Red Hook area festival to delight foodies

Red Hook food and vino fans alike will find plenty to talk about when they participate in a culinary celebration that has taken place for the past two decades.

The annual Hudson Valley Food and Wine Festival will soon be bringing the fun to the Dutchess County fairgrounds, and it bills itself as being one of the state's premier showcases of wine and gourmet foods. Craft beers, spirits and other products will be in the mix, and food trucks have also been invited to take part.

The two-day festival will take place rain or shine, and free parking will be available. Tickets may be purchased in advance or at the gate, and a limited edition VIP pass is also on offer. Demonstrations have been scheduled, which will be presented by mixologists and celebrity chefs. For the safety of all the guests, choosing a designated driver pass will be encouraged. Food tastings need to be purchased separately, and everyone will go home with a souvenir tasting glass printed with a special graphic design.

While all ages are welcome to be part of the festivities, guests are asked to leave their pets at home, with no exceptions to be made to this rule.

This opportunity to enjoy an immersive introduction to Hudson Valley’s food service community is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, September 7 and 8. Both days will start at 11:00 am.