Catskill Mountain Foundation Regional
GUIDE
OCTOBER 2026 COMPLIMENTARY
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A Publication of
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Visit Windham Including the 32nd Annual Autumn Affair
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IN THIS ISSUE The Windham Path. Photo by Nicolae Merceanu/ Adobe Stock
8 THE ARTS
COVER
10 RETIREMENT NEVER LOOKED THIS GOOD! The Sunshine Boys by Neil Simon
12 FALL IN LOVE WITH HANDMADE AT HANDCRAFTED OCTOBERFEST AT RHINEBECK
16 VISIT WINDHAM 36 CELEBRATE FALL IN THE CATSKILLS AT WINDHAM’S 32ND ANNUAL AUTUMN AFFAIR
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38 BOOK REVIEW: The Quarry Fox and Other Critters of the Wild Catskills, by Leslie T. Sharpe Review by Stephanie Wilson Medlock
40 THE GREAT OUTDOORS IN THE CATSKILLS by Jeff Senterman
44 CELEBRATE SPOOKY SEASON AT
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FENIMORE FARM & FENIMORE ART MUSEUM THIS OCTOBER
46 FALL IN THE CATSKILLS 58 WHAT THE CONSTITUTION MEANS TO ME: Heidi Schreck’s Tony-Nominated Play Pops Up in the Hudson Valley & Northern Catskills this October
60 BOOK REVIEW: Peter Pan in the Catskills and Other Historical Essays, edited by Bill Birns Review by Jacob Shipley
62 WOODSTOCK FILM FESTIVAL 2026: Get Immersed in the Movies
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66 THE ULSTER COUNTY FARM TRAIL 69 A GREENE COUNTY GARDEN IN OCTOBER: Winter Squash by Margaret Donsbach Tomlinson
70 WHICH CATSKILLS SEASON REIGNS SUPREME? by Greg Madden
73 HERBAL WOODSTOCK by Melissa Gibson
76 CATSKILLS PAST: Boo! by T.M. Bradshaw
79 CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION 2026 PERFORMING ARTS SEASON
85 CALENDAR OF EVENTS
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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS
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VOLUME 41, NUMBER 10 OCTOBER 2026 PUBLISHERS Peter Finn, Chairman, Catskill Mountain Foundation Sarah Finn, President, Catskill Mountain Foundation Amy Scheibe, Executive Director, Catskill Mountain Foundation
DISTRIBUTION Catskill Mountain Foundation
EDITORIAL DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE: October 6
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR, CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION Sarah Taft
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 ADVERTISING SALES 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 Barbara Cobb 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 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS damages. T.M. Bradshaw, dmerzel21/Adobe Stock, Holly Cohen/golightlyink.com, The Catskill Mountain Foundation Regional Guide office is located at 7971 Main Street, Francis X. Driscoll/francisxdriscoll.com, Fenimore Art Museum, Fenimore Farm & Hunter, NY 12442. The magazine can be found on-line at www.catskillmtn.org by clicking on the “Magazine” button, or Country Village, Bruno Garofalo/shutterstock.com, Melissa Gibson, Hiker Trash Husbands, Greg Madden, Stephanie Wilson Medlock, Nicolae Merceanu/Adobe Stock, Quail Hollow by going directly to issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide The Catskill Mountain Foundation Regional Guide is distributed each month free of charge at tourist Events, Jeff Senterman, Jacob Shipley, Tatiana/Adobe Stock, Margaret Donsbach information offices, restaurants, lodgings, retailers and other businesses throughout Greene, Delaware Tomlinson, Ulster County Tourism, and Colin D. Young/shutterstock.com. and Ulster counties, and at the Empire State Plaza Visitor Center in Albany. Home delivery of the Guide magazine is available, at an additional fee, to annual members of the Catskill Mountain Foundation at the $100 membership level or higher. ADMINISTRATION & FINANCE ©2000 Catskill Mountain Foundation, Inc. Candy McKee All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. The Kim McGalliard Catskill Mountain Foundation Regional Guide is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts. All photoKaitlyn Truax graphic rights reside with the photographer.
PRINTING Catskill Mountain Printing Services CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION 7971 MAIN STREET, P.O. BOX 924 • HUNTER, NY 12442 PHONE: 518 263 2000 • FAX: 518 263 2025 WWW.CATSKILLMTN.ORG
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October 2026 • GUIDE 7
THE ARTS Saturday Night’s Alright for Frighting! Celebrate Halloween in Tannersville with Trick or Trunk and a Tribute to Elton John Celebrate Halloween with the Village of Tannersville and Catskill Mountain Foundation (CMF) in frightening, fabulous, family-friendly, festivities. Celebrations begin with Trick or Trunk on Main Street and the fun continues with a tribute act to Elton John at the Orpheum Performing Arts Center on Saturday, October 31 at 7:00pm. Children and adults alike are encouraged to show off their bewitching costumes during Trick or Trunk. In the spirit of the holiday trunks are decorated in a spooky fashion and kids collect candy from each one. Whether it is a haunting Honda, a vexxing Volkswagen, or a terrifying truck, you are sure to have a great time. After all, ghouls just want to have fun. This event also features crafts, games, and other activities. Don’t let the sun go down on you before seeing Sir Elton, a tribute to Elton John performed by the talented Lance Millard who has been perfecting his craft for over 25 years. Millard’s commitment to paying homage to the great Elton John is exemplified through his larger than life costuming and top quality vocal performance. Accompanied by a hand-selected ensemble of the region’s most talented musicians, Sir Elton delivers a spellbinding performance that ignites the stage and fills theaters with an electric atmosphere. Costumes are encouraged! Tickets can be purchased at catskillmtn.org or by calling the Box Office at 518 263 2063. A limited number of walk-up tickets may be available at the door, but don’t wait too long—this show is likely to sell out!
Hudson Valley Artists Are Coming to You at Fallforart.org! Fallforart.org, the popular Juried Art Show, Sale and Community Fundraiser presented by the Jewish Federation of Ulster County, returns for its 30th year and Grand Finale, Maureen Lohan-Bremer virtually from 7:00 pm Saturday, November 7 through 5:00 pm Friday, November 13. Visitors from across the region, and beyond, can explore and purchase a wide range of visual art by 32 acclaimed Hudson Valley artists. This online celebration of the arts showcases highquality, original works in ceramics, fiber, glass, jewelry, mixed-media, painting, photography, pottery, and more, all from the comfort of your home. All artists offer complimentary shipping. What sets Fallforart.org apart is its community impact. Proceeds support the Federation, the participating artists, and benefit essential regional nonprofits. This aligns with the Jewish Federation’s mission of Tikkun Olam, repairing the world through acts of kindness and support. Visit Fallforart.org for more information. 8 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide
Photography Walk & Workshop with Francis X. Driscoll On Saturday, October 17, from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm, join the Main Street Center and photographer Fran Driscoll for a guided walk along the scenic Windham Path (meet at the NY-23 entrance). Fran will share tips for capturing nature and landscapes with your camera or phone. Afterwards, head to the Community Center, 5494 State Route 23, Windham, for a hands-on intro to photo editing to turn your shots into stunning images. Registration is $10. For more information or to register, visit mainstreetcenter.org or call the center at 518 734 4168. Rain date is October 18.
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oming October 9, 10 and 11, Maude Adams Theater Hub and Catskill Mountain Foundation will be presenting The Sunshine Boys, written by Neil Simon and directed by MATH Associate Creative Director, Jacob Shipley. When Maude Adams Theater Hub first presented a Neil Simon play in the fall of last year, the question became whether an unofficial tradition had begun. Simon has no particular connection to autumn or to the Catskill Region; but 2025’s production of Barefoot In The Park was so well received that it seemed a decision was made on behalf of the organization by its own audience. Neil Simon’s quick wit will be returning to the stage at the Doctorow Center for the Arts on October 9 and 10 at 6:00 pm and October 11 at 2:00 pm. This side-splitting comedy will feature some familiar faces that Maude Adams Theater Hub audiences might recognize: namely, Michael McDonald and Gary Falk as the two leading men. McDonald plays Willie Clark, an almost-retired vaudeville comic who is less than enthused at the thought of reuniting with his former partner, Al Lewis. Lewis, played by Gary Falk, is the ever-so-slightly less curmudgeony half of this comedic duo and generally delights at his former partner’s rage. These two fantastic actors have shared Catskill Mountain Foundation stages before, in plays like Casa Valentina, Old Jews Telling Jokes, and as recently as July’s production of Matilda: The Musical. Joining McDonald and Falk onstage is Ian Gilmore as Ben Silverman, Clark’s failing talent agent and nephew. Gilmore is another local actor and a senior at Hunter-Tannersville Central High School, and this will be his MATH stage debut. Gilmore has per10 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide
formed in many roles through his school’s theater program, and is incredibly excited to be putting his training to work on a semiprofessional stage. Also joining the cast alongside Gilmore is Lisa Harrow, Rachel Ekstrom, and Ernie Briskey. You may recognize Harrow and Briskey from some of their past performances, with Maude Adams Theater Hub but also with groups like the Onteora Club Theater and the Phoenicia Playhouse. The newest face to the scene is Ms. Ekstrom, a SUNY-Brockport Graduate and experienced actress. Ekstrom joined the team at Catskill Mountain Foundation and MATH at the beginning of the summer and has quickly become a staple both on and off the stage. Ekstrom will perform in this production of The Sunshine Boys as well as serve as its Assistant Director. Leading the directorial charge is Jake Shipley, another familiar face of the MATHlete team. Shipley has directed and performed in several MATH productions, and has previously directed five of the six cast members in other performances. When asked about his approach to The Sunshine Boys, Shipley had this to say, “We all know someone who loves to be angry, and it is love — a form of it anyway — and I wanted to explore that.” Shipley goes on to remark about his own family and how he communicates, “…comedy and anger are both shields, they’re coping mechanisms that come easily to me, to my brothers, and I think a lot of people. I think that’s what makes this show so funny, we see so much of ourselves and our own pitfalls.” The Sunshine Boys will run October 9, 10, and 11 at the Doctorow Center for the Arts, located at 7971 Main Street in Hunter, NY. For tickets, please visit catskillmtn.org.
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Fall in Love with Handmade at Handcrafted Octoberfest at Rhinebeck
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et ready for an unforgettable fall weekend as Handcrafted Octoberfest: A Family Harvest Celebration returns to the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck October 10-11! This one-ofa-kind festival blends the best of Oktoberfest traditions with the charm of a juried craft show, perfect for art lovers, families, and everyone in between. Promoted by Quail Hollow Events, a nationally recognized craft promotion company with decades of experience, Handcrafted Octoberfest is a two-day event held in charming Rhinebeck, NY, a historically significant and hip destination in the heart of the Hudson Valley, known for its classic fairgrounds, picturesque Market Street, and vibrant creative community. The festival reimagines the traditional Oktoberfest through an artistic lens, celebrating the spirit of the season by highlighting all things handmade. Launched in 2019, the event quickly earned a reputation as a fall favorite, drawing thousands of visitors and becoming a seasonal highlight in the Hudson Valley, now widely recognized as an 12 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide
artistic hotspot. With over 100 juried exhibitors showcasing work across ten media categories, the festival brings together the handcrafted, the artisanal, and the agricultural, from fine art and crafts to regional beers, wines and spirits, specialty foods, and abundant harvest fun. Visitors can sip, eat and unwind in the beer garden and entertainment tent while enjoying live music throughout the weekend. On Saturday, October 10, Blue Hill takes the stage. A collaboration of longtime friends and musicians from throughout the Hudson Valley, Blue Hill brings together decades of musical experience for a wide-ranging mix of classic and recent rock, blues, country, and jazz. Their repertoire spans more than 50 years of music, including plenty of favorites not often heard from other bands. Sunday, October 11, begins with Hudson Valley singer-songwriter Eric Erickson, performing from 10:00 am-12:00 pm. Later in the day, Coconut Telegraph brings the sounds of Jimmy Buffett to Rhinebeck with a tribute celebrating the laid-back, tropi-
cal music that made Buffett an American favorite. Families will love the dedicated kids’ craft tent, where children can paint pumpkins, engage in artistic free play, or complete a seasonal art project. Parents can create alongside their kids, or drop them off while they shop, eat, drink, and hang. Around the fairgrounds, guests will enjoy ongoing demonstrations from woodworkers, fiber spinners, leathersmiths, jewelers, and even master pumpkin carver Hugh McMahon. For even more fall fun, visitors can hop on a horsedrawn carriage ride and visit the petting zoo. Sunday afternoon brings the weighoff of giant pumpkins, with one anticipated to approach 2,000 pounds! For tickets, the exhibitor list, beer and food menus, the entertainment schedule, and more, visit quailhollow.com prior to the event. All tickets grant multi-day access to the event.
Handcrafted Octoberfest When Saturday, October 10 10:00 am-5:00 pm Sunday, October 11 10:00 am-5:00 pm
Where Dutchess County Fairgrounds 6636 US-9 Rhinebeck, NY 12572 quailhollow.com October 2026 • GUIDE 13
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The Windham Path. Photo by Fran Driscoll, francisxdriscoll.com
Visit
Windham ART GALLERY
ART INSTRUCTION Windham Fine Arts
5380 Main Street Windham, NY 12496 windhamfinearts.com 518 734 6850, director@ “Evening Light,” by Mireille Duchesne 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. 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. Open Friday and Saturday 11:00 am-5:00 pm, Sunday 11:00 am-4:00 pm. Commissioned artwork, in-home art placement, and hanging services by appointment. 16 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide
Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts 34 Big Hollow Road Maplecrest, NY 12454 sugarmaples.org A program of 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. Join us for the Verbatim: A Text & Sound Expo on October 2 & 3, a festival featuring performances of poetry, avant-garde music, sound art, and hybrid text-sound experiments. A Market featuring Hudson Valley and Catskills small presses and record labels will be on site on Saturday.
Briars & Brambles Bookstore by Jen Schwartz Bookstores have always been special to me. When I was young, my grandmother worked in one. Later, my mother worked in the indie bookstore in our hometown. However, I never imagined I would be inspired to open my own. As Briars & Brambles Books celebrates its eighth anniversary, my team and I recognize the unique role bookstores play in a community, particularly a town as special as Windham. Our “Welcome, let us know if there is anything we can help you with” for first time visitors, or returning regulars, is warm and authentic. Our carefully curated selection of books and gifts means we can make knowledgeable, personal recommendations. Often, finding the “perfect” book or gift comes from having a conversation. It’s these personal interactions we value most. In a world where communication mainly occurs through text or email, it’s energizing to engage in real conversation. We love when we establish ongoing relationships with our customers and treasure the fact we have become part of the larger community. To me, being the “Local Bookstore” means actively participating in the community by: being open seven days a week, hiring local people, showcasing local authors and artists, donating to local organizations and events, and collaborating with other small businesses. When you shop locally, you help us achieve those goals. Since 2018, we are thrilled we have been able to help support local organizations including the VFW, Public School, Adaptive Sports Foundation, and the Main Street Community Center. One of our favorite partnerships is with the Windham Arts Alliance, whom we collaborate with to present the Storybook Walk along the Windham Path each season. Come see why we aren’t just a place, we are a destination and why you may walk in as a stranger but leave as a friend.
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BOOKSTORE
Briars & Brambles Books Route 296 & South Street Windham, NY 12496 briarsandbramblesbooks.com 518 750 8599 Briars and Brambles Books is your go-to Indie Bookstore in the heart of the Catskill Mountains. Briars & Brambles Books is a dream come true for owner & part-time Windham resident, Jen Schwartz. Jen has combined her love of books with her experience as a long-time library volunteer and past library board president to create an inviting, knowledgeable and professional atmosphere. The Briars & Brambles team understands that being a bookseller involves so much more than simply “selling books” and is committed to providing unparalleled personal attention.
DELI & MARKET
Main Street Market 5344 NY-23 Windham, NY 12496 518 734 4134 The oldest operating Italian deli, market, and butcher in the community, Main Street Market has been a purveyor of quality goods in the community for over 40 years. All your favorite Italian specialiaties are right here: fresh baked goods, meats, cheeses, grocery items, freshly made Italian heros, and fresh meat and fish. We cater! 18 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide
Every Home Has a Story by Lisa Jaeger Associate Real Estate Broker, Coldwell Banker Village Green Realty After nearly 30 years in Catskills real estate, one thing I know for certain is that no two homes—and no two real estate journeys—are ever quite the same. Every home has a story. Some have been in the same hands for generations. Others began as a piece of land and someone’s vision. There are ski houses filled with years of winter memories, country homes where gardens have been carefully tended, and newly renovated retreats ready for an entirely new chapter. That’s what has always made real estate here so interesting to me. Knowing the Catskills means understanding more than recent sales and market statistics. It means knowing the communities, the back roads, the mountains and the differences between one location and the next. It’s understanding why a view matters, why one piece of land may be more valuable than another, and what today’s buyers are looking for when they decide to make the Catskills part of their lives. My approach to real estate has always been personal. I work with both buyers and sellers, from first conversations and property searches to negotiations and closing—and often well beyond. For sellers, my job is to recognize what makes a property special and tell that story through thoughtful pricing, professional presentation and marketing. For buyers, it’s helping them look beyond the listing and understand the property, the value and the opportunity. The Catskills have changed tremendously over the years, but what draws people here remains remarkably familiar: the mountains, the natural beauty, the communities and a lifestyle that’s hard to find anywhere else. Every home has a story. I’d be honored to help tell yours.
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FARM
Catskill Mountain Foundation’s Natural Agriculture Farm At Sugar Maples 34 Big Hollow Road Maplecrest, NY 12454 The CMF operates a 4.5-acre farm following the Natural Agriculture method taught by the Japanese organization Shumei, the principle of which is to grow vegetables the way they would grow in Nature. No agricultural chemicals of any sort are used, and no manure or other soil additives are permitted. During growing season, visitors can purchase vegetables grown at the farm at a farmstand that operates every Saturday.
GARDEN
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!
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Our Community Practice at Mountain Breeze Yoga & Sound Studio For 30 years, yoga has been part of our mountain community. In 1996, Heidi Ruehlmann was the first teacher to bring yoga to our mountaintop, creating a foundation of practice, connection, and community that continues today. Nicole Sansone, the studio owner and a fellow teacher, first took a class with Heidi in 1998. Nicole is honored to carry that tradition forward alongside Heidi, Maryann (Akka), and the teachers who help make our studio a welcoming place to practice. We are a small studio dedicated to sharing the many benefits of yoga with everyone who walks through our doors. We offer a variety of classes and approaches for students of all ages, experience levels, and abilities. We love guiding our students to understand that you start from where you are and grow from there. In addition to our regular classes, Nicole offers monthly community sound baths, a deeply restorative experience guided by sound and vibration. Reservations are required, and all are welcome. We also offer private sessions for individuals and groups, including Yoga, Sound Therapy, and Reiki. These sessions provide personalized support and a healing experience tailored to your needs. We invite you to visit our website for a full list of offerings and detailed class descriptions. MountainBreezeYoga.com. We are located in Plaza 23 at 11111 Route 23, Windham NY 12496.
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Smitty’s 4681 State Route 23 Windham, NY 12496 smittyscapes.com 518 734 3489 Smitty’s Nursery, Garden Center, and Rustic Home Furnishings showroom is a unique and meaningful lifestyle destination. Smitty’s offers Amish crafted furnishings and home décor. We can accommodate many styles, from rustic to modern. Local delivery and setup service is available. Smitty’s is also a fully stocked nursery, with everything you need for landscaping and hardscaping. Other services include mowing, bulk material & delivery, plowing, and firewood.
HARDWARE GNH Lumber and Home 5477 Route 23 Windham, NY 12496 518 734 3760 11513 NY-32 Greenville, NY 12083 518 966 5333 Online at GNHlumber.com Renovating your home or building new? Ask our Team of Experts for inspiration, help, and on-site delivery. We offer: Lumber & Building Materials • Plumbing & Electrical Supplies • Cabinets, Countertops & Design Services • Tools, Paints, Stains & More! Discover why GNH has a reputation for high-quality products and friendly customer service since 1937.
Windham Fine Arts Windham Fine Arts opened its doors in September 2001, during a broader period of renewal in Windham. The gallery began with the restoration of a historic Main Street building that had been part of the town for generations. Over three years, the circa 1840’s building was carefully restored with an eye toward preserving its original character and charm. At the same time, the town was undergoing its own renaissance with new sidewalks, streetlights, town water, and other improvements. Twenty-five years later, Windham Fine Arts has grown into a 3,000-square-foot gallery representing more than 65 artists and offering an extensive collection of original paintings, photography and sculpture. Its rooms feature everything from landscapes and contemporary abstracts to figurative works and paintings inspired by the Hudson River School tradition. Services have expanded to include commissioned and custom artwork, art placement and in-home installation, shipping and delivery. The gallery even represents portrait artists who can memorialize your family or furry friend. At its heart, however, the gallery has always been about discovery. Art is deeply personal; a painting has to speak to the person who will live with it. Windham Fine Arts provides a welcoming place to explore, connect with art and nature, and find creations that say, “this is the one.”
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Windham Hardware 5390 Main Street Windham, NY 12496 518 734 4433 General hardware, housewares, plumbing, electrical supplies, window and screen repair, paint supplies, garden supplies, and keys made. Built as a Hardware store in 1887, Windham Hardware has been here for the residents of Windham, and those who come to visit, for over 120 years. Windham Hardware has been in the Lawrence family for 44 years, and we’re proud to be a part of this community.
LODGING
Windham Manor
IMAGES OF THE NORTHERN CATSKILLS By Francis X. Driscoll
My work is available for purchase at: Tannersville Antiques & Artisans: 518 589 5600 Rustic Mountain Antiques: 518 589 1202 Smitty’s Nursery: 518 734 3489
For more information about my work, visit www.francisxdriscoll.com 24 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide
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. Call us to set up a tour or schedule on our website!
Bring Autumn Home Rich Color, Cozy Style, and Seasonal Inspiration for Every Space at Smitty’s Nursery & Landscape Seasonal Plants and Outdoor Decor Add to nature’s landscape with our wide selection of hardy mums, celosia, fall perennials, and the crowd-pleasing Sunset Maple. Pumpkins, gourds, and corn stalks will be on display to welcome the new season. Warm Touches for Your Home Step into our showroom to explore a unique selection of furniture in warm wood tones, along with chandeliers, lamps, houseplants, and candles that add extra ambience as the temperatures cool. Firewood can be picked up or delivered right to your door. Visit the Potting Bar Keep the growing season alive with a visit to our Potting Bar. Create your own potted landscape to enjoy at home while sharing a beverage and snack with friends. Schedule Fall Cleanup Services Smitty’s is available for fall cleanup, including • Cutting back perennials • Trimming • Raking leaves • Winter Fertilizing You can find it all at Smitty’s Nursery & Landscape, located at 4681 State Route 23, Windham, NY 12496.
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NON-PROFIT
OUTDOOR RECREATION 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.
Windham Mountain Club 19 Resort Drive Windham, NY 12496 windhammountainclub.com 800 754 9463 Your all-season escape into Upstate New York’s premier wintersport, culinary, and memory-making destination for generations to come. Windham Mountain Club is an exclusive outdoor wonderland for the discerning set, find world-class skiing, golfing, dining, outdoor pursuits, and memory-making for generations to come. A restorative escape for more than 60 years, Windham Mountain Club has evolved to bring an elevated destination and exclusive year-round amenities and activities for the whole family to enjoy.
Woodlab At WoodLab of Windham, our business is more than craftsmanship—it’s a collaboration between nature, artistry, and the close-knit Catskills community. Known as the “Gem of the Catskills,” Windham is a place that values connection, creativity, and authenticity. That’s why our Windham location feels less like a storefront and more like an extension of the town itself—a place where creativity, tradition, and the mountain lifestyle converge. The heart of our work lies in wood that already tells a story. We use hand-selected slabs from Costa Rica—sustainably sourced from naturally fallen trees and we never cut new ones. Each slab is unique, rich with character, and transformed into a live-edge table meant to be enjoyed for generations. For a small mountain town, Windham has a big heartbeat. The rhythm shifts with the seasons: winter brings an influx of skiers and snowboarders, while spring, summer, and fall welcome hikers, golfers, and families to come to enjoy the outdoors. This steady flow of visitors keeps businesses like ours fresh and dynamic. At the same time, the year-round residents form a strong foundation—full of supportive neighbors who stop by to check in, and share pride in seeing the town thrive. What makes Windham special as a business community is the balance between tradition and growth. Many businesses are family-owned and deeply rooted, yet the town embraces new ideas and newcomers. Business owners collaborate naturally, recommending each other, sharing resources, and working together to keep Windham vibrant for both residents and visitors. For us, being part of this network is inspiring. It’s a reminder that when one business does well, the whole community benefits. Ultimately, having a business in Windham means being part of something bigger than yourself—a town that continues to grow without losing its heart. October 2026 • GUIDE 27
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PHOTOGRAPHER Francis X. Driscoll Photography Purchase his work at: Tannersville Antiques & Artisans: 518 589 5600 Rustic Mountain Antiques: 518 589 1202 Smitty’s Nursery: 518 734 3489 francisxdriscoll.com 518 821 1339 A frequent contributor to the Guide magazine, Francis X. Driscoll is an award-winning nature photographer whose work involves total immersion in a setting so that he might capture that rare glimpse. His primary subject is the Catskill Forest Preserve. Join Fran for a guided walk along the scenic Windham Path on Saturday, October 17. He will share tips for capturing nature and landscapes with your camera or phone. Afterwards, head to the Main Street Community Center for a hands-on intro to photo editing to turn your shots into stunning images.
RADIO STATION WRIP 97.9FM wripfm.com Streaming at rip979.com RIP 97.9 is 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!
The Region’s Trusted Building Partner GNH Lumber & Home For generations, the beauty of the Catskills and the Hudson Valley has shaped the communities GNH Lumber & Home has helped build and call home. The company’s connection to this region is five generations deep. GNH Lumber & Home understands what it takes to build, renovate, and maintain homes in the region, providing the high-performance materials and local knowledge neighbors count on. Every great project starts with the right foundation. GNH Lumber & Home takes pride in delivering incredible lumber—from robust framing timber to durable decking—sourced to endure harsh upstate seasons. To frame the surrounding landscapes and protect against the elements, we supply energy-efficient Marvin windows alongside a full lineup of premium Benjamin Moore paints and stains that deliver lasting beauty inside and out. To turn materials into fine craftsmanship, our shelves are stocked with an outstanding selection of industryleading tools. From the jobsite power of DeWalt cordless tools to the precision of Diablo cutting blades, we equip you for any build. Inside your home, our dedicated kitchen and bath designers work with homeowners and contractors to create functional, stunning spaces with quality cabinetry and countertops. What truly sets GNH apart is the people. Experienced, friendly team members live and work right here in the Catskills and Hudson Valley. They know the local landscape and the ins and outs of virtually any project— whether you are building a mountain retreat, restoring a farmhouse, or making weekend upgrades. When you step through the doors at GNH Lumber & Home you get trusted guidance from neighbors who care about bringing your vision to life. Visit them in Greenville or Windham before you start your next project and build better from start to finish. October 2026 • GUIDE 29
Lisa Jaeger, Associate Broker Coldwell Banker Village Green Realty 5383 Main Street Windham, NY 12496 windhamnewyorkskihomes.com 518 755 2573 (cell) 2017-2023 Coldwell Banker International President’s Circle I have been a real estate broker listing and selling properties in the Greater Windham area for over 20 years! Windham is my home where I am raising my family of avid ski racers, golfers and outdoor lovers. I am very active in my community, serving as the Windham Chamber of Commerce President. I also serve on the Town Planning Board. I’m passionate about our town’s heritage and recreational opportunities. I am consistently a top producer because my philosophy is simple: treat others as you want to be treated.
Carol Shaw, Broker/Owner Shaw Country Realty 5359 State Route 23 Windham, NY 12496 518 734 3500 I have been a real estate broker in the mountain top area for nearly four decades, representing buyers and sellers, as well as dealing with various types of properties such as homes, land, and country homes, rentals, indicates a broad expertise in the local real estate market. With our many years in the industry, Shaw Country Realty has built a strong network, deep understanding of the market trends, and a keen ability to match buyers with suitable properties and help sellers navigate successful transactions.
The Tortorella Team at Coldwell Banker Village Green Realty 5354 Main Street Windham, NY 12496
Gallagher & Company 6 Mitchell Hollow Road Windham, NY 12496 gallagherandcompany.com 518 734 3300 Gallagher & Company is a national professional real estate services firm, specializing in commercial and industrial real estate with an emphasis on New York State properties and luxury resort homes. Our Windham, New York office specializes in Sales and Rentals of residential and vacation properties. Gallagher and Company also manages the Quads condominium development comprising 67 units, located in Windham.
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Regina Tortorella, Licensed Real Estate Associate Broker 914 466 0329 Aaron Perer, Licensed Real Estate Salesperson 845 514 0186 secondhomeguru.com With unparalleled industry knowledge, experience, and local expertise, The Tortorella Team are the Windham Real Estate experts you’ve been looking for. Regina Tortorella’s 23 years of national and international sales experience makes her a knowledgeable and trustworthy guiding hand. Aaron Perer is a driven, hardworking agent who wants nothing but the absolute best for his clients, buyers and sellers alike.
Windham Manor Ideally situated in the picturesque Northern Catskill Mountains, the town of Windham offers a peaceful escape while remaining conveniently accessible. It was this setting that inspired Susan and Barry Smith to create Windham Manor in 2018. Since then, Windham Manor has grown into a destination for unforgettable weddings, corporate retreats, birthdays, anniversaries, conferences, and celebrations of all kinds. The Barn is the heart of Windham Manor. Custom designed and built in 2019 with post-and-beam construction to accommodate more than 300 guests, its cathedral windows, stone fireplace, raw-edge wood bars, covered patio, and indoor and outdoor balconies create a breathtaking setting with the Catskills as a backdrop. The House, a beautifully renovated Victorian mansion with twelve bedrooms, offers the perfect gathering place for family and friends before and after an event. A chef’s kitchen, fire pit, on-site gym, and wrap-around deck with sweeping mountain views make it just as enjoyable for a weekend getaway as it is for a wedding celebration. Rehearsal dinners, welcome receptions, engagement parties, showers, and other celebrations make the House an important part of the wedding experience. Beyond the buildings, the property unfolds across open lawns, a picturesque pond, and the Enchanted Forest, where a short wooded path leads to benches, a babbling brook, and towering pines. The beauty of Windham Manor doesn’t disappear when summer ends. The venue was featured among The Knot’s recommended winter wedding venues and ranked No. 9 in The Zoe Report’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Winter Wedding Venues in the U.S. Windham itself is much more than a winter sports destination, with restaurants, shops, trails, golf, kayaking, cafes, a bookstore, and day spas offering plenty to explore. Windham Manor and the town have grown together, giving guests the opportunity to experience the many things that make Windham special.
October 2026 • GUIDE 31
Windstar Realty Group 5316 State Route 23 Windham, NY 12496 518 734 6600 85 Main Street Stamford, NY 12167 607 442 4000
the restaurant. We know the formula to capture the rich flavor of your favorite Italian dishes.
ROOFING & CONSTRUCTION L & G Roofing & Construction
windstarrealty.com Windstar Realty Group is a full-service Real Estate Agency serving the Greene, Columbia, Schoharie, Otsego, and Delaware County areas of NY. The Catskill region offers the perfect balance of adventure and serenity—you owe it to yourself to choose the best team in the area to represent your real estate needs! Whether you are buying or selling a home, property, or business in the Upstate NY area, Windstar Realty Group is the agency for you! We have the most well-rounded team in the region.
6 Mitchell Hollow Road Windham, NY 12496 windhamroofs.com 518 734 4488 Trust is the key when hiring a roofing contractor. At L&G Roofing and Construction, we strive to be a roofing contractor who has built the trust of our entire community. Our reputation is our most important asset, and we are proud to be one of the highest rated contractors around. When it comes time for your next roof, be sure to call to see all that we have to offer.
RESTAURANT
WINE & LIQUOR Brandywine
11157 State Route 23 Windham, NY 12496 brandywinewindham.com 518 734 3838 For the past 35 years, this fullservice 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
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 everexpanding selction is sure to please every palate and price range. Let us help with your special event or gift. Visit us at the west end of town. Open every day of the year except Christmas Day.
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WOODWORKING WoodLab … From Tree to Table 5316 State Route 23 Windham, NY 12496 woodlabslabs.com 518 734 5700 Our one-of-a-kind tables incorporate the unique characteristics of Parota and Monkey Pod slabs, imported from Costa Rica. Coveted for their exotic beauty, these rare, large species wood slabs are hand-selected, allowing us to create family heirloom dining and office tables.
YOGA & SOUND STUDIO Mountain Breeze Yoga & Sound Studio 11111 Route 23 Windham, NY 12496 MountainBreezeYoga.com We are a small studio dedicated to sharing the many benefits of yoga with everyone who walks through our doors. We offer a variety of classes and approaches for students of all ages, experience levels, and abilities. We love guiding our students to understand that you start from where you are and grow from there. In addition to our regular classes, we offer monthly community sound baths, private sessions for individuals and groups, including Yoga, Sound Therapy, and Reiki. The Windham Path. Photo by Holly Cohen, golightlyink.com
Windstar Realty We have all heard the expression, “home is where the heart is”, for Windstar Realty Group this could not be more true. Our decades long, multi-generational personal ties to Windham are what led us to call this vibrant community, where natural beauty and opportunity come together, home. Windham is not just another small mountain town, it’s a lifestyle. Nestled in the Catskills, the town combines small-town warmth with year-round recreation. In the winter, the mountain draws skiers and snowboarders from across the region, while in the warmer months, hiking trails, golf courses, and scenic vistas bring in those seeking fresh air and adventure. This steady flow of visitors means there’s always new energy, new faces, and new possibilities. Beyond the activities, Windham has a strong sense of community that’s rare to find. Neighbors look out for one another, local businesses support each other, and there’s a genuine pride in preserving the area’s character. As real estate professionals, we get to introduce newcomers not just to homes, but to a way of life that values connection and balance. Professionally, Windham is an exciting market because it attracts a diverse mix of clients: second-home owners, vacation property investors, and families looking to settle in a peaceful environment. This variety keeps our work engaging and allows us to match people with properties that truly suit their dreams and goals and help them close one chapter and open the next. Ultimately, choosing Windham for Windstar Realty Group’s home has never felt like just business. It feels like being part of a community we deeply care about, while helping others create their own story in a place that continues to inspire us every day. Whether selling, buying, starting a new career, or perfecting your existing career, make Windstar Realty Group your home as well! October 2026 • GUIDE 33
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October 2026 • GUIDE 35
AUTUMN AFFAIR CELEBRATE FALL IN THE CATSKILLS AT WINDHAM’S 32ND ANNUAL
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here is nothing quite like autumn in Windham. The Catskill Mountains turn brilliant shades of red, orange and gold, the air becomes crisp, and Main Street provides the perfect backdrop for one of the Mountaintop’s favorite fall traditions. On Saturday and Sunday, October 10 & 11, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, the Windham Chamber of Commerce welcomes residents and visitors to the 32nd Annual Autumn Affair, a two-day celebration of fall, community and everything we love about the Catskills. Admission is FREE, parking is FREE, and there is something happening around nearly every corner. For more than three decades, Autumn Affair has brought people together the second weekend of October to experience Windham during one of the most beautiful times of the year. The festival fills Main Street and the Windham-Ashland-Jewett School grounds with live music, vendors, food, activities and plenty of old-fashioned fall fun.
MAIN STREET COMES ALIVE
More than 50 vendors will be set up throughout the festival, offering farmers’ market goods, handmade items, specialty foods, unique gifts and locally inspired products. It is a great place to start some early holiday shopping or find unique art and jewelry you won’t see in the big-box stores. Windham’s Main Street businesses also join in the celebration with shopping and seasonal food and drink specials throughout 36 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide
the weekend. Stop for lunch, grab a fall-inspired treat, browse the shops and enjoy Main Street surrounded by spectacular Catskill Mountain foliage. And definitely come hungry. Windham Wine & Liquors will offer wine and spirit tastings, while the Methodist Church Apple Fest returns with its famous apple fritters and other fall favorites. Those warm apple fritters have become an Autumn Affair tradition all their own!
LIVE MUSIC IN THE HEART OF TOWN
The Centre Church stage will provide the soundtrack for the weekend with live music on both Saturday and Sunday. On Saturday, Lex Gray and the Urban Pioneers take the stage with a crowd-pleasing mix of classic rock and R&B. Sunday brings Steele, delivering an energetic blend of rock and funk to keep Main Street moving. Grab something to eat, find a spot near the stage and stay awhile. Great live music, colorful mountains and the activity of Main Street make for a pretty terrific October afternoon in Windham.
FUN FOR KIDS — AND KIDS AT HEART
Animal lovers can get up close with wildlife exhibits, a petting zoo and reptiles, while the Windham Fire Department Touch-a-Truck gives youngsters the chance to check out the trucks and equipment used by our local firefighters.
Over at the Catskill Mountain Country Store, visitors can find their way through the popular Spooky Hay Maze, bringing a little Halloween fun to the weekend. The children’s tent will be busy with activities, while face painting and temporary tattoos add a little extra color to the day. Those feeling adventurous can try axe throwing, and there will be arts and crafts, demonstrations and other activities to discover throughout the festival. And don’t leave your four-legged friend out of the fun. Coldwell Banker Village Green Realty’s Doggie Beauty Photo Contest invites dogs to strike their best pose for a chance at some Autumn Affair bragging rights. Windham is a dog-loving town, so expect some serious competition!
BRING YOUR BEST TO THE BAKING COMPETITION
Another favorite returns on Saturday with the Centre Church Baking Competition. Local bakers are encouraged to bring their best creations and put their skills to the test. From treasured recipes to signature specialties, the competition is a fun way to celebrate the flavors and traditions of fall — with bragging rights, of course! As thoughts begin shifting from fall foliage to snow-covered mountains, visitors can also stop by the WAJ Ski Swap, benefiting the local ski team. Shop for ski and snowboard equipment while supporting young local athletes preparing for another winter season.
SHOP LOCAL, EAT LOCAL AND EXPLORE
One of the best parts of Autumn Affair is simply exploring Windham. Our small businesses are an important part of the character of the community, and Columbus Day Weekend is a great opportunity to discover them. Wander in and out of Main Street shops, enjoy lunch or dinner at a local restaurant, meet the business owners and see what is new. While you’re here, the Windham Path is a must-visit, offering a beautiful place to walk, take in the fall scenery and enjoy its newly added fenced-in dog park. The combination of 50-plus festival vendors and Windham’s year-round shops, restaurants and businesses creates a full day of shopping, dining and exploring. Autumn Affair isn’t confined to one tent or one field. The idea is to experience the town.
32 YEARS OF COMMUNITY
Perhaps the most special thing about Autumn Affair is the community behind it. For 32 years, local businesses, nonprofit organizations, churches, first responders, volunteers, vendors and residents have helped make this weekend possible. It takes many hands to put together an event of this size, and that involvement is what gives Autumn Affair its hometown personality.
For visitors, it is an opportunity to experience Windham beyond the scenery. For those of us who live here, it is a weekend to reconnect with neighbors, support our businesses and organizations, welcome visitors and celebrate the place we call home. The Windham Chamber of Commerce works hard to keep Autumn Affair a free community event, and that would not be possible without generous support. The Chamber extends a special thank you to Greene County Legislator James Thorington for his help in securing grant support through Wayne Speenburgh, to Windham Mountain Club for its generous sponsorship of Autumn Affair, and to the Town of Windham and the Community of Windham Foundation for their continued support. Their contributions help make free events like Autumn Affair possible and allow the Chamber to continue creating opportunities that bring residents, visitors and local businesses together.
MAKE WINDHAM PART OF YOUR FALL WEEKEND
October is one of the most spectacular times of year to visit the Great Northern Catskills, so make a day — or a weekend — of it. Take a scenic drive through the mountains, enjoy the foliage, explore Windham’s shops and restaurants, listen to live music, meet the vendors and enjoy all the activities happening throughout town. Come for the music, shopping, apple fritters, wildlife, petting zoo, reptiles, axe throwing, Touch-a-Truck, Spooky Hay Maze and baking competition. Support the local ski team, discover a new artist or see your favorite maker, enjoy a seasonal bite or drink, and take in some of the most beautiful scenery the Catskills have to offer. Most of all, come be part of a Windham tradition that has been bringing people together for 32 years. And the community celebrations don’t end with Autumn Affair! Save the date for Windham’s Holiday Tree Lighting & Parade of Lights on Friday, December 4. Another community tradition we’re proud to bring to Windham, with more details coming soon. For event updates and additional information, visit movingwindhamforward.com.
WINDHAM’S 32ND ANNUAL AUTUMN AFFAIR Saturday & Sunday, October 10 & 11, 2026 10 am–5 pm Daily
Main Street & WAJ School Grounds Windham, NY FREE Admission • FREE Parking Rain or Shine Presented by the Windham Chamber of Commerce. October 2026 • GUIDE 37
BOOK REVIEW The Quarry Fox:
And Other Critters of the Wild Catskills By Leslie T. Sharpe; illustrations by Will Lytle Golden Notebook Press, 2026 Originally published by Abrams Books, 2017 240 pages Reviewed by Stephanie Wilson Medlock
“When the hummingbirds leave, they take with them summer, and even though September is perhaps the most beautiful month in the Catskills, with skies that are startlingly blue and uncharacteristically cloudless, the loss of the hummingbirds, so quicksilver, glittering with life, hints at winter.” This short paragraph, in The Quarry Fox chapter titled “Autumn’s Leave-takings,” encapsulates the tone of the author’s entire book. It is at once factual, lyrical, closely observed, and passionately involved with the flora and fauna of the Catskills. While the nine chapters of the book loosely follow the seasons, they do not describe a single year. Instead, they move backward and forward in time, describing peak experiences that Sharpe has had in different months in her Catskill home. A self-avowed “flatlander”, hailing from an area of New York with lower elevations and far less nature, Sharpe stumbled on her future home by accident. “I took a wrong turn” she writes of driving north to see the changing leaves one autumn. Meandering west through the Catskill foothills of Delaware County, she came across an enormous reservoir: Pepacton, created in 1955 to feed water to the city of New York. This serene body of water, and the many streams and rivers nearby, fed her need for tranquility. “I felt soothed by the waters of Delaware County, welcomed in, and most of all, I felt safe here.” Having made the transition to an area steeped in nature, Sharpe becomes a joyous observer of all the yearly rituals going on about her. The book is full of her personal responses to the environment, some of which are distinctly anthropomorphic, yet also substantiated by exhaustive research recorded in the notes and resources sections of this volume. Describing the aerial patterns of the woodcock, for example, she writes that their flight becomes a dance in the sky to attract their mates. “But I believe the woodcock dances for another reason,” Sharpe says. “I believe the woodcock dances for pure joy.” Each of the book’s chapters is dedicated to a different naturalist, and is a self-contained story. Sharpe’s style can be maddeningly 38 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide
elliptical. She starts out with one theme and can suddenly swerve to another. This is not a book where the chapter on foxes, for example, begins with a phrase such as “The red fox , a member of the canid family, is known for….” In fact, in “The Quarry Fox,” the chapter which gives the book it’s title, author Sharpe spends the first six pages without mentioning foxes at all, choosing to discuss bluestone rock formations instead. One’s patience for her meandering pays off, however, with fascinating revelations about this slight and gorgeous predator. While foxes are canids, for example, sharing most attributes with dogs, they also exhibit catlike features and qualities. The red fox has the cat’s ability to partially retract its front paws, and its feet are soft and hair covered. “But it is the fox’s eyes,” she writes, “that truly distinguish it. The pupils are vertically slit, like a cat’s, which allows the eye to sharpen its focus, especially useful in low light when the fox hunts…” For foxes are “crepuscular,” hunting from twilight to the early morning. She quotes the wildlife biologist J. David Henry, who says that the similarity of foxes to cats can be explained by “convergent evo-
lution,” where two different species look and act the same ways because they occupy the same ecological niche.” Besides her beautiful prose, another attractive feature of Sharpe’s writing is her emotional honesty. Her encounter with a black bear, even a bear she has seen before as a cub, fills her for a moment with fear. “Black bears, I reminded myself, rarely attack people. But as I stood there … I had to fight down fear, such a primal sense of danger. ‘Don’t run,’ I told myself, and ‘don’t turn your back on it.’” She cites the Humane Society of the United States in saying that black bear attacks on people across the country number no more than two a year. “More people are killed in vending machine accidents,” notes HSUS Senior Director Andrew Page. “By contrast, more than 33,000 black bears are killed every year by hunters.’ Dangerous or tame, exquisite or annoying, Sharpe behaves protectively towards all the “critters” she encounters in her daily life. Nowhere is this affection more visible than her description of the largemouth bass, an annoying species of fish that lives in her pond. “The bass are the most insolent creatures — they eyeball me defiantly when I spot them in the water.” Voracious, “they will eat anything, insects, birds if they can catch them, even each other.” Despite this, Sharpe cannot bring herself to get rid of them. “Once, when I did manage to capture one with a net, I couldn’t kill it. Instead, I left it in a bucket of pond water.” Thinking that another animal might come along and help itself to the fish, she leaves it there, returning a few days later.” “I found the fish still alive, looking up at me impudently. Defeated, totally, I dumped it back into the pond. The Quarry Fox is a book to savor, read slowly, a chapter at a time. The reader ends up with a wealth of factual information about Catskill Mountain creatures, and an even greater appreciation of the woman who observes them.
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THE GREAT OUTDOORS IN THE CATSKILLS By Jeff Senterman
The Windham Path. Photo by Fran Driscoll, francisxdriscoll.com
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very fall, one small ritual tells me the season was a good one: pulling off my watch and finding a stark tan line underneath, proof of long days spent on trails, at overlooks, and in the woods across the Catskills. Whether it’s a tough climb or a slow evening with a local beer on a porch, the Catskills have a way of resetting me that I don’t find anywhere else. Living, working, and playing in these mountains is a privilege I don’t take for granted. That feeling is shared by a lot more people these days. Tourism keeps growing, trailheads fill up earlier in the day, and our main streets are busier than they used to be. It’s a good problem to have, but it is still a problem: more cars competing for limited parking, more boots wearing down fragile trails, more pressure on the natural resources that make this place worth visiting in the first place. As the people who care most about the Catskills, we have to make sure that growing love for this region doesn’t come at the expense of the place itself. This month’s column reflects that responsibility from a few different angles. I share one of my favorite easy fall hikes on the Windham Path, and look at how the Catskill Center is applying a stewardship mindset to its own lands at Platte Clove, Thorn Preserve, and the Catskills Visitor Center. I also highlight the Catskill and Adirondack Forest Preserve Summit, a leadership change at the Catskill Center, and why continued state investment in the Catskills Visitor Center matters as visitation keeps climbing. Whatever brings you outdoors this October, let’s all pledge to Leave No Trace. The seven Leave No Trace principles can be summed up simply: leave places as good or better than you found 40 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide
them. Stay on the trail, pack out all your trash, respect natural features, and consider your impacts on both the environment and other visitors. It takes all of us to keep the Catskills clean, wild, and welcoming for generations to come.
Hike Highlight: The Windham Path For an easy, family-friendly outing this fall, the Windham Path just outside the village of Windham is a great choice. This gentle, multi-use trail is a favorite of mine, especially as the seasons turn, because its graded, well-maintained surface rarely gets muddy and tends to stay clear of snow later into the fall than higher-elevation trails. The main loop is 1.5 miles, and if you start from the Route 296 trailhead near South Street, a half-mile connector trail brings the full walk to about 2.5 miles round-trip. The path winds through open meadows and quiet woodlands along the Batavia Kill, crossing several scenic footbridges, including a picturesque covered bridge that has become one of the trail’s signature features. With minimal elevation gain and a wide, crushed bluestone surface, the Windham Path is comfortable for walkers, runners, and cyclists of all abilities, and it is fully accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. The Windham Path also provides public access to the Batavia Kill, giving visitors a peaceful, low-impact way to connect with the stream and the surrounding views of the Great Northern Catskills. In winter, the same trail becomes a popular spot for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Dogs are welcome on a leash, and the trail’s flat, easy grade makes it a wonderful option for families, older hikers, or anyone looking for a relaxed walk with beautiful mountain views rather than a strenuous climb. For a full trail description, hike video, and more details, visit the Hiker Trash Husbands website (hikertrashhusbands.com) and search for the Windham Path or visit directly at hikertrashhusbands.com/home/the-windhampath-a-scenic-family-friendly-trail-loop-in-the-catskills.
Managing Our Own Lands, Strengthening the Catskill Park The Catskill Center’s lands — the places we own, protect, and manage as an accredited land trust — are where our mission meets the real world, and where we can model the kind of thoughtful, active management we call for across the entire Catskill Park. With support from New York State, we recently completed a study of our three core properties: Platte Clove Preserve in Hunter, Thorn Preserve in Woodstock, and the Congressman Maurice D. Hinchey Catskills Visitor Center in Shandaken. The goal was to look at these places with fresh eyes and ask how they can better protect our lands and waters, support nearby communities, and deepen people’s connection to the Catskills. Three priorities emerged: managing rising use and public safety at Platte Clove, improving habitat and adding functional office space at Thorn, and welcoming more visitors in meaningful ways at the Visitor Center that inspire greater stewardship. The study is aspirational by design, meant to surface possibilities rather than dictate a punch list. The real work now is slower and more deliberate: reviewing each idea against our mission, weighing benefits and trade-offs, and prioritizing fixes where public safety and resource protection are at stake. Some ideas will move forward, some will be set aside, and many will be reshaped as we learn more, all in ongoing conversation with staff, partners, and the public. This matters because the Catskill Center has long argued that high-use areas need practical, place-based management rather than neglect or heavy-handed restriction. By holding our own lands to that same standard, we strengthen every recommendation we bring to Albany. When we ask New York State to invest in trails, stewardship, and infrastructure across the Forest Preserve, it matters that we are doing the same disciplined work in our own backyard.
Visit the Catskill Park’s Visitor Center and Check Trail Conditions 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, it offers maps, trail and road information, hiking and paddling advice, and a gift shop with books, regional products, and outdoor gear, including
#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.
October 2026 • GUIDE 41
bear canisters for rent. Staff can also be reached by email at info@ catskillcenter.org or by phone at 845 688 3369. On the grounds, visitors can walk 1.5 miles of trails and climb the 80-foot Upper Esopus Fire Tower for sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and Esopus Creek valley. Before heading out, it is also worth checking conditions in the Catskill Park, which can change quickly. Storm damage, muddy stretches, trail work, high water, and temporary road or trail closures can all affect a trip. 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.
Parks. It builds directly on the sustained advocacy that has already helped secure millions of dollars for the Catskill and Adirondack Forest Preserves since 2021 through a dedicated state budget line. Bringing Catskill and Adirondack voices together in one room matters because these two regions, despite their differences, face many of the same pressures: rising visitation, aging infrastructure, and the need for consistent, science-based management across the Forest Preserve. The Summit reinforces that the Catskill Center’s advocacy work does not happen in isolation, it happens through strong coalitions and partnerships that speak with one voice in Albany.
Hike the Catskills with the Hiker Trash Husbands Coming Together for the Catskill and Adirondack Forest Preserve Summit This fall, advocates and stewards from across the Catskill and Adirondack Parks are gathering for the annual Catskill and Adirondack Forest Preserve Summit. The Catskill Center, together with the Adirondack Mountain Club, co-chairs the Forest Preserve Coalition that organizes this gathering, bringing together dozens of organizations, agencies, and community partners who care about the future of New York’s two Forest Preserves. The Summit is a chance to take stock of shared priorities from securing dedicated state funding for Forest Preserve stewardship to advancing trail work, expanding educational steward programs, and coordinating planning across the Catskill and Adirondack
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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.
Catskill Center Promotes Lee Alexander to Deputy Executive Director The Catskill Center has promoted longtime staff member Lee Alexander to Deputy Executive Director, a newly restructured leadership
role that will provide coordination across the organization’s conservation and stewardship, visitor engagement, and regional partnership work. Alexander joined the Catskill Center in 2019 to lead the Streamside Acquisition Program, which protects water quality in Catskills streams through the voluntary purchase and conservation of streamside lands, and she brings nearly two decades of land trust experience throughout the northeast to her new role. In her new role, Alexander will help guide the Catskill Center as it advances the priorities of its current strategic plan, ensuring closer coordination between the organization’s land protection work, its Visitor Center and stewardship programs, and its advocacy efforts across the region. This promotion reflects the Catskill Center’s continued investment in strong, experienced leadership as the organization’s work grows in scope and complexity.
of trusted information that helps people learn how to explore the Catskills safely and responsibly. For more than a decade, the Catskill Center and New York State have worked together to make that possible, and today that public-private partnership is essential to meeting growing demand for visitor services across the Park. It is why the Catskill Center is asking New York State to increase its annual support for the Visitor Center in the Environmental Protection Fund. That request comes at a moment of real growth, with the Visitor Center welcoming a meaningfully larger number of visitors than in past years, reflecting rising interest in the Catskills and the value visitors place on trusted information, local knowledge, and thoughtful guidance before heading into the Forest Preserve. State funding covers essential operational costs like staffing, education, maintenance, and exhibits, while the Catskill Center raises additional support through donors and foundations, but that balance only works if the state’s dedicated funding line keeps pace with rising costs and rising demand. Continued and increased state support ensures the Visitor Center can keep offering the maps, trip-planning help, and educational programming that keep visitors safe and connected to the Catskills, while freeing up philanthropic dollars for new initiatives rather than basic operations. As visitation continues to climb, this partnership remains one of the most important tools we have for making sure the Catskill Park can welcome more people without being loved to death.
Give Back to the Catskills
Diamond Notch Falls, an easy hike that is part of the Catskills Adventure Challenge. Photo by the Hiker Trash Husbands
Catskills Adventure Challenge If you want to branch out beyond your usual favorite hikes, the Catskills Adventure Challenge is a great excuse to explore somewhere new. The challenge is designed to introduce participants to a wider range of recreational and cultural opportunities across the region. The hiking version of the challenge asks participants to complete six of eight featured hikes, record their adventures, and submit their log through the challenge website. It is a fun way to discover new trails, set a personal goal, and build a deeper connection to the diversity of landscapes and communities that make up the Catskills. You can learn more and download the guide at catskillcenter.org/adventurechallenge.
Why the Catskills Visitor Center Needs Continued State Support The Congressman Maurice D. Hinchey Catskills Visitor Center is more than a place to pick up a map. It is the Catskill Park’s official visitor center, a welcoming front door to the Park, and a source
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 www.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 co-owner 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.
Celebrate Spooky Season at Fenimore Farm and Fenimore Art Museum this October
C
elebrate spooky season at Fenimore Farm and Fenimore Art Museum in Cooperstown this October with new and returning events. At Fenimore Farm, the inaugural Scarecrow Village will be open to the public September 26 – November 1. The 2026 theme is “Once Upon a Time” and will feature artistic scarecrows surrounding three categories: • Fairy Tales & Folklore: Stories passed down through the generations. Bring beloved, time-honored tales to life through immersive scarecrow scenes rooted in oral tradition and classic storybooks. • Fantasy: Imagination is the only limit to showcase a whimsical world of magic, adventure, and creativity where anything is possible. • History: Legends, heroes and life from the past come to life! Celebrate real stories and historical figures that connect to rural life, American folklore, and regional heritage. Visit Scarecrow Village and stay for an evening tour with our returning seasonal favorite program, Things that Go Bump in the 44 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide
Night. Experience Fenimore Farm during the most haunting time of the year as you join museum guides as they lead you through the darkened historic village by lantern telling stories of ghostly tales. Choose from six times each evening for these small group tours. Each tour lasts approximately 45 – 60 minutes and ends with a theatrical reading. On Saturday, October 24 families are welcome to Trick or Treat in the historic village from 1:00-3:00 pm. Come in costume and visit our buildings for a sweet treat at each location. At Fenimore Art Museum, Art in the Dark returns. See the museum’s collections in a way never experienced before – in the dark! Tour the galleries by lantern light while immersing yourself in some of the dark and tragic stories contained within the artwork that we don’t normally tell during a daytime tour. Also, see some of the hidden visual secrets in the artworks by viewing them with a special UV flashlight! Tours recommended for adults and teens. Fenimore Farm is located at 5775 Route 80 in Cooperstown. Fenimore Art Museum is located at 5798 Route 80 in Cooperstown. Visit fenimorefarm.org and fenimoreart.org for tickets, schedules, and more information.
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Photo courtesy of Ulster County Tourism
Fall
in the Catskills Fenimore Art Museum
ATTRACTIONS Catskill Mountain Foundation Piano Performance Museum 7971 Main Street Hunter, NY 12442 For appointments, email Photo: Jeffrey Langford 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. 46 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide
5798 State Highway 80 Cooperstown, NY 13326 fenimoreartmuseum.org This October, Art in the Dark returns to Fenimore Art Museum. See the museum’s collections in a way never experienced before – in the dark! Tour the galleries by lantern light while immersing yourself in some of the dark and tragic stories contained within the artwork that we don’t normally tell during a daytime tour. Also, see some of the hidden visual secrets in the artworks by viewing them with a special UV flashlight! Tours recommended for adults and teens.
BANK Ulster Savings Bank 58 Main Street Phoenicia, NY 12464 Ulstersavings.com 845 688 5965 ATM available Ulster Savings Bank is a locally focused and operated mutual savings bank with locations throughout the Hudson Valley. As a bank with no stockholders, our profits are reinvested back into the communities we serve. We are proud to be the recipient of numerous community awards reflecting our belief that helping community changes lives. We invite you to stop by our location in beautiful Phoenicia to experience the local difference with US. Bank where you matter!
CANDY SHOP
you’re building the perfect candy mix, picking out a thoughtful gift, or simply treating yourself, there’s something for everyone! We can’t wait to welcome you to Jenny’s Candy! We are open Thursday, Sunday, and Monday, 11:00 am-7:00 pm and until 8:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
CAR DEALERSHIP Thorpe’s GMC 5964 Main Street Tannersville, NY 12485 thorpesgmcinc.com 518 589 7142 Thorpe’s unmatched service and inventory have set them apart as the preferred dealer in Tannersville. With a fullservice 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 sales staff will help you every step of the way. Photo by Holly Cohen, golightlyink.com
Jenny’s Candy 816 Main Street Margaretville, NY 12455 jennyscandy.com Crafted by a mother/daughter duo in Margaretville, New York, our little sweet shop is filled with all kinds of goodies, from colorful bulk candy and chocolates to fresh nuts, dried fruits, and baked treats. Explore our international, nostalgic, and novelty candy, as well as our specialty chocolate case! Whether
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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 movement. 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.
FARMS & FARM PRODUCTS
FESTIVAL Handcrafted Octoberfest October 10 & 11 Dutchess County Fairgrounds 6636 US-9 Rhinebeck, NY 12572 quailhollow.com This festival reimagines the traditional Oktoberfest through an artistic lens, celebrating the spirit of the season by highlighting all things handmade. With over 100 juried exhibitors showcasing work across ten media categories, the festival brings together the handcrafted, the artisanal, and the agricultural, from fine art and crafts to craft brews, regional wine and spirits, specialty foods, and abundant harvest fun.
GARDEN & NURSERY Augustine Nursery
Pure Catskills purecatskills.com A regional, buy local campaign that improves 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 the region. Search their website for local products, or pick up a copy of the Guide to Pure Catskills Products!
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9W & Van Kleecks Lane Kingston, NY 12401 AugustineNursery.com 845 338 4936 Since 1974, We have grown to become one of the leading residential and commercial landscape design firms and the “nursery of choice” among highend landscape architects, independent contractors and discerning homeowners. We offer a stunning selection of larger scale, estate-grade trees, shrubs and plants, along with full menu of nursery services.
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.
LIVE MUSIC 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 fall season kicks off with three performances of Neil Simon’s The Sunshine Boys, presented by the Maude Adams Theater Hub October 9 through 11. Lewis and Clark are a pair of feuding vaudeville comedians who performed together for 47 years before finally calling it quits. Clark’s nephew has the brilliant idea of reuniting the duo; can the two put aside their differences long enough to collect one last paycheck? On October 17 Drs. Joanne Polk and Jeffrey Langford, joined by guest cellist Julian Langford, present the music and times of Amy Beach, America’s first great female composer. On October 18 the International Fortepiano Series online presents a program presenting rare repertoire by European composers who worked in the Russian Empire during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. On October 24 music lovers will flock to hear Birds of a Feather, as the sensational Twelfth Night Ensemble returns with fortepiano soloist Yi-heng Yang in a joyful celebration of avian life. And finally, this Halloween, Catskill Mountain Foundation presents Sir Elton – Featuring Lance Millard in the quintessential homage to the incomparable Elton John.
The Guide is on issuu.com!
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.
• An easier, more interactive reading experience • Available across all digital platforms • Links to our advertisers’ websites Never miss an issue! Follow us at issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide October 2026 • GUIDE 49
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 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.
MASSAGE & WELLNESS Illuminating Wellness/ Mountain Top Massage 5980 Main Street Tannersville, NY 12485 illuminatingwellness.care 518 718 4228 Transformative therapeutic massage practice combines elements of many of the healing arts and 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.
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MOVEMENT STUDIO Mountain View Studio 20 Mountainview Ave. Woodstock, NY 12498 mtnviewstudio.com 845 679 0901 Mountainview Studio is located in a serene setting in the heart of Woodstock. A detached newly built therapy studio, Yutori (the Japanese concept of intentionally slowing down to simply be, breathe, listen and appreciate the beauty of nature and life), is now home to the studio’s healing classes, including massage, sound, reiki, and is also available for holistic wellness practitioners to rent.
MOVIE THEATER Catskill Mountain Foundation Mountain Cinema 7971 Main Street Hunter, NY 12442 catskillmtn.org 518 263 4702 Hollywood, foreign & independent films running Friday through Sunday. Also available for rental for birthday parties and gatherings.
NATURAL MARKET Sunflower Market 75 Mill Hill Road Woodstock, NY 12498 24 Garden Street Rhinebeck, NY, 12572 sunflowernatural.com 845 679 5361 (Woodstock) • 845 876 2555 (Rhinebeck) Sunflower is dedicated to providing products you can feel good about sharing with people you love. Prioritizing working with local farms, families, and business, Sunflower is devoted to providing clean and sustainably sourced food, 100% organic produce and a selection of carefully curated items that fit all dietary needs.
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION Catskill Mountain Foundation 7971 Main Street Hunter, NY 12442 catskillmtn.org 518 263 2000 Now in its 28th year, Catskill Mountain Foundation is a nonprofit 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.
PLUMBING AND 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.
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REGIONAL INFORMATION
RADIO STATION WIOX 91.3FM MTC Cable Channel 20 WIOXRADIO.ORG on computers and smartphones WIOX Community Radio—where public access meets public service to build public trust. WIOX programming is wildly diverse, live, local, and non-commercial, broadcasting from the Catskill Mountains, in the heart of the New York City Watershed. WIOX talk and music programs range from farming to brewing to cooking, forestry to healthcare, Rock to Pop, Bach and Goth, Blues, Folk, Country, Americana, Jazz and Salsa. WIOX: produced and supported—by you!
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
REAL ESTATE Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty 31 Mill Hill Road Woodstock, NY 12498 fourseasonssir.com 845 684 0084 Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty is your premier partner for real estate in the Northeast, covering the vibrant and diverse New York market. Our expertise extends from the bustling streets of Albany to the serene landscapes of Vermont and New Hampshire. We are committed to providing an exceptional relocation experience, ensuring you find your perfect property. With unparalleled service and local knowledge, trust us to guide you through every step of your real estate journey.
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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.
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.
Gracie’s Luncheonette 969 Main Street Leeds, NY 12451 graciesny.com 518 943 9363 Diner-style burgers, fried chicken sandwich, loaded fries and donuts are our signature menu items. All of our breads, pastries and desserts are made fresh in house every day. We make all of our own condiments and even our own cheese. We buy whole beef from Josef Meiller’s farm in Pine Plains and grind our own special blend for our burgers and cut our own steaks. We also cure and smoke our own bacon, pastrami and other meats. Even the potatoes for our French fries are grown right in Catskill at Story’s Farm and hand-cut daily!
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High Falls Cafe 2842 Route 209 North Marbletown, NY 12484 highfallscafe.com 845 687 2699 Family owned and chef operated since 2005. Scratch kitchen, our dishes are made to order using fresh ingredients. Daily specials. Live music and events weekly. Reservations are highly suggested. Open for lunch Tuesday through Saturday 11:30 pm to 5 pm, dinner 5 pm to 9 pm. Sunday breakfast 9 am to 1 pm and lunch 1 pm to 3:30 pm. Bar open later all nights and closes at bartenders discretion. Closed on Mondays. Check out our menus and event calendar at highfallscafe.com or like us on Facebook for daily updates at facebook.com/ highfallscafe1
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.
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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!
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Catskill Mountain Foundation Gift Shop
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.
Catskill Collectibles 386 Main Street Catskill, NY 12414 catskillcollectibles.com 845 978 3178 A curated selection of 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.
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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.
The Nest Egg 84 Main Street Phoenicia, NY 12464 thenesteggcountrystore.com nesteggshop.com 845 688 5851 An old-fashioned country store, offering relaxed shopping and mountain hospitality. You’ll find lots of specialty and artisan crafted foods here, from local maple syrup, honey, jams, jellies and preserves, to nostalgic candies and gourmet chocolate, to gourmet peanut butter. Your source for mountain clothing and souvenirs, including Minnetonka Moccasins, t-shirts & sweatshirts, local books and hiking maps, candles, soaps, incense, jewelry, toys, puzzles, games and souvenirs. Our homemade fudge is worth the trip!
The Shops at Emerson 5340 Route 28 Mount Tremper, NY 12457 EmersonResort.com 845 688 2828 Discover the unexpected at The Shops at Emerson. Located within a charming 19th-century barn, you’ll find eight unique shops stocked with curated gifts, apparel, local finds, rare treasures, and more. With easy parking, a Catskill Mountains backdrop, and shopping options for the whole family, it’s a destination worth exploring. While you’re here, check out the World’s Largest Kaleidoscope and experience a colorful, mesmerizing show for all ages. Open Thursday through Monday from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm.
RETAIL
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, premade 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! October 2026 • GUIDE 57
What the Constitution Means to Me
Heidi Schreck’s Tony-nominated Play pops up in the Hudson Valley and Northern Catskills this October
T
he Declaration of Independence states,“We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal.” But what does this mean for women? This is the core question in the play What the Constitution Means to Me by Heidi Schreck, hailed by The New York Times in 2019 as “not just the best play to open on Broadway so far this season, but also the most important.” Maude Adams Theater Hub (MATH) and Catskill Mountain Foundation (CMF) are proud to produce this play, in partnership with many vibrant venues dotted across the Hudson Valley and Great Northern Catskills. Expect showings in Lexington, Margaretville, Athens, Catskill, Saugerties, and NYC from October 18 through November 1 (find exact dates, times, and locations at catskillmtn.org). Director Caitlin McColl returns after her wildly successful sell-out and lavish production of A Streetcar Named Desire for MATH at the Hotel Lilien to a stripped down and mobile pop-up rendition of Schreck’s work. McColl, who studied Shakespeare at George Washington University, brings that wealth of pathos mixed with humor to the core of her direction. “What the Constitution Means to Me hit me hard the first time I read it,” McColl said. “Heidi Schreck writes with such precision, weaving the deeply personal into the political and carries both threads throughout the play. I’m thrilled to dig into the text with a local cast who offer both wit and raw honesty in their work. I can’t wait to bring this to intimate local venues where the piece can live in the immediacy of the room. It yearns to be a communal experience.”
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Constitution explores the intricacies of being a woman and the contradictions of gender-based discrimination within the United States’ judicial system, told through the lens of a speech competition and the reflection thereafter. The New York Times also called it “a tragedy told as a comedy, a work of inspired protest, a slyly crafted piece of persuasion and a tangible contribution to the change it seeks.” Told from dual perspectives, we hear from Schreck as an adult and as a 15-year-old. The play opens with Schreck describing her involvement in a series of speech and debate competitions. She travelled the country speaking about the contents of the Constitution to win scholarship money for college. The part of the contest she struggled with most, however, was drawing a personal connection with the Constitution and her own life. Then at age 21 as a newly-graduated college student, she found out she was pregnant. Suddenly she had quite a strong connection to her constitutional rights as she weighed her options. Exploring themes that are all too familiar for many women, actress and Upright Citizen’s Brigade alum Molly Gaebe (taking the role from Schreck’s hands) has found many similarities to her own experiences. “I couldn’t believe how much I related to every single thing she was saying,” Gaebe said. “She was brought up this people pleaser, and how that impacted her life. And her family history and the generational trauma she’s inherited. Her anger and her curiosity…it is eerily familiar to me.”
While reviewing her childhood naiveté, Shreck is reminded of her familial ties to the Constitution as she vividly recalls stories told about her grandmother who suffered from domestic violence. This brought to light the glaring lack of legislation to protect women from such crimes. “A person can’t possibly be considered equal if they are subject to epidemic levels of gender-based violence.” Schreck voices the nuanced confusion of growing up as a young girl and feeling attraction to boys while being told that they have the means and often desire to hurt you. Though heavy at times, Schreck manages to thread the needle of her story through witty and engaging dialogue: “I wanted to make out with boys all the time! I did not want to think that they could be violent.” Schreck describes having sex with a man because she felt that it was the polite thing to do. “I was ninety-nine percent sure he wouldn’t hurt me. So why did I feel like my life was in danger?” This complicated dichotomy is beautifully captured in her humorous and honest writing. Completing the small but sturdy cast are John Remington, local to Saugerties and known across the region for his dynamic directing, acting, producing and helming of Troupe Enigma. In casting the third role of a teenage debater who has to hold her own against Schreck’s life-long analysis, McColl auditioned three young women from the area and decided to work with all of them: Avery Kashman and Laila Monsen both hail from Tannersville, and have appeared in many MATH productions, including Matilda in July. Isadora Konnoff joins the team from Athens in her stage and MATH debut. Currently expected dates and locations are The Mark Theater in Saugerties on October 19 at 7:00 pm, Loomies Luncheonette in Catskill on October 22 at 7:00 pm, Van Dusen’s in Lexington on October 25 at 6:00 pm, and the Open Eye Theater in Margaretville on October 30 at 7:00 pm. Please check catskillmtn.org to confirm details, find more locations as they are scheduled, and buy tickets.
Catskill Mountain Foundation presents
INTERNATIONAL FORTEPIANO SALON SERIES ONLINE
MUSIC AND EMPIRE:
European Composers Moving East
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18 @ 2:00 PM Streaming on Facebook and YouTube
From Elizaveta Miller, Assistant Professor of Harpsichord and Fortepiano at McGill University and Early Music Area Coordinator, a program presenting rare repertoire by European composers who traveled, worked, and composed in the Russian Empire and the eastern Habsburg lands during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The youngest son of Mozart, Franz Xaver, known as “the Polish Mozart”; the obscure Eustachio, of whom very few pieces survive; and the better-known Johann Gottfried Pratsch, one of the first collectors of Russian folk music, are only a few of the many composers who traveled East to find new opportunities and create new musical environments.
MORE INFORMATION: www.catskillmtn.org or www.internationalfortepianosalon.com October 2026 • GUIDE 59
BOOK REVIEW Peter Pan in the Catskills and Other Historical Essays Edited By Bill Birns Purple Mountain Press, 2026 264 pages Reviewed by Jacob Shipley
The Catskill Mountains are known for a great many things, like a diverse and rich cultural heritage, quality produce and livestock, affordable wedding venue options, and more. What is often overlooked are the finer details of history that reside within these valleys, which Bill Birn’s newest book, Peter Pan in the Catskills and Other Historical Essays strives to correct. A curated anthology presenting historical delights to the reader, Peter Pan is an excellent addition to any home library whose owner revels in learning about the magic of the mountains. Bill Birns, who both authored the introduction and took on the intrepid role of editor, is himself local to Fleischmanns, New York, and has lived in the Catskills for over 50 years. Birns also penned four of the essays included in this volume, as well as several other books on the Catskill region including A Catskill Catalogue, Fleischmanns in Verse, and The Myth in the Mountains. This is Birns’ second collection of essays published by Purple Mountain Press, and he was even named one of the 50 Stewards of the Catskills by the Catskill Center for Conservation and Development. The brilliance of this collection is its variety, which directly reflects the region and its wide appeal throughout history. The stories vary from topics like ecological discoveries and scientific innovations, to bank robbers and dairy farms. Despite the fantastical nature of these topics, each essay is supported entirely by historical fact and evidence, included alongside the writings. It is clear that an immense amount of research, time, and love has been poured into this volume, both by Birns himself and his fellow authors. Birns has taken the time to honor the mountains which he calls home, but also the people who have shared a mutual love for that home. One of whom is the late, great, Vernon A. Benjamin. Benjamin was a renowned historian of the Hudson Valley and Catskill regions, and the author of the acclaimed History of the Hudson River Valley. Birns dedicates this volume to Benjamin, and includes his essay titled “‘Rip Van Winkle’ at 200” as the first in the anthology. 60 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide
In this collection are essays written by local authors, historians, and specialists, one of whom gave the book its title. Elisabeth Henry, a local actress and historian, is an authority on another Catskill area actress: Maude Adams. Adams played the first ever Peter Pan on Broadway in 1905 and soon became one of the nation’s most famous actors, earning close to $1 million dollars annually at the height of her career. Henry illuminates the story further with incredible details regarding Adams’ arrival to the region, professional successes and failures, and her lasting contributions to stagecraft and performance. Peter Pan in the Catskills and Other Historical Essays marks the beginning of a new era for Purple Mountain Press, as the first original published work under the new ownership. Former titles will still be available, while newly published work will focus on culture, history, and art. For more information on Peter Pan or to read other works by Birns, please visit purplemountainpress.com.
Catskill Mountain Foundation presents
The Music of Amy Beach JOANNE POLK, PIANO JEFFREY LANGFORD, LECTURE JULIAN LANGFORD, CELLO
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2:00PM 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. They will be joined by special guest cellist Julian Langford.
Doctorow Center for the Arts
7971 Main Street • Hunter, NY 12442
Tickets at www.catskillmtn.org 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.
October 2026 • GUIDE 61
Amanda Seyfried will attend WFF 2026 with her new film, The Life and Deaths of Wilson Shedd
Woodstock Film Festival 2026 Get Immersed in the Movies
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he 27th annual Woodstock Film Festival returns October 14-18, kicking off with a special pre-festival event on October 13, and there’s plenty to experience beyond the screen. Across Woodstock, Saugerties, Rosendale, and Kingston, audiences can discover standout films, meet the filmmakers and artists behind them, join thought-provoking conversations, catch live performances, and take part in special events that bring movies to life. Set against the backdrop of the Hudson Valley in the fall, the Festival is also an invitation to make a weekend of it, exploring the region’s restaurants, shops, arts, culture, and natural beauty. At the heart of the Festival is the town of Woodstock itself, a longtime haven for artists, musicians and creative expression, and home to WFF’s headquarters and box office. Throughout the Festival, Woodstock becomes a gathering place for filmmakers and film lovers, with screenings and special events taking place at venues including Bearsville Theater, Tinker Street Cinema, the Woodstock Community Center and the Woodstock Playhouse, along with Festival panels at Utopia Studios, sponsored by Utopia Studios. Here are just a few ways to immerse yourself in WFF 2026. 62 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide
New & Notable This year, notable attendees include Amanda Seyfried and Tim Blake Nelson with The Life and Deaths of Wilson Shedd, Britt Lower with Sender, Catherine Hardwicke with Street Smart, Paul Rudd with Rain Reign, Katie Aselton and Mark Duplass with Their Town, Lake Bell and Tracee Ellis Ross with the world premiere of Blow The Horn, Guy Nativ with The Liberation, Barbara Kopple with Union Town, and Alex Gibney with Musk. For the first time in festival history, the Maverick Awards are trading Saturday night for Sunday brunch. Set amid the sprawling fields, wooded trails, and mountain views of Oz Farm in Saugerties, the reimagined celebration brings filmmakers, honorees, and guests together in a relaxed, intimate setting that feels distinctly Hudson Valley. Oz Farm is also a sponsor of this year’s Maverick Awards. There’s a fitting Hollywood connection, too: Oz Farm owner Jennifer Oz LeRoy is the granddaughter of The Wizard of Oz producer Mervyn LeRoy, and great-granddaughter of Warner Bros. co-founder Jack Warner, making the farm a natural setting for cel-
ebrating film. Additional Maverick Awards sponsors include World of Ha, Gigantic Pictures, and Gray Schwartz, with contributions from Bread Alone and Sawyer Motors. Kyotocolor will sponsor The Laurent Rejto Made in the Hudson Valley Award. Also new this year, WFF is offering discounted ticket packages and passes exclusively for Hudson Valley residents, making it easier for the Festival’s neighbors to experience more of the annual celebration. The discount program is available to residents of Ulster, Dutchess, Columbia, Greene, and Orange Counties. Three options are available: HV Locals Date Night: A two-pack of screening tickets at 25% off the regular price, allowing residents to bring a friend, date, family member, or neighbor to an eligible Festival screening. Purchasers will also receive 5–15% off at participating local restaurants, including The Dutch, Medo, Oriole 9, Brickmen Kitchen + Bar, The Cornell Restaurant + Bar, Cucina, and Darlings. HV Local Film Buffs: A six-pack of screening tickets offering local cinephiles the opportunity to see up to six eligible Festival films while saving $20 off the regular package price. HV Locals Reel Deal Pass: A full Festival pass offering access to screenings, panels, parties, the Maverick Awards Ceremony, Festival Kick-off and Opening Night, Closing Night and Centerpiece films at $200 off the regular price.
Panels That Spark Conversation A hallmark of the Woodstock Film Festival is its commitment to conversation and the exchange of ideas. Each year, WFF’s panels bring together acclaimed filmmakers, artists, industry leaders, and cultural voices for candid, thought-provoking discussions about the craft and ever-changing business of storytelling. Each year, WFF’s panels bring together acclaimed filmmakers, artists, industry leaders, and cultural voices for candid, thought-provoking discussions about the craft and ever-changing business of storytelling.
Taking place at Utopia Studios in the Bearsville Center, adjacent to the Bearsville Theater, these lively, intimate, and often unpredictable conversations give audiences rare access to some of the most compelling voices in film today.
2026 Panel Highlights
Masterclass with Catherine Hardwicke: Fix It in Prep Acclaimed filmmaker Catherine Hardwicke, director of Thirteen, Lords of Dogtown and the blockbuster Twilight, takes audiences inside her creative process, sharing how storyboards, shot lists, rehearsals, and collaboration help establish the visual language of a film before the cameras roll. Films Not Made Live Podcast with Amy Hobby & Avi Zev Weider: Featuring Mark Duplass & Katie Aselton Award-winning filmmakers, actors and longtime collaborators Mark Duplass and Katie Aselton join Films Not Made co-creators and co-hosts Avi Zev Weider and Amy Hobby for a special live conversation at the Festival. The podcast spotlights filmmakers, writers, directors, and producers as they tell the stories of the movies they were dying to make and the very real reasons they never happened. Democracy in Documentary As corporate news consolidation accelerates and independent journalism faces growing challenges, Democracy Now! host Amy Goodman leads a timely panel discussion about documentary film’s role in informing the public, fostering civic engagement, and protecting democracy. Goodman has a longstanding connection to WFF, including presenting the Festival’s inaugural Art of Activism Award to filmmakers Pamela Yates and Paco de Onís in 2025. WFF “In Conversation” Conversations give audiences an intimate, personal, and wholly unique look into the minds of some of our most beloved creatives. This year’s conversations include director and actor Tony Goldwyn, director and actor Griffin Dunne, and actor Britt Lower.
Left: Lake Bell and Tracee Ellis Ross will attend WFF 2026 with their new film, Blow The Horn; Right: Britt Lower will attend WFF 2026 with her new film, Sender
October 2026 • GUIDE 63
ater showcases four short films from distinctive emerging voices, including directors Jamie-James Medina, Nadia Hallgren, Atalanta Swire, Academy Award® winner Aneil Karia, and Ajuan Issac George. The screening will be accompanied by a brunch reception, and attendees will receive a complimentary copy of Brilliant: Unexpected Art From Everywhere, celebrating a decade of WePresent’s artist commissions and curatorial work.
Barbara Kopple will attend WFF 2026 with her new film, Union Town
Special Events The special events at WFF invite the audience in for an up-close look at the filmmaking process. Experience cinema deeply and joyfully through parties, live performances by renowned musicians, and in-depth conversations with world-class artists.
Pre-Festival Kick-Off Event
American Zoo The Festival kicks off Tuesday, October 13, with a pre-festival Hudson Valley premiere of American Zoo at the Community Theater in Catskill, followed by a conversation with director Tim Travers Hawkins and special guests, moderated by The Overlook founding editor-in-chief Noah Eckstein. The documentary revisits the Catskill Game Farm, a beloved Hudson Valley attraction that closed in 2006 after 73 years. Newly uncovered home movies and archival materials reveal a more complicated history, including founder Roland Lindemann’s hiring of German zoologist Dr. Heinz Heck, whose arrival would connect the Game Farm to a disturbing zoological legacy.
Special Events Highlights
Fork in the Road Reception + Screening White Feather Farm hosts a special reception and screening of Fork in the Road, a documentary featuring Nick Offerman as he joins America’s small farmers fighting industrial agriculture and working to rebuild our food system, health, and future. The evening begins with a “Feast of Plant Friends” reception featuring Hudson Valley-inspired light bites and cocktails, followed by the screening and a Q&A moderated by Glynwood Center for Regional Food and Farming President Kathleen Finlay, with Vivian Sorenson, Lisa Holmes, and Tianna Kennedy of the Catskills Agrarian Alliance. The conversation will explore building just, regenerative, and community-centered food systems for people and the planet. Short Film Focus: WePresent by WeTransfer Commissioned by WePresent, the Academy Award®-winning arts platform of WeTransfer, this special screening at Bearsville The64 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide
Grilling Bill Plympton Celebrate legendary independent animator Bill Plympton’s milestone 80th birthday as fellow independent filmmaker, artist, writer, and animator Signe Baumane playfully “grills” the two-time Academy Award® nominee about his prolific career, creative process, and the stories behind his work. Taking place at Bearsville Theater, the retrospective of some of Bill’s best short films will feature Your Face, Homer’s Face, Guard Dog, Mexican Standoff, Nose Hair, Duckville, The Cow Who Wanted to Be a Hamburger, Santa: The Fascist Years, and Whale 52, along with Plympton’s new animated music video for Average Friends’ “u know i luv u.” Woodstockers TV Pilot + Talk-Back: The Rise of Indie TV Following the premiere of the pilot for the new independent series Woodstockers, join Corbin Bernsen, Stephen Tobolowsky, Maggie Lawson, Oliver Bernsen, Zoe Rosenberg and Henry Bernsen at Tinker Street Cinema for a lively conversation about making the pilot in the Hudson Valley and the rise of independently produced television. The discussion will explore the creative freedom of indie TV, new approaches to production and distribution, and the evolving relationship between creators and audiences. Lunatic Dreamers World Premiere Screening + Music Performance The WFF screens the world premiere of the documentary Lunatic Dreamers. The film is an intimate portrait of Palenville-born The Felice Brothers, “your favorite band’s favorite band,” and celebrates the music, creative journey, and Catskills roots of Ian Felice, James Felice, Jesske Hume, and Will Lawrence. Following the screening at Assembly Kingston, The Felice Brothers will take the stage for a special live performance, bringing the film and their music together for a one-of-a-kind evening.
See You at the Movies! Whether you come for a film, a conversation, a live performance, or an entire weekend, the Woodstock Film Festival offers countless ways to experience the movies beyond the screen. Come discover a new filmmaker, hear from an artist you admire, explore the Hudson Valley, and be part of the community that makes WFF so special. This October, don’t just watch the movies, immerse yourself in them.
October 2026 • GUIDE 65
The Ulster County Fall Farm Trail
Headed north up the Hudson River, the towns of Marlboro, Milton and Highland are surrounded by acres of orchards, vineyards, farmers markets and open landscapes – making this corner of Ulster County a fall-fan favorite. Apples dangle ready for picking. Farm stands are piled high with the season’s harvest. Tasting rooms pour wines and ciders made with the fruit from the backyard. Start early and take on this Fall Farm Trail in one ambitious day, stretch it across a weekend getaway, or choose a few stops and make the trail your own. However you do it, just be sure to start with an empty stomach and spacious trunk. You’re going to need it.
uuu SEASONAL HOUR REMINDER ttt Many farms, orchards and tasting rooms operate seasonally or only on select days of the week, so check individual destinations business hours before leaving for your adventure.
THE TRAILHEAD: MARLBORO Every scrapbook-worthy road trip deserves a proper send-off, and this one starts with a hot cup of joe from Fermata Cafe & Roastery. The independent roastery blends Italian coffee culture with Hudson Valley ingredients, including local honey, apples from nearby Prospect Hill Orchards and sourdough from Gardiner Bakehouse. Once every cup holder is occupied, it’s go time. Wander the rows at Borchert Orchards, see what’s in season at Caradonna Farms or head to Weed Orchards & Winery, where the transition from picking to sipping can happen without ever leaving the property. Choose what catches your eye, make your first picks and tuck the bags safely into the trunk. There’s plenty of road ahead.
STOP ONE: MILTON Sip on your coffee while you make the short drive up to Milton, where farm stands, orchards and flower fields make pulling over something that can’t be argued. Browse Overlook Farm Market Home Stand to see what the latest harvest has brought in, or follow the area’s fruit-growing tradition to Locust Grove Fruit Farm. And nobody said everything you pick has to be edible. From mid-July through October, Hudson Wildflower Co. opens its fields for U-pick flowers. Walk among rows of cosmos, zinnias and dahlias, bucket in hand, and build a bouquet from the colors that catch your eye. By now, the trunk should be looking pretty good. The flowers, however, get the good seat up front. Time to head back down to Marlboro to try some local flavors.
STOP TWO: MARLBORO WINE COUNTRY You won’t have to travel too far north before the orchards begin giving way to vineyards. Marlboro is home to a collection of tasting rooms that each offer a different reason to pull over. Maybe 66 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide
All photos courtesy of Ulster County Tourism
it’s the sweeping Hudson Valley scenery at Benmarl Winery, wine and cider at Quartz Rock Vineyard and Cider House, a tasting at The Kedem Tasting Room, or wine and spirits made on-site at Stoutridge Distillery and Winery that calls your name. Pick the view, pour or tasting room that catches your attention and save a favorite bottle for the trunk. Back down in the hamlet, across from Fermata, The Shoppes at River & Rooted gathers candles, jewelry, clothing and gifts from a rotating group of Hudson Valley makers. A short walk up 9W, Roots and Relics adds vintage finds, secondhand clothing and houseplants to the haul. When hunger catches up with you, Brix Gastropub serves locally harvested ingredients across a seasonal Hudson Valley menu. Or settle into the Raccoon Saloon, a local fixture for more than 40 years known for burgers, French onion soup and views overlooking the Marlboro falls and Hudson River. If the trail runs into the evening, The Falcon pairs dinner with live music in a historic building perched over the same falls.
STOP THREE: HILLTOP FARM Beyond weekend picking, Prospect Orchards Hilltop Farm is home to the 1817 Taproom, an on-site cider house and distillery serving cider, wine, beer and cocktails made with the farm’s own fruit, including HVO apple brandy. Talk about a farm-to-glass experience. Keep the local pours pouring with a weekend tasting at Nostrano Vineyards, or grab a pint at Locust Grove Brewing Company, where beer, cider, food trucks and frequent live music share the farm property. From here, you can call it a night nearby and save the rest of the trail for tomorrow or see how much daylight you have left and keep going. Either way, it’s a win-win.
STOP FOUR: HIGHLAND Keep the U-pick experience going at DuBois Farms or browse the stand at Laughing Fork Farm for a few final finds before trading
the harvest for another local pour. If it’s Sunday, Bad Seed Cider Taproom and Farm Bar offer cider right at the Highland farm. For a full meal, The Ridge by Mill House overlooks an apple orchard with mountain views while serving a seasonal American menu featuring harvest bowls, smash burgers and more. By now, the backseat smells a little like apples, the flowers are riding shotgun and finding another inch of trunk space may take some creativity. That’s a pretty good sign you’ve done the trail right.
FINAL STOP: NEW PALTZ As the sun takes its place behind the Catskills, begin heading west toward New Paltz to settle in for the night. Mohonk Mountain House is a family favorite with a Victorian charm. However, to make sure you experience the resort to the fullest, be sure to book your stay or get a day pass before your trip. Now, if you’re looking for something a little more quaint, check-in at the New Paltz Way Hotel or The Inn at Kettleboro – each offering its own blend of comfort and relaxation. New Paltz has a variety of cozy inns, bed and breakfasts, lodges and convenient hotels to choose from, creating plenty of ways to wind down after a full day on the Farm Trail. But no matter where you rest your head, you’re sure to wake up feeling refreshed and ready for another day spent upstate.
THE SUMMIT Before you close the trunk and head inside for the night, take inventory. Apples from an orchard. Produce from a farm stand. A bottle discovered among the vineyards. A bouquet stretched across the backseat because there wasn’t room anywhere else. That’s the Fall Farm Trail: following Ulster County’s harvest from where it grows to where it’s poured, served and packed up to enjoy at home. It’s a long day. But take one look at the trunk and you’ll know it was worth it. Start planning your visit today at VisitUlsterCountyNY.com.
October 2026 • GUIDE 67
68 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide
A Black Futsu squash on the vine, developing its characteristic powdery gray color but not quite ready to harvest, since its orange blush has not yet appeared.
A Greene County Garden in October: Winter Squash By Margaret Donsbach Tomlinson
W
inter squash is a special treat of the fall and winter seasons. Grown well and allowed to ripen fully, it’s deliciously sweet and flavorful. Even experienced gardeners, though, may feel uncertain about when to harvest it. Generally, smaller squash varieties like delicata or acorn squash, ripen sooner than bigger varieties like classic pumpkins, which need a long growing season. Clues to ripeness include color changes in the skin. Classic pumpkins develop their characteristic orange color. The French pumpkin Rouge Vif d’Etampes (“vivid red of Etampes”) and the Japanese variety Red Kuri, turn an eye-popping red-orange. Delicatas keep their green stripes but, in between them, turn yellow or, in some varieties, a light tan similar to butternut squash. Black Futsu, a small Japanese-bred squash, changes color twice, turning from dark green to dusty gray before developing an orange blush. Some squash stay green when ripe. These include most acorn and kabocha squashes, though they may develop an orange spot where they rest on the ground. Like larger squashes, their skin will harden enough that a fingernail won’t scratch it, and their stems will turn dry and brown. Thin-skinned squash like delicata can be eaten right after harvest, skin and all, and should be eaten within a few weeks, since they are not long-keepers. Pumpkins and other large squash, whose skins resist mold and protect the sweet flesh inside, can keep well into the winter. They should be cured in a well-ventilated, warm
area — no colder than 50° F — for a week to a month, depending on the variety, while the skin finishes hardening. Waltham butternut is one of several varieties that sweeten during storage. Some of the longest keepers are full-sized butternuts and kabocha squashes, blue-skinned Hubbard squash, banana squash, Canada Crookneck, and Long Island Cheese, as well as the French Musqué de Provence and Italian Marina di Chioggia specialty pumpkins. These can maintain their quality as long as six months. Unusually, the small, thinner-skinned Black Futsu can keep as long as many of the larger squashes. Winter squash is exceptionally nutritious. Beta carotene, the precursor of Vitamin A, gives its flesh the typical bright orange color. Squash is also high in vitamins C and K and many of the B vitamins, as well as potassium and magnesium. Its high fiber content helps maintain beneficial flora in the digestive tract. And it’s delicious, whether made into pie, cubed for soups and stews, or sliced and roasted or sauteed in butter or oil. Smaller squashes like delicata are tasty cut in half, dusted with cinnamon and nutmeg, dotted with butter, and broiled until tender.
Margaret Donsbach Tomlinson enjoys gardening in Catskill. She also writes a weekly Substack series, The Generous Garden, online at mtomlinson.substack.com. October 2026 • GUIDE 69
Left: Minnewaska State Park in autumn. Photo by Tatiana/Adobe Stock. Right: Minnewaska Lake, Minnewaska State Park in winter. Photo by Bruno Garofalo/shutterstock.com
Which Catskills Season Reigns Supreme?
By Greg Madden
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he old brick coffeehouse on Main Street was buzzing with the familiar caffeine-laced backdrop of the Catskill Mountains. Espresso machines hissed like tiny steam locomotives climbing the mountain grade by the falls. Ceramic mugs and spoons clinked together. Someone laughed near the abundant and sinful pastry case. Inside this cafe more than coffee was brewing … a powder keg was soon to be released. Outside, the brilliant autumn October sunshine poured over maple trees dressed in blazing scarlet and gold, while a cool breeze reminded everyone that summer had packed its bags. Inside, nearly every table was occupied. At the largest table sat twelve visitors who had met during an annual photography workshop. Though they came from different parts of the country, they had spent enough time together exploring the Catskills to become fiercely opinionated as you will witness. At a nearby window sat Maggie Donnelly, a lifelong Catskills resident. She had intended to enjoy a cinnamon scone, read the local newspaper, and quietly sip her second cup of dark roast. Then it exploded, as she heard someone say, “Fall is obviously the greatest season in the Catskills,” and just like that, so simply stated. Suddenly, it was on. Maggie smiled. “Oh, this should be good, she thought.” She folded her newspaper and became an unofficial spectator. Around the large table sat the perfect storm, six women and six men, loaded for bear and the chance to strike like a mountain 70 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide
rattler. The women were Emily, Sarah, Rachel, Linda, Olivia, and Grace. The men were Tom, Jack, Ben, Michael, David, and Robert. What began as friendly conversation quickly turned into what could only be described as the “Catskill Championship of Seasonal Debates.” Emily raised her coffee mug. “I’ll begin because everyone knows summer wins.” A chorus of groans erupted. She ignored them. “Summer is when the Catskills become one giant outdoor playground. Hordes of hiking enthusiasts cover every trail like ants scurrying about their colonies. Kayaking on North-South Lake. Fishing in crystal-clear streams. Concerts. Farmers markets. County fairs. Ice cream stands. Campfires. Long daylight. Families together.” She leaned back proudly. “You simply can’t improve on sixteen hours of daylight.” Tom interrupted. “And mosquitoes.” Emily pointed her spoon at him. “Those are simply tiny flying reminders to wear bug spray.” Everyone laughed. Tom nodded enthusiastically. “Exactly! Summer means baseball games in little towns, barbecue competitions, swimming holes, mountain biking, tubing down rivers, and children catching fireflies.” He became unexpectedly philosophical. “When was the last time you heard someone say, ‘Let’s go make wonderful memories by scraping ice off the windshield?’” Even the winter lovers chuckled.
Sarah dramatically pointed toward the window. Everyone turned. Outside, the mountains looked as though an artist had spilled every warm color imaginable across the landscape. She smiled and thrust her finger toward the great outside vigorously. “Your Honor,” she stated boldly. “There is no judge,” David laughed. “There should be,” Sarah countered. “Autumn is when the Catskills become the most beautiful place on Earth.” No one interrupted. She had evidence. “The leaves become living fireworks. Apple orchards overflow. Pumpkin patches appear everywhere. Harvest festivals fill every village. The air smells like cinnamon, wood smoke, fresh apples, and maple leaves.” She inhaled deeply. “Ahhhhhh … and no humidity.” Emily sighed. “She does have a point.” Jack nodded. “Photographers wait all year for October.” He held up his camera. “I’ve traveled to the Rockies, New England, and Europe,” he paused dramatically, “but few places compete with the Catskills during peak foliage.” He looked around the table. “Every road becomes scenic.” Robert nodded reluctantly. “I hate agreeing with you.” Rachel wore a bright blue ski jacket despite being indoors. “You’re all forgetting one important thing.” “What,” they all replied ? “Snow.” Half the table groaned. “The Catskills practically invented modern snowmaking.” Several knowingly nodded. “When winter arrives, mountains become ski resorts. Snowshoe trails appear. Cross-country skiing. Snowmobiling. Cozy fireplaces. Hot chocolate. Fresh powder,” she smiled. “Winter transforms the landscape into another world.” Emily shivered. “It transforms my driveway into work.” Ben grinned. “I’ll add something.” Everyone braced themselves. “Winter has fewer bugs.” The table erupted in laughter. “No ticks. No mosquitoes. No poison ivy.” He spread his hands triumphantly. “Case closed.” Olivia laughed. “You’ve based your argument entirely on insects, and yes, it’s a strong argument,” Linda said as she stirred honey into her tea, “everyone forgets spring because they’re impatient.” She smiled. “But spring represents hope.” The table quieted, but only briefly. “Snow melts. Streams roar with fresh mountain water. Wildflowers bloom. Birds return. Black bears wake up looking sleepy. Salamanders appear. Trout fishing once again becomes wonderful.” She looked around. “Spring reminds us that life always begins again.” Even the coffeehouse grew quieter for a moment. Michael nodded. “The waterfalls.” Several agreed. “They’re absolutely magnificent during spring runoff.” He smiled. “You haven’t truly seen Kaaterskill Falls until you’ve visited after snowmelt.” He looked toward the window. “Everything feels alive.” Tom shrugged. “Yes and everything also feels muddy. That’s nature’s moisturizer.” Olivia laughed. “I have children.” The entire table nodded knowingly. “Summer vacation means families finally spend time together.”
She counted on her fingers. “Camping. Swimming. Outdoor concerts. Fishing. Mini golf. Picnics. Ice cream. Bonfires,” she smiled. “Children don’t remember perfectly vacuumed living rooms. They remember summer adventures.” No one argued with that. David changed the seasonal topic while adjusting his glasses. “I have scientific evidence.” The others laughed, and waited for his proof. “Really.” He continued. “Autumn offers ideal hiking temperatures. No ninety-degree afternoons. No icy trails. Fewer insects. Excellent visibility. Lower humidity. Better sleep.” He grinned. “It’s basically nature’s air conditioning.” Tom nodded. “I’ll allow that.” Grace wrapped both hands around her steaming mug. “I grew up somewhere that never had snow,” she smiled warmly. “My first Catskill winter felt magical.” Everyone listened. “I had never heard snow falling. The pure deafening silence of it all. I didn’t know snow could make the whole world quieter.” She smiled. “It wasn’t just weather. It felt peaceful.” Rachel nodded. “Exactly.” Robert had remained quiet. Now he leaned forward. “I’ve lived in cities most of my life.” He looked thoughtful. “The first time I visited the Catskills in spring,” he paused, “I heard peepers.” Everyone smiled remembering the frog chorus and how loud and rhythmic it can be. “I thought my car was making funny noises.” The table exploded with laughter. “A local finally explained those tiny frogs.” He shook his head. “I’ve been coming back every spring since.” Nobody had finished their coffee. Nobody wanted to. Then Emily declared, “Summer sunsets last forever and create lasting memories.” Sarah answered, “Autumn sunsets are prettier.” Tom laughed. “Children don’t build snowmen in July.” Rachel fired back. “Exactly why winter is special.” Michael smiled. “Spring smells better.” Ben disagreed. “Fresh snow has a smell too.” David interrupted. “No, it doesn’t.” Ben looked offended. “Yes, it does. It smells cold.” The entire coffeehouse burst into laughter. Minnewaska State Park in summer. Photo by dmerzel/Adobe Stock
October 2026 • GUIDE 71
Awosting Falls, Minnewaska State Park in spring/summer. Photo by Colin D. Young/shutterstock.com
Jack spread several photographs across the table. Summer lakes. Autumn forests. Winter mountains. Spring waterfalls. The group studied them carefully. Every season on display and making its case. Who might you vote for? “They’re all spectacular,” Emily admitted. Jack smiled. “Exactly.” Linda added, “The Catskills don’t really have four seasons.” Everyone looked confused. She continued, “they have four completely different personalities.” Several people quietly nodded. After listening for nearly an hour, Maggie stood, picked up her coffee, and slowly walked toward the debating table. The twelve visitors looked up. “I’m terribly sorry,” she said with a smile. “I couldn’t help overhearing.” Tom laughed. “We’ve been rather loud.” “You’ve been entertaining for sure,” Maggie replied. Emily asked, “So … you live here?” Maggie nodded. “All my life.” Instantly every head leaned forward. “Please settle this. Which season is truly the best?” Maggie laughed. “Oh, that’s easy.” The twelve visitors leaned in and awaited her answer. She took a slow sip of coffee. “The best season … is whichever one you’re experiencing.” Groans echoed around the table. “Oh, come on! That’s cheating!” She laughed again. “No. It’s the truth.” Maggie explains “When summer arrives,” Maggie said, “we wonder why anyone would ever wish it away.” She continued. “Then autumn arrives and everyone says, ‘Now THIS is perfection.’” Again all heads nodded. “Then winter covers the mountains in white, fireplaces glow, children sled down hills, and suddenly people remember why snow can be beautiful.” Rachel smiled. “And then… ?” “Then spring appears.” She continued. “The forests wake up. The streams sing. The birds return. The mountains remind us that nothing beautiful stays asleep forever.” Silence filled the table. At that moment, the coffeehouse owner Joe walked over carrying a fresh tray of cinnamon buns. “I’ve been listening too.” The visitors laughed. Joe shrugged. “I’ve owned this place for thirty years. So? I know exactly which season is best.” Everyone leaned forward again. Joe smiled. “It’s the one that brings 72 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide
customers through my front door.” The entire coffeehouse erupted in laughter again, even louder this time. “Summer hikers. Fall leaf peepers. Winter skiers. Spring birdwatchers. They all drink coffee,” he placed the tray on the table, “and they all buy cinnamon buns.” Emily looked around. “So nobody wins?” Jack shook his head. “No.” Rachel smiled. “We all win.” Linda nodded. “The Catskills simply refuse to pick favorites.” David looked toward the mountains. “Perhaps that’s their secret.” Maggie smiled. “The mountains never compete with themselves.” “They simply become whatever season asks them to become.” Outside, golden leaves drifted lazily across the sidewalk. Far above town and in the scenic backdrop, the mountains stood quietly beneath a flawless blue October sky. Snow could arrive any day now (and does). Eventually spring would awaken the forests. Summer would fill the valleys with laughter once more. Then autumn would paint everything again. The debate would return but relax, stay present and enjoy the moment. Visitors would continue arguing. Locals would continue smiling. Coffee would continue brewing. And somewhere in another Catskill coffeehouse, another table of passionate travelers would almost certainly begin the very same discussion because the real answer was never hidden in a single season. It lives in the remarkable ability of the Catskill Mountains to become something extraordinary every few months without ever losing the character that makes them unforgettable. Perhaps that is why people return here generation after generation. Not because one season is better than another. But because each season reveals a different chapter of the same timeless mountain story. As the group finished their coffee, they stepped outside together into the crisp October sunshine. No one had changed sides. Summer lovers still dreamed of warm lakes and campfires. Autumn enthusiasts admired every glowing hillside. Winter fans eagerly anticipated the first snowfall, while spring devotees imagined waterfalls and wildflowers already waiting beneath the coming snow. They laughed about their spirited disagreement as they strolled down Main Street. And Maggie, watching them disappear into the sunshine, simply smiled. After all, in the Catskills, the greatest souvenir isn’t proving you’re right about the best season. It’s discovering that you’ll need to come back four times (or more) to make your case.
Greg Madden practices ancient healing modalities — Tui-Na Massage, BioPhoton Light Therapy (needless acupuncture) and Sound Healing (tuning forks/ gong bath) — by appointment only at Illuminating Wellness, 5980 Main Street, Tannersville, NY. For more information, call 518 718 4228 or visit IlluminatingWellness.care .
Melissa Gibson (left) and Courtney Beaupre, partners in HERbal Woodstock
By Melissa Gibson
n
estled in the heart of Woodstock, NY, in a storefront that was formerly the home to both a hemp shop and a beloved family florist, a different kind of flower is available after a long and difficult journey to make it possible. But you can’t peek inside the large frosted windows (NY State law) on your way down the sidewalk. You’ll have to step inside 17 Tinker Street to experience the warm and inviting space that has been thoughtfully transformed with a nod to its floral legacy and an ushering in of the elevated new world of legal cannabis retail. Visitors are enchanted by the hempwood decor (walls and floors literally made from cannabis), gorgeous murals by local artist Vern Fannin, and the open, friendly atmosphere at HERbal Woodstock (pronounced with an emphasis on HER). With both a cultural and historical entrenchment and connection to the plant itself, Woodstock seems the most deserving of towns to have its own dispensary, and now they have one. Open since April, HERbal Woodstock has quickly become the go-to spot for plant-friendly locals and curious tourists looking to enhance their stay. To the delight of even the most frequent cannabis shoppers, HERbal provides access to products from smaller, independent growers not often represented in the city or available in other states. At the core of its offerings is personalized service from a team of budtenders with a deep passion for the plant and a wealth
of knowledge to meet you where you’re at and guide your shopping experience. Absent are large, do-it-yourself digital menu screens, shiny displays competing for your attention and products behind cabinets or under glass counter tops. Instead, HERbal Woodstock features a hands-on, open wall of color-coded shelves made from cannabis (hempwood!), organized by how you want to feel and how you want to consume. Also featured is an extensive selection of non-THC products that contribute to health and wellbeing (CBD, CBG, CBC and other non-intoxicating cannabinoids). Easy to navigate by cannabis curious newbies, and time-saving for connoisseurs who know exactly what they want, the customer experience at HERbal has been consciously designed and curated for a spectrum of consumers. HERbal Woodstock is 100% Mother-Owned and operated by two Hudson Valley cannabis retail pioneers with deep community roots, and a commitment to connecting (and reconnecting) humans to this incredible plant. Add HERbal Woodstock to your list of essential Catskill Mountain places to visit and “get back to the garden”. HERbal Woodstock is lcoated at 17 Tinker Street in Woodstock. For more information, visit herbalwoodstock.com. October 2026 • GUIDE 73
VERBATIM TEXT SOUND EXPO
[Food and drink]
[Featured curators]
The Juice Branch
John Cage Trust
Left Bank Ciders
Northern Spy Reading Series Center for Deep Listening
[Performances]
[Market]
Friday, October 2nd, 6pm - 10pm Saturday, October 3rd, 1pm - 10pm
Saturday October 3rd, 11am-6:30pm
SUGAR MAPLES CENTER FOR CREATIVE ARTS 34 Big Hollow Road, Maplecrest, NY
[Performers] Keith Fullerton Whitman with collaborator
[Vendors] Black Ocean Press Bodily Press
Eliot Cardinaux
Terra Nova Press
Norman Douglas
Paper Moon
Thom Eichelberger Young + Barrett White
Portraiture Platform
Jeffrey Lependorf + Eric Keenaghan + James Ilgenfritz + Sam Wenc Bow and Arrow (Lea Bertucci + Michael Beharie)
Tripticks Tapes Notice Recordings Lobby Art Sandy Rock Poetry
Laura Ortman
Infrequent Seams
Erik Kramer + Atticus von Holten + Don Lyons
Wave Farm
Anne Waldman + Devin Brahja Waldman Manuel J. Perez III Emma Mistele + Sam Boston djdrummernk Brian Dewan Casper Lee Tracy Grinnell Dave Snyder Katy Mongeau + Shredded Nerve Silvina Lopez Medin Joe Hall Elisa Harkins Karen Schoemer
All photos by Carrie Sutton
VERBATIM 2026 PARTICIPANTS
Dispersed Holdings Siglio Press Lanesville Press Arteidolia Spiral Editions Pinsapo Far West Press Blue Bag Press 1080 Press Poetry Corp. Black Sun Lit Essay Press Ugly Duckling Presse The Sphinx National Poetry Tabloid
This project is made possible with funds from the Statewide Community Regrants Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature and administered by CREATE Council on the Arts.
Catskills Past
The Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Division of Art, Prints and Photographs: Picture Collection, The New York Public Library. “On Hallowe’en.” New York Public Library Digital Collections. https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/ items/0f1e1d10-c5c4-012f-24bf-58d385a7bc34
boo! By T.M. Bradshaw
A
s the days grow shorter and the temperature starts to drop, it’s easy to see how fall became associated with things that go bump in the night. Some of those things bumping around on your porch are quite real, your resident groundhog or a skunk or perhaps a bear rooting around for its last few bedtime snacks. But others are likely imaginative interpretations of the sounds of wind or the house settling, an imagination primed by the ghostly changes in the visual landscape. The enveloping morning and evening mists make us feel contained, enclosed, while we consider what may be hiding in that mist. Most of the motion that startles us is likely from the seed heads of tall grasses swaying in the breeze. Or was that the sound of a creature rustling those grasses as it passed by? The vine that spent the summer climbing the telephone pole has now crawled across the wire above your head, becoming a skeletal finger pointing into the trees across the road. The mists take longer and longer to burn off in the morning and appear earlier each evening, fueled by the day’s temperature swings. At midday all can be bright and beautiful, richer and more colorful than in summer, gloriously colored trees and pumpkins glowing in the fields, but that contrast makes the foggy bookends spookier as it all fades to gray. To suit the changing light and changing feel, I wanted to find some good ghost stories in old newspapers, perhaps a harrowing tale of a Turnpike traveler stopping at an inn, the kind of traveler who vanishes through a solid wall. Or a ghostly farmhand who regularly tidied up the barn. Or a farmer and his team of oxen plowing, but only on full moon midnights and only ever in the distance, fading away when approached. There were thousands of hits, but very few telling the kind of story I had hoped to find. 76 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide
The Greene County Republican of July 4, 1827, included a story about a disturbed fishing party at Four-Mile Point. It began “We supposed that the age of witches and ghosts had long since passed away in this goodly land … we have therefore been not a little surprised to learn that a few days since, and in our own county … a spook made its august appearance to the no small confusion of sundry good people.” The fishermen planned to spend the night in a fish house. “As they were about retiring, his spookship shrouded in white drapery rose majestically through the floor.” The group panicked, trying to leave as quickly as possible. “The avenues that had been deemed sufficient by the builder for ordinary use, were found too narrow for this extraordinary emergency. … In the hurried egress a huge dutchman in attempting to pass a breach made in the side of the house by one that preceded him, carried away, Samson like, the whole broadside, leaving behind him a pile of ruins; whether the ghost survived the desolation that prevailed … is a subject of much speculation and wonderment.” What a great excuse to cover what sounds like drunken property damage. But the nineteenth and early twentieth century papers were full of ghost stories, just different kinds; the earliest I found was in 1824 and the latest in 1915. A number of these papers functioned as weekly magazines — in addition to the news and editorials, they featured poetry and short fiction, often on page one. The Catskill Recorder presented their fiction feature as “The Story Teller.” More often than not, those multi-column fiction pieces were ghost stories, year-round. There were also ghost jokes, ghost comparisons, and references to the ghosts of several Founding Fathers.
Saugerties had a few ghostly problems, which the Catskill Recorder noted along with commentary or a suggestion for a solution. On December 11, 1874, it reported that, “A Saugerties justice’s office is said to be haunted — in fact, there is not the ghost of a doubt of it.” The following summer, on July 30, 1875, the paper lamented that an illustrious ghost couldn’t be utilized to encourage honesty: “Dwight Laflin, of Saugerties, says he has a pacer that can do a quarter of a mile in 30 seconds. Why can’t the ghost of G. Washington appear to a man when he gets to talking ‘hoss’?” This next item, which appeared on the same page expands the range of Hudson River hauntings: “Po’keepsie has a ghost that prances ’round on the Kaal Rock nightly—a regular old-fashioned spook.” One of many items under a headline of “Vicinity Haps and Mishaps” in the November 21, 1884, issue noted, “Timid Saugertiesans are being frightened by a ‘ghost’. A generous charge of bird shot, well-aimed, will go a long way towards clearing up a ghost mystery.” More advice on dealing with spirits, this time without using a firearm, came from the Delaware County Dairyman on March 1, 1912. It included instructions on how to tell if a ghostly apparition is real or a hallucination. Squint at the image — if the single image doubles, it is real, if it remains a single being, it’s a hallucination, a product of the brain, not the eye. But some specters could be counted on to be helpful. The August 1, 1871, edition of the Stamford and Bloomville Mirror included an item copied from the Ballston News. “Fifteen years ago the spirit of the departed [Benjamin] Franklin announced through a spiritual medium that a vein of mineral water could be found by boring on the spot where the spring is now located. Since that time the spirit of the benefactor of mankind has turned its attention from heavenly pursuits and occupied itself by locating sites for mineral fountains.” A second announcement the ever-helpful Franklin made to a spiritualism skeptic told of another spot, to the northeast of the first, that would be productive at 656 feet. As that boring was nearing the prophesied depth, the proprietor warned the man operating the drill to not sit directly over the well. The story continued: “Just as the last fraction of the 656th foot was drilled away, there came a rush of mighty waters carrying everything before it: stool, man, whistle all went up and came down with a torrent of water and gas. The burly, bearded man of the drill looked like the mythical Santa Claus as he came down through the derrick and landed on terra firma, a firm believer in spiritual manifestations. … Since the discovery of this last spring, Franklin’s spirit has announced the location of two more springs, the first of which, a white sulphur spring, will be developed before another season.” Some ghost stories came from farther away, such as this one from The New Paltz Times. “An interesting trial is to take place shortly in Louisville, Ky. A lady belonging to the Walnut Street Presbyterian Church, is to be brought to the bar for the heresay (sic) of believing in Spiritualism. The accusations against her are for violating the first, second and third commandments. It is expected
that if the trial comes off, the spirits will come up to the scratch manfully, and freely depose in the accused lady’s behalf.” The Hancock Herald of July 21,1921, contained a lengthy three-column ad in the form of a first-person poem, “This ghost was a 1921 model.” Decorated with a small drawing of the ersatz supernatural encounter, it is Drawing from the July 21, 1921 Hancock Herald cigarette ad a tale of a man agreeing to spend a night alone in a haunted house. Moans and groans he attributed to the wind; rapping sounds were dismissed as rats. But then he heard footsteps. And in the light of a dying moon A white spook rose The fear level also rose until a smell made it clear that the ghost was actually his friend Ed. But then I caught Just a faint whiff Of a familiar and delicious smell which tipped me off The sleeper then told Ed before you fade Leave me with one of your cigarettes, They satisfy. A final paragraph of prose text noted “And there isn’t a ghost of a chance you’ll ever find its equal anywhere—for the Chesterfield blend is an exclusive blend.” Ghosts featured in some jokes and in tiny stories with a comedy set-up. From the Coxsackie Union of October 10, 1855: A stand-in portrayed the ghost of Hamlet’s father so poorly, he was hissed off the stage. The manager came on stage, hand on heart, to announce “Smith has agreed to give up the ghost.” Presumably Mr. Smith had declined to retake the stage rather than actually died. The Catskill Recorder of May 4, 1877, wondered, “Strange one never hears of a ghost materializing and liquidating a debt incurred while in the flesh.” May your October be ghost-filled, especially by very short spirits carrying trick-or-treat bags.
T. M. Bradshaw shares other thoughts on history at tmbradshawbooks.com. October 2026 • GUIDE 77
Catskill Mountain Foundation
MOUNTAIN CINEMA
HA-CHAN, SHAKE YOUR BOOTY! Haru and Luis love competing in Tokyo’s ballroom dance scene, but after tragedy strikes, Haru withdraws into isolation. When friends coax her back to the studio, she develops an infatuation with the new instructor. 10/2-10/4
DIGGER The most powerful man in the world embarks on a frantic mission to prove he is humanity’s savior before the disaster he’s unleashed destroys everything. 10/2-10/4
FORGOTTEN ISLAND Two best friends become stranded on the mystical world of Nakali, where their only escape might cost them their shared lifetime of memories. 10/2-10/4
PRIMETIME In 2006, To Catch a Predator host Chris Hansen sets out to make television history. 10/9-10/11, 10/16-10/18
WILDWOOD The adventures of Prue McKeel as she sets off to the forests outside Portland to find her kidnapped brother. 10/23-10/25, 10/30-11/1
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OPEN FRIDAY-SUNDAY 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
OCTOBER-DECEMBER
2026 PERFORMING ARTS
SEASON SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18 AT 2:00PM
MUSIC AND EMPIRE: EUROPEAN COMPOSERS MOVING EAST
PURCHASE TICKETS AT CATSKILLMTN.ORG
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9 AT 6:00PM SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10 AT 6:00PM SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11 AT 2:00PM
NEIL SIMON’S THE SUNSHINE BOYS Maude Adams Theater Hub Catskill Mountain Foundation Doctorow Center for the Arts Al Lewis (Michael McDonald) and Willy Clark (Gary Falk) are a pair of feuding vaudeville comedians (Lewis and Clark, naturally) who performed together for 47 years before finally calling it quits. Clark’s nephew Ben, a young and hungry talent agent, has the brilliant idea of reuniting the duo for a TV special about the history of comedy. Once the reunion is on, the sparks and one-liners start to fly with equal speed. But can Lewis and Clark put aside their differences long enough to collect one last paycheck?
VIRTUAL PRESENTATIONS
INTERNATIONAL FORTEPIANO SALON Streaming on Facebook and YouTube
From Elizaveta Miller, Assistant Professor of Harpsichord and Fortepiano at McGill University and Early Music Area Coordinator, a program presenting rare repertoire by European composers who traveled, worked, and composed in the Russian Empire and the eastern Habsburg lands during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The youngest son of Mozart, Franz Xaver, known as “the Polish Mozart”; the obscure Eustachio, of whom very few pieces survive; and the better-known Johann Gottfried Pratsch, one of the first collectors of Russian folk music, are only a few of the many composers who traveled East to find new opportunities and create new musical environments.
OCTOBER 18-NOVEMBER 1
HEIDI SCHRECK’S WHAT THE CONSTITUTION MEANS TO ME Maude Adams Theater Hub Catskill Mountain Foundation Pop-up performances throughout the region Check catskillmtn.org for locations and times A play that explores the profound impact of the U.S. Constitution on four generations of women, told through an autobiographical lens. Directed by Caitlin McColl and featuring Molly Gaebe, John Remington, Avery Kashman, Isadora Konnoff, and Laila Monsen.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24 AT 7:00PM
BIRDS OF A FEATHER TWELFTH NIGHT WITH YI-HENG YANG, FORTEPIANIST Left to right: Joanne Polk, Jeffrey Langford, Julian Langford
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17 AT 2:00PM
THE MUSIC OF AMY BEACH CONCERTS & CONVERSATIONS Dr. Joanne Polk, Piano Dr. Jeffrey Langford, Musicologist Guest Artist Julian Langford, cello 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. They are joined by special guest cellist Julian Langford.
CHAMBER ORCHESTRA CONCERT Rachell Ellen Wong, director and violinist David Belkovski, director and conductor Doctorow Center for the Arts Music lovers will flock to hear Birds of a Feather, as the sensational Twelfth Night Ensemble returns with fortepiano soloist Yi-heng Yang in a joyful program where classical music takes flight in a jovial, sublime and celebration of avian life. From the “Chicken” Symphony no. 83 of Haydn, whose nickname comes from the clucking second subject in the first movement, which sounds like the jerky back-and-forth head motion of a walking hen, to Mozart’s magnificent and Piano Concerto no. 17 K 453, whose Allegretto Theme and Variations uses a theme Mozart wrote down from his beloved pet starling, birdsongs, wit and playfulness abound in the hands of these leading period instrument performers.
October 31: Sir Elton
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8 AT 4:00 PM
GRAND PISTACHIO’S LAYER THE WALLS Orpheum Performing Arts Center Layer the Walls takes place in one tenement apartment over 100 years ago. The play tells the stories of three different immigrant families who called that apartment home. Each family applied a new layer of wallpaper on the apartment walls in an attempt to make the space their own —nevery layer filled with hopes, dreams, and incredible stories of survival. As layers of the set are peeled away, the characters’ stories of immigration are revealed.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14 AT 3:00PM
ORPHEE MUSIQUE Doctorow Center for the Arts
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15 AT 1:00PM SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31 AT 7:00 PM
Windham Civic & Performing Arts Center, Windham
SIR ELTON – FEATURING LANCE MILLARD, A TRIBUTE TO ELTON JOHN
Association Orphée Musique supports young French musicians by providing performance opportunities for them in France and other parts of the world. This year they return with two pianists, Daniel Streicher and his sister, Tabea Streicher who will perform a program of all 4 hands works by Johannes Brahms, Franz Liszt, Maurice Ravel and Igor Stravinsky. All works were transcribed for 4 hands by the composers themselves. A different challenging and lovely program will be performed at the Windham Civic Center. Receptions will follow both performances.
Orpheum Performing Arts Center This Halloween, Catskill Mountain Foundation presents Sir Elton – Featuring Lance Millard in the quintessential homage to the incomparable Elton John. With over 25 years of dedication, Lance Millard embodies the spirit of Elton with unmatched precision and passion, enthralling audiences night after night. From the iconic costumes to the spot-on vocals, Lance’s portrayal is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the artistry of Elton John. Accompanied by a hand-selected ensemble of the region’s most talented musicians, Sir Elton delivers a spellbinding performance that ignites the stage and fills theaters with an electric atmosphere. Elton’s legacy is nothing short of legendary, boasting a staggering array of accomplishments including over 50 Top 40 hits and sales of more than 300 million records worldwide. His impact on music and culture is indelible, drawing fans from every corner of the globe to revel in his timeless melodies. Prepare to be captivated by Sir Elton - Featuring Lance Millard, a tribute spectacle that honors the legacy of a music icon while delivering an unforgettable live experience. Learn more at sireltontributeband.com.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7 AT 4:00PM
ON THE FRINGES OF LIBERTY CONCERT II OF GIVE ME LIBERTY, GIVE ME SONG: AMERICA’S JOURNEY AT 250 Jean Bernard Cérin, Vocalist Patricia Garcia Gil, Fortepianist Eve Miller, Baroque Cellist Piano Performance Museum Doctorow Center for the Arts The Lisette Project presents a program about revolutionaries in Haiti, France, and the United States who stood at the edges of freedom’s promise. With chamber music, anthem parodies, vaudeville tunes, and sacred music, their program paints a sonic landscape of the Revolutionary Atlantic, troubling and expanding the borders of what the Declaration of Independence imagined. The Lisette Project is a performance and research collective based in Ithaca, New York. Founded in 2021 by the artistic director, Jean Bernard Cerin, the group explores the history of Haitian classical music and its intersections with broader global currents.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22 AT 2:00PM
FROM PERFORMER TO COLLECTION: ANDREA BOTTICELLI AND THE CREATION OF CÉLESTE MUSIC VIRTUAL PRESENTATIONS
INTERNATIONAL FORTEPIANO SALON ONLINE Streaming on Facebook and YouTube
Andrea Botticelli shares her experience as a fortepianist living in Canada, from the search for historical instruments on which to perform and record, to the creation of Céleste Music. The program features excerpts from her debut recording, made at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity; her second album of Italian repertoire, performed on a replica of a Cristofori piano and recorded in Toronto; and the story of how these experiences led to the launch of Céleste Music, a musical charity built around a significant collection of keyboard instruments in Canada.
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. This year’s concert is dedicated in memory of beloved friend, and acclaimed composer and conductor Robert Manno. The program will include Manno’s arrangement for string orchestra of the Prelude & Liebestod from Wagner’s Tristan und Isolde.
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.
LOOKING FORWARD TO 2027!
LOOKING BACK JANUARY-SEPTEMBER 2026 PERFORMANCES JANUARY 10
BAYE & ASA OPEN REHEARSAL: AT THE ALTAR
Presented in partnership with Works & Process at the Guggenheim Orpheum Performing Arts Center
JANUARY 17 & 18
AQUILA THEATRE PRESENTS THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES Orpheum Performing Arts Center
FEBRUARY 7
MALPASO DANCE FRIDAY, JANUARY 15, 2027 AT 7:00PM
AQUILA THEATRE PRESENTS DR. JEKYLL AND MR. HYDE Orpheum Performing Arts Center Aquila Theatre brings a bold and compelling new adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s timeless tale The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Unable to quell his darkest desires, Dr. Henry Jekyll becomes convinced he can separate the good and evil within. Using science, he attempts to sever his two identities and unleashes a terrifying double life through the creation of Edward Hyde. What begins as a daring experiment spirals into a desperate struggle between the two identities, as each battles for control and survival. Which side will win? With Aquila’s signature style—its bold physicality, topnotch actors, and inventive staging—this gripping theatrical adaptation dives deep into the human psyche, asking timeless and urgent questions about morality, repression, and the battles born out of darkness.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 30, 2027 AT 7:00PM (RESCHEDULED FROM NOVEMBER 21, 2026)
MOUNTAINTOP VARIETY HOUR (AND A HALF)
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 FEBRUARY 11 & 14 Six Degrees of Separation by John Guare FEBRUARY 12 & 14 The Shape of Things by Neil LaBute FEBRUARY 13 & 15 Circle Mirror Transformation by Annie Baker
FEBRUARY 15
MILLION DOLLAR REUNION THE GENESIS OF ROCK ‘N’ ROLL: ELVIS, JERRY LEE LEWIS, JOHNNY CASH & CARL PERKINS Orpheum Performing Arts Center
Doctorow Center for the Arts
MARCH 14
Join Mark Singer, Darcy Dunn, Julia Mendelsohn and their talented friends from both New York City and the Mountain Top 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.
AN EVENING WITH THE BALLET HISPANICO SCHOOL’S BH2 CELEBRATED REPERTORY AND A NEW WORK IN RESIDENCE Orpheum Performing Arts Center
SOLD OUT!
MARCH 21
“A MIRACLE”: ROSE FAMILY CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT CONCERTS & CONVERSATIONS Piano Performance Museum Doctorow Center for the Arts TWO SHOWS SOLD OUT!
MAY 13-16
A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE, BY TENNESSEE WILLIAMS
Maude Adams Theater Hub Catskill Mountain Foundation The Lodge at Hotel Lilien, 6629 Route 23A, Tannersville
MARCH 26-28
MAY 23
KIMBERLY AKIMBO
ORPHEUM DANCE PROGRAM ANNUAL RECITAL
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
APRIL 4
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
SOLD OUT!
SOLD OUT!
APRIL 18
THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK BY FRANCES GOODRICH AND ALBERT HACKETT
Maude Adams Theater Hub Catskill Mountain Foundation
Orpheum Performing Arts Center
RESIDENCY: MAY 27-JUNE 9
ACADEMY OF FORTEPIANO PERFORMANCE FESTIVAL Doctorow Center for the Arts academyfortepiano.org MAY 27-29 WORKSHOP ON MAINTAINING HISTORICAL PIANOS, HARPSICHORDS, AND CLAVICHORDS MAY 30 KEYBOARD MUSIC FROM THE AGES FOR THE AGES: TIMELESS MUSIC FOR HARPSICHORD AND PIANO JUNE 2 & JUNE 5 GUEST ARTIST CONCERTS JUNE 6 & 7 STUDENT CONCERTS
JUNE 20
The Hunter Synagogue
PIANIST JEROME ROSE
7879 Main Street, Hunter
Doctorow Center for the Arts
APRIL 25
JUNE 28
GIVE ME LIBERTY, GIVE ME SONG: AMERICA’S JOURNEY AT 250
OMNY TAIKO Orpheum Performing Arts Center
CONCERTS & CONVERSATIONS
JULY 2, 3 & 5
Patricia Garcia-Gil, Fortepiano Tom Strange, Lecture
TWO SHOWS SOLD OUT!
Piano Performance Museum Doctorow Center for the Arts
MUSIC/LYRICS BY TIM MINCHIN, BOOK BY DENNIS KELLY
MAY 2
ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA, THE MUSICAL
Maude Adams Theater Hub Catskill Mountain Foundation
CATSKILL MOUNTAIN SHAKESPEARE PRESENTS HAMLET
Orpheum Performing Arts Center
DIRECTED BY SYDNEY BERK
JULY 11-26
CATSKILL MOUNTAIN SHAKESPEARE PRESENTS MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING DIRECTED BY CONNER WILSON Doctorow Center for the Arts
Outdoors & Under the Tent Behind the Big Red Barn catskillmountainshakespeare.com
JULY 12
AUGUST 29
CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION ANNUAL BENEFIT FEATURING A PERFORMANCE BY DANCERS FROM THE NEW YORK CITY BALLET
TRISHA BROWN DANCE COMPANY
WITH DANCERS FROM THE ORPHEUM DANCE PROGRAM PLUS A PERFORMANCE BY THE CAST OF MATILDA
Presented in partnership with Works & Process at the Guggenheim Orpheum Performing Arts Center
Orpheum Performing Arts Center
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 AT 7:00 PM
THE MUSIC OASIS Presented in partnership with Works & Process at the Guggenheim
Led by Greg Dayton & Marlon Saunders Orpheum Performing Arts Center Visit themusicoasis.com for more information!
JULY 18 & 19, JULY 25 & 26
HORTON BY THE STREAM
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 AT 7:00PM
Doctorow Center for the Arts hortonbythestream.org Info and Reservations: 917 991 9537
THE MOSS ENSEMBLE
JULY 18 & 26 THE DR. RUTH SHOW, OR, FINDING DR. RUTH
Darcy Dunn, Soprano Marshall Coid, Countertenor/Violin/Composer Mary Wooten, Cello & Composer Elizabeth Rodgers, Piano Doctorow Center for the Arts
JULY 19 & 25 BILL BOWERS: IT GOES WITHOUT SAYING JULY 25 TWO FILMS: THE ONE ARMED MAN, BY HORTON FOOTE THE LION, WITH JUDITH ROBERTS
INTERNATIONAL FORTEPIANO SALONS ONLINE Yi-heng Yang, Maria Rose & Patricia García-Gil Hosts View all past Salons on our YouTube channel! youtube.com/catskillmountainfoundation www.internationalfortepianosalon.com
AUGUST 1 & 2
CINDERELLA
FEBRUARY 8: FORTEPIANIST TUIJA HAKKILA
A New Ballet presented by the Orpheum Dance Program Victoria Rinaldi, Director Orpheum Performing Arts Center
MARCH 15: CELEBRATING THE PIANO PERFORMANCE MUSEUM AT THE CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION APRIL 19: EARLY AMERICAN PIANOS AT THE SIGAL MUSEUM
SUPPORT THE ARTS ON THE MOUNTAINTOP The contribution you provide to the Catskill Mountain Foundation furthers our vision of bringing the arts to our community, enriching the lives of children and adults through arts education, and supporting artists and arts organizations in the development of new works.
Make a donation at catskillmtn.org/donation
Call for Auditions!
Catskill Mountain Foundation’s Orpheum Dance Program is presenting the 11th ANNUAL special holiday performances of The Nutcracker this December, and WE NEED YOU! We’re looking for kids age 5-15 to play party children, toy soldiers, mice & angels. We need party adults too! Appear on stage with your kids and start a new holiday tradition!
Auditions: Saturday, October 3, 11:00am-1:00pm The Red Barn, 7970 Main Street, Hunter No dance experience is needed, but performers will need to be musical, comfortable on stage, able to take direction, and be ready to have fun! Questions? Call us at 518 263 2001 The six performances will be Saturday & Sunday, December 5-6 and December 12-13 at the Orpheum Performing Arts Center, 6050 Main Street, Tannersville For tickets and more information, visit www.catskillmtn.org 84 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide
CALENDAR OF EVENTS This is just a sampling of all of the events in the Catskills this October. 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 More Info: MagicOnMainWindham.com
THROUGH OCTOBER 3 Woodstock Monoprint Invitational Exhibition A celebration of printmaking and community, bringing together some of the most talented artists from the Hudson Valley and beyond. Each year, artists collaborate with our master printers to create exceptional monoprints, showcasing the vibrant creative community that thrives right here in our spacious, fully equipped printmaking studios. Location: Woodstock School of Art, 2740 Route 212, Woodstock Gallery Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm More Info: woodstockschoolofart.org
THROUGH OCTOBER 11 Exhibition: Seasons of Greene VII Each year, accomplished regional artists respond to the forests, fields, waterways, and vistas stewarded by the Greene Land Trust, offering fresh perspectives on the landscapes that define Greene County. These works encourage a deeper appreciation for the places that sustain our communities and connect us to one another. Location: Athens Cultural Center, 24 Second Street, Athens First Friday: October 2, 5:00-7:00 pm Gallery Hours: Fridays, 4:00-7:00 pm; Saturdays & Sundays, 1:00-7:00 pm More Info: athensculturalcenter.org Two Exhibitions: Frank Manzo Memorial Exhibition Plus Member’s Group Show A founding member of the Longyear Gallery in Margaretville, Frank Manzo’s photographs create both an interesting composition with painterly qualities that resent to the viewer more than one interpretation, thus allowing one to see different aspects each time it is viewed. Location: Longyear Gallery, 785 Main Street, Margaretville Gallery Hours: Friday-Sunday, 12:00-5:00 pm More Info: longyeargallery.org
“Rabbit in the Flowers” by Annie Hayes.
THROUGH OCTOBER 31 Exhibition: Everybody’s Art This open call exhibition celebrates artwork that explores themes deeply rooted in community, tradition, and our daily lived experience. Location: Headwaters Arts Center, 66 Main Street, Stamford More Info: roxburyartsgroup.org
THROUGH NOVEMBER 1 Scarecrow Village: Once Upon a Time 30 hand crafted scarecrow exhibitions, created by local artists, community groups and families from the region. This self-guided tour will take you through a series of Historical, Fairy Tale and Fantasy inspired Scarecrows for your viewing pleasure and enjoyment. Location: Fenimore Farm and Country Village, 5775 NY-80, Cooperstown Hours: 10:00 am-4:00 pm More Info: fenimorefarm.org Exhibition: Seldom Seen II | Historic Works by Woodstock Artists Artwork from the collection of Woodstock resident and Opus 40 Board Member, John Cederquist. John has gone back into the vault for a new selection of works, most never exhibited publicly until now. This show will feature works by Dorothy Andrews, Robert Angeloch, Marianne Appel, Anton Refregier, Konrad Cramer, Eugene Ludins, Cathalene Crane Chase, Fletcher Martin, John Nathaniel Fenton, Frances Serber … and more! Location: The Richards Gallery, Opus 40, 356 George Sickle Rd, Saugerties Time: Saturdays & Sundays, 10:00 am-5:00 pm More Info: opus40.org
THROUGH DECEMBER 19 Exhibition: Flowing Branches A solo show of works by Richard Barlow, including his large one-of-a-kind chalk drawing installations on blackboard-painted walls. Location: Roxbury Arts Group, 5025 Vega Mountain Road, Roxbury More Info: roxburyartsgroup.org
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CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH THE ARTS
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THANK YOU TO OUR FUNDERS & SUPPORTERS!
Education, Recreation, Arts, and Community Initiatives
THROUGH DECEMBER 31 Exhibition: American Masterworks Paintings by American master painters. Location: Fenimore Art Museum, 5798 State Highway 80, Cooperstown More Info: fenimoreartmuseum.org Exhibition: Boundless Spirit: American Folk Art at Fenimore Museum The best of Fenimore Art Museum’s distinguished collection of American folk art. Location: Fenimore Art Museum, 5798 State Highway 80, Cooperstown More Info: fenimoreartmuseum.org 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
OCTOBER 1
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
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immigration to New York going back to the early twentieth century. Director Lex Gillespie (The Mamboniks, SFJFF 2019) maps the development of the vacation destination, from a refuge for working-class Jews seeking a respite from poverty in overcrowded New York City tenements to a lavish summer playground for the affluent. Location: Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main Street, Rosendale Times: 7:00 pm More Info: rosendaletheatre.org
Meet the Artists: Lindsay Buchman and D’Angelo Lovell Williams (Woodstock AIRs) This series provides an opportunity for attendees to learn more about the work of other local and visiting artists, including CPW’s artistsin-residence. Join us to discover new work, explore artists’ processes, and meet other local artists. These events are free and open to the public. Location: CPW, 25 Dederick Street, Kingston Time: 6:00 pm More Info: cpw.org Traditional Irish Music Session Athens’ beloved traditional Irish music session is coming to the ACC! We are thrilled to welcome a new monthly event that is not just for lovers and practitioners of Irish music but also for the Irish-curious. Bring your fiddle, your guitar, your Uillean Pipes and your Bodhrán, or just come on down and find out what the heck a Bodhrán is! Location: Athens Cultural Center, 24 Second Street, Athens Time: 7:00 pm More Info: athensculturalcenter.org Sonny Rock’s Pro Jam #54 An amazing night of music, friends, food and more! Featuring Steve LaPorta, Mike LaPorta, Harley Fine, Bobbie Van Detta, and Sonny Rock, with special guest Alana Wyld. Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com Darn Good Docs: The Catskills The Catskills is a humorous and nostalgic tribute to what became affectionately known as the Borscht Belt. Stand-up comedians share their best schtick while former waiters, entertainers, and dance instructors recount tales of the family-run resorts and bungalows that inspired films like Dirty Dancing. Featuring home movies, publicity photos, postcards, and menus, this time capsule provides an overview of Jewish
The Soul Rebels Brass sensation The Soul Rebels started with an idea – to expand upon the pop music they loved on the radio and the New Orleans brass tradition they grew up on. They took that tradition and blended funk and soul with elements of hip hop, jazz and rock all within the style of a modernized and contemporary brass band. The Soul Rebels built a career around an eclectic live show that harnesses the power of horns and drums in a party-like atmosphere. Location: Bearsville Theater, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm More Info: bearsvilletheater.com
OCTOBER 1-11 Storm Still Three sisters reunite in their late father’s backyard, transforming the task of sorting through his belongings into a raw, electrifying reimagining of Shakespeare’s King Lear. As childhood games collide with adult grief, the sisters slip between roles—parent and child, ruler and rebel—exposing the stormy legacy of family, memory, and forgiveness. With biting humor and aching honesty, the play explores how we inherit not just possessions, but wounds and love, asking: how do we keep hold of selfhood as we weather the past together? Location: Bridge Street Theatre, 44 W. Bridge Street, Catskill Time: Thursdays through Saturdays @ 7:00 pm; Sundays @ 2:00 pm More Info: bridgest.org
OCTOBER 1-31 Exhibition: Autumn in The Catskills An exhibition of new works by Mireille Duchesne that captures the Catskills transforming beauty. With a kaleidoscope of color, Mireille leads us through time and season, celebrating autumn’s grace. Born in Normandy and shaped by the landscapes of Europe, Africa, and the United States, Mireille brings an impressionistic sensitivity to place through color, shadow, and light. Her paintings invite viewers into the
emotional life of the landscape—where rolling mountains, reflective waters, and changing skies become more than scenery; they become a journey inward. These new works celebrate the enduring beauty of the Catskills and inspire a sense of connection to the world around us. Location: Windham Fine Arts, 5380 Main Street, Windham Gallery Hours: 12:00-5:00 pm and by appointment. More Info: director@windhamfinearts.com, 518 734 6850, or windhamfinearts.com
OCTOBER 2 Walkie-Talkie Walking Tour (Easy) Have you ever been curious about downtown Kingston’s history? Have you wondered what the creek was like in its heyday, when business was booming? Come enjoy a walking tour of the Rondout waterfront from the Hudson River Maritime Museum. You’ll learn about the D&H Canal and its contributions to the area’s culture, the different types of boats that have sailed the creek, the businesses that called this area home, and more. Our tours meet right in the museum gift shop. Our educators will share stories and encourage you to share your own. These tours will be beginner friendly. Location: Hudson River Maritime Museum, 50 Rondout Landing, Kingston Time: 10:00-11:00 am More Info: hrmm.org Leave It Better Series: Spruceton Road Cleanup Help keep one of the Catskills’ most popular outdoor recreation areas clean! Join the Catskill Center for a volunteer cleanup along Spruceton Road. Location: West Kill, NY. At the end of Spruceton Road, this will be the first parking lot on the left of the road. Time: 10:00 am-1:00 pm More Info: catskillcenter.org Exhibition Tour of Cynthia Daignault: Light Atlas Join Casey Monroe, Thomas Cole Site Associate Curator, for a tour of the special exhibition Cynthia Daignault: Light Atlas. Location: Thomas Cole House, 218 Spring Street, Catskill Time: 11:30 am More Info: thomascole.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 Jose Lopez & Chosen Style in the Garden New York-based guitarist, singer, and songwriter Jose Lopez, also in Sundub, cultivates a fresh and tasty blend of Rock, R&B, and roots music. Lopez’s raw talent and honest interpretations of original songs and crowd favorites draw on a mix of genres that speak to a wide range of music-loving audiences. Location: In the Garden, Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 6:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com Carolyn Wonderland featuring Cindy Cashdollar & Shelley King Get blown away by the Texas blues roots and soulful tones of Carolyn Wonderland featuring Cindy Cashdollar & Shelley King! Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com
OCTOBER 2 & 3 Verbatim: Text Sound Expo Verbatim Text Sound Expo is an annual market and performance festival featuring local and regional independent poetry publishers and record labels. The market is accompanied by a schedule of performance across disciplines: poetry, avant-garde music, sound art, and hybrid text-sound experiments. It is a gathering of poets, noisemakers, fabulists, pickers, shredders, orators, and interdisciplinary ramblers moving between & across domains of text and noise. Location: Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts, 34 Big Hollow Road, Maplecrest Time: Friday, 6:00-10:00 pm; Saturday, 11:00 am-10:00 pm More Info: catskillmtn.org
daughter, his country, and an uncertain future. Sunday, October 4: The Valley of the Cherries: A Staged Reading: Anne is 22, nearing the end of veterinary school, and struggling to find her place in an uncertain world. Drawn each night to a roadside memorial honoring victims of overdose, she wrestles with grief, anger, and a desire for justice. Location: The CENTER for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck, 661 Route 308, Rhinebeck Days & Times: Friday & Saturday @ 7:30 pm, Sunday @ 2:30 pm More Info: CenterforPerformingArts.org
OCTOBER 3 Painting the Day, A Community Plein Air Event Inspired by the rich history of the Hudson River School of Art, and in memory of beloved local artist Jim Cramer, this community gathering invites participants of all ages to “paint the day” creating art inspired by nature and the historic charm of the Village of Athens. Enjoy a live demonstration, a children’s area with waterbased paints, drawing supplies, and refreshments served at noon. Free and open to all. Location: Athens Riverfront Park, 1 South Water Street, Athens Time: 10:00 am-2:00 pm More Info: athensculturalcenter.org Lark in the Park Red Hill Fire Tower Hike Join Catskill Steward Rory for a guided hike to the historic Red Hill Fire Tower as we explore Leave No Trace Principle #7: Be Considerate of Other Visitors. Location: Parking details will be shared once registration is complete. Time: 10:00 am-3:00 pm More Info: catskillcenter.org The CENTER’s Big A$$ Community Yard Sale Our Big A$$ Yard Sale is your one-stop shop for community treasures and theatrical finds. We’re doing another clear out of our inventory of costumes, props, and set pieces, and opening the lawn to community sellers from across the Hudson Valley. Whether you are hunting for vintage bargains or selling your own goods, this is a day for thrifting, treasure hunting, and connecting with neighbors, all while supporting The CENTER for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck. Location: The Great Lawn at The CENTER for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck, 661 Route 308, Rhinebeck Time: 10:00 am-3:00 pm More Info: CenterforPerformingArts.org
OCTOBER 2-4 Reckoning: A Series of One-Person Shows A weekend of intimate solo performances. Each performance features a different one-person show. Friday, October 2: My Story: A performance by local actress Alina Gonzalez, who has been rebuilding her life since a brain aneurysm in April 2020. Her monologue will detail the last six plus years of her life, her struggles, her lows, her highs and the better (and best) days ahead.; Saturday, October 3: U.S. Man: In the week after Christmas, a man wanders through a suburban neighborhood lined with discarded Christmas trees. As he walks, he reflects on his life, his
Blacksmithing Workshop for Beginners This is an introductory class geared toward people who are interested in beginning to learn about the art of blacksmithing. Participants will learn how to build and maintain a forge fire, heat metal, and use the traditional tools and methods of blacksmithing. Each participant will create and take home a fire-starting kit. (Ages 14 and older). Pre-registration requested. Location: Fenimore Farm and Country Village, 5775 NY-80, Cooperstown Hours: 10:00 am-4:00 pm More Info: fenimorefarm.org
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Call for Auditions: The Nutcracker Catskill Mountain Foundation’s Orpheum Dance Program is presenting the 11th ANNUAL special holiday performances of The Nutcracker this December, and WE NEED YOU! We’re looking for kids age 5-15 to play party children, toy soldiers, mice & angels. We need party adults too! No dance experience is needed, but performers will need to be musical, comfortable on stage, able to take direction, and be ready to have fun! Location: Catskill Mountain Foundation Red Barn, 7970 Main Street, Hunter Time: 11:00 am-1:00 pm More Info: catskillmtn.org Peter Pan in the Catskills and other Historical Essays with Bill Birns Renowned Catskills writer Bill Birns will discuss his new book published by Purple Mountain Press, Peter Pan in the Catskills and Other Historical Essays. From Rip Van Winkle to Franklin Delano Roosevelt, art to ancient forests, and so much in between, this collection of essays explores the history and lore of the Catskill Mountains. Selected and with an introduction by renowned Catskills writer Bill Birns and beautifully illustrated with color photos and artwork throughout. Registration is required and is free for members and a $10 donation for non-members. Copies of Peter Pan in the Catskills will be available for purchase. Location: Mountain Top Arboretum Education Center, 4 Maude Adams Road, Tannersville Time: 1:00-2:30 pm More Info: mtarboretum.org In the Afterlife of the American Dream: Race, Mythology, and a Requiem of Promise, presented by Dr. Shelton Johnson Dr. Shelton Johnson of the SUNY New Paltz Black Studies Department will examine the American Dream as a racialized political mythology, tracing its historical formation, its enduring authority in shaping ideas of merit, mobility, and belonging, and the ways Black intellectual and political traditions have imagined freedom beyond its inherited terms. Location: Elting Memorial Library, 93 Main Street, New Paltz Time: 4:00 pm More Info: huguenotstreet.org Back to the Garden 1969: The Woodstock Experience The Woodstock Music Festival was the ultimate rock concert, a celebration of peace, love and music. Formed by Gary Adamson in 2009, BTTG 1969 recreates the classic sounds associated with Woodstock. The musical performances are a tribute to the artists who made Woodstock great, including Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Jimi Hendrix, Sly & The Family Stone, Jefferson Airplane, Santana, Joe Cocker, Janis Joplin, Creedence Clearwater Revival, The Who, Richie Havens … and all the rest! Location: Woodstock Playhouse, 103 Mill Hill Road, Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: woodstockplayhouse.org
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OCTOBER 3 & 4
OCTOBER 3 & 7
Steam Power 101 Workshop Learn the theory and practical operation of a wood-fired steam power plant in this in-depth two-day course. Instructor Joe Michaels, retired Senior Mechanical Engineer at NY Power Authority’s Blenheim-Gilboa Pumped Storage Project, designed and helped to build the Museum’s wood-fired steam power plant. Pre-registration required. Location: Hanford Mills Museum, 51 County Highway 12, East Meredith Time: 9:00 am-12:00 pm More Info: hanfordmills.org
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. Location: 7883 Main Street, Hunter Time: 11:00 am-2:00 pm More Info: fellowmountaincafe.com/makersmarket
Intro to Dry Stone Walling Workshop Two days give you more hands-on time to apply the basic principles. Spend more time working with batter frames and stringlines. Sleep on what you learn and come back to practice with guidance. Get exposed to basic stone shaping and stone splitting. Enjoy more time interacting with waller-teachers and getting answers to your questions. Location: Opus 40, 356 George Sickle Rd, Saugerties Time: 9:00 am-5:00 pm More Info: opus40.org
OCTOBER 3-4 & OCTOBER 10-11 Belleayre Fall Festival and Brews & Views A jam-packed weekend of fun-filled activities for the entire family! Sample tons of food & beverages, listen to live music, take in the sights with a fall foliage gondola ride, decorate a pumpkin, and more! Experience the best of fall at Brews & Views, where you can sample craft beers and cider from local breweries while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of live music, craft vendors, and delicious food—all against the stunning backdrop of the Catskill Mountains. Parking and admission to the festival grounds are free. Location: Belleayre Mountain, 181 Galli Curci Road, Highmount More Info: belleayre.com
OCTOBER 3-4, OCTOBER 10-11 & OCTOBER 17-18 Hunter Mountain’s Colors in the Catskills Hunter Mountain’s beloved October Festival, Colors in the Catskills, returns in 2026 for three unforgettable weekends of brews, bites, and mountain views. October 3-4: First leaves; October 10-11: Authentic Oktoberfest; October 17-18: Costume Takeover Location: Hunter Mountain, 64 Klein Avenue, Hunter Time: Saturdays: 11:00 am-6:00 pm; Sundays: 11:00 am-5:00 pm More Info: huntermtn.com
OCTOBER 4 Member Event | Curator Tour of “Frederic Church: Global Artist” Join us for an exclusive OLANA members tour of “Frederic Church: Global Artist,” led by curator Maggie Dimock. Location: Outdoors: Meet in front of Historic House, 5720 NY-9G, Hudson Time: 10:00-11:00 am More Info: olana.org 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. This engaging experience is led by Chris Baker, a certified mushroom forager and founder of Chicory Naturalist in Kingston, NY. Location: Opus 40, 356 George Sickle Rd, Saugerties Time: 10:30 am More Info: opus40.org Autumn Seasonal Walk: Potic Creek Preserve Join ethnoecologist Justin Wexler for an autumn exploration of the Potic Creek Preserve. We will learn about the natural worls through the lens of Northeastern Native languages, history, and folklore. Pre-registration requested. Location: Potic Creek Preserve, Leeds Time: 11:00 am More Info: greenelandtrust.org Harvest Festival: Great Pumpkin Harvest Featuring music & entertainment from Bourbon Sprawl and Wood Flower, pumpkin carving, pumpkin & gourd painting contest, rescue ponies, and pop art pumpkin collages. Location: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel Time: 11:00 am-4:00 pm More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org Heritage Craft Fair This lively event will feature an exhibit and sale of heritage crafts, showcasing the skills and artistry of talented makers. Visitors can enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides, live music throughout the day, and a variety of delicious offerings from a food truck. Additional highlights include an exciting raffle and auction, giving attendees the chance to take home unique items while supporting local artisans and programming. Location: Greene County Historical Society, 90 County Highway 42, Coxsackie Time: 12:00-4:00 pm More Info: gchistory.org
Build a Scarecrow Day Create your own small scarecrow to decorate your yard or home for Autumn. All materials are included and the finished scarecrow will be just the right size to fit in your car for the ride home. Pre-registration requested. Location: Fenimore Farm and Country Village, 5775 NY-80, Cooperstown Hours: 1:00-4:00 pm More Info: fenimorefarm.org Louis Cook: An American Patriot, with Mike Tarbell Mohawk educator, Mike Tarbell will recount the family and military history of his 7th generation grandfather. Lieutenant Colonel Louis Cook, Mohawk, was a commissioned officer in the Continental Army during the American Revolution, fought on the side of the French during the French & Indian War, and was present at the Battle of Oriskany and with the Continental Army at Valley Forge in the winter of 1777. Location: Iroquois Museum, 324 Caverns Road, Howes Cave Time: 1:00 pm More Info: iroquoismuseum.org Sunday Salon Lecture; Nature, Music, Joy, and Loss: Thomas Cole’s The Pic-Nic Party as Elegy with Terry Carbone, Ph.D. A discussion about Thomas Cole’s The Pic-Nic Party. Advance reservations encouraged. Location: Thomas Cole House, 218 Spring Street, Catskill Time: 2:00 pm More Info: thomascole.org Main Street Matinees: West Side Story (1961) In Manhattan’s Upper West Side, rival gangs of Polish-Americans and newly arrived Puerto Ricans clash for control of the neighborhood, even as two young members from opposite sides fall dangerously in love. Location: Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main Street, Rosendale Times: 3:00 pm More Info: rosendaletheatre.org Grannycakes - an intergenerational bake-off Get matched with a Delco neighbor of another generation, get in the kitchen together, and whip up something delicious. Location: The Lost Bookshop, 120 Main Street, Delhi Time: 4:00-5:00 pm More Info: thelostbookshop.com
Jazz at Lincoln Center presents From Bossa to Swing Join us in the Event Gallery at Bethel Woods for an evening of live music with Jazz at Jazz at Lincoln Center Presents - From Bossa to Swing: Celebrating Jobim and Getz featuring Julian Lee Quartet with special guest Mar Vilaseca. Location: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel Time: 7:00 pm More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org
OCTOBER 7
Heavy Traffic Band: A Tribute to Steve Winwood and Traffic Get ready to jam out to the classic vibes of Steve Winwood and Traffic with a tribute show from Heavy Traffic Band! Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com
Horizon Happy Hour presents Corevalay Corevalay is a high-energy, innovative band known for their dynamic performances and unique sound. Fronted by Phil Barbetta’s distinctive vocals and Gerald Vitale’s rap-influenced style and powerful screams, they deliver an intense, emotional musical experience. With heavy riffs, infectious grooves, and unforgettable melodies, their live shows are a must-see spectacle. Location: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel Time: 5:00 pm More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org
Lucinda Williams and her band Lucinda’s powerful eighteenth studio album, the provocative World’s Gone Wrong, is what Lucinda fans have come to depend on over the past 45 years. With a back catalog of remarkable albums, three Grammy awards and countless accolades, Williams is one of our most revered artists, beloved for her singular vocals and extraordinary songs. Location: Bearsville Theater, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm More Info: bearsvilletheater.com
OCTOBER 4 & 18 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. This engaging experience is led by Chris Baker, a certified mushroom forager and founder of Chicory Naturalist in Kingston, NY. Location: Opus 40, 356 George Sickle Rd, Saugerties Time: 10:30 am More Info: opus40.org
Cause 4 Paws & The Great Giveback 2026! A day of adoption, awareness & advocacy. Mountain Top Library will be collecting pet supplies for local rescue organizations that work to protect our pets and wildlife through the summer. Location: Mountain Top Library, 6093 Main Street, Tannersville Time: 3:00-7:00 pm More Info: mountaintoplibrary.org
Bitter Farewell: The Esopus Indians and the American Revolution Join ethnoecologist Justin Wexler at the Saugerties Library for a presentation on the dramatic story of the Catskill Mountains’ Esopus Indian residents and their neighbors during the American Revolution. Location: Saugerties Public Library, 91 Washington Ave, Saugerties Time: 6:00-7:00 pm More Info: wildhudsonvalley.com
OCTOBER 8
OCTOBER 6
Thursday Classics & Independent Film Series: The Odd Couple (1968) After separating from his wife, fastidious Felix Unger moves in with his divorced poker pal and best friend, slovenly Oscar Madison. Location: Mountain Cinema, Doctorow Center for the Arts, 7971 Main Street, Hunter Time: 6:00 pm More Info: catskillmtn.org
Olana: Frederic Church’s Vision of Art and Landscape (Webinar with Olmsted Network) Join Sean Sawyer, President of The Olana Partnership, for a special bicentennial talk exploring Frederic Church’s 40-year creation of Olana and his visionary approach to art, architecture, landscape design, and environmental conservation. Location: Online via Zoom Time: 5:00 pm More Info: olana.org
Meet the Artist: Pia Paulina Guilmoth Pia will present selections from her three most recent books, as well as b-sides and unreleased material spanning the past 10 years of her career. She will have a selection of books and prints for sale throughout the evening. Location: CPW, 25 Dederick Street, Kingston Time: 6:00 pm More Info: cpw.org
Storytelling Club TMI Project invites you to join us for our monthly in-person gathering with music, food, small offerings, storytelling performances, moments to write, chances to share (if you want to), and room for all to listen. Location: Good Work Institute, 65 St. James St., Kingston Time: 7:00 pm More Info: tmiproject.org
Darn Good Docs: Wildwood, NJ A look into the lives of the women and girls who inhabit the seaside town of Wildwood, New Jersey. Featuring an in-person Q&A with director Ruth Leitman. Location: Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main Street, Rosendale Times: 7:00 pm More Info: rosendaletheatre.org
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Free Films: Grand Hotel (1932) A group of very different individuals staying at a luxurious hotel in Berlin deal with each of their respective dramas. Location: Ulster Performing Arts Center, 601 Broadway, Kingston Time: 7:30 pm More Info: bardavon.org Duane Betts & Palmetto Motel Duane Betts ignites and brings an evolution to the Southern rock tradition. With a fiery legacy forged by his father, the legendary Dickey Betts, the second generation musician infuses it with his own soul-stirring blend of blues, raw passion, and six-string mastery. Backed by his band, Palmetto Motel, Betts delivers a dynamic live show filled with searing guitar solos, heartfelt storytelling, and a mix of classic influences with fresh energy. Location: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel Time: 8:00 pm More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org
OCTOBER 9 Murder Mystery Mixer: “Dying of Curiosity” Do you dare put your detective skills to the test? Murder is on the menu for this interactive cocktail experience. An eccentric billionaire has invited an unusual assortment of guests to his elaborate museum for a cocktail party showcasing the latest acquisitions to his collection of rare and mysterious oddities. But curiosity doesn’t just kill the cat when one of the guests turns up dead. Who will have the satisfaction of solving the mystery and take home a terrific prize? Location: Museum at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel Time: 7:00 pm More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org
OCTOBER 9-11
OCTOBER 9-NOVEMBER 1
Neil Simon’s The Sunshine Boys Al Lewis (Michael McDonald) and Willy Clark (Gary Falk) are a pair of feuding vaudeville comedians (Lewis and Clark, naturally) who performed together for 47 years before finally calling it quits. Clark’s nephew Ben, a young and hungry talent agent, has the brilliant idea of reuniting the duo for a TV special about the history of comedy. Once the reunion is on, the sparks and one-liners start to fly with equal speed. But can Lewis and Clark put aside their differences long enough to collect one last paycheck? Location: Doctorow Center for the Arts, 7971 Main Street, Hunter Days & Times: Friday & Saturday @ 6:00 pm, Sunday @ 2:00 pm More Info: catskillmtn.org
Peace, Love & Pumpkins During this walk-thru experience, guests will wind through the garden trails of beautiful Bethel Woods, highlighting thousands of unique hand-carved jack-o-lanterns and glowing displays of themed pumpkin art! Please note that ticketing is timed on Fridays and Saturdays. Friday, October 30 is Friday Night Fright, a haunted walk-thru experience, and Friday, October 31 is a Halloween Trick-or-Treat event! Location: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel Time: Wednesdays-Sundays, 6:30-10:00 pm (last entry 9:00 pm) More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org
OCTOBER 9-25 The Crucible Set in Salem, Massachusetts in 1692, The Crucible focuses on the hysteria that develops in the intersection of rumors, fear, and religion. A group of girls are thought to practice witchcraft, alongside Tituba, an enslaved IndigenousAmerican, as they dance in the woods. In order to save themselves, they turn the accusations towards an ever-widening circle of adults in the community. This play is Arthur Miller at his best, with compelling, raw dialogue and expertly crafted character relationships that prove the complexity of the human condition. 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
Strangehouse presents The Vampire Cabaret & Sideshow Expect vampire-inspired burlesque, pole arts (featuring a double act), sideshow acts, flow arts, snake dance, sword swallowing, drag & more! Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com Cathy & Marcy’s Old Time Coalition Cathy & Marcy’s Old Time Coalition has grown out of a mutual love of Appalachian music and dance, and deep friendships built over the past twenty years. Picture the energy and passion of a fiddle, five-string banjo, guitar, mandolin or cello banjo and harmony singing in a late night session accompanied by the energetic percussion of feet on a board. Now take that long time tradition off the front porch and put it on stage paying tribute to the past, present and future conversations between tradition and contemporary music and performance values. Location: The Ashokan Center 477 Beaverkill Rd, Olivebridge Time: 7:30 pm More Info: ashokancenter.org
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Young Frankenstein — A Mel Brooks Musical! Grandson of the infamous Victor Frankenstein, Frederick Frankenstein inherits his family’s estate in Transylvania. With the help of a hunchbacked sidekick, and a leggy lab assistant, Frederick finds himself in the mad scientist shoes of his ancestors. “It’s alive!” he exclaims as he brings to life a creature to rival his grandfather’s. Eventually, of course, the monster escapes and hilarity continuously abounds. Location: Phoenicia Playhouse, 10 Church Street, Phoenicia Days & Times: Fridays & Saturdays @ 7:00 pm; Sundays @ 2:00 pm More Info: phoeniciaplayhouse.com
OCTOBER 10 Common Invasive Plant ID, Reporting and Management Join the Catskill Center’s Catskill Regional Invasive Species Partnership (CRISP) to learn how to identify, survey for, and manage common invasive plants found throughout the Catskills region! Location: Callicoon Riverside Park, Upper Delaware Camp Rd off of Creamery Road, Callicoon Time: 9:00 am-12:00 pm More Info: catskillcenter.org 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 Historic Cooking Workshop Participants will hone their baking and woodstove cooking skills and develop their “biscuit hands” while preparing a mouth-watering assortment of quick breads. This hands-on workshop uses ingredients and techniques common in the early 20th century, recipes from cookbooks in use in the 1920s, and best-of-all, the Hanford House’s beautiful Royal Bride wood cookstove. A hearty soup and fresh butter will also be made as part of this bread-focused lunch, enjoyed by all in the Hanford House dining room. Pre-registration required. Location: Hanford Mills Museum, 51 County Highway 12, East Meredith Time: 9:00 am-2:30 pm More Info: hanfordmills.org Weekend Lighthouse Tours — Athens Departure Reserve your spot aboard a guided boat tour to the historic Hudson-Athens Lighthouse. Travel aboard boats operated by our transportation partner, Catskill Charters, and enjoy a rare opportunity to explore the Lighthouse while learning about its rich history from our knowledgeable volunteer guides. Location: 4 N Water Street, Athens Time: Tours depart every 20 minutes starting at 10:00 am. Last tour at 12:20 pm. More Info: halps.org
The Railroading History of Kaaterskill Junction: A Hike with Paul LaPierre Step back in time to the days when the Stony Clove and Catskill Mountain Railroad came up from Phoenicia to the Junction, then split west on the Hunter Branch and east on the Tannersville Branch. Walking over old railroad beds, with Paul LaPierre of the Empire State Railway Museum, hikers will examine the layout of the Junction, visit the remains of the Electric Light Dam Bridge over the Schoharie Creek and take a side excursion to the new Hunter Branch Rail Trail pedestrian bridge over a Schoharie Creek tributary. Total length 4 miles. Level of difficulty: moderate. Bring water and snacks. Location: Meet at 4282 Rte 214, Hunter Time: 10:00 am-2:00 pm More information: Registration required: mthsdirector@mths.org or 518 598 6657 Trees and Timber Festival The importance of trees and forests. See how logs are processed into finished products using the mill’s water powered machinery. A variety of exhibitors will be providing demonstrations and wood-themed local products for sale. Location: Hanford Mills Museum, 51 County Highway 12, East Meredith Time: 10:00 am-4:00 pm More Info: hanfordmills.org Second Saturday Workshop: Historic Patterns & Printmaking Create your own linocut and 19th-centuryinspired band box with your custom designed block print inspired by the interior designs, textiles, and decorative wall paintings of Thomas Cole’s 19th-century home. All materials are included and all ages are welcome; some sharp tools will be used. Location: Thomas Cole House, 218 Spring Street, Catskill Time: 11:00 am More Info: thomascole.org Fiddlers! 33 Open Jam, Potluck & Square Dance Extending our 33rd annual Fiddlers festival with a day of folk music, community, dancing and a pot luck to help keep you going. Location: Roxbury Arts Center, 5025 Vega Mountain Road, Roxbury & Carriage House at the Jay Gould Memorial Church, Roxbury Time: 11:00 am-5:00 pm More Info: roxburyartsgroup.org Dedication Ceremony for the Train Station Kiosk: “Why is This Station in the Middle of the Woods,”in Memory of MTHS Board Member Gary Slutzky Please join the MTHS Board of Directors for the dedication of a new four-panel kiosk in memory of Gary Slutzky, a MTHS Board member. The kiosk portrays the history of the U & D Train Station and the tourism made possible by the railroads that led to the great mountain hotels. Location: 1913 Ulster & Delaware Train Station, 5132 Rt 23A, Haines Falls Time: 2:00 pm More Info: Free, but space is limited. Register at mthsdirector@mths.org or at 518 598 6657
China Now Music Festival: Chasing Dreams In celebration of the 250th anniversary of America, the China Now Music Festival returns to the Sosnoff Theater to tell powerful stories about migration, artistic vision, resilience, and aspirations through music. The program features Zhou Long’s Men of Iron and the Golden Spike, a powerful symphonic oratorio honoring the thousands of Chinese laborers who came to America in the 1860s to build the Transcontinental Railroad that connected our coasts and transformed our nation. This epic work by the Pulitzer Prize-winning composer includes a full orchestra, 120 choristers, and six soloists. Also featured is the U.S. premiere of Li Shaosheng’s five-movement symphonic suite Chasing the Sky, honoring humanity’s pursuit of space exploration. Location: Fisher Center at Bard College, Annandale Time: 3:00 pm More Info: fishercenter.bard.edu 2026 Fall Foliage Soiree Join Opus 40 for an intimate evening to celebrate and support the legacy of Harvey Fite and forge a vibrant future for this extraordinary place. Location: Opus 40, 356 George Sickle Rd, Saugerties Time: 5:00-9:00 pm More Info: opus40.org That Motown Band That Motown Band showcases an extraordinary lineup of talented vocalists and musicians committed to preserving the vibrant spirit of Motown. For years, they have enchanted audiences with stunning performances and the unforgettable music we all love. Join us and immerse yourself in the enchanting magic of Motown music like never before! Location: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel Time: 8:00 pm More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org The Bobby Lees It’s easy to hear why they’ve earned fans in legendary musicians like Iggy Pop, Debbie Harry, and Henry Rollins. They’re as uncompromising in their sound and generous with their energy as any of their punk ancestors who first rewrote the rules of engagement back in the 1970s. Their fourth album and Epitaph debut New Self marks a thrilling new chapter for the band while doubling down on what’s always made them so magnetic. Their ferocious presence has always been undeniable, but New Self elevates their sound to even brasher heights. The album sets The Bobby Lees’ signature bravado loose across a wide and reverberating soundscape. They’ve never sounded quite this expansive or emboldened before. Location: Bearsville Theater, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm More Info: bearsvilletheater.com
CineSonica #5: The Passion of Joan of Arc (Carl Theodor Dreyer, 1928) Ciné Sonica is a film concert series that pairs film screenings with live music performances. Danish master Carl Theodor Dreyer’s 1928 silent historical drama, The Passion of Joan of Arc, will be accompanied by an ensemble of five musicians. Based on the record of Joan of Arc’s 1431 trial, the film is known for its emotionally charged blend of realism and expressionism— a combination of elements the ensemble will explor in its sonic layering of Medieval-Renaissance harmonics and acoustic intimacy. Location: Bushel Collective, 106 Main St, Delhi Time: 8:00 pm More Info: bushelcollective.org
OCTOBER 10, 16 & 17, 23 & 24, 30 Things that go BUMP in the Night Ghost Tours Join museum guides as they lead you through the darkened historic village by lantern telling stories of ghostly tales. Choose from six times each evening for these small group tours. Each tour lasts approximately 45 – 60 minutes. Location: Fenimore Farm and Country Village, 5775 NY-80, Cooperstown Hours: 5:30-8:00 pm More Info: fenimorefarm.org
OCTOBER 10 & 11 Tractor Fest Over 60 tractors from area clubs and organizations, games, kids area, food trucks, demonstrations, live music, Kiddie Tractor Pull, Tractor Parade and more! Location: Fenimore Farm and Country Village, 5775 NY-80, Cooperstown Hours: 10:00 am-4:00 pm More Info: fenimorefarm.org Handcrafted Octoberfest at Rhinebeck Get ready for an unforgettable fall weekend as Handcrafted Octoberfest: A Family Harvest Celebration returns to the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck! Entering its seventh year, this one-of-a-kind festival blends the best of Oktoberfest traditions with the charm of a juried craft show—perfect for art lovers, families, and everyone in between. Location: Dutchess County Fairgrounds, 6636 US-9, Rhinebeck Hours: Saturday & Sunday, 10:00 am-5:00 pm More Info: quailhollow.com 32nd Annual Windham Autumn Affair A two-day celebration of fall, community and everything we love about the Catskills. Vendors, live music, food, activities, and plenty of old-fashioned fun. Admission and parking are free! Location: Main Street & WAJ School Grounds, Windham Hours: Saturday & Sunday, 10:00 am-5:00 pm More Info: movingwindhamforward.com
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OCTOBER 11 Intermediate Blacksmith Workshop: Forging a Door Latch Students will have a chance to forge their own door latch based on period examples. This course will cover not only the steps to forge a functioning piece of door hardware, but will also discuss historic design and utility, regional blacksmithing traditions, and traditional hardware installation. It is recommended that students taking this course have some prior blacksmithing experience. Students should bring with them a pair of safety glasses, sturdy leather boots/ shoes, and natural fiber clothing such as cotton or wool, as well as a bagged lunch. Pre-registration required. Location: Hanford Mills Museum, 51 County Highway 12, East Meredith Time: 9:00 am-4:30 pm More Info: hanfordmills.org Intro to Dry Stone Walling Workshop Two days give you more hands-on time to apply the basic principles. Spend more time working with batter frames and stringlines. Sleep on what you learn and come back to practice with guidance. Get exposed to basic stone shaping and stone splitting. Location: Opus 40, 356 George Sickle Rd, Saugerties Time: 9:00 am-5:00 pm More Info: opus40.org Geology Walk with Dr. Robert Titus Would you like to know more about the ground we stand on here in the Hudson Valley? 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 Member Event | A Guided Walk Through the Past & Future of Section 106 and Olana Join Sean Sawyer and Mark Prezorski for a guided landscape walk exploring Olana’s preservation history, the role of Section 106 in protecting its historic landscape and viewshed, and what its future could mean for Olana. Location: Outdoors: Meet in front of Olana Shop, 5720 NY-9G, Hudson Time: 11:00 am-12:00 pm More Info: olana.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
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The 1779 Invasion of Iroquoia: Scorched Earth as Described by Continental Soldiers, with Vic DiSanto The journals of Continental Army soldiers provide a window to view Iroquoia in 1779 as well as an opportunity to learn about the devastating impact and brutality of the Sullivan-Clinton Campaign, which resulted in the total destruction of forty villages. The speaker will lead a discussion by using these journals to describe what the soldiers found and did as they marched through Iroquoia. Location: Iroquois Museum, 324 Caverns Road, Howes Cave Time: 1:00 pm More Info: iroquoismuseum.org
battles the Black Knight who, despite having had all his limbs chopped off, insists he can still fight. They reach Camelot, but Arthur decides not to enter, as “it is a silly place”. Location: Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main Street, Rosendale Times: 3:00 pm More Info: rosendaletheatre.org Fiddlers! 33 A festival of music, food, drink + 2026 season raffle winner drawn. Featuring music by Catskills Old Time String Band, Laura Cortese, and Cathy and Marcy’s Old Time Coalition. Location: Roxbury Arts Center, 5025 Vega Mountain Road, Roxbury Time: 3:00-6:00 pm More Info: roxburyartsgroup.org Shakedown Citi: Celebrating the Music of the Grateful Dead Groove all night with Shakedown Citi as they bring legendary Grateful Dead vibes to life! Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com
“Gilding the Lily: Transforming the Deyo House,” a special tour with Kevin Cook This special tour will take guests inside the historic Queen Anne style Deyo 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. As the 1894 renovation changed how the past was to be interpreted along Huguenot Street, the tour will also explore the earliest efforts to form a historical society on the street. Location: Historic Huguenot Street, 81 Huguenot Street, New Paltz Time: 2:00 pm More Info: huguenotstreet.org 7th Annual Reading of Washington Irving’s Rip Van Winkle Storytellers and story lovers are invited to join the Mountain Top Historical Society’s annual community reading of Washington Irving’s classic tale of Rip Van Winkle’s legendary journey with his dog, Wolf, into the Catskill Mountains. Catskill Artist Matt Bua will bring his Traveling Rip Exhibit. Ol’ Rip himself will make an appearance. Families and children are welcome. Free. Attendees and readers are encouraged to dress like Rip Van Winkle, Dame Van Winkle, Bowling Dutchmen or Wolf. Location: 1913 Ulster & Delaware Train Station, 5132 Rt 23A, Haines Falls Time: 2:00 pm More Info: To be a reader and for more information, contact mthsdirector@mths.org or at 518 598 6657 Monty Python and the Holy Grail King Arthur, accompanied by his squire, recruits his Knights of the Round Table, including Sir Bedevere the Wise, Sir Lancelot the Brave, Sir Robin the Not-Quite-So-Brave-As-Sir-Lancelot and Sir Galahad the Pure. On the way, Arthur
OCTOBER 11 & 25 Sunday Sound Baths with Sacred Bloom Join Sacred Bloom for a guided sound bath at Opus 40. Enjoy this soothing and sonic journey to open, center, and calm your mind while relaxing and restoring your body. Bring a mat, blanket, camp chair or anything that helps you feel comfortable. Location: Opus 40, 356 George Sickle Rd, Saugerties Time: 10:00 am More Info: opus40.org
OCTOBER 13 Protect the Path Hiking Series: Mt. Tremper Fire Tower Join Catskill Steward Eric for a guided hike to the historic Mt. Tremper Fire Tower as we explore Leave No Trace Principle #2: Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces. Location: Parking details will be shared once registration is complete. Time: 10:00 am-3:00 pm More Info: catskillcenter.org Brunch and Learn with Reher Center and HRMM Come and enjoy two of Kingston’s most interesting museums as well as local baked treats. Start your afternoon with a noon tour at the Reher Center and a baked good from Rosie’s General. Learn all about the Reher bakery and the immigrant family that ran this local historic gem. Then walk straight down Broadway for a 1:00 tour at the Hudson River Maritime Museum, where you will receive a treat from Half Moon Bakery. At this stop, you will hear about the storied past of the Hudson River, from the Revolutionary War to Robert Fulton and beyond. Location: Starts at the Reher Center, 101 Broadway, Kingston Time: 12:00 pm More Info: hrmm.org
Chest Fever: 50th Anniversary of The Last Waltz Join Chest Fever & friends for a tribute and celebration of The Band’s 1976 iconic concert event - The Last Waltz at the Rickshaw! Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com Saratoga Trail Tales Book signing Author Mike Bielkiewicz presents his book Saratoga Trail Tales at the Vedder Research Library. Location: Vedder Research Library, Greene County Historical Society, 90 County Highway 42, Coxsackie Time: 7:00 pm More Info: gchistory.org
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 WEBINAR: Frederic Church, Mexico, and the Legacy of the Landscape Oil Sketch Between 1881 and his death in 1900, Frederic Church made fifteen trips to Mexico. Inspired by the country’s varied topography and colonial architecture, he completed more than sixty plein-air oil sketches, graphite drawings, and finished paintings, while also collecting Mexican photographs, watercolors, books, ceramics, textiles, and Toltec reliefs. Location: Online via Zoom Time: 6:00 pm More Info: olana.org
second floor of the 1815 Main House. Advance reservations encouraged. Location: Thomas Cole House, 218 Spring Street, Catskill Time: 12:00 pm More Info: thomascole.org Book Discussion: Strange Pictures The spine-tingling “triumphant international debut” (Publishers Weekly starred review) that has taken Japan by storm—an eerie and fiendishly clever Japanese puzzle mystery in which a series of seemingly innocent pictures draws you into a disturbing web of unsolved mysteries and shattered psyches. Location: The Lost Bookshop, 120 Main Street, Delhi Time: 6:00 pm More Info: thelostbookshop.com
OCTOBER 16 October Birding at Shawangunk Grasslands Join the Catskill Center’s Finn Parnell for a guided morning walk through the Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuge, one of the region’s best spots for grassland birding. Location: Parking details will be shared once registration is complete. Time: 9:00-11:00 am More Info: catskillcenter.org Witchy Women Curator Tour Join Shelby Mattice for a discussion of the often dangerous relationship between marginalized women, ancient superstitions and traditional skills. All Curators tours are approximately two hours long. Tickets for the tour must be purchased online. Seating is limited for these tours. Location: Greene County Historical Society, 90 County Highway 42, Coxsackie Time: 2:00 pm More Info: gchistory.org
OCTOBER 16-NOVEMBER 15
OCTOBER 14-18 27th Annual Woodstock Film Festival Five days of dynamic, thought-provoking, and unforgettable independent film screenings, panels, networking and more. The Woodstock Film Festival is an Oscar®-qualifying festival in three short film categories. Location: Locations throughout Woodstock, Saugerties, Rosendale and Kingston More Info: woodstockfilmfestival.org
OCTOBER 15 Close Looking at Art: Hunters in a Landscape by Thomas Cole Take a closer look at Thomas Cole’s Hunters in a Landscape during a guided close-looking session in the new Richard Sharp Gallery on the
Two Exhibitions: Temma Bell & Sheila McManus Plus Member’s Group Show Temma Bell paints her surroundings both interior and exterior. Bell studied at Boston University, Indiana University and received B.F.A from the Philadelphia College of Art. Bell is a Native New Yorker who has also lived in Iceland and France. Sheila McManus works in oil painting. Her current paintings are a mix of Catskills plein air, NYC street paintings, flowers, still lives and lately, abstractions. She is drawn to the human made elements in the landscape, rather than grand views, especially the structures that aren’t in use anymore. Location: Longyear Gallery, 785 Main Street, Margaretville Opening Reception: October 17, 3:00-5:00 pm Gallery Hours: Friday-Sunday, 11:00-4:00 pm More Info: longyeargallery.org
OCTOBER 17 Photography Walk & Workshop with Francis X. Driscoll A guided walk along the scenic Windham Path. Fran will share tips for capturing nature and
landscapes with your camera or phone. Afterwards, head to the Community Center, 5494 State Route 23, Windham for a hands-on intro to photo editing to turn your shots into stunning images. Rain date October 18. Location: Meet at the Route 23 entrance of the Windham Path, Windham Time: 8:00 am-2:00 pm More Info: mainstreetcenter.org 8th Catskill Covered Bridge Rally Start at Catskills Visitor Center in Mt. Tremper and follow 13 creeks and rivers, crossing historic covered bridges. Location: Meet at the Catskills Visitor Center, 5069 Route 28, Mt. Tremper Time: Meet @ 9:00 am, rally departs @ 10:00 am More Info: 1903autorun.com Sourdough Starter Workshop: Build Your Bread from Scratch Learn the art of naturally fermented bread by creating your very own gluten AND gluten-free sourdough starter through a hands-on workshop. Pre-registration requested. Location: Fenimore Farm and Country Village, 5775 NY-80, Cooperstown Hours: 10:00 am-1:00 pm More Info: fenimorefarm.org Early Technology Day Explore ancient skills and survival techniques through interactive demonstrations. Experience flint knapping, fire making, cordage making, atlatl spear throwing, and early archery. The Museum’s archaeology department will showcase projectile points, tools, and local archaeological finds, offering insights into early technologies. If you have a potential artifact, bring it along—Museum experts will be available to help identify it. Included in Museum admission. Location: Iroquois Museum, 324 Caverns Road, Howes Cave Time: 10:00 am-4:00 pm More Info: iroquoismuseum.org Histories of the Sawkill Through Human Impacts The evolving relationship between people and the Sawkill Creek from Lenape fishing practices and floodplain agriculture, to European colonists harnessing its waters for the tanning industry, to its role in 20th-century municipal infrastructure. The program will take place primarily at the Woodstock Historical Society, concluding with a short walk to Tannery Brook. Location: Historical Society of Woodstock, 20 Comeau Drive, Woodstock Time: 11:00 am-1:00 pm More Info: woodstocklandconservancy.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
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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 The Music of Amy Beach 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. They are joined by special guest cellist Julian Langford. Location: Doctorow Center for the Arts, 7971 Main Street, Hunter Time: 2:00 pm More Info: catskillmtn.org
The Orchestra Now: The American Spirit TŌN welcomes guest conductor Kellen Gray, artistic director of the Lafayette Symphony Orchestra in Indiana, and violinist Melissa White, a first-prize laureate in the Sphinx Competition and a founding member of the Grammy-winning Harlem Quartet, for a concert highlighting the music of four celebrated American composers: Aaron Copland, Florence Price, William Grant Still, and Jessie Montgomery. Location: Fisher Center at Bard College, Annandale Time: 7:00 pm More Info: fishercenter.bard.edu
Music and Empire: European Composers Moving East From Elizaveta Miller, Assistant Professor of Harpsichord and Fortepiano at McGill University and Early Music Area Coordinator, a program presenting rare repertoire by European composers who traveled, worked, and composed in the Russian Empire and the eastern Habsburg lands during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Location: Streaming Online on Facebook and YouTube Time: 2:00 pm More Info: catskillmtn.org
Andrea Kleine: Incubations (3 works in progress) An evening of works in progress by writerperformance artist-filmmaker Andrea Kleine. Location: Bushel Collective, 106 Main St, Delhi Time: 8:00 pm More Info: bushelcollective.org
Sophia Stoyanovich, violin & Derek Wang, piano American violinist Sophia Stoyanovich has earned acclaim for her “lustrous tone” and “superb musical instincts” (Fanfare). Since her debut with the Seattle Symphony, she has performed internationally, including solo debuts at the Wiener Konzerthaus and Carnegie Hall’s Weill Hall. Pianist Derek Wang, praised for his “pure poetry” (Seen and Heard International), won the 2021 New York Liszt Competition and studied at Juilliard and Yale. Location: First Presbyterian Church, 96 Main St. (NYS Route 23), Stamford Time: 3:00 pm More Info: friendsmusic.org
Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds are hailed for their explosive brand of modern soul. Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com
OCTOBER 18
Aziz Ansari: Hypothetical Tour Aziz Ansari is an award-winning actor, director, writer and comedian. He co-created, writes, directs, and stars in the Netflix original series Master of None, for which he has won several Emmys for writing and directing. He recently released the film Good Fortune which he wrote, directed, and costars with Keanu Reeves and Seth Rogen. He is also known for co-starring in NBC’s Parks and Recreation and for being one of the few headlining comedians ever to sell out Madison Square Garden. His latest special Nightclub Comedian is now streaming on Netflix. Location: Ulster Performing Arts Center, 601 Broadway, Kingston Time: 7:00 pm More Info: bardavon.org Murder Mystery Mixer: “Dead Man’s Party” Do you dare put your detective skills to the test? Murder is on the menu for this interactive cocktail experience in the Special Exhibit of the Museum at Bethel Woods. It’s the third Friday in October, which means it’s time for the annual election of the Mayor of Halloweentown! What begins as a spirited Halloween party, complete with costumes, candy, and plenty of campaigning, takes a deadly turn when one of the revelers is murdered. Help uncover the killer, solve this spooktacular mystery, and win great prizes! Location: Museum at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel Time: 7:00 pm More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org
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Fall Family Fun Fest 2026 Featuring fresh apple cidering with hot & cold tastings, food vendors, pumpkin decorating, guided & self-guided hikes, blacksmithing, and live music! Location: The Ashokan Center 477 Beaverkill Rd, Olivebridge Time: 12:00-5:00 pm More Info: ashokancenter.org Ashokan Rail Trail Anniversary Walk & Ride Join us for a celebration of the Ashokan Rail Trail with epic leaf peeping, music in the style of Appalachian old-time by Witch Butter, a group walk/ride, and autumnal pies from Little Rye Bakehouse. Please park at Onteora High School and shuttle over to the trailhead. Bicyclists are encouraged to bike from other trailheads. Location: Park at Onteora High School, 5203, 4166 NY-28, Boiceville Time: 12:00 pm More Info: woodstocklandconservancy.org
French and English Baroque Music for Tenor A concert of chamber music presented by Hudson Valley Baroque, featuring Marc Molomot Imagine the musical circle around Madame de Maintenon, an impoverished French Huguenot who became the devoutly Catholic, influential secret wife of the Sun King, Louis XIV – the monarch who ordered the Protestant Huguenots expelled from France. Imagine the amorous and bawdy exuberance of London’s musical culture after the end of Oliver Cromwell’s Puritan government in 1658 and the restoration of the British monarchy. These milieux will be conjured by this concert of beautiful and expressive music for tenor voice from the French and English Baroque. Location: Historic Huguenot Street 60 Huguenot Street, New Paltz Time: 3:00 pm More Info: huguenotstreet.org
OCTOBER 18-NOVEMBER 1 Torn Asunder: The Schoharie Region as a Battlefield, with Jeff O’Connor From the breaking of the Covenant Chain in 1777 to the end of the American Revolution in 1783, the once peaceful European and Haudenosaunee communities along, and neighboring, the Schoharie Valley devolved into a brutal civil war. Author and historian Jeff O’Connor will explore the war to help better understand the points of conflict in this area and the lasting impressions made on how they are remembered. Location: Iroquois Museum, 324 Caverns Road, Howes Cave Time: 1:00 pm More Info: iroquoismuseum.org
Heidi Schreck’s What the Constitution Means to Me A play that explores the profound impact of the U.S. Constitution on four generations of women, told through an autobiographical lens. Directed by Caitlin McColl and featuring Molly Gaebe, John Remington, Avery Kashman, Isadora Konnoff, and Laila Monsen. Location: Pop-up performances throughout the region: check catskillmtn.org for locations and times.
OCTOBER 20 Authentic Movement for Radical Connection Authentic Movement is a physical practice developed by Mary Starks Whitehouse in the mid 20th century, integrating her studies in dance and Jungian psychology into a new embodied inquiry toward allowing “the unconscious to express itself in movement.” Sessions are 1.5 hours. Participants will be invited to move their bodies according to impulses that arise from within, at times while being witnessed and at others, in simultaneous exploration with the group. $0-20 pay what you can. Please RSVP for each session. Location: Bushel Collective, 106 Main St, Delhi Time: 6:30 pm More Info: bushelcollective.org Cinderella by The United European Ballet Company Step into a magical world of elegance, romance, and timeless storytelling with Cinderella, one of the most beloved fairy tales brought to life through the beauty of classical ballet. This exquisite production features a company of highly accomplished ballet artists, including leading principal dancers from Ukraine, delivering a performance filled with grace, emotion, and technical brilliance. Location: Ulster Performing Arts Center, 601 Broadway, Kingston Time: 7:00 pm More Info: bardavon.org
Marco Benevento Over the course of seven studio albums and countless shows around the world, keyboardist Marco Benevento has amassed a devoted fanbase, while drawing praise from tastemakers far and wide. Los Angeles Times has written, “it’s safe to say that no one sees the keyboard quite like Marco Benevento’s genre-blind mashup of indie rock, jazz and skewed improvisation.” Location: Bearsville Theater, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm More Info: bearsvilletheater.com
OCTOBER 22 October Birding at Thorn Preserve Join the Catskill Center’s Finn Parnell for a guided morning walk through Thorn Preserve. With sweeping grasslands, riparian forest, and peaceful ponds, this diverse landscape provides excellent habitat for a variety of bird species. Location: Parking details will be shared once registration is complete. Time: 9:00-11:00 am More Info: catskillcenter.org
OCTOBER 21
Handmade Cards with Regina Learn to create beautiful custom cards in a relaxed setting. Open to all ages and abilities. All materials provided. Location: Mountain Top Library, 6093 Main Street, Tannersville Time: 3:00 pm More Info: mountaintoplibrary.org
Music Fan Series: 40 Watts from Nowhere Frustrated by commercial radio in the ’90s, a music-loving legal secretary builds one from scratch and runs it out of her LA apartment. Location: Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main Street, Rosendale Times: 7:00 pm More Info: rosendaletheatre.org
The Steel Wheels w/ Damn Tall Buildings Get ready for an unforgettable night of rootsy Americana tunes with The Steel Wheels with Damn Tall Buildings. Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com
Darn Good Docs: Top of the World Explores Windows on the World, the iconic restaurant that occupied the 106th and 107th floors of the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Location: Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main Street, Rosendale Times: 7:00 pm More Info: rosendaletheatre.org An Evening with Dizgo Born from attic jam sessions between childhood friends, Dizgo’s story began with two guitars, a tape recorder, and a dream – literally. The band’s name arose a dream, before their first gig, reflecting the cosmic, boundary – breaking sound they’d soon deliver. Critics have called Dizgo “one of the most operative names in the jam band scene,” blending the adventurous spirit of jamtronica with the deep pulse of funk, the warmth of soul, explosive guitar, and the kaleidoscopic textures of psychedelic rock. Their live shows are immersive journeys — a dance party and mind-trip rolled into one. Location: Bearsville Theater, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm More Info: bearsvilletheater.com
Calling all musicians, music lovers, history buffs & antique aficionados! There is a piano museum in Hunter with one of the largest collections of historical pianos in America. Catskill Mountain Foundation Piano Performance Museum Featuring the Steven E. Greenstein Collection 7971 Route 23A Village of Hunter, NY 12442 www.catskillmtn.org The Piano Performance Museum is funded in part by the Jarvis and Constance Doctorow Family Foundation and private contributions.
Come see the history of this splendid instrument with original instruments from the days of Mozart to the modern era: Clavichord • Harpsichord • Spinet • Melodion Fortepiano Grands and Squares • Modern Piano Era You can play them all! Come book a group tour from 4 up to 25 people Admission: $10/person For further info: weisbergp@catskillmtn.org
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OCTOBER 23 Murder Mystery Mixer: “Beetlejuice’s Ghostly Ball” Do you dare put your detective skills to the test? Murder is on the menu for this interactive cocktail experience in the Special Exhibit of the Museum at Bethel Woods. Beetlejuice, the ghost with the most, is hosting his annual Ghostly Ball, where spirits rise for a night of otherworldly celebration. But when one guest winds up dead … again! … it’s showtime. Dress as your favorite ghost or recently (or not-sorecently) deceased character, help solve the murder, and compete for cool prizes! Location: Museum at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel Time: 7:00 pm More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org Big Yellow Taxi - The Music of Joni Mitchell Join us at Colony for an unforgettable evening celebrating the iconic music of Joni Mitchell! Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com The Spruce Woods and Its Folklore, Part One: A talk by Patti and Ricky Brooks The Brooks will explore the settlement of the upper East Kill Valley of the 19th century, as portrayed by Ricky’s mother, Doris West Brooks, in her acclaimed book, The Old Eagle Nester. These stories paint a compelling portrait of life in and around the remote Spruce Woods near Colgate Lake. Antique maps, deeds, survey instruments and chains used to spur settlement of the East Kill Valley wilderness will be displayed. Participants are encouraged to read the book prior to the talk. Free, but space is limited. Location: 1913 Ulster & Delaware Train Station, 5132 Rt 23A, Haines Falls Time: 7:00 pm More Info: Registration encouraged: mthsdirector@mths.org or at 518 598 6657 Leslie Mendelson With her enchanted voice and evocative songwriting, Leslie Mendelson has won the hearts and minds of both an adoring fanbase and fellow artists alike. No less than Jackson Browne has declared, “Leslie’s melodies are timeless. They reach me way back in my youth somewhere. I hear traces of Burt Bacharach and Carole King, and hooks and passages that remind me of the pop songs I grew up hearing on the radio.” A Grammy Award-nominated artist, Mendelson returns this summer with her fourth studio album, After The Party. Location: Bearsville Theater, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm More Info: bearsvilletheater.com
a place in every facet of human life. Eventually, the robots take over and destroy every human on Earth. Location: Fisher Center at Bard College, Annandale Days & Times: October 23 @ 7:30 pm, October 24 @ 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm, October 25 @ 4:00 pm More Info: fishercenter.bard.edu
OCTOBER 24 The Spruce Woods Part Two: A Hike with Patti and Ricky Brooks The Brooks will lead an interactive hike to explore the environs of the upper East Kill Valley, the remote location that formed the backdrop for the stories of Doris West Brooks’ acclaimed book The Old Eagle Nester. These stories paint a compelling portrait of 19th century life in and around the Spruce Woods near Colgate Lake. Participants are encouraged to read the book prior to the hike. Difficulty: moderate, due to length and rough terrain. Bring water and snacks. Wear bright clothing. Location: Meet at Mountain Top Historical Society, 5132 Rt 23A, Haines Falls Time: 9:00-11:00 am More Info: Registration required: mthsdirector@mths.org or at 518 598 6657 Historic Cooking for Kids Workshop Children ages 7 and above, accompanied by an adult participant, will prepare a farmhouse lunch on the Hanford House kitchen’s Royal Bride cookstove. When all is ready they will enjoy the meal they have prepared in the house’s dining room. Handouts with recipes and cookstove tips will be provided. Pre-registration required. Location: Hanford Mills Museum, 51 County Highway 12, East Meredith Time: 9:30 am-2:00 pm More Info: hanfordmills.org
Baking for the Holidays Spend your day in Lippitt Farmhouse learning how to bake traditional holiday treats. Fire and bake in the brick oven and bake kettle. Share your delicious goods at the end of the session or take them home to impress your family. Preregistration requested. Location: Fenimore Farm and Country Village, 5775 NY-80, Cooperstown Hours: 10:00 am-4:00 pm More Info: fenimorefarm.org
OCTOBER 23-25 Rossum’s Universal Robots R.U.R. or “Rossum’s Universal Robots” was written in 1920 by Czech writer Karel Čapek. He is credited with introducing the word “robot” to the world. A foundational science fiction text, the play imagines a future where robots have
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Weekend Lighthouse Tours — Hudson Departure A guided boat tour to the historic Hudson-Athens Lighthouse. Travel aboard boats operated by our transportation partner, Catskill Charters, and enjoy a rare opportunity to explore the
Lighthouse while learning about its rich history from our knowledgeable volunteer guides. Location: Ferry Street, Hudson Time: Tours depart every 20 minutes starting at 10:00 am. Last tour at 12:20 pm. More Info: halps.org Tarot Readings with Jenn Johnson-Hamer Jenn will be doing 15 minute discovery readings, to help with getting lost and finding your way. $25. Email us at hello@thelostbookshop. com to sign up for a timeslot. Location: The Lost Bookshop, 120 Main Street, Delhi Time: 3:00-5:00 pm More Info: thelostbookshop.com Birds of a Feather: Twelfth Night with Yi-heng Yang, fortepianist Music lovers will flock to hear Birds of a Feather, as the sensational Twelfth Night Ensemble returns with fortepiano soloist Yi-heng Yang in a joyful program where classical music takes flight in a jovial, sublime and celebration of avian life. From the “Chicken” Symphony no. 83 of Haydn, to Mozart’s magnificent and Piano Concerto no. 17 K 453, whose Allegretto Theme and Variations uses a theme Mozart wrote down from his beloved pet starling, birdsongs, wit and playfulness abound in the hands of these leading period instrument performers. Location: Doctorow Center for the Arts, 7971 Main Street, Hunter Time: 7:00 pm More Info: catskillmtn.org Chris Fleming Live Chris Fleming is a comedian, actor, writer, and one of the most distinctive performers working today. Most recently, his stand-up special Chris Fleming: Live at the Palace, which premiered on HBO and is now streaming on HBOMax, garnered him an Emmy nomination. Chris can can also be seen on the Emmy-winning hit Apple TV series Widow’s Bay. Location: Ulster Performing Arts Center, 601 Broadway, Kingston Time: 8:00 pm More Info: bardavon.org Steve Earle: 51 Years Of Songs & Stories Steve Earle is one of the most acclaimed singersongwriters of his generation. A protege of legendary songwriters Townes Van Zandt and Guy Clark, he quickly became a master storyteller in his own right, with his songs being recorded by Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Joan Baez, Emmylou Harris, The Pretenders, and countless others. 1986 saw the release of his record, Guitar Town, which shot to number one on the country charts and is now regarded as a classic of the Americana genre. Most recently, Earle’s 1988 hit “Copperhead Road” was made an official state song of Tennessee. Location: Bearsville Theater, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm More Info: bearsvilletheater.com
Jazz at Lincoln Center presents New Orleans Songbook Led by acclaimed pianist Luther S. Allison, soulful vocalists, and backed by an equally brilliant band, this concert celebrates the legendary composers and timeless songs that define the Crescent City – best known as the historic epicenter of jazz. From the pioneering sounds of Jelly Roll Morton and Louis Armstrong to the distinctive stylings of Ellis Marsalis and James Black, this celebratory evening of amazing music is not to be missed by fans of jazz, New Orleans, and great music. Location: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel Time: 8:00 pm More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org
OCTOBER 24 & 25 Halloween Craft Workshop and Scavenger Hunt Join us for a kid-friendly event, full of fall crafts and spooky clues. Your child will complete three seasonal craft projects and explore the grounds of our 10-acre historic site on a Halloweenthemed scavenger hunt. Participants will take all crafts home, and enjoy candy and other allergy-safe treats! Costumes are welcome! $10 admission for all children. Activities are most appropriate for elementary aged children. Adult guardians are free of charge. Pre-registration is required for this event. Location: Historic Huguenot Street, 81 Huguenot Street, New Paltz Time: Register for a time slot on Saturday or Sunday at 10:00 am, 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm, or 3:00 pm. More Info: huguenotstreet.org
Bard Conservatory Orchestra Conducted by Leon Botstein with Marcus Roberts Trio This concert program spans nearly a century of orchestral music, from Beethoven’s Symphony No. 4 to Edward Elgar’s Symphony No. 1. Between them, pianist Marcus Roberts and his trio join the orchestra for James P. Johnson’s Yamecraw, a tribute to the Harlem stride master that brings jazz and the symphony orchestra together in a distinctive collaboration. Location: Fisher Center at Bard College, Annandale Days & Times: October 24 @ 7:00 pm, October 25 @ 2:00 pm More Info: fishercenter.bard.edu
OCTOBER 25 Trick or Treating Costume Contest A FREE contest for kids & families. Location: Fenimore Farm and Country Village, 5775 NY-80, Cooperstown Hours: 12:00-3:00 pm More Info: fenimorefarm.org
OCTOBER 26 & 27
Cemetery Spooktacular and Halloween Party Attendees are invited to explore the grounds on a guided cemetery tour, take part in a lively costume contest, and enjoy tricks and treats throughout the evening. Additional activities include face painting and an exciting ghost hunting experience. Location: Greene County Historical Society, 90 County Highway 42, Coxsackie Time: 1:00-4:00 pm More Info: gchistory.org The Haudenosaunee During the Revolutionary War, with Perry Ground This lively and detailed presentation will explore the role of the Haudenosaunee in the Revolutionary War: efforts to stay neutral, choosing sides, individual battles — as well as the longlasting effects this conflict had on the Confederacy — covering the council fire, Sullivan-Clinton campaign, loss of land, and diaspora of people. Location: Iroquois Museum, 324 Caverns Road, Howes Cave Time: 1:00 pm More Info: iroquoismuseum.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 Yasmin Williams Yasmin Williams is an innovative guitarist and composer known for her unique compositional approach and expansive instrumental style. Her latest album Acadia, released on Nonesuch Records, showcases her evolution from solo performer to collaborative artist, featuring partnerships with notable musicians like Aoife O’Donovan and Immanuel Wilkins. Her music, while rooted in folk traditions, transcends conventional structures to incorporate elements of progressive rock and experimental composition. Location: Bearsville Theater, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm More Info: bearsvilletheater.com
OCTOBER 26 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
Jeff Tweedy A special solo show with Jeff Tweedy, founding member and frontman of Wilco and one of contemporary music’s most respected songwriters and performers. In addition to 13 Wilco albums, he has released five solo albums – most recently, his 30-track Twilight Override. A rare chance to experience songs from across his expansive catalog and step inside the world of Twilight Override. Location: Bearsville Theater, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Time: 7:30 pm More Info: bearsvilletheater.com
OCTOBER 29 Thursday Classics & Independent Film Series: The Sisterhood of Night (2014) When a teenage girl says she’s the victim of a secret network called The Sisterhood of Night, a quiet suburban town becomes the backdrop for a modern-day Salem witch trial. Location: Mountain Cinema, Doctorow Center for the Arts, 7971 Main Street, Hunter Time: 6:00 pm More Info: catskillmtn.org Meet the Artists: Jarod Lew and John Shen (Woodstock AIRs) This series provides an opportunity for attendees to learn more about the work of other local and visiting artists, including CPW’s artists-inresidence. These events are free and open to the public. Location: CPW, 25 Dederick Street, Kingston Time: 6:00 pm More Info: cpw.org Darn Good Docs: Who Moves America Across America, UPS workers come together to demand better working conditions as they go about criss-crossing the world, delivering packages and connecting lives. Featuring an inPerson Q&A with Film Producer Yoni Golijov! Location: Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main Street, Rosendale Times: 7:00 pm More Info: rosendaletheatre.org
OCTOBER 30 Murder Mystery Mixer: “Hocus Pocus” Do you dare put your detective skills to the test? Murder is on the menu for this interactive cocktail experience. A coven of witches and warlocks has gathered to initiate a new member, but with bold ambitions, simmering rivalries, and deep resentments, this gathering is anything but charmed. When the ceremony goes terribly awry, it “spells” disaster. Can you uncover the culprit before another witch or warlock meets a wicked end? Prizes awarded to the best detective! Location: Museum at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel Time: 7:00 pm More Info: bethelwoodscenter.org
October 2026 • GUIDE 97
Carsie Blanton Carsie Blanton brings her infectious melodies and lyrical wit with hooks, chutzpah and revolutionary optimism! Location: Colony, 22 Rock City Rd., Woodstock Time: 7:00 pm More Info: colonywoodstock.com
St. Vincent Annie Clark made her recorded debut as St. Vincent in 2007 with Marry Me, quickly becoming regarded as one of the most innovative and fascinating presences in modern music. Her subsequent albums won several Grammy awards and break St. Vincent into the U.S. and UK top 10s. This year, fans were able to experience the St. Vincent songbook live in orchestrally embellished splendor, via the release of her Live in London! album and limited run of North American orchestral performances. Location: Bearsville Theater, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Time: 8:00 pm More Info: bearsvilletheater.com
OCTOBER 30-NOVEMBER 1 Peter Samelson: PHENOM Peter Samelson invites you to enter a mesmerizing exploration of phenomenon. Drawing from 50 years of his acclaimed repertoire, Peter brings this extraordinary show of magic and mentalism as he journeys beyond what seems possible in the real world. Experience impossible coincidences, uncanny revelations, and moments that challenge everything you think you know about perception. Location: Bridge Street Theatre, 44 W. Bridge Street, Catskill Time: Friday @ 7:00 pm; Saturday @ 2:00 & 7:00 pm; Sunday @ 2:00 pm More Info: bridgest.org
final resting places of its participants. Appropriate for all ages. Please note due to the nature of this location—a historic burying ground, with uneven, unpaved ground and close clusters of gravestones—this tour may not be accessible for everyone. Location: Historic Huguenot Street, 81 Huguenot Street, New Paltz Time: 11:00 am More Info: huguenotstreet.org
for three decades as a two-person band. Higher energy than a folk act, but not as loud as a rock band, they mix passionate songwriting with a flair for entertainment and a repertoire of classic songs drawn from their sixteen albums of uplifting original material. Location: Phoenicia Playhouse, 10 Church Street, Phoenicia Time: 7:00 pm More Info: phoeniciaplayhouse.com
Trick or Treat on Huguenot Street Children and families are welcome to gather on Huguenot Street and seek goodies from the residents of the historic homes, both past and present. We are excited to be partnering with Marks Hotdogs for the fourth year in a row, as well as welcoming From the Ground Up Food Truck back to the event. This event is free and open to the public, but please RSVP. Location: Historic Huguenot Street, 81 Huguenot Street, New Paltz Time: 3:30-5:30 pm More Info: huguenotstreet.org
The Monster Bash From the creator of the Hudson Valley Burlesque Bash and the Rosendale Theatre Collective comes THE MONSTER BASH! Join Mistress of Scaremonies, Ginger Maraschino, for a spooktacular Halloween celebration, featuring live undead Boo-lesque and Crypt-tease performances from some of the Hudson Valley’s hottest hellraisers! Location: Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main Street, Rosendale Times: 8:00 pm More Info: rosendaletheatre.org
Trunk or Treat in Tannersville Children and adults alike are encouraged to show off their bewitching costumes during Trick or Trunk. In the spirit of the holiday trunks are decorated in a spooky fashion and kids collect candy from each one. This event also features crafts, games, and other activities. Location: Main Street, Tannersville Time: TBA
OCTOBER 31-NOVEMBER 1
Scary Stories with Mandy Tarbell Join Mohawk storyteller Mandy Tarbell for spine-tingling tales perfect for the Halloween season. These traditional stories will keep you on the edge of your seat, with Mandy skillfully tailoring each tale to suit the age of her audience. Included in Museum admission. Location: Iroquois Museum, 324 Caverns Road, Howes Cave Time: 1:00 pm More Info: iroquoismuseum.org
Sir Elton – Featuring Lance Millard, a Tribute to Elton John The quintessential homage to the incomparable Elton John. With over 25 years of dedication, Lance Millard embodies the spirit of Elton with unmatched precision and passion, enthralling audiences night after night. From the iconic costumes to the spot-on vocals, Lance’s portrayal is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the artistry of Elton John. Accompanied by a hand-selected ensemble of the region’s most talented musicians, Sir Elton delivers a spellbinding performance that ignites the stage and fills theaters with an electric atmosphere. Location: Orpheum Performing Arts Center, 7971 Main Street, Tannersville Time: 7:00 pm More Info: catskillmtn.org
Or Give Me Death: An (Educational) Tour of the Historic Burying Ground, led by HHS’s Tours & Interpretation Coordinator, Zack Veith Visiting various gravestones associated with soldiers, a suspected Loyalist, and witnesses to history, “Or Give Me Death” will explore the diverse stories of the revolution through the
Flying Cat Music Series: The Kennedys The Kennedys are vocalists/guitarists Pete and Maura Kennedy. A husband and wife duo, they set out on the road together in the early 90s as members of Nanci Griffith’s Blue Moon Orchestra, and since striking out on their own, they have traveled the U.S., Canada and Europe
OCTOBER 31
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God Street Wine A special look back—and a look ahead—as God Street Wine revisits memories of their legendary Wetlands era while celebrating the release of their new album, The Method. Location: Bearsville Theater, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Times: October 31 @ 7:00 pm; November 1 @ 6:00 pm More Info: bearsvilletheater.com Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark in Concert Celebrating its 45th anniversary, Raiders redefined the possibilities of adventure cinema and launched actor Harrison Ford to legendary status. Indiana Jones is the classic hero in this adventure set in the 1930s which follows the quick-witted and determined archaeologist as he hunts for the Lost Ark of the Covenant. Location: Fisher Center at Bard College, Annandale Times: October 31 @ 7:00 pm; November 1 @ 2:00 pm More Info: fishercenter.bard.edu
NOVEMBER 1 God Street Wine for Kids A celebration of music and community with God Street Wine and Picnic Committee. After opening the show, members of Picnic Committee (including the son of GSW’s Aaron Lieberman) will join God Street Wine for a set of GSW classics and influential covers in a volume-adjusted setting built for kids. Location: Bearsville Theater, 277-297 Tinker Street, Woodstock Time: 12:00 pm More Info: bearsvilletheater.com
October 2026 • GUIDE 99
Please Support Our Advertisers A Slice of Italy asliceofitaly7115.com See ad on page 54 Angela’s Pizza angelaspizzarestaurant.com See ad on page 51 Augustine Nursery AugustineNursery.com See ad on page 57 Barnwood Restaurant barnwooddining.com See ad on page 55 Brainard Ridge Realty brainardridge.com See ad on page 1 Brandywine facebook.com/ Brandywinerest.net See ad on page 17 Briars & Brambles Books briarsandbramblesbooks.com See ad on page 17 Camp Catskill campcatskill.co See ad on page 50 Catskill Center catskillcenter.org See ad on page 42 Catskill Collectibles catskillcollectibles.com See ad on page 55 Catskills Visitors Center catskillsvisitorcenter.com See ad on page 42 Chef Deanna X Bramble Hill chefdeanna.com See ad on page 48 CMF Call for Auditions: The Nutcracker catskillmtn.org See ad on page 84 CMF Classic & Independent Film Series catskillmtn.org See ad on page 65 CMF Gift Shop catskillmtn.org See ad on page 68 CMF Mountain Cinema catskillmtn.org See ad on page 78 CMF Piano Performance Museum catskillmtn.org See ad on page 95 CMF presents Birds of a Feather catskillmtn.org See ad on page 9 CMF presents International Fortepiano Salon catskillmtn.org internationalfortepianosalon.com See ad on page 59 CMF presents Sir Elton catskillmtn.org See ad on page 11 CMF presents The Music of Amy Beach catskillmtn.org See ad on page 61 The Emerson Resort & Spa emersonresort.com See ad on Back Cover Fenimore Art Museum fenimoreart.org See ad on page 3
Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty fourseasonssir.com See ad on page 2 Francis X. Driscoll Photography francisxdriscoll.com See ad on page 24 Gallagher & Company gallagherandcompany.com See ad on page 21 Garden of Stone 518 734 4730 See ad on page 24 Gardens by Trista gardensbytrista.com See ad on page 52 GNH Lumber gnhlumber.com See ad on page 28 Gracie’s graciesny.com See ad on page 57 Greenville Arms greenvillearms.com See ad on page 49 Hampton Inn hamptoninn.com See ad on page 54 Handcrafted Octoberfest quailhollow.com See ad on page 13 High Falls Cafe highfallscafe.com See ad on page 55 Lisa Jaeger, Associate Real Estate Broker, Coldwell Banker Village Green Realty windhamnewyorkskihomes.com See ad on page 23 Jenny’s Candy jennyscandy.com See ad on page 47 Just Jollof Kitchen justjollofkitchen.com See ad on page 51 L & G Roofing & Construction Corp. windhamroofs.com See ad on page 25 Main Street Market 518 734 4134 See ad on page 30 Mama’s Boy Burgers mamasboyburgers.com See ad on page 54 MATH presents The Sunshine Boys catskillmtn.org See ad on page 45 MATH presents What the Constitution Means to Me catskillmtn.org See ad on page 99 Mountain View Studio mtnviewstudio.com See ad on page 48 Mountain Breeze Yoga & Sound Studio MountainBreezeYoga.com See ad on page 19 The Nest Egg nesteggshop.com See ad on page 53 Pancho Villa’s Mexican Restaurant panchovillamex.com See ad on page 47
Pure Catskills purecatskills.com See ad on page 4 Rice Plumbing & Heating riceplumbingandheating.com See ad on Inside Back Cover Rivertowns Books rivertownsbooks.com See ad on page 39 Roxbury Bottle Shop roxburybottleshop.com See ad on page 50 Shaw Country Realty Carol Shaw, Broker/Owner 518 734 3500 See ad on page 32 Smitty’s Nursery & Landscape smittyscapes.com See ad on page 18 Sunflower Market SunflowerNatural.com See ad on Inside Front Cover Thorpe’s GMC thorpesgmcinc.com See ad on page 57 The Tortorella Team at Coldwell Banker Village Green Realty secondhomeguru.com See ad on pages 34-35 Ulster County VisitUlsterCountyNY.com See ad on page 7 Ulster Savings Bank Ulstersavings.com See ad on page 13 Verbatim Text Sound Expo verbatimtextsoundexpo.com See ad on pages 74-75 Windham Fine Arts windhamfinearts.com See ad on page 19 Windham Foundation windhamfoundation.com See ad on page 20 Windham Hardware 518 734 4433 See ad on page 18 Windham Manor windhammanor.com See ad on page 31 Windham Mountain Club windhammountainclub.com See ad on page 26 Windham Wine & Liquor 518 734 3474 See ad on page 24 Windstar Realty Group WindstarRealty.com See ad on pages 14-15 WIOX 91.3FM wioxradio.org See ad on page 56 Woodlab woodlabslabs.com See ad on page 22 WRIP 97.9FM rip979.com See ad on page 59