YES, the SWAP is returning for 2022! October 23rd!
Where & When…
Sunday, October 23, 2022 — 12-4 pm, Old Buckeley Middle School Gym (newly named: Dutchess Shepherd)
The corner of Market and Mulberry St. Rhinebeck, New York
Here’s how it works…
FIRST: Gather up your Swap items: women’s clothes, accessories, jewelry, handbags and shoes Items must be in very good condition, delivered on hangers
THEN: Drop off your swap items the day before, October 22, at the Old Buckeley Middle School (newly named: Dutchess Shepherd) or bring on the day of the event.
ON October 23: Come to the Swap, bring your family and friends. $25 Donation All proceeds go to Sinterklaas! our annual community-wide winter celebration!
Visit the SinterStore…
Located inside the Swap you’ll find the store filled with special items for sale: accessories, gifts, jewelry, designer clothes, and gift certificates. Plus our special collection of Cashmeres!!!
WHAT: The Star Party, Annual Fundraiser & Celebration
WHEN: Saturday November 9, 2019 — 5:30-7:30pm
WHERE: The Beekman Arms, Rhinebeck, New York
The annual Sinterklaas Kick-off Party is scheduled for Saturday November 9 and you are invited!
There is something fishy about the Illustrious Star Party this year! Our most elegant gathering of the year at which the Snow King and Queen Bring the Celestial Flame to light the First Star that is presented by the Star Child to the Keepers of the Flame; the announcement of the new Family who act as Holders of the Flame for the Sinter Season. Stories, dances, live music, prizes and much, much more! Libations and Hors d’oeuvres are served. Our biggest fundraiser of the year! All welcome! Donation: $50
Purchase your tickets today.
Prefer to order by mail?
Make your check payable to: HVCP (Hudson Valley Community Productions)
and mail to:
HVCP, 118 La Bergerie Lane, Red Hook, NY 12571
Can you do more?
To donate more than the “Star Party” amount please visit our Donation Page.
Since 2014 the Sinterklaas Celebration was “adopted” by the Rhinebeck Rotary Club as part of the international organization’s worldwide initiative called “Light Up Rotary.”
Rhinebeck, NY – “It takes a village…,” a phrase borrowed from a wise African proverb resonates distinctly in Rhinebeck during the start of the winter season, when the Hudson Valley celebrates Sinterklaas in Kingston and Rhinebeck. Now that the spring thaw is here, that “village” — in reality, a variety of local villages and towns – is coming together again to plan for the 8th annual Sinterklaas celebration in 2015.
Sinterklaas in April? “Yes, it’s that time again,” says Jeanne Fleming, director of Hudson Valley Community Productions and the Sinterklaas celebration. “It takes a village, that’s for sure, and nearly an entire year to bring all the elements together – and that starts with the people who make it all happen!”
And just who is it that makes it all happen? That has been a question that has been shrouded in mystery since the very first Sinterklaas celebration in 2008. “That’s a big question to answer,” quips Fleming.
The short answer — Sinterklaas happens because of the efforts of hundreds and hundreds of people in the Hudson Valley. People from everywhere — Individual volunteers, community organizations, artists, teachers, students, parents, business leaders, religious institutions, local funders, as well as local, county and state lawmakers — all play a role in bringing Sinterklaas to life each year. Since the first Sinterklaas in 2008, Fleming has amassed a wide array of talent and resources and charmed them all into providing the necessary services and taking on a variety of tasks.
“So many people help, but this past year, the stand-up, stand-out organization was the Rhinebeck Rotary Club. They have been with us from the very beginning, providing both financial support and incredible people power. And last year, they went all out to make sure Sinterklaas was the best ever, even though we had some mighty challenges,” said Fleming.
The 2014 Sinterklaas Celebration was “adopted” by the Rhinebeck Rotary Club as part of the international organization’s worldwide initiative called “Light Up Rotary.” Over 40 Rotarians, and 50 students from the Rhinebeck Interact Club, came together to help Fleming’s all volunteer crew manage the massive Children’s Starlight Parade that culminates the day-long event. The Rotary Club provided 20 marshals to line the parade route, ensure safety and give directions to the large crowds. The remaining members helped fill the 200 puppet positions to animate the 2-story tall puppets used in the parade.
“And this past year, it was cold and raining – our most challenging conditions ever. But the Rotary and Interact Club members stood strong and made it all look fun and effortless. I don’t know how we would have managed without all the extra help we received from the Rotary. Afterward, we got so many compliments on how wonderful the parade came together despite the weather,” added Fleming.
Other long-time supporters of the Sinterklaas Celebration in Rhinebeck include the Beekman Arms, Upstate Films, Samuel’s, Liberty, Fosters Coach House, The Rhinebeck Courtyard, merchants of Enjoy Rhinebeck, Church of the Messiah, the Reform Church of Rhinebeck and the Rhinebeck Chamber of Commerce. Many businesses in the center of town, including Winter Sun/Summer Moon, Blue Cashew, Oblong Books, Montgomery Row, Oliver Kita, Hummingbird Jewelers, and others support fundraising and host special events.
“I could go on for days about the many, many individuals who help all year long – they come from all over the area, from every village and town – and make our tiny village one enormous hub of joy and celebration,” beams Fleming. “It is a blessing to have this kind of community engagement. It seems like there is nothing we cannot accomplish!”
Sinterklaas planning is beginning now. For more information on how to get involved and get in on the joy, please visit the website www.sinterklaashudsonvalley.com or the Sinterklaas Rhinebeck Facebook page. Meet all our supporters.
Recently, these early Sinterklaas supporters stepped up in big ways to help make this year’s Sinterklaas the best year yet!
The Rhinebeck Rotary, who honored Jeanne Fleming and Pat Sexton as 2014 Citizens of the Year for their community service, continues to honor Sinterklaas through their “Light Up Rotary” program! The Rotary has made a substantial financial contribution and pledged the service of their members and members of the local youth Interact Club to lend valuable assistance to the Starlight Parade! Rotary members will work together to support all aspects of the Parade — help with set up and line up of the Parade, as Parade Marshals, as Puppet Animators, right through to our onstage Pageant at the end of the Parade. They will be with us all the way! Thank you, Rhinebeck Rotary, Interact Club, Kiki Steele, and Phillip Meltzer for giving so much to so many!
Our hard hats are off to Kirchoff- Consigli Construction Management who donated funds to help the Village of Rhinebeck meet the costs of managing the traffic flow on Sinterklaas Day.
Two community grants to Kingston and Rhinebeck were supported by our newly re-elected Assemblyman Kevin A. Cahill. Wonderful that the economic development Sinterklaas contributes to our area is being recognized by our leaders! The arts keep our towns alive! Viva Sinterklaas!
It’s understood, of course, that the opinions shared on this page are not agreed upon with all who read what we’ve got to say week-to-week.
But it’s safe to assume, maybe, that this week’s declaration might fall into the category of a statement that everyone will agree with universally.
And that would be the Sinterklaas organizers and the participants – including the thousands of community members who donned raincoats and clutched umbrellas in order to be there this year – deserve resounding kudos for putting on an awesome and amazing seasonal event for all to enjoy.
For those of us who missed it, there are plenty of photographs in this week’s issue documenting the festivities.
Beyond totally enveloping the community in the spirit of the season, Sinterklaas should be lauded and celebrated for also serving as an example that in this modern world —where often slick marketing creates an anticipation that falls flat with disappointment upon the delivery of an event, a thing, a performance — that true authenticity still exists.
Through months and months of preparation, dogged dedication and original creation, as
opposed to hyping a mirage of doing so, Sinterklaas is so totally unique in its authenticity. One might say the fantastical and mythical theme of the day-long festival is the “real deal” in what it promises and what it delivers.
Children made their own whimsical crowns and accoutrements. Costumes of the various characters are handmade. Everything about Sinterklaas is so rugged in its originality; down to the hand-painted and constructed signs that announce the coming festivities in the Village of Rhinebeck.
How many things are there really nowadays, outside of personal moments with family and friends, that simultaneously instigate goose bumps, put a smile on your face and maybe bring a slight sentimental tear to the eye?
Think about it….those really are the ingredients for a special holiday season moment.
So, thank you, to the organizers for another outstanding Sinterklaas. As stated above, without a doubt, we’re not the only ones singing your praises for gifting this amazing event to the community, once again.
Where: Kingston Library, 55 Franklin St., Kingston
Where every child becomes a King or Queen as they create their own crowns and branches and make their wishes.
For children of all ages (must be accompanied by an adult) The workshops are free, but donations are welcome.
Children create their own Crowns and Branches to carry in the Parade on Sinterklaas Day when the children become Kings and Queens with their handmade decorated crowns and royalty with their branches representing the Royal Scepter. Hundreds of handsome branches will be laid out alongside lots of beautiful and fanciful materials—jewels, ribbons, glitter, lace, streamers, — with which the children can can create their Royal garb!
WHERE: Fiberflame in Rhinebeck: 18B East Market St.(845.516.5123)
Dad fits a newly made crown!
Stop by Fiberflame for this drop-in workshop where kids can make SINTERKLAAS CROWNS to wear on the festival days. Parents and children are invited to co-create (the kids may need your help with some of the materials and tools!) crowns.
Crowns are a traditional part of the Hudson Valley Sinterklaas Celebration where children are elevated to royalty and the adults have the opportunity to honor our most precious ones!
Each year we begin the preparations for Sinterklaas Festival Day with fun activities for all. Crowns & Branches as well as the Puppet Workshop are open to the community and free of charge; donations are welcome. Children & adults welcome. Lots of fun. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
CROWNS & BRANCHES Workshops
LOCATION: 3 Mulberry St. In the gym in the former Father Brogan Center and Good Shepherd Rectory
SCHEDULE:
Wednesday, November 29 2:30-6pm
Thursday, November 30 2:30 – 6 PM
Quiet Time
In the spirit of inclusivity, we have a large space (a gym) with areas that can be dedicated to neuro-divergent children and children with other special needs.
Consider Volunteering?
If you are interested and willing to help run Crowns and Branches please contact Joanna Hess (845-505-6397) or sign up online.
PUPPETMAKING WORKSHOPS
Join Sinterklaas puppeteers Alex Kahn and Sophia Michahelles for workday sessions to restore, remake, and create puppets for the Starlight Parade!
Help us make this year’s honored animal, the ANT! Bring color back to the Turtle! Give luster to the Peace Dove!
Workshops are geared towards adults and teens, and older children working with an adult are welcome!
Workshop space and exact times TBD
SCHEDULE
11:00am – 4:00pm
Friday, November 17
Saturday, November 18
Friday, November 24
Saturday, November 25
Sunday, November 26
Spots are limited and registration is required! To register for the puppet workshops, email processionalarts@gmail.com and we will be in touch.
WHERE: The Old Dutch Church, Uptown Kingston (corner of Wall and Main Streets)
WHAT: A Cocktail Reception and Silent Auction Fundraiser for Sinterklaas
Featuring hors d’oeuvres, wine & spirits, entertainment; a silent auction with holiday wreaths decorated by local artists, great gift certificates, and more!
JOIN US ON SATURDAY DECEMBER 2, 2023, RHINEBECK, NEW YORK
Sinterklaas is a day-long, colorful celebration that features children’s workshops, dance, theatre and music all over the village of Rhinebeck.
Don’t miss the Dancing Bear, the Pocket Lady, and Mother Holly, The Queen’s Court, the Dancing Ants!! The spectacular Children’s Starlight Parade at 6:00 pm, featuring two-story tall, animated puppets carried by hundreds of volunteers, closes the day at twilight.
A non-denominational event, Sinterklaas joins residents and visitors alike, people of all ages and backgrounds, in a memorable celebration of children, art, and the light of the winter season.
Be sure to grab a program booklet when you arrive so you know the whole story of Sinterklaas in the Mid-Hudson Valley. It will make for an even richer experience! Visit the ASK ME Ladies’ table in the center of town by the Beekman Arms.
In the meantime get a jump start on your plan for the day!!!
CROWNS & BRANCHES Children are at the heart of the Sinterklaas story! They are KINGS & QUEENS of the Day and we honor them in the Parade and the Pageant. Make sure they get a chance to make their crowns and adorn their branches for the evening events!
BEEKMAN ARMS OPENING CEREMONY with Jeanne Fleming, Creator of Sinterklaas! It will be dramatic, even operatic! See the Sinterklaas story come alive when you meet all of its characters in person. Special treats and lots of fanfare!!!
UPSTATE FILMS/BINDLESTIFF FAMILY CIRKUS presents “Paris, the Hip Hop Juggler”
