Dear EscapeMakers -- As Ithaca's annual fall foliage display ends, it's now time to begin planning that peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the holiday rush. Plan to spend your holiday in a cozy home-away-from-home retreat, or wind-down before or after your typical celebrations by getting away. Either way, between the snow-blanketed hills, frozen waterfalls, and agriculinary-focused festivities, Ithaca is interesting all winter. Ithaca is quirky, and will happily admit to that. How quirky you ask? Well, have you heard of Ithaca's favorite past-time-Rutabaga curling? Yes, the root vegetable; and yes, the Olympic sport everyone becomes obsessed with every 4 years. Annually, on the last outdoor farmers market of the season, December 21st this year, the masses gather to compete in the International Rutabaga Curling Championship competition. Filled with festive refreshments, wintry ceremonies, skilled curling and immeasurable fun, this event is a can't miss. Have you heard of the tradition of wassailing? It's an ancient English ceremony performed in the winter to bring good health to a cider orchard. These festivities can include dancing, singing, costumes, craft cider and celebrating the oldest tree in the orchard. Redbyrd Orchard Cider is keeping the tradition alive with local music, good food, excellent cider and a vibrant community of people to join with in celebration! Each year, as many prepare to celebrate the holidays or take stock of the year to come, a unique and special pop-up farmers market is held to provide local, fresh food options of all kinds. In the newly renovated Press Bay Alley and Court, local farmers and artisans sell their locally made crafts to market attendees. You can find items to feed your loved ones such as organic produce, free range meats, deluxe cheese, craft beverages, fresh-made breads, honey, maple syrup, and so much more. You
Dear EscapeMakers — As Ithaca’s annual fall foliage display ends, it’s now time to begin planning that peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the holiday rush. Plan to spend your holiday in a cozy home-away-from-home retreat, or wind-down before or after your typical celebrations by getting away. Either way, between the snow-blanketed hills, frozen waterfalls, and agriculinary-focused festivities, Ithaca is interesting all winter. Ithaca is quirky, and will happily admit to that. How
Celebrate the history and continuing presence of NYC's public markets and their unique local producers at the New York City Public Markets Festival! Visit the historic Seaport District on October 13th, November 3rd and December 8th! The 3 FREE market showcases take place on Sundays from 11am-5pm alongside Fulton Stall Market's regular farmers market. Sign up for an escorted public market tour, experience live music and performances, sample and purchase the food and cultures of NYC's public markets and local New York State craft beverages! In addition to the outdoor events, there are 4 "Market Taste & Talk" indoor events taking place inside Fulton Stall Market on Tuesday evenings from 6pm-8:30pm: October 22, November 12, December 10 and December 17. Learn about NYC Public Markets history, sip New York State craft beverages, network with the community and enjoy unique foods from the producers at Essex, Arthur Ave., La Marqueta and Moore St. Markets. $25pp. Sponsored by Snapdragon Apples! Tickets at www.fultonstallmarket.org/events
Celebrate the history and continuing presence of NYC’s public markets and their unique local producers at the New York City Public Markets Festival! Visit the historic Seaport District on October 13th, November 3rd and December 8th! The 3 FREE market showcases take place on Sundays from 11am-5pm alongside Fulton Stall Market’s regular farmers market. Sign up for an escorted public market tour, experience live music and performances, sample and purchase the food and cultures of
Dine on the Iconic Grounds of the Original 1969 Woodstock Festival! Dear EscapeMakers -- Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Woodstock with a farm-to-table feast on the sacred and iconic grounds of the original 1969 Festival. On Sunday, August 11, The Farmhouse Project will partner with Bethel Woods Center for the Arts to bring you their newest creation, Terrain & Table. As you arrive, you'll be greeted with a welcome cocktail inspired by the Woodstock Festival. Nosh on small bites, make new friends, take a selfie at the monument. Listen and sway to live music by Mike Miz. You'll learn more about Bethel Woods and the festival that graced this sacred ground in Bethel, NY 50 years ago. Once dinner is announced, take a seat at the most beautiful (and longest) farm table adorned with antique dinnerware, set for 150 guests from near and far. Enjoy a sumptuous family-style seasonal spread, made from local farm-fresh ingredients and global flavors. End the evening with a sweet treat - and new friends. The food, the music, the people, the place - this is a culinary and cultural event you don't want to miss. Reserve yours, today! Make a Weekend of It - Explore the Sullivan Catskills! Explore the Sullivan Catskills Dove Trail commemorating the 50th anniversary of the 1969 Woodstock Festival. You'll find 50 dove sculptures perched in villages, towns, and businesses; each hand-painted by a professional local artist and inspired by the legendary event. Visit The Museum at Bethel Woods, experience the bountiful farmers' markets, tour the craft beverage trail or get on the scenic wild Delaware River for tubing, kayaking, rafting, and canoeing. When you're ready to lay your head on a bed, you'll find a variety of lodging options - inns, resorts, BnB's, camping, vacation rentals.
Dine on the Iconic Grounds of the Original 1969 Woodstock Festival! Dear EscapeMakers — Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Woodstock with a farm-to-table feast on the sacred and iconic grounds of the original 1969 Festival. On Sunday, August 11, The Farmhouse Project will partner with Bethel Woods Center for the Arts to bring you their newest creation, Terrain & Table. As you arrive, you’ll be greeted with a welcome cocktail inspired by the Woodstock Festival.
Dear EscapeMakers -- Stroll through orchards rich with glistening fruit, gaze at the hills blanketed with autumnal-colored trees, and sip a golden, effervescent glass of goodness - Ithaca is the epicenterof craft beverages and culinary explorations! Plan that leaf-peeping, fall getaway around Finger Lakes Cider Week (September 27-October 6). Located at the base of Cayuga Lake, Ithaca is home to Cornell University, over 150 waterfalls, a booming craft cider scene, and jaw-dropping scenic views. With the highest density of craft cideries in NY state (10 within a 30-minute radius),it's no surprise that cider lovers flock to Ithaca for a taste! TAKE THE SPECIAL "CIDER BUS" FROM NYC! Checkout the unique and rustic lodging options at one of the many Farm Stays and B&Bs FLX Cider Week kicks off with the three day annual Apple Harvest Festival. Cider makers, pie bakers, and apple-themed vendors line the streets of downtown Ithaca offering the famous cider donuts, delectable craft ciders and limitless apple-themed delicacies. Browse the craft fair or venture into the brick-and-mortar artisan shops; stop by the farm fair to meet animals or attend a farmer talk; participate in the Monks & Makers event to meet the cider makers and taste quality cider or sign up for Coltivare's farm-to-table cider pairing dinners or an educational event in their teaching kitchen. Cider Sunday at Cornell University is an all-ages event that offers orchard talks and fresh pressed and hard cider tastings with food pairings. What ties this Ivy League college to a regional cider event? Cornell's Horticulture, Pomology (study of fruit) and Hard Cider Project Work Team have had a huge impact on NY and national cider research and production. Renowned cider makers, Eric Shatt of Redbyrd Orchard Cider and Dr. Ian Merwin of Black Diamond Farm and Cider, come from Cornell and
Dear EscapeMakers — Stroll through orchards rich with glistening fruit, gaze at the hills blanketed with autumnal-colored trees, and sip a golden, effervescent glass of goodness – Ithaca is the epicenterof craft beverages and culinary explorations! Plan that leaf-peeping, fall getaway around Finger Lakes Cider Week (September 27-October 6). Located at the base of Cayuga Lake, Ithaca is home to Cornell University, over 150 waterfalls, a booming craft cider scene, and jaw-dropping scenic views. With
Join EscapeMaker for an event we're producing in December in the Seaport District! Stock up on local food, winter provisions, holiday gifts and holiday cheer! NYCEDC Public Markets presents "Deck the Stalls," a special outdoor holiday market on four Sundays: December 2nd, 9th, 16th, and 23rd! Fulton Stall Market hosts the series featuring live music, multi-cultural performances, locally made food, NY wine and craft beverages for sample and sale and a rotating lineup of guest public market vendors, in conjunction with their Sunday farmers market. Additionally, there will be tours of the Seaport District and its historic ships as well as free info about visiting vendors and producers at their regular public market locations or in the Sullivan Catskills upstate. Shoppers will also get an exclusive tasting of two new NY State apple varieties just unveiled to the public: SnapDragon and RubyFrost apples! EscapeMaker.com will be there with guides and free info on local winter and holiday getaways, so come down to Fulton Stall Market in December and help us celebrate the best of NYCEDC Public Markets! The event is FREE for all ages! MORE INFO HERE: www.deckthestalls.org OR RSVP HERE:
Join EscapeMaker for an event we’re producing in December in the Seaport District! Stock up on local food, winter provisions, holiday gifts and holiday cheer! NYCEDC Public Markets presents “Deck the Stalls,” a special outdoor holiday market on four Sundays: December 2nd, 9th, 16th, and 23rd! Fulton Stall Market hosts the series featuring live music, multi-cultural performances, locally made food, NY wine and craft beverages for sample and sale and a rotating lineup of guest
APPLE SPOTLIGHT: The EMPIRE APPLE! Dear EscapeMakers -- We're smack dab in the middle of the tastiest week all Fall! Find out about events all around the city during Cider Week NYC - November 2-11, 2018! Fall foliage is at its peak in the city but it's not too late to head north through New York State to pick remaining apples off the trees, or buy apples from farm stores, or visit a cidery or craft beverage trail. Visit Apples from New York for more locations, recipes and variety info and here are some great ideas for cider trail getaways!
APPLE SPOTLIGHT: The EMPIRE APPLE! Dear EscapeMakers — We’re smack dab in the middle of the tastiest week all Fall! Find out about events all around the city during Cider Week NYC – November 2-11, 2018! Fall foliage is at its peak in the city but it’s not too late to head north through New York State to pick remaining apples off the trees, or buy apples from farm stores, or visit a cidery
DUTCHESS FARMS & APPLE PICKING TOURS (VIA METRO-NORTH RAILROAD FROM GRAND CENTRAL TERMINAL + SHUTTLE OR DIRECT BUSES FROM MIDTOWN - BRYANT PARK) Select weekends in September & October! Dear EscapeMakers -- This Fall, let us transport you to Beacon, Fishkill Farms, Sprout Creek Farm, Meadowbrook Farm, Rhinebeck, Greig Farm, Rose Hill Farms, Mead Orchards, Hahn Farm and Kesicke Farm for apple and pumpkin picking, cheese tasting, corn maze explorations and visits with farm animals! RESERVE NOW! --
DUTCHESS FARMS & APPLE PICKING TOURS (VIA METRO-NORTH RAILROAD FROM GRAND CENTRAL TERMINAL + SHUTTLE OR DIRECT BUSES FROM MIDTOWN – BRYANT PARK) Select weekends in September & October! Dear EscapeMakers — This Fall, let us transport you to Beacon, Fishkill Farms, Sprout Creek Farm, Meadowbrook Farm, Rhinebeck, Greig Farm, Rose Hill Farms, Mead Orchards, Hahn Farm and Kesicke Farm for apple and pumpkin picking, cheese tasting, corn maze explorations and visits with farm animals!
Dear EscapeMakers -- Beat the heat and make a splash! Your summer adventure awaits just a short trip from New York City in the Central New York Vacation Region. Skip the long rides to the ocean, hop in the car and let your journey begin -- and don't forget to pack your swim suit! Plan your perfect outdoor adventure, complete with stand up paddle boarding, a scenic hike to one of CNY’s gorgeous waterfalls or a leisurely bike ride along the Erie Canal. If you’re feeling adventurous, trade in the hotel reservations for a tent under the stars. Something bubbly has been brewing in Central New York. If you haven't made the trek to CNY yet, this summer is the perfect time to plan your "brew-cation" to Brew Central. With breweries, wineries, cideries and distilleries in every county, exploring the flavors of Central New York has never been easier (or tastier). Take your pick of local fresh fruits and veggies straight off the tree, bush or vine. As you travel along the backroads, you may spot a local farmstand or u-pick. Be sure to stop for something sweet or savory as you make your way through Central New York. FOLLOW CENTRAL NEW YORK ON: Upcoming Events: August 3-5th Spiedie Fest and Balloon RallyEnjoy an entire weekend filled with hot-air balloon rides, arts, crafts, antique cars, live music and a Binghamton local delicacy: "Spiedies!" August 4th Utica Zoo Brew Fest Join in on Saturday, August 4th for the 20th annual Brewfest fundraiser. August 13th-19th Dick's Sporting Goods Open Golf Tournament This is a champion tour event that attracts fan favorite golf professionals from all over the country to Binghamton. Spend a day or two attending the games or play a round of golf yourself. August 17th 5pm-9pm Montgomery County Craft Beer Festival This is Montgomery County's
Dear EscapeMakers — Beat the heat and make a splash! Your summer adventure awaits just a short trip from New York City in the Central New York Vacation Region. Skip the long rides to the ocean, hop in the car and let your journey begin — and don’t forget to pack your swim suit! Plan your perfect outdoor adventure, complete with stand up paddle boarding, a scenic hike to one of CNY’s gorgeous waterfalls or
Dear EscapeMakers -- In the land of gorges and waterfalls, while hiking among some of the most scenic state parks in NYS, one can certainly work up an appetite! What better to satiate that hunger than local and delicious farm fresh foods. Ithaca is home to one of the most renowned farmers markets in the country - the Ithaca Farmers Market! This waterfront market, on the shores of Cayuga Lake, offers a surprise around every corner as your taste buds are tempted by numerous vendors with delicious prepared and ethnic food offerings. Or, go straight to the source to taste the freshness directly at the farms! Pick your own fruit and come fall, enjoy freshly pressed cider, cider slushies, and apple cider donuts at places like Little Tree Orchards. Not looking for produce? Try the fried chicken and local beer at Farm-to-Food Truck fun at Stick and Stone Farm on Wednesdays through September. Book a stay on a local farm or in a rural B&B to complete your weekend getaway! AUGUST 11-12th - OPEN FARM DAYS OF TOMPKINS COUNTY!Experience life on the farm through farm tours, demonstrations, food tastings and farm animal interactions. Fun for the whole family, this FREE 2-day event gets you up close and personal to everything from pigs and alpaca to Bison and the cows making Chobani Yogurt famous! Extending your visit offers an opportunity for leisurely drives along Cayuga Lake with stops at the participating farms and Finger Lakes wineries or a swim at Taughannock Falls State Park!Then treat yourself to a locally sourced dinner at one of the many area restaurants such as Hazelnut Café in the village of Trumansburg, NY. Facebook event info here... Want to see more of Ithaca? Download their travel guide - a small, portable guide full of must-see waterfalls, can't
Dear EscapeMakers — In the land of gorges and waterfalls, while hiking among some of the most scenic state parks in NYS, one can certainly work up an appetite! What better to satiate that hunger than local and delicious farm fresh foods. Ithaca is home to one of the most renowned farmers markets in the country – the Ithaca Farmers Market! This waterfront market, on the shores of Cayuga Lake, offers a surprise around every
Dear EscapeMakers -- If you've got spring fever, it may be time for your next weekend getaway. And what better place to escape to than the scenic Central New York Vacation Region? As you make your way up and out of the city, enjoy the views of mountainous landscapes and beautiful greenery along meandering roads.In just a few short hours, you will have arrived. Relax and practice your golf swing. You don't have to play likethe pros to enjoy Central New York's gorgeous golf courses. But even if golf's not your sport, choose an alternative way to get active in CNY. Try horsebackriding, diamond mining or cave exploring. As you make your way through the countryside, keep an eye out for farmstands popping up around town and along the backroads. Travelers who stop to shop them will leave with a handful of in-season local fruits and veggies. May kicks off the beginning of wine season in CNY, so cool off with something light and fruity or opt for a darker red at one of Central New York's 15 wineries. Many locations offer outdoor accommodations, so you can bask in the sun while you sip merlot or chardonnay. Make a day out of it and explore all the flavors of the region as you taste your way across Brew Central. Upcoming Events: May 26th Noon Baseball Hall of Fame Classic The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum will start the 2018 season with this Cooperstown tradition. The Hall of Fame Classic, presented by Ford! July 4th 5 p.m. Ray LaMontagne featuring Neko Case at Ommegang Ray LaMontagne will perform at Brewery Ommegang's outdoor venue with a special appearance by Neko Case. May 31st 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Trivia at Woodland Farm Brewery Woodland hosts it's weekly trivia night with
Dear EscapeMakers — If you’ve got spring fever, it may be time for your next weekend getaway. And what better place to escape to than the scenic Central New York Vacation Region? As you make your way up and out of the city, enjoy the views of mountainous landscapes and beautiful greenery along meandering roads.In just a few short hours, you will have arrived. Relax and practice your golf swing. You don’t have to play
