Family events in Poughkeepsie, NY

At Barton Orchards in Poughquag, NY, the lineup includes live music, family-friendly entertainment, magic shows, pig races, a petting zoo, a fun park, and a variety of food options. Guests can sip the orchard’s own craft hard cider at any of the three bars and pick up meals or snacks at three concession locations. Each festival offers different experiences, with farm fun for all ages.

A statewide ska collaboration brings Ben Basile, The Doomstompers, Girth Control, and The Abruptors to Kaal Rock Park for a free, all-ages show that blends modern ska, rocksteady, ska-punk, and reggae. Hudson Valley bassist, educator, and composer Ben Basile headlines with an all-star band, drawing on a career that spans performances across six continents, work with Boston’s Big D and The Kids Table, and founding The Poughkeepsie Jazz Project. His debut solo album, Benergy, arrived on Sleep Walk Sounds, an imprint of Wiretap Records, and his set weaves ska, reggae, and jazz. Queens outfit The Doomstompers deliver punk-infused rocksteady with an organ-led five-piece lineup, channeling 60s Jamaican influences alongside touchstones like Bad Brains, The Beastie Boys, and MF Doom. Their debut, Take A Beat, is on Bad Time Records. From Albany, Girth Control packs catchy ska-punk singalongs full of hooks, humor, and heart. Formed by members of upstate favorites Public Access and The Slaughterhouse Chorus, the trio stays true to a mission of keeping things tight, honest, and fun. Buffalo’s The Abruptors round out the bill with a lively mix of ska, reggae, and rocksteady on Asian Man Records. They are promoting Everything You Know Is Wrong, a release that tackles themes of mental health, navigating crises, and conversations that matter.

Barton Orchards hosts a series of live performances paired with refreshing cider and fresh snacks. Visitors can stroll the orchard, take in the surroundings, and grab something to eat. Lobster rolls are also available.

The Midway at Barton Orchards hosts a relaxed evening of live music and good vibes. While the music plays, visitors can stop by the tap room and concessions, see the animals at the petting zoo, spend time at the dog park, browse the general store and creamery, and explore the wooden ship playground.