A Celebration of Hudson Valley’s Finest

Walktoberfest is a vibrant celebration hosted annually by the Walkway over the Hudson, marking the arrival of fall in the Hudson Valley region. This lively weekend event transforms the scenic Walkway into a bustling hub of activity, drawing in locals and visitors alike to partake in its offerings.

At the heart of Walktoberfest is its Farmers and Makers market, a showcase of the finest producers from the Hudson Valley. With over 190 vendors participating, attendees have the opportunity to explore an extensive array of products, ranging from farm-fresh produce to handcrafted artisanal goods. From savory delights crafted by local restaurants to exquisite artworks created by talented artists, there’s something to captivate every visitor’s interest.

One of the highlights of Walktoberfest is the chance to sample a diverse selection of drinks from more than 30 purveyors, including distilleries, breweries, and wineries. Included with the $5 general admission fee, guests aged 21 and older can indulge in samples of wine, beer, and spirits, discovering new favorites while supporting local beverage producers.

What to expect at Walktoberfest

The layout of the event, with vendors situated on the west side of the Walkway in Highland, offers attendees the flexibility to plan their experience. Whether starting from the Poughkeepsie side and making their way over to Highland or diving straight into perusing the vendors before enjoying the panoramic views, attendees are free to tailor their Walktoberfest adventure to their preferences.

There are also performances of live music from local musicians and a designated children’s activity area for those coming with the whole family. Childrne can enjoy a petting zoo, princesses and superheroes, arts and crafts, legos, and more!

Beyond the culinary and artisanal delights, Walktoberfest holds deeper significance as a fundraiser for the Friends of the Walkway, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the maintenance and enhancement of the Walkway over the Hudson. By attending the event, patrons not only enjoy a memorable weekend but also contribute to the preservation of this iconic landmark for future generations to enjoy.

Overall, Walktoberfest offers a multifaceted experience that celebrates the richness of the Hudson Valley community while supporting a worthy cause. It’s a testament to the spirit of local collaboration and appreciation for the region’s bounty, making it a must-visit event for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of the Hudson Valley during the autumn season.

FAQs

Walktoberfest is a rain or shine event, so make sure to check the forecast and plan accordingly!

Attendees can park in the Haviland Road Parking Lots and street but they are very restricted. Because of this, Shuttle Busses will be running from the Rt. 9W and Rt. 299 parking lots to bring guests right to the Highland entrance.

Tickets can be purchased in advance online or in person at registration tables.

Dogs are welcome as long as they are on a leash.

The Walkway is open and accessible to all at no cost and you can walk across from Poughkeepsie to Highland in order to enjoy the event, as long as you pay entry at the Highland side.

Take Amtrak to Walktoberfest

Experience all the fair fun via Amtrak to Poughkeepsie Station in the Hudson Valley—Don’t forget to use Amtrak See New York and Save 15% discount! The Poughkeepsie entrance to the Walkway is only 1.0 miles away from the station and 3.5 miles from the Highland entrance, making it a convenient way to attend.