Rhinebeck - Looking to stay local this Fourth of July? Then good news, Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck is hosting its first Great American Picnic! The event lasts the entire holiday weekend, from Friday the 4th until Sunday the 6th. The event features two nights of fireworks, a performance by the Hudson Valley Philharmonic, a demolition derby, and a classic rock concert.
There are also plenty of options for the kids throughout the weekend, including carnival rides, a petting zoo, hayrides, tethered hot air balloon rides, bag races, and a magic show. And like any Fourth of July picnic, there will be an abundance of food available.The Hudson Valley Philharmonic performs at 7 p.m. on Friday, July 4th. Started in 1932, the Hudson Valley Philharmonic has a largely classical repertoire, but also performs works by area composers and contemporary music at their home, the Bardavon. A brilliant fireworks show at dusk follows the performance.
On Saturday, the afternoon roars with the sounds of engines and cheering fans as dozens of cars compete in a demolition derby. Starting at 2:30 p.m. and kicking up dust again at 7 p.m., this event is followed by a memorable fireworks display.
The last day of this three-day event features WBPM’s "Freedom Fest," a classic rock concert starting at noon. What better way to spend a summer Sunday afternoon than enjoying the music of nine classic rock artists, such as Jimi Jamison of Survivor, Joe Lynn Turner of Deep Purple, and John Cafferty of the Beaver Brown Band? For more information, as well as tickets, visit WBPM at www.hudsonvalleyfreedomfest.com
For a Fourth of July weekend full of family fun, great music, extravagant fireworks, and delicious food, be sure to go to the Great American Picnic! Tickets and more information are listed at www.DutchessFair.com.
