‘We expect some wild surprises this season … This storm may be the first such surprise’

While we may have been teased with temperatures in the upper 60s and 70s these last few days, this week the leaves and temperatures are falling fast, with the possibility for the season’s first snowflakes on the way.

Current forecast models show the potential for a few inches of wet snow on Friday evening – with up to 12-inches forecasted in higher elevations around the Hudson Valley and Catskills, according to one forecast model (pictured, above) – though those recent warm temperatures may help keep accumulations at bay.

Hudson Valley Weather forecasters say, so far, its only a 20-percent chance the region will get “a significant snowfall” of more than four inches of snow, with a 40-percent chance of rain mixed with wet snow accumulating less than four inches in the mid-Hudson Valley north of I-84, and a 40-percent chance for a rain/wet snow mix in the Catskills.

While this week’s potential storm is still up in the air, a very strong El Nino is expected to bring wetter-than-average conditions to the Northeast this season, according to the National Weather Service, with warmer-than-average temperatures favored for our region.

“Over the past two weeks, the weather world has watched as the Polar Vortex has undergone a SSW (Sudden Stratospheric Warming) event. This resulted in the Polar Vortex substantially weakening earlier than any year on record,” Hudson Valley Weather meteorologists say. “When combined with the very strong El Nino, we expect some wild surprises this season. This storm may be the first such surprise.”

Following her veto of the city council’s plan to remove Flock cameras from the City of Poughkeepsie, Mayor Yvonne Flowers said on Friday that the city will begin “taking appropriate action” to address loitering on Main Street.

Flowers said she met with City of Poughkeepsie Police last week “in an effort to initiate increased enforcement without delay” following amendments to the city’s loitering law. Flowers said the approved amendments provide the city police “with enhanced authority to address prohibited conduct and recurring disturbances in our public spaces.”

According to the mayor: “Reported activities include drug-related activity, illegal gambling, public intoxication, public urination, fighting, and excessive noise extending late into the night, in some instances as late as 4 a.m. These behaviors, many of which have been documented through videos, photographs, and social media, are unacceptable and negatively affect the quality of life, safety, and overall experience of those who live, work, and visit the area.”

Flowers said the loitering law amendments have strengthened the city’s enforcement tools, and following her meeting with city police last week, said officers will take a “more proactive approach to addressing illegally double-parked vehicles and other traffic-related violations along the Main Street corridor.”

Mayor Flowers also noted the importance of the city’s $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative that “represents a significant investment in new housing, businesses, public spaces and opportunities for our community.”

“It is time to take back our streets and ensure that Main Street reflects the future we are working to build for the City of Poughkeepsie,” the mayor added.

City officials are advising residents that filming on East Main Street in Beacon, between Main Street and Leonard Street, may impact the area through rush hour traffic on Tuesday, November 10, 2026. City of Beacon Police will be onsite to re-direct traffic to nearby roadways, but the Loop Bus service may re-route to avoid road closures during the evening hours, City of Beacon officials say. The Churchill Street parking lot will be also closed until 5am the following morning.

Filming will continue in the area on Wednesday, November 11, 2026 at the private parking lot between North Brett and North Walnut Streets in the City of Beacon. During this time, public street parking will be restricted on both North Brett and North Walnut between Main Street and Church Street, with intermittent road closures after 5pm on the North Walnut portion. No impact to the Loop Bus service is expected.

Forum to discuss upgrades to Tivoli sewer system

The Dutchess County Water and Wastewater Authority will host an informational forum to discuss upgrades the Tivoli Sewer System on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at 6pm at 86 Broadway, Tivoli. Organizers say the forum will begin with a brief presentation on the history and present condition of the sewer system, construction, and upcoming improvements to the sewer collection system. An informal question and answer session will follow. Residents who are unable to attend are welcome to submit questions via email to vkichline@dutchessny.gov.

A new bill signed into law will increase property tax exemptions for qualifying low-income senior citizens across Westchester County.

The measure, recently signed into law by Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins, will provide up to a 65-percent exemption for those seniors earning less than $47,000 a year.

“For many seniors living on fixed incomes, property taxes can be a significant financial challenge. Increasing this exemption will help ease that burden, giving eligible seniors greater financial flexibility and helping them remain in the homes and communities they know and love,” Acting Commissioner of the Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services (DSPS) Randolf Scott said. “This change reflects the importance of supporting our senior residents and ensuring they can age in place with greater financial security and peace of mind.”

The new exemption levels will apply to the 2027 tax year. Seniors who think they may quality must apply through their local assessor and meet all applicable eligibility requirements. Seniors who have already received the previous tax exemption do not need to reapply.

How an Ancient Enzyme Protects Our Cells and Triggers Autumn’s Grand Finale

by Francine Wizner

In mid-November, the vibrant canopies along the Taconic Parkway are retreating and being replaced by stark silhouettes framed by slate-gray skies. While we view this transition as a concession to less sunlight and freezing temperatures, the direct catalyst is the retirement of an invisible chemical deep within every leaf. You can better understand the biological machinery behind the seasonal shift in your kitchen or school laboratory.

Meet + Make Mondays: Cut and Paste Collage Night
Monday, November 9, 2026 from 6 to 8pm
Cost of admission: $5-$20 donation encouraged
Women’s Studio Workshop, 722 Binnewater Lane, Kingston
Make stationery, a new piece to decorate your walls, or work in your sketchbook. This may also be the perfect chance to finish holiday cards/gifts early! Magazines, paper scraps, scissors, and glue will be provided. RSVP

Columbia County: Is Your Town Ready to Respond to the Next Flood?
Tuesday, November 10, 2026 from 9am to noon
Cost of admission: Free
Ghent
A half day workshop on Post-Flood Emergency Stream Intervention and Utilizing Road Stream Crossing Data for Columbia County municipalities. Designed for contractors and municipal officials and staff – from Town Supervisors to equipment operators – this initial training will provide towns with considerations for future flood event response in the Hudson Valley. Register by emailing Dylan Cipowski, Columbia County SWCD District Manager or by calling 518-267-3315.

Westchester Veterans Day Ceremony
Tuesday, November 10, 2026 at 2pm
Lasdon Public Gardens and Veterans Memorial, Katonah
Website

Skilled Trades Fair
Tuesday, November 10, 2026 from 6 to 8pm
Cost of admission: Free
Bulkeley Middle School Gymnasium, 45 North Park Road, Rhinebeck
Open to students and adults. For more information call 845-486-2000.

Repurposing Food Workshop
Tuesday, November 10, 2026 from 6 to 7:30pm
Cost of admission: Free but registration required by November 3
Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park
Attendees will learn simple, creative ways to use leftover food, save money and help protect the environment. Space is limited, and residents can register at the Dutchess County Division of Solid Waste Management website now through November 3 for a chance to attend; selected residents will receive notification on November 4. More information is available by emailing solidwastemgmt@dutchessny.gov or calling 845-486-2841.

The Constitution Speaks: Rules, Rights, & Responsibilities
Tuesday, November 10, 2026 at 7pm
Cost of admission: Free
Virtual
This presentation by Jeffrey Urbin of the FDR Presidential Library & Museum highlights some of the key rules, rights, and responsibilities necessary for the maintenance of a healthy and successful democracy. Registration required. This program is a part of the PPLD Big Read. Website

2026 Free Fishing Day in New York
The requirement for a freshwater fishing license is waived November 11 for Veterans Day.  

Dutchess County Veterans Day Ceremony
Wednesday, November 11, 2026 at 11am
Dutchess County War Memorial, Poughkeepsie

Cold Spring Cemetery Tour
Wednesday, November 11, 2026 at 11am
Meet at the entrance on Peekskill Road
Step back in time and immerse yourself in Cold Spring's history with a guided cemetery walk through the scenic Cold Spring Cemetery. Led by Amy Campanaro, Gunn Memorial Library Museum Curator and former director of Brewster's Southeast Museum, this unique experience will uncover the stories of prominent figures like Julia L. Butterfield, Emily and Washington Roebling, Gouverneur Kemble, and Robert Parker Parrott. The highlight of the tour will be a visit to the Butterfield Mausoleum. Register

1918 to 1919: Rhinebeck Rises
Wednesday, November 11, 2026 at 5pm
Starr Cinema, Rhinebeck
Rare local films from 1918 and 1919 were recently discovered and restored by the Dutchess County Historical Society. Website

Song Cycle Letters From The Front
Wednesday, November 11, 2026 at 7pm
Cost of admission: $35, free for veterans and their families, and all Bard students
Sosnoff Theater, Fisher Center, Bard College, Annandale-on-Hudson
Composed by Patrick Zimmerli with libretto by Mirabelle Ordinaire, the new song cycle sets to music the wartime letters of American military service members and their families. Website

Learning & Leisure in the 18th Century
Thursday, November 12, 2026 at 1pm
Cost of admission: Free
93 Market Street, Poughkeepsie
Join historic Huguenot Street in a journey back through time to discover the secrets of daily life during the colonial period! Explore the impacts of a diverse range of cultures on the Hudson Valley's history, including Esopus peoples, European colonists, and enslaved Africans. Through hands-on investigation of reproductions of Indigenous and colonial cultural artifacts, virtual tours, and 18th century games, students will get a taste of life in the past! Registration required. This program is part of the Poughkeepsie Big Read. Website

2026 Wallkill River Summit
Thursday, November 12, 2026 from 4 to 8pm
Cost of admission: Free with pre-registration required
SUNY Orange’s Rowley center for Science and Engineering, 10 East Conkling Avenue, Middletown
An opportunity to gain expert insights and key updates on the health, history and future of the Wallkill River and its surrounding watershed. Light dinner snacks will be provided. SUNY Orange is offering 3 Professional Development Hours / Continuing Education Credits for attending this event. Register

What I Want You to Know
Thursday, November 12, 2026 at 5:15pm
Cost of admission: Free for veterans
Orpheum Theater, Saugerties
Screening and close-up with director Catie Foertsch on the wartime documentary produced by two Iraq and Afghanistan veterans following an intimate journey into their inner conflicts. Website

Book Talk & Signing: An Evening with Elizabeth Bracken Thompson
Thursday November 12, 2026 from 6:30 to 8:30pm
Cost of admission: Free
Mount Kisco Library 100 E Main Street, Mount Kisco
Former Miss New Jersey and Miss America competitor Elizabeth Bracken-Thompson traded the pageant stage for the boardroom – becoming one of the youngest vice presidents at Gannett, helping launch USA Today in the New York market, and going on to become a partner at Thompson & Bender. In her debut memoir, she shares the resilience lessons behind two cancer diagnoses, a heart transplant scare, and a “Ten P’s of Success” framework she’s used to navigate it all. Join us for a candid conversation, audience Q&A, and book signing. Also on Friday, November 13, 2026 at 2:30pm at 150 Bloomingdale Road, White Plains.

Beacon Dance Beat
Thursday, November 12, 2026 at 7pm
Cost of admission: $15 at the door
Howland Cultural Center, Beacon
Lose yourself to a vibrant mix of danceable rhythms played by DJs Rhoda and Al. Refreshments available.

Gradual Abolition to Freedom: New Research on John Hasbrouck and His Family with Josephine Bloodgood and Kate Hymes
Thursday, November 12, 2026 at 7pm
Virtual
Cost of admission: $8, $5 seniors, active military and veterans and free for Historic Huguenot Street members
talk will focus on the story of a Black child born in New Paltz in 1806 under New York’s gradual abolition acts and explores the personal stories of how the laws impacted John, his enslaved parents, and other family members. Having learned how to read and write, John later kept two remarkable account books, purchased land, and was one of the town’s earliest Black voters. Register

CreativeMornings Hudson Valley presents "The Art and Practice of Returning" with Noah Kalina
Friday, November 13, 2026 at 9:30am
Cost of admission: Free
CPW, 25 Dederick Street, Kingston
CreativeMornings Hudson Valley is a free monthly morning talk, and this month's special guest speaker is Noah Kalina, who has made a practice of returning for 26 years. He's photographed the same things over and over: his own face, a sugar factory, a river, the land he lives on. Any one picture shows a moment. Side by side, they show what changed. On November 13, he'll introduce us to diachronic photography, the name for that kind of seeing, and to devotion as something measured by coming back. Missed days, broken rules, and lost files are part of the practice, too. RSVP

Cross County Center Holiday Tree Lighting
Friday, November 13, 2026 from 6:30-8pm
Cost of admission: Free
Cross County Center, 8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers
The holidays are lighting up at Cross County Center! Gather the family and join us for a magical evening as we officially kick off the holiday season with the lighting of Westchester’s largest holiday tree, a spectacular 40-foot, walk-through tree illuminated by more than 20,000 sparkling LED lights! Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand to spread holiday cheer, and there may even be a certain grumpy green guest making an appearance! Enjoy an evening packed with festive fun, including live holiday entertainment featuring New Directions Dance Studio of Bronxville, a DJ, strolling characters, food trucks, festive selfie spots and FREE electric train rides. The festivities begin at 6:30 p.m., building up to the magical moment when we light the tree at 7:45 p.m. Bring the family, grab your friends and get ready to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year at Cross County Center! Winter Fest brings the sparkle and spirit of the holiday season to the heart of Yonkers with festive lights, outdoor skating, Santa visits, holiday shopping, seasonal food and family-friendly entertainment. With its outdoor setting, free up-close parking and family-friendly amenities, Cross County Center offers a convenient destination to shop, dine and celebrate throughout the holiday season. Website

Sonny Rollins: Saxophone Colossus – LIVE!
Friday, November 13, 2026 at 7:30pm
Cost of admission: $25
Tompkins Corners Cultural Center, 729 Peekskill Hollow Road, Putnam Valley
Experience one of jazz’s most iconic albums brought to life! The True North Jazz Project invites you to rediscover Sonny Rollins’ Saxophone Colossus in an immersive 75-minute program combining a complete live performance with historical storytelling and multimedia exploring the music and its origins. Featuring classics like “St. Thomas,” “Blue 7,” and “You Don’t Know What Love Is,” the concert celebrates Rollins’ extraordinary creativity and enduring influence on jazz. The Hudson Valley–based ensemble features musician-educators Joe North on saxophone, Ryan Cerullo on piano, Buddy Griffith on bass, and Ryan Odell on drums. A Q&A will follow. Website

Autumn Ecology Walk with Loren Merrill
Saturday, November 14, 2026 at 8am
Cost of admission: $25 members, $35 non-members
Innisfree Garden, Millbrook
Join local ecologist and natural historian Dr. Loren Merrill for a relaxing and informative autumn ecology walk at Innisfree discussing the ways in which plants and animals prepare for the challenges of winter like freezing temperatures and food shortages. Website

3rd Annual John Jay PTSA Holiday Craft fair
Saturday, November 14, 2026 from 9am to 4pm
Cost of admission: Free
John Jay High School, 2012 Route 52, Hopewell Junction
Join us for a wonderful day of holiday shopping featuring local artisans, crafters, and small businesses. Our event will feature 123 vendor spaces throughout the gymnasium, cafeteria, and outdoor shopping areas, offering a wide variety of handmade gifts, seasonal decorations, and unique finds. Website

Hudson Valley Horror Fest
November 14-15, 2026; Saturday from 10am to 6pm, Sunday from 10am to 4 pm
Fishkill Rec Center, 793 NY-52, Fishkill
Cost of admission: $15
Hudson Valley Horror Fest brings a weekend of spooky fun to Fishkill! Meet celebrity guests, discover artists and authors, shop horror collectibles, and enjoy live music, movie screenings, panels, and more. With costume contests, Sunday trick-or-treating, and activities for all ages, there’s something for every horror fan! Website

November Open Boat
Saturday, November 14, 2026 from 1 to 4pm
Cost of admission: Free with donations welcome
Homeport Barn, Hudson River Maritime Museum, 50 Rondout Landing, Kingston
Join Clearwater for the first Open Boat of our 2026-2027 Restoration at the Homeport Barn at the Hudson River Maritime Museum! Learn about and tour the restoration project, meet crew and staff, and enjoy an afternoon of community, live music, and children’s activities! The Hudson Valley’s very own James Felice will be performing at 2/2:15 pm, and the Open Boat will also feature a children’s story time at 1:15pm. Clearwater Open Boats traditionally include a potluck, so please bring a potluck dish or snack to share, and a reusable plate, mug, and utensils to reduce waste. Open Boats are always free and open to the public, though donations are welcome. A reminder to dress in warm layers; the barn is chilly in autumn. Website

Collector Afternoon with Ann Wright at Manitoga
Saturday, November 14, 2026 from noon to 4pm
Cost of admission: $75
Manitoga, The Russel Wright Design Center, 584 Route 9D, Garrison
Enjoy a buffet prepared by Ann Wright & Mark Rumbolo followed by a presentation entitled Mary Small Einstein Wright, the Genius Behind the Genius. The house, studio and Russel and Mary Wright Design Gallery will also be open for viewing. Space is limited, advance reservations required. RSVP

Cello, America Concert: Songs of Patriotism, Praise, and Protest
Saturday, November 14, 2026 at 2:30pm
Cost of admission: Free
141 Boardman Road, Poughkeepsie
America’s democracy is based upon the freedoms of speech and religion as part of its cornerstone. Alex Prizginta's program presents Praise (faith) and Protest as part of the vital fabric that weaves our differences into our distinct strength. Key hymns, noble anthems of patriotism, and tunes of solidarity and resistance celebrate our union. No registration required. This program is part of the Poughkeepsie Big Read. Website

Four 1-Act Comedies
Saturday, November 14, 2026 at 7pm
Morton Memorial Library, 82 Kelly Street, Rhinecliff
An unforgettable evening as local personalities tackle comedic readings of four wildly entertaining short plays. Admission by donation. 845-876-2903.

Art in the Loft Closing Event
Sunday, November 15, 2026 from 2 to 4pm
Cost of admission: $80
Millbrook Vineyard and Winery, 26 Wing Road, Millbrook
See who won this year’s wine label as part of the annual fundraiser for Arts Mid-Hudson. Tickets

Putnam Highlands Audubon Society presents Black Bears: An In-Depth Look at Their Lives and Habits
Sunday, November 15, 2026 at 2pm
Cost of admission: Free
Desmond Fish Public Library, Garrison
Get the low-down on black bears by Budd Veverka, a certified Wildlife Biologist and the Director of Conservation and Stewardship at Mianus River Gorge. Register

The Stone Chambers: A Druid’s Journey
Sunday, November 15, 2026 at 2pm
Mahopac Public Library
For centuries, the stone chambers scattered throughout the Northeast have inspired questions, stories, and speculation. Who built them? When? And what purpose did they serve? Drawing from years of exploring stone chambers throughout the Northeast, Renee Fleury examines the emerging fields of archaeo-acoustics and fractal geometry, with real examples found within our own stone landscapes. Register

Threshfest
Sunday, November 15, 2026 from 2 to 4pm
Morton Memorial Library and Community House, 82 Kelly Street, Rhinecliff
Join Dirty Gaia and K Greene, Hudson Valley Seed Co founder, for an afternoon of seed keeping, storytelling, hands-on threshing, seedy snacks, and all ages activities. Website

Howland Chamber Music Circle presents Bridget Kibbey’s Bach to Brazil
Sunday, November 15, 2026 at 4pm
Cost of admission: $40, $10 students
Howland Cultural Center, Beacon
The fourth concert of its 2026–2027 Chamber Series brings harp, violin, and percussion together across Baroque and Latin American traditions. The concert is followed by a reception where ticket holders can meet the artists and enjoy complimentary refreshments. Website

Hurricane ROCKS® – Tribute to The Scorpions
Sunday, November 15, 2026 at 7pm
Daryl's House Club, 130 NY-22, Pawling
Cost of admission: $20
Hurricane ROCKS®, a national touring tribute to The Scorpions, brings the legendary German rock band's music to Daryl's House Club, following a sold-out 2026 appearance at Outer Limits during Laconia Motorcycle Week in New Hampshire. Experience the classics and deep cuts spanning The Scorpions' career performed live by Hurricane ROCKS®, already invited back to Laconia for 2027. Website

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To enter: Email your (1) best photo of Fall in the Hudson Valley from this season (2026) to photos@hvny.info. Original photographs only. Please limit filters/retouching, and include your name and location if it’s a public place.