Sinterklaas Saturday in Rhinebeck

It's finally here – Sinterklaas in Rhinebeck! The magical, family-friendly day-long event invites everyone – from Grumpuses to The Star Child – to experience the wonder of Sinterklaas, the valley's revamped Dutch tradition where children are "transformed into Kings and Queens and honored as the bringers of the light at the darkest time of year."

"The tradition of Sinterklaas comes all the way from the Netherlands, brought by Dutch settlers who arrived in Rhinebeck over 300 years ago. Sinterklaas, the patron of children and sailors, finds a welcoming community in the Mid-Hudson Valley as we re-create the story through the lens of modern-day America." (sinterklaashudsonvalley.com)

But there's a lot happening before catching a glimpse of Sinterklaas with his white steed, garbed in a bishop’s tall hat, red cape, shiny ring and jeweled staff – over 250 musicians, actors, magicians and other magical performers will entertain throughout the village!

 

SINTERKLAAS: Schedule of events

Events run all day at various locations throughout the village, beginning at 10 a.m. with a beauty contest for Teddy Bears at Samuels, Opening Ceremonies at noon and the famed Starlight Parade lining up at 6 p.m.

Full schedule: http://www.sinterklaashudsonvalley.com/sinterklaas-festival-day-in-rhinebeck/

 

SINTERKLAAS: Parking Regulations

SOUNDS FUN, BUT WHERE DO I PARK?!

As of 2 p.m. on Saturday, December 2, parking is suspended on both sides of East and West Market Streets from Center Street to Oak Street and both sides of Route 9 from Chestnut Street to South Street.

Parking lots are available the Dutchess County Fairgrounds, the Rhinebeck High School, the Highway Department (W. Market St., 0.3 miles west of the Starr Library), and behind the Starr Library.

No parking all day:

• North side of South Street from Route 9 to Route 308
• South side of Livingston Street from Center Street to Mulberry Street
• Both sides of West Market Street from Oak Street to the Town Highway Garage
• West side of Center Street from Livingston Street to South Street
• West side of Lorraine Drive
• Both sides of South Parsonage Street from South Street to North Park

No parking after 2PM on:

• Both sides of East and West Market Streets from Center Street to Oak Street
• Both sides of Route 9 from Chestnut Street to South Street

The Rhinebeck Bank Parking will be closed at 1:00 PM. The drive-thru ATM will remain open until 3PM.