25 Reasons to Celebrate 25 Years at the 2026 Hudson Valley Wine & Food Festival

There are festivals, and then there are traditions. This is a festival you do not want to miss, having proudly established itself as the Hudson Valley’s signature Wine & Food tradition since 2001!

For 25 years, the Hudson Valley Wine & Food Festival has been bringing together the very best of the region’s wineries, distilleries, cideries, farms, chefs, artisans, and makers for one unforgettable weekend. This year’s silver anniversary celebration promises to be the biggest yet, transforming the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck into a tasting tour of everything that makes the Hudson Valley such a remarkable destination.

With hundreds of vendors, live entertainment, chef demonstrations, gourmet food, artisan shopping, and countless opportunities to discover something new, it’s easy to see why thousands return year after year. Whether you’re a devoted wine lover, a serious foodie, a craft beverage enthusiast, or simply looking for a memorable weekend outing, this is the event to circle on your calendar.

The 25th Annual Hudson Valley Wine & Food Festival

September 12–13, 2026, at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck.
Get Tickets HERE

Here are 25 Reasons to Need to Go…as if you need a reason!

Wine, Spirits & Cider

1. Sample New York’s Best Wines
Taste your way through wineries from across New York State, all in one location.

2. Meet the Winemakers
Hear the stories behind the bottles and learn directly from the people who craft them.

3. Discover Hidden-Gem Vineyards + Explore Local Distilleries
Find your next favorite winery before everyone else does.

4. Meet a Real Wine Goddess
Debbie Gioquindo, a wine connoisseur and entrepreneur affectionately known as “the Hudson Valley Wine Goddess,” will share her passion for all things wine. She’s nothing short of contagious.

5. Taste Hard Ciders
The Hudson Valley’s apple-growing heritage shines through its exceptional cider makers.

6. Visit the Craft Beer Pavilion
Beer lovers have plenty to celebrate, too, with breweries pouring throughout the weekend.

7. Unlimited Tastings
Festival tasting tickets allow visitors to sample a wide variety of beverages throughout the day. Yes, bring your designated driver! Special discounted tickets are offered for them.

8. Take Your Favorites Home
Purchase bottles and beverages onsite without carrying them all day, thanks to the festival’s convenient pickup system.

For Food Lovers

9. Some of the BEST Gourmet Food Trucks
Arrive hungry. The food truck lineup alone is worth the trip.

10. Specialty Food Vendors
Discover sauces, spices, chocolates, cheeses, oils, baked goods, and more.

11. Sample Before You Buy
Many gourmet vendors offer tastings, making every aisle an edible adventure.

12. Celebrity Chef Demonstrations
Watch talented chefs share techniques, recipes, and culinary inspiration. This year’s lineup includes Chef Marcus Guiliano, Chef Vincent Tropepe, Chef Ric Orlando, Chef J. Jackson and wine connoisseur Debbie Gioquindo.

13. Mixology Demonstrations
Learn how the pros create cocktails worth recreating at home.

14. Food & Wine Pairing Ideas
Gather inspiration for your next dinner party or holiday gathering.

15. Taste the Hudson Valley
From farm-fresh products to artisan specialties, the region’s agricultural abundance is on full display.

16. Discover New Local Favorites
Meet the makers behind products you’ll want to stock in your pantry year-round.

Music, Entertainment & Festival Fun

17. Live Music All Weekend
Don’t miss the electrifying performances by the Carrie Zazz Band, spanning genres from classic rock and pop to country and Motown— performances that create the perfect soundtrack for sipping and strolling.

18. Celebrate the Last Days of Summer
There’s no better way to savor the season than outdoors in Rhinebeck.

19. Bring Your Friends
Wine festivals are always better shared.

20. Make It a Rhinebeck Weekend
Turn your visit into a full Hudson Valley getaway with shopping, dining, and local attractions nearby.

21. Enjoy VIP Perks
Upgrade your experience with early access, exclusive benefits, a VIP tent, expedited pickup, and more.

Shopping & Discoveries

22. Browse Artisan Vendors
Explore handcrafted goods, home décor, jewelry, gifts, and unique finds.

23. Shop More Than 300 Vendors
The sheer variety means you’ll never run out of things to discover.

24. Support Local Businesses
Every purchase helps support the makers, growers, and entrepreneurs who define the Hudson Valley.

25. Be Part of a Hudson Valley Tradition

For a quarter of a century, this festival has brought people together to celebrate community, craftsmanship, and the flavors of New York. There’s something special about raising a glass during its milestone 25th anniversary year.

Don’t Miss the Celebration

Experience the ultimate fusion of flavors and entertainment at this year’s Festival.

Twenty-five years is a milestone worth celebrating. Whether you’re coming for the wine, the food, the music, the shopping, or simply the atmosphere, the Hudson Valley Wine & Food Festival delivers one of the region’s most beloved annual experiences. Gather your friends, secure your tickets, and get ready to spend a weekend tasting your way through the very best the Hudson Valley has to offer.

2026 Hudson Valley Wine & Food Festival

September 12–13, 2026
Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NY
Get Tickets HERE

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Done in Collaboration with the Hudson Valley Wine & Food Festival 2026