Walktoberfest To Feature Local Hudson Valley Farm Products, More​

POUGHKEEPSIE, NY — The Walktoberfest Essential Farmers Market will bring a curated selection of the Hudson Valley’s finest producers, including farms, distilleries, wineries, restaurants, artists, artisans and more to the Hudson Valley Rail Trail and west approach to Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park Oct. 3 and 4.

All vendors will exhibit their wares for both tasting and purchase as appropriate, allowing participants to support the local agribusinesses affected by the new coronavirus pandemic.

“We’re tremendously pleased to host this modified Walktoberfest on the Hudson Valley Rail Trail and west approach to Walkway Over the Hudson,” said Elizabeth Waldstein, executive director, Friends of the Walkway.

“Working with state and local health officials, the Town of Lloyd and our partners with the HVRT and New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation, we are excited to take advantage of our significant open space to safely present this essential farmers market,” she said.

With more than 80 vendors socially distanced throughout the Hudson Valley Rail Trail and the Walkway’s Ulster Welcome Center Plaza, Walktoberfest will feature not only farm-fresh products and food and beverage samples, but also art installations, locally made goods, cooking and cocktail demonstrations, a special area for children’s activities and more. All proceeds from Walktoberfest will benefit the Friends of the Walkway and Hudson Valley Rail Trail, who have partnered to present this farmers market.

This celebration of the bounty of the Hudson Valley takes places from noon to 5 p.m. on both days. Alcohol and non-alcohol tasting tickets are available now at walkway.org/walktoberfest.

Full tasting tickets cost $25. Walkway members, veterans, active duty military, and senior citizens (65+) receive discounted admission. Non-tasting tickets cost $10.

Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park and the Hudson Valley Rail Trail will remain open and accessible at no cost as usual throughout Walktoberfest. Tickets are required for access to the Walktoberfest tasting and showcase area.

Walktoberfest is planned in full compliance with New York State mandates for safety during the coronavirus pandemic. Vendors will be distanced at 12 feet throughout a wide, open area. Tickets are strictly limited to discourage large gatherings of people, and entry for walk-up admission may be delayed if Walktoberfest reaches capacity. All attendees are required to wear a face covering except when sampling. Traffic flow will be controlled where necessary. All seating areas and the children’s activity area are set up for social distancing. Hand sanitizing stations will be available throughout the event space.

To see the current list of participants, visit walkway.org/walktoberfest. Vendor space and sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, contact Jami Anson at 845-454-9649.

The Walktoberfest Essential Farmers Market is sponsored by Tuthilltown Spirits Distillery, Chestnut Market/CPD Energy Corporation, PDABK Kinetic Sculptures and Apple Greens Golf Course.

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