease us into the presence and connection within nature. Engage your senses and embrace the simple magic and wholeness we can find in nature.

Location: Mountain Top Arboretum Education Center, 4 Maude Adams Road, Tannersville Time: 10:00 am

More Info: mtarboretum.org

JULY 15

TOTO + Christopher Cross and The Romantics

With a career spanning nearly five decades, TOTO has amassed more than 50 million album sales and billions of streams worldwide. Christopher Cross rose to fame with his 1980 debut album, sweeping the Grammys that year. Formed in 1977 The Romantics helped define American rock with hits like “What I Like About You” and “Talking in Your Sleep.”

Location: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel Time: 6:45 pm

More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org

JULY 15-19

Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival

The four-day celebration of bluegrass, newgrass, and roots music returns with 40 bands across six stages, plus workshops, late-night dancing, campground picking circles, family programming, and great food.

Location: 1 Poultney Road, Oak Hill

More Info: greyfoxbluegrass.com

JULY 16

Close Looking at Art: Thomas Cole’s Herbaria

Take a closer look at Thomas Cole’s Herbaria during a guided close-looking session. Advance reservations encouraged. Free with museum admission.

Location: Thomas Cole House, 218 Spring Street, Catskill Time: 12:00 pm

More Info: thomascole.org

Plein-Air Painting at The Bronck House

Designed for young artists, this hands-on workshop gets kids out of the studio and into nature to paint the beautiful landscape around them. Registration required.

Location: Greene County Historical Society, 90 County Highway 42, Coxsackie Time: 1:00 pm

More Info: gchistory.org

Book Discussion: Cassandra at the Wedding

Cassandra Edwards is a graduate student at Berkeley: gay, brilliant, nerve-racked, miserable. At the beginning of this novel, she drives back to her family ranch in the foothills of the Sierras to attend the wedding of her identical twin, Judith, to a nice young doctor from Connecticut. Cassandra, however, is hell-bent on sabotaging the wedding.

Location: The Lost Bookshop, 120 Main Street, Delhi Time: 6:00 pm

More Info: thelostbookshop.com

Third Thursday:

Tunes with a View – Mario Rincon Singer-songwriter Mario Rincon’s bilingual blend of flamenco cante, Latin-American folklore, and classic Americana.

Location: Olana State Historic Site, 5720 Route 9G, Hudson Time: 6:00 pm

More Info: olana.org

Two Dark Birds x Marc Delgado

Join us for Two Dark Birds Album Release show with Marc Delgado!

Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm

More Info: colonywoodstock.com

The Wildwoods

With Dear Meadowlark, the band’s fourth fulllength album, The Wildwoods have once again taken the hallmarks of the folk-Americana sound and dressed it in indie sensibilities.

Location: Bearsville Center, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: bearsvilletheater.com

JULY 17

Catskills Invasive Species Early Career Development and Networking Event

An afternoon of connection, career exploration, and skill-building in the heart of the Catskills.

Location: Catskills Visitor Center, 5096 Route 28, Mount Tremper

Time: 11:00 am-4:00 pm

More Info: catskillcenter.org

Black Mountain Symphony x Rivergrass Revival

High energy progressive rock with unique blended stylings.

Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm

More Info: colonywoodstock.com

Free Summer Concert: El Khat

An evening of genre-bending indie rock with North African influences.

Location: West Kortright Center, 49 West Kortright Church Road, East Meredith

Time: 7:00 pm

More Info: westkc.org

All Your Friends: The Indie Party

An indie dance party for the ones who still romanticize a scratched iPod, American Spirits,

and a blurry night scored by Bloc Party and Crystal Castles. Expect to move to LCD Soundsystem, The Rapture, Foals, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, and TV on the Radio.

Location: Bearsville Center, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock

Time: 7:30 pm

More Info: bearsvilletheater.com

JULY 18

Forest Walk: An Introduction to Forest Stewardship & Conservation

A walk in an 85-acre forest in Catskill and learn about his stewardship and conservation efforts

Location: High Falls Road, Catskill (on private property: exact location to be provided upon registration)

Time: 9:00 am

More Info: greenelandtrust.org

Basket Weaving Workshop

Choose from 5 different designs. $85 covers all basket weaving materials and instruction.

Location: The Art Hub, 467 Main Street, Cairo Time: 10:00 am-3:00 pm

More Info: thearthubcairo.com

RCAL’s Disability Awareness Parade

A celebration of inclusion, access, and independent living. The parade concludes at Keegan Ales and People’s Place with a fair featuring music, children’s games, and community resources. Free, family-friendly, and open to all!

Location: Broadway, Kingston. Resource fair at 20 St. James Street, Kingston

Time: 11:00 am

More Info: rcal.org

Maverick Family Saturdays: Windsync

These short interactive events, long a Maverick tradition, are designed for enjoyment by children in grades K-6. Admission is free for children and adults. The wind quintet WindSync embraces the classics and the growing contemporary repertoire with a fresh sensibility. Location: Maverick Concerts, 120 Maverick Road, Woodstock Time: 11:00 am

More Info: maverickconcerts.org

Free Family Tour

Experience learning, looking closely, and conversation as a family. 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: 1:00-2:00 pm

More Info: olana.org

Artmaking in the Afternoon

Participate in free, drop-in artmaking and learn more about Frederic Church’s artist-designed home and studio on the Hudson. Open to all ages and skill levels; all materials provided.

Location: Olana State Historic Site Wagon House Education Center, 5720 Route 9G, Hudson Time: 1:00-4:00 pm

More Info: olana.org

Annual Justine Legg Hommel

Memorial Lecture

Richard Sears Walling will speak on the Indigenous Peoples of the Catskills, and Town of Hunter Historian, Dede Terns-Thorpe, will offer a brief remembrance of those who perished in that devastating fire in 1926.

Location: Twilight Park Clubhouse 2 Ledge End Road, Haines Falls

Time: 2:00 pm

To Register: email mthsdirector@mths.org or call 518 589 6657

Porchfest

Musicians of all genres will perform live at stages all along Main Street, while a food truck and local restaurants serve up good eats. Veterans Park and the Headwaters Arts Center will host a variety of creative arts projects.

Location: Main Street, Stamford Time: 2:00-6:00 pm

More Info: roxburyartsgroup.org

Sunset Sails of Support on the Hudson River Presented by the Kingston Sailing Club. Join us for a summer evening on the Hudson River where we raise sails and raise funds in support of the Woodstock Film Festival.

Location: The Cornell Restaurant + Bar, 100 Rondout Landing, Kingston Time: 5:30 pm

More Info: woodstockfilmfestival.org

Northern Week Dance Party

Join us for a delightful dinner 6:00 pm followed by a contra dance in the Pavilion.

Location: The Ashokan Center 477 Beaverkill Rd, Olivebridge

Time: 6:00 pm dinner, 7:00 pm contra dance

More Info: ashokancenter.org

Jason Aldean

Grammy-nominated, Multi-Platinum award winning entertainer Jason Aldean is one of country’s most successful touring powerhouses and influential musical icons of the 21st century.

Location: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel Time: 7:30 pm

More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org

Tom Chapin & Friends with The Chapin Sisters

Original and traditional songs by members of the Chapin family, as well as classic story songs by the late, great Harry Chapin.

Location: Bearsville Center, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: bearsvilletheater.com

Grazhda Chamber Music Society

Nazar Pylatyuk, Vasyl Zatsikha, violins; Richard Young, viola; Natalia Khoma, cello; and Pavlo Gintov, piano. Chamber music works by Mozart, Skoryk, and Schumann.

Location: Grazhda Music and Art Center of Greene County, Route 23A, Jewett

Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: grazhdamusicandart.org

Maverick Saturday Nights: Simon’s Dream –The Music of Penguin Café Orchestra

A rare chance to hear the eclectic music of the seminal British instrumental group Penguin Cafe Orchestra, played live by a band which includes members of the original ensemble.

Location: Maverick Concerts, 120 Maverick Road, Woodstock

Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: maverickconcerts.org

Reggae on the Rocks | The Big Takeover

The Big Takeover’s infectious horn-powered sound performs original music that is rooted in and reverent to Jamaican reggae, rocksteady, and ska.

Location: Opus 40, 356 George Sickle Rd, Saugerties

Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: opus40.org

JULY 18 & 19, JULY 25 & 26

Mariposa/Butterfly by Jose Casas and Sandra Fenichel Asher

Two neighbors live side-by-side in Texas. A low fence separates their gardens, but much more divides them from each other. Their differences have kept them so far apart that if one predicts a sunny day, then the other is certain of rain. The arrival of a mariposa/butterfly, and its eventual departure, unites them in wonder, sadness and a new understanding of the beautiful world they share.

Location: The Open Eye Theater, 960 Main Street, Margaretville

Time: Saturdays @ 2:00 pm

More Info: theopeneyetheater.org

JULY 18 & 26

Horton By the Stream presents The Dr. Ruth Show, or, Finding Dr. Ruth

An intimate, humorous, and poignant onewoman monologue set in Dr. Ruth’s Washington Heights apartment in New York City. As the character packs up her belongings, she shares the incredible story of her life’s trajectory.

Location: Doctorow Center for the Arts, 7971 Main Street, Hunter Times: 2:00 pm

More Info: catskillmtn.org

JULY 19

Geology Walk with Dr. Robert Titus

Explore Opus 40 from the ground up during this informative and engaging walk with renowned Catskills geologist, Dr. Robert Titus.

Location: Opus 40, 356 George Sickle Rd, Saugerties

Time: 10:30 am-12:00 pm

More Info: opus40.org

Shawangunk Wine Trail presents the 2nd Annual Summer Sip

Summer Sip takes place during City Winery’s free Uncorked Sunday concert series, featuring live music, lawn games, and plenty of delicious food available for purchase.

Location: Shawangunk Wine Trail

Time: 11:00 am-6:00 pm

More Info: shawangunkwinetrail.com

Bootlegging 101: How Grandpa Did It!

Presentation, Music and Wine Tasting with Lex Grey and the Urban Pioneers. Admission: $15.

Location: Greene County Historical Society, 90 County Highway 42, Coxsackie

Time: 3:00 pm

More Info: gchistory.org

Maverick Chamber Music Festival: Windsync with Evren Ozel, piano

The wind quintet WindSync embraces the classics and the growing contemporary repertoire with a fresh sensibility. In the span of one performance, they can cover vast musical ground from revitalized standards to freshly inked works to folk and songbook.

Location: Maverick Concerts, 120 Maverick Road, Woodstock Time: 4:00 pm

More Info: maverickconcerts.org

Jim Lauderdale w/ Reed Foehl

Jim Lauderdale, who embodies the sound of American roots music for listeners around the world, comes to Colony.

Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm

More Info: colonywoodstock.com

JULY 19 & 25

Horton By the Stream presents Bill Bowers: It Goes Without Saying

A uniquely crafted autobiographical tour-deforce in which Bill shares funny, heartbreaking, and unbelievable true stories from his career as an actor and mime,and his life-long exploration of the role silence plays in all our lives.

Location: Doctorow Center for the Arts, 7971 Main Street, Hunter Times: 2:00 pm

More Info: catskillmtn.org

JULY 19-25

Northern Week 2026

Jay Ungar & Molly Mason host a fun and friendly full-week of traditional music & dance from New England, Québec, England, Sweden, and France. Beginners welcome!

Location: The Ashokan Center 477 Beaverkill Rd, Olivebridge

More Info: ashokancenter.org

JULY 20-AUGUST 2

Forged in Revolution:

Early Military Encampment

Visitors can explore military tents from the American Revolution, War of 1812, and Civil War to engage with interpreters to learn about military camp life.

Location: Fenimore Farm and Country Village, 5775 NY-80, Cooperstown

More Info: fenimorefarm.org

JULY 22

Lucy Dacus

Lucy Dacus is regarded as “one of the best songwriters of her generation” (Rolling Stone).

Location: Ulster Performing Arts Center 601 Broadway, Kingston Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: bardavon.org

JULY 23

Music Fan Film Series: Summer Tour

Summer Tour is a poetic documentary that follows Jerry and Annie, a magnetic young couple devoted to the music and community of Dead & Company as they journey across America for the band’s final tour.

Location: Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main Street, Rosendale Times: 3:00 pm

More Info: rosendaletheatre.org

Meet the Artist: Marcus Morris, Woodstock AIR Morris will present his ongoing project, Elegance Is Refusal, which reimagines Beloved by Toni Morrison as a queer narrative set in Appalachian Ohio.

Location: CPW, 25 Dederick Street, Kingston Day & Times: 6:00 pm

More Info: cpw.org

Joe Marcinek’s Dead Funk Summit

Known for his genre-blending approach, Joe Marcinek seamlessly weaves together the iconic sounds of the Grateful Dead with the infectious grooves of funk.

Location: Bearsville Center, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: bearsvilletheater.com

Shovels & Rope

An American folk duo from Charleston, SC, Shovels & Rope blends traditional folk, rock and roll and country rock.

Location: Levon Helm Studios, 160 Plochmann Lane, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: levonhelm.com

JULY 23-26

Greene County Youth Fair

A celebration of the talents of Greene County’s youth, enabling them to strive for higher goals and receive encouragement for their efforts. The fair is family oriented and offers kids of all ages exciting music, displays and entertainment, along with hands-on agricultural education! Location: Mountain Avenue, Cairo

More Info: thegreenecountyyouthfair.com

JULY 24

Free Music on the Belle:

Lara Hope & the Ark-tones

Music, food trucks, beverages, gondola rides & lawn games.

Location: Belleayre Mountain, 181 Galli Curci Road, Highmount

Time: 6:00 pm

More Info: belleayre.com

Bethel Woods 20th Anniversary Celebration: The Beach Boys

As The Beach Boys mark more than a half century of making music, the group continues to ride the crest of a wave unequalled in America’s musical history.

Location: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel Time: 7:00 pm

More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org

An Evening with Toby and Azalea Twining

From Kurt Weil to jazz standards to the Great American Songbook this daughter-father duo perform in support of the Roxbury Arts Group.

Location: Old School Baptist Church, County Road 36, Denver Time: 7:30 pm

More Info: roxburyartsgroup.org

The Blues Project

Live 2025, the new album from The Blues Project, shows the acclaimed and influential band hasn’t slowed down at all after 60 years.

Location: Bearsville Center, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock

Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: bearsvilletheater.com

Searows

Searows, the project of singer-songwriter Alec Duckart, released his new album, Death in the Business of Whaling, earlier this year.

Location: Levon Helm Studios, 160 Plochmann Lane, Woodstock

Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: levonhelm.com

Maverick Friday Nights: Larry Campbell and Teresa Williams

For Larry Campbell and Teresa Williams, love is more than a pop song; they are the bards of the long term committed relationship.

Location: Maverick Concerts, 120 Maverick Road, Woodstock

Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: maverickconcerts.org

JULY

24-26

AMR Open Studios Tour

45 fine artists across seven Delaware County towns open the doors to their private workspaces. Join the kick-off party at 1053 Gallery in Fleischmanns on Thursday, July 23 and view the Roxbury Central School students exhibition at Plattekill Mountain.

Location: Throughout Andes, Margaretville & Roxbury

Times: 11:00 am-5:00 pm

More Info: amropenstudios.org

Uplift Festival: A Retreat Into Live

A joyful & deeply embodied festival mindfully curated to inspire connection with community & self.

Location: Menla Retreat & Dewa Spa, 375 Pantherkill Road, Phoenicia

More Info: theupliftfestival.com

Woodstock Playhouse Productions presents: The Play That Goes Wrong

Welcome to opening night of the Cornley University Drama Society’s newest production, in a show as accident-prone thespians battle against all odds to make it through to their final curtain call, with hilarious consequences!

Location: Woodstock Playhouse, 103 Mill Hill Road, Woodstock

Time: Friday & Saturday @ 7:30 pm; Sunday @ 2:00 pm

More Info: woodstockplayhouse.org

JULY 24-AUGUST 2

Richard Strauss’s The Egyptian Helen

The opera that reimagines the Helen of Troy legend in the aftermath of the Trojan War.

Location: Fisher Center at Bard College, Annandale

More Info: fishercenter.bard.edu

JULY 25

Catskill Mountain Yoga Festival

Every year, the schedule is packed with diverse classes, workshops, and wellness experiences to help you reconnect and recharge.

Location: SUNY Delhi, 454 Delhi Drive, Delhi

More Info: catskillmountainyogafestival.com

Maverick Family Saturdays: Carter Johnson, piano/narrator

The Story of Babar the Elephant

These short interactive events, long a Maverick tradition, are designed for enjoyment by children in grades K-6. Admission is free for children and adults. Step into the world of Babar the Elephant for a family-friendly performance filled with enchanting music.

Location: Maverick Concerts, 120 Maverick Road, Woodstock Time: 11:00 am

More Info: maverickconcerts.org

Women Artists of the Northern Catskills: Past, Present, and Future

Local artists exhibit and discussion at the historic 1913 Ulster & Delaware Train Station. Location: Mountain Top Historical Society 5132 Route 23A, Haines Falls Time: 2:00 pm

To Register: email mthsdirector@mths.org or call 518 589 6657

Cause and Effect - Loco7 Dance Puppet Theatre Residency

An innovative dance–puppet performance that brings together rod puppetry, marionettes, dance, acrobatics, live original music, and video. Location: Roxbury Arts Group. 5025 Vega Mountain Road, Roxbury Time: 2:00 pm

More Info: roxburyartsgroup.org

LIVE Catskill Mountain String Band

On the MTHS campus under the 1913 U & D Train Station overhang.

Location: Mountain Top Historical Society 5132 Route 23A, Haines Falls

Time: 4:00 pm

More Info: mths.org

Horton By the Stream presents Two Films: The One Armed Man, by Horton Foote, directed by Tim Guinee; and The Lion, with Judith Roberts, Directed by Abigail Zealey Bess

The Lion, directed by Abigail Zealey Bess & starring Judith Roberts, is a short film appearing in Shorts Film Festivals nationally. The One Armed Man, a play by Horton Foote, was adapted into a short film in 2014.

Location: Doctorow Center for the Arts, 7971 Main Street, Hunter Times: 5:00 pm

More Info: catskillmtn.org

Maverick Chamber Music Festival: An Evening of American Art Song with Brian Zeger Classic songs of Copland, Barber, Ned Rorem, and the Catskills composer Robert Manno.

Location: Maverick Concerts, 120 Maverick Road, Woodstock Time: 6:00 pm

More Info: maverickconcerts.org

Crystal Ship - A Tribute To The Doors Relive the iconic music of The Doors with Crystal Ship - A Tribute.

Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm

More Info: colonywoodstock.com

George Porter Jr. & Runnin’ Pardners

George Porter Jr. is a founding member of the seminal funk band, The Meters and widely recognized as one of the greatest bass players of all time.

Location: Bearsville Center, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: bearsvilletheater.com

Concert Celebrating the Centennial of the Founder of MACGC, Ihor Sonevytsky Fundraising Concert Event with the Grazhda Chamber Music Society Chamber music works by Sonevytsky, Skoryk, Smetana as well as the world premiere of a piano trio by Ivan Nebesny.

Location: Grazhda Music and Art Center of Greene County, Route 23A, Jewett Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: grazhdamusicandart.org

Noah Gundersen

An Emmy-nominated American singer/songwriter known for crafting deeply intimate songs that linger long after the final note fades.

Location: Levon Helm Studios, 160 Plochmann Lane, Woodstock

Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: levonhelm.com

Emily King

Singer songwriter Emily King performs a sophisticated mix of contemporary pop and soul with unmistakable silky, lush vocals and a joyous magnetic stage presence.

Location: Opus 40, 356 George Sickle Rd, Saugerties

Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: opus40.org

JULY 26

Zen Hike with Forest Bathing

The simple method of being calm and quiet amongst the trees, observing nature around you whilst breathing deeply can everyone de-stress and boost health and wellbeing in a natural way.

Location: Mountain Top Historical Society 5132 Route 23A, Haines Falls

Time: 10:00 am-2:00 pm

To Register: email mthsdirector@mths.org or call 518 589 6657

Mushroom Walk with Chris Baker Mushroom novices and old hands alike will enjoy this foray in the dreamy wooded acres surrounding the sculpture at Opus 40.

Location: Opus 40, 356 George Sickle Rd, Saugerties

Time: 10:30 am

More Info: opus40.org

Sunday Salon: Catwalk Artists-In-Residence

Join the Thomas Cole Site and Catwalk Institute’s artists-in-residence for art installations and performances.

Location: Thomas Cole House, 218 Spring Street, Catskill Time: 2:00 pm

More Info: thomascole.org

Maverick Chamber Music Festival: Pacifica Quartet

The multiple GRAMMY® Award-winning Pacifica Quartet has achieved international recognition as one of the finest chamber ensembles performing today.

Location: Maverick Concerts, 120 Maverick Road, Woodstock Time: 4:00 pm

More Info: maverickconcerts.org

Honky Tonk Last Sunday w/ Hudson Valley Flyers

Two-step the night away at Colony’s Last Sunday Honky Tonk with Hudson Valley Flyers!

Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm

More Info: colonywoodstock.com

JULY 27

Freehold Food Truck Monday

Delicious food trucks, family fun, and a great community night out.

Location: Freehold Volunteer Fire Company, 9502 Route 32, Freehold Time: 5:00-8:00 pm

JULY 27-31

Acoustic Guitar Camp 2026

Guitarists of all levels have the opportunity for real immersion and growth in a relaxed and friendly environment.

Location: The Ashokan Center 477 Beaverkill Rd, Olivebridge

More Info: ashokancenter.org

JULY 29

Tu-Ner ft. members of King Crimson

Tu-Ner bring epic progressive rock, avantgarde, jazz fusion to the Colony stage!

Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm

More Info: colonywoodstock.com

Guitar Summit 2026

A wonderful evening of acoustic guitar players.

Location: The Ashokan Center 477 Beaverkill Rd, Olivebridge Time: 7:30 pm

More Info: ashokancenter.org

JULY 30

Wild Mixology with Laura Chávez Silverman

A hands-on workshop in combining botanical ingredients into cocktails and spirit-free drinks that are both delicious and healing.

Location: Mountain Top Arboretum Education Center, 4 Maude Adams Road, Tannersville Time: 5:00 pm

More Info: mtarboretum.org

Ted Leo & The Pharmacists

Ted Leo started in New York Hardcore, made the ‘90s safe for power-pop, then sang our turbulent lives like we were smarter than we were, and most recently provided equal parts sweetness and solace with Aimee Mann.

Location: Bearsville Center, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: bearsvilletheater.com

Old Crow Medicine Show

Over twenty years since their humble beginnings busking on street corners, Old Crow Medicine Show has gone on to receive the honor of being inducted as members of the Grand Ole Opry and have won two Grammy Awards.

Location: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org

JULY 31

Free Music on the Belle: The Saints Music, food trucks, beverages, gondola rides & lawn games.

Location: Belleayre Mountain, 181 Galli Curci Road, Highmount

Time: 6:00 pm

More Info: belleayre.com

Rock the Quarry Music Festival

Featuring the RTQ Band (Cindy Cashdollar, Jack Petruzzelli, Will Bryant, Rich Pagano and Ben Zwerin) performing Beatles classics and originals joined by special guest Gail Ann Dorsey plus Sandy Bell, Jay Collins’ Gravy Train, Storey Littleton and more.

Location: Opus 40, 356 George Sickle Rd, Saugerties

Time: 6:30 pm

More Info: opus40.org

Billy Strings

One of music’s most compelling artists. Acclaimed for his boundary-pushing musicianship and dynamic live performances, Strings’ latest studio album, Highway Prayers debuted at #1 on Billboard’s all-genre Top Album Sales chart. The album has been widely celebrated, with GQ calling Strings “the hottest roots-music phenomenon in decade.”

Location: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel

Time: 7:30 pm

More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org

Sam Reider and Jorge Glem

Venezuelan cuatrista Jorge Glem and American accordionist Sam Reider blend Venezuelan rhythms with American jazz into something extraordinary.

Location: Old School Baptist Church, County Road 36, Denver Time: 7:30 pm

More Info: roxburyartsgroup.org

Babe Rainbow

For the members of Babe Rainbow, the character of their home, Australia’s idyllic Gold Coast, permeates every atom of the dreamlike, joyful, psychedelic music they create together.

Location: Bearsville Center, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm

More Info: bearsvilletheater.com

JULY 31-AUGUST 16

Woodstock Playhouse Productions presents: Crazy for You

The tale of a “zany rich-boy-meets-hometowngirl romantic comedy” filled with gorgeous music and dancing! Adapted from the Gershwins’ 1930 musical Girl Crazy, Crazy For You

Location: Woodstock Playhouse, 103 Mill Hill Road, Woodstock

Time: Fridays & Saturdays @ 7:30 pm; Sundays @ 2:00 pm

More Info: woodstockplayhouse.org

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