Winter is a magical time of year. A time to spend with family and friends and spread cheer to those you love. If you’re looking for something to do, we’ve put together a list of the best winter events in Dutchess County.
Winter Attractions in Dutchess County
1. Kevin McCurdy’s Holiday Spirit Festival
For 21 years, Kevin McCurdy’s Holiday Festival has spread holiday magic. It runs through December 27th, so you’ll have multiple dates to check out all their attractions like the Winter Carnival photo ops, Tree Lighting, Christmas Canyon Snow Magic, and much more.
2. The Wonderland of Lights
From December 18th to the 28th, visitors can enjoy the displays at the Wonderland of Lights. Synchronized with festive music, the drive-thru experience is a can’t-miss event. Depending on the size of your group, you can choose to view the lights and sculptures in a passenger vehicle, limo/mini-bus, or motorcoach.
3. Winter Glow
For some of the best Christmas lighting in Dutchess County, Winter Glow presents attendees with a mile-long adventure that brings the holidays right from the comfort of your car. The event is open until January 4th at the Heritage Financial Park. The visit will take between 30 and 45 minutes.
4. Holiday Cookie Decorating at Troutbeck
On Saturday, December 20th, Chef Emma Isakoff brings a sweet holiday celebration to families at Troutbeck. Decorate fresh cookies while listening to holiday music and sharing festive moments. Each cookie kit includes enough supplies to decorate six to eight cookies and is best suited for one to two people.
5. Christmas Eve Dinner at Troutbeck
Also at Troutbeck, on Wednesday, December 24, is a special Christmas Eve dinner. The meal features a seasonal à la carte menu, including poultry, meats, seafood, and vegetarian items.
6. Sledding at Bowdoin Park
Some of the best sledding in the area can be found at Bowdoin Park. The park offers plenty of space for kids and adults to engage in some good old-fashioned winter fun.
7. Ice Skating at McCann Ice Arena
Ice skating is a staple activity in the winter. The McCann Ice Arena provides the perfect location, offering a great way to stay active during the winter.
New Year’s Events in Poughkeepsie & Dutchess County
New Year’s events in Dutchess County give you the opportunity to end the holidays on the right note as you celebrate the beginning of a new year. If you have a hard time staying up late enough to see the ball drop, an energizing sativa can give you the energy to keep the party going.
1. New Year’s Eve at the DoubleTree by Hilton
One of the best New Year’s events in Poughkeepsie includes an all-inclusive package at the DoubleTree by Hilton Poughkeepsie from 7:00 PM to 1:00 AM, designed for a seamless, date-night-style celebration. Your experience includes a five-course gourmet dinner for two with a bottle of wine, two glasses of champagne, and three premium drink tickets. Then settle into deluxe overnight accommodations and wake up to breakfast for two in the morning.
2. Happy Valley Arcade Bar’s New Year’s Eve Celebration
Each year, Happy Valley Arcade Bar gives visitors the chance to dance until the drop with a New Year’s Eve celebration. This year, dress to impress and enjoy the musical stylings of DJ Ethical Drift.
3. New Year’s Eve Party at Curry Estate
Curry Estate invites you to ring in the New Year with Nick Michaels, a singing DJ who blends live vocals with expertly curated mixes for a high-energy, feel-good celebration. The night kicks off at 8:00 PM with passed and stationary hors d’oeuvres, a grand buffet, and a five-hour top-shelf open bar. You’ll get festive extras like hats and noisemakers for the countdown, plus a breakfast sandwich to grab on your way out.
4. New Year’s at Noon
For those who prefer to celebrate early with families, the Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum presents “New Year’s at Noon.” The event features music, activities for all ages, refreshments, and a countdown to noon.
Visit Dutchess Roots This Winter! The Dispensary of Choice in Dutchess County
There’s nothing quite like premium-quality cannabis to enhance your enjoyment of Dutchess County winter events. Dutchess Roots is a premium cannabis dispensary located conveniently at 2615 South Road, Poughkeepsie. Our friendly budtenders will help you find the perfect product to upgrade your winter activities or to give as gifts to the cannabis lover in your life. Stop by to see why Dutchess Roots is a local favorite.




