Bowdoin Park to Host Festive Activities
Kicks off with classical concert and wreath lighting November 27th

Poughkeepsie… Dutchess County Parks will host an array of festive activities this holiday season at Bowdoin Park, located at 85 Sheafe Road in the Town of Poughkeepsie, including a wreath lighting and classical music concert, piped holiday music, and a special session of the popular archery program.

Dutchess County Parks Director Susanne O’Neil said, “Bowdoin Park during the colder months is a scenic place to stroll and take in the winter views. What better way to enjoy the holiday season than with festive music and twinkling lights. Plus, our popular archery classes are a unique gift idea for that outdoor enthusiast on your list. We hope you’ll join us this season as we help keep everyone’s holiday spirit merry and bright.”

The festivities kick off on Monday, November 27th at 6pm with a free classical music performance by The Handman Quartet inside the historic Ellessdie Chapel at Bowdoin Park. The event will feature light refreshments and the performance will be followed by a ceremonial lighting of the wreath hung on the chapel’s steeple.

Comprised of violinists Rachel Handman and Stephen Minor, violist Elizabeth Handman, and cellist Chris Santos, The Handman Quartet is a group of musicians with backgrounds that range from Broadway and Carnegie Hall performances to local symphonies to co-director of Arlington High School’s orchestra program. The group performs numerous concerts throughout the year in a wide array of musical genres.

And starting at 3pm on Saturdays, December 2nd, 9th, and 16th visitors can enjoy holiday music piped from the Chapel as Melodies at Dusk returns to the park.

Looking for a fun gift idea for outdoor enthusiasts, registration for this year’s Gift of Archery session will open on December 12th. The program is designed for all skill levels ages 8 and up. Registration is $70 and includes five sessions held alternating Wednesday evenings starting January 10th in the Bowdoin Park auditorium. Equipment is provided and registration is required by calling 845-298-4602.

Kevin McCurdy’s Holiday Spirit Festival, located on Bowdoin Park property across Sheafe Road from the main park entrance, also opens Friday, November 24th. For more information and tickets, visit holidayspiritfestival.com.

For more information on Dutchess County Parks, visit dutchessny.gov/parks.