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It's that lovely time of year when the robins return to their nests, tulips begin to bloom, and Upstate starts to look a little more green. With springtime's arrival, it's easy to get excited and start plan for the sunnier months of the year! Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's no shortage of activities to enjoy during this rejuvenating season; festivals, wineries, farm tours, U-Pick flowers & fruits, hikes, and more, there's an abundance of fun events to attend in New York State! So pack your bags, hit the road, and embrace all that this vibrant region has to offer during the most magical time of year.
1. Cherry Blossom Festivals in Buffalo & the Hudson Valley
Experience the beauty of spring in Buffalo and the Hudson Valley near Peekskill! Enjoy the pink blossoms in Buffalo's Delaware Park or nearby the city in the Hudson Valley. Both places celebrate the new season with joyous events. Take a relaxing walk among the cherry blossoms in Delaware Park, where the pretty petals create a scenic view against the blue sky. Near Peekskill in the Hudson Valley, dive into the lively atmosphere of spring. Join in the fun with locals and visitors, enjoying music, art, and tasty food. Whether it's a bustling street festival or a peaceful garden gathering, there's something for everyone to savor as springtime comes alive in the valley.
Buffalo Cherry Blossom Festival - April 27-28
Peekskill Rotary's 7th Annual Cherry Blossom Festival - May 4
2. Albany Tulip Festival
Dive into a stunning display of over 100,000 tulips at Albany's Washington Park this upcoming Mother's Day weekend during the Annual Tulip Festival presented by Citizens Bank. This cherished event has been a tradition since Mayor Erastus Corning II proclaimed the first Tulip Festival on May 14, 1949, growing into one of the Northeast's largest and most cherished yearly gatherings.
Albany Tulip Festival - May 11-12
3. Saratoga Tattoo Expo
Experience the ultimate tattoo event in Upstate New York! The Tattoo Expo, held once a year, attracts tattoo artists and piercers from far and wide. Get ready for April 5th, 6th, and 7th, 2024, for a weekend filled with tattoo contests, live music, vendors, and unforgettable artistry. Whether you're looking to get tattooed or pierced, or simply want to immerse yourself in the vibrant tattoo culture, this event promises an unforgettable experience for all.
Saratoga Tattoo Expo - April 5-7
4. Indoor & Outdoor Farmers Markets
Indulge in the flavors of the season by exploring both indoor and outdoor farmers markets, a quintessential activity for springtime enjoyment. Wander through stalls brimming with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, homemade baked goods, and handcrafted goods. And who knows? You might even stumble upon a new favorite vegetable, snack, or flower that will delight your senses and become a cherished addition to your springtime routine! (Keep an eye out for black garlic, hakurei turnips, broomcorn as flowers, sourdough banana bread, long island cheese pumpkins, and more this upcoming season!)
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Troy Farmers Market
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Schenectady Green Market
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Saratoga Farmers Market
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Spa City Farmers Market
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Empire State Plaza Farmers Market
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Delmar Farmers Market
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Glens Falls Farmers Market
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Rhinebeck Farmers Market
5. Hudson Valley Maker Fair
Check out Maker Fair! Where curious minds unite in a celebration of creativity and innovation! From engineers to artists, scientists to crafters, this event is a vibrant gathering of individuals eager to share their passions and discoveries. Often dubbed as the Greatest Show (& Tell) on Earth, Maker Faire is a family-friendly extravaganza showcasing a dazzling array of inventions, projects, and experiments.
Hudson Valley Maker Fair - May 18-19
6. Take a Farm Tour at a Local Farm or Sanctuary
Step into the serene countryside and immerse yourself in the wonders of agricultural life. From meeting adorable farm animals to learning about sustainable farming practices, a farm tour offers an enriching experience for all ages. Gain insight into where your food comes from, interact with friendly animals, and soak in the beauty of rural landscapes!
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The Farmers Museum
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Beekman 1802 Baby Goat Tour
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Moose River Farm | Llama Trekking
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Gardenworks Farm
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Hawthorne Valley Farm
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Nettle Meadow Farm Store & Sanctuary
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Lovin' Mama Farm (Private Tours Available by Appointment)
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Catskill Animal Sanctuary
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Farm Sanctuary
7. Hudson Valley Restaurant Week
Savor the flavors of the Hudson Valley during Restaurant Week, where culinary delights await at over 140 participating restaurants! Indulge in prix fixe lunches and dinners priced at $24.95, $29.95, $39.95, or $44.95, with each restaurant setting its own price. Whether you're dining in or opting for takeout, the choice is yours. Look for the "take-out" filter on listings for those offering takeout options. Keep in mind that some restaurants may not offer their special menu on certain days. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the culinary delights of the Hudson Valley at unbeatable prices!
Hudson Valley Restaurant Week presented by The Valley Table - April 8-21
8. Adirondack Railbike Adventures
Pedal your way through the mountains, along historic railroad tracks of the Adirondacks, and soak in breathtaking views of pristine forests, tranquil lakes, and majestic mountains! With options for riders of all ages and abilities, it's the perfect activity for families, couples, and groups of friends.
Adirondack Railbike Adventures - Memorial Day to Mid-October
9. Visit Howe's Underground Caverns
Descend into the mysterious depths of Howe's Underground Caverns and unearth a world of wonder beneath the earth's surface! Guided tours offer fascinating insights into the formation of these natural wonders, while adventurous spirits can embark on spelunking expeditions to delve even further into the cavern's secrets. The cave tour consists of a 1.25 mile walk with a 0.25 mile boat ride (how cool?!) and there's even cave yoga, zumba, or pilates!
10. The Total Solar Eclipse! (April 8, 2024)
The anticipated event of the year! Prepare yourself for an extraordinary cosmic spectacle as New York State takes center stage for a once-in-a-lifetime event on April 8, 2024: a total solar eclipse. This rare phenomenon, which happens in the same location only once every 400 years, promises to captivate audiences across the Empire State.
Learn more at iloveny.com!
Solar Eclipse Checklist:
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Car full of gas
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Snacks for the road & water
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Protective eclipse glasses
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Flashlight
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Your favorite Upstate of Mind hat
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Tick spray & proper camping gear if camping outdoors
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Camera with equipment, SD card, and batteries
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Phone Chargers
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Download your favorite Spotify playlist for spots without service
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