Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Sinterklaas Festival Day in Rhinebeck
Children honored as kings and queens in a Dutch tradition.
About
Experience the enchanting Sinterklaas Festival Day in Rhinebeck, a unique Dutch tradition celebrating children as royalty. Immerse yourself in a day filled with creative workshops, captivating performances by over 350 artists, and a magical Children's Starlight Parade. This community-powered event transforms the village into a wonderland of music, dance, and storytelling, culminating in a spectacular pageant.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and children
Vibe
Magical, festive, community-oriented
Energy Level
High
Budget
FREE
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Rain or shine
Special Events & Promotions
- Children are honored as Kings and Queens of the day.
- The event culminates in a Children's Starlight Parade and Pageant.
- Over 350 performers fill the village with entertainment.
- Children can create their own crowns and branches.
- A scavenger hunt is available for families.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
FREE
Duration
All day
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- Musicians
- Dancers
- Storytellers
- Puppets
- Magicians
- Batala NYC
- Bond St. Stilt Band
- Brasskill Brass Band
- Faeries of the Forest
- Funkrust Brass Band
- Giglio Band
- Honk Family Band
- Hungry March Band
- Mortal Beasts & Deities
- Mother Holly
- Ole’ Factory Brass Band
- Our Own Grumpuses
- Pokingbrook Morris Team
- The Ant Eater
- The Chinelos
- The Pocket Lady With Her “Pocket Lady Pal”
- The Polar Bearwith His Trainer & Musical Sidekick
- Uptown Lowdown Night Stars
- Vassar Devils
- Jeanne Fleming
- Bindlestiff Family Cirkus
- Paris, the Hip Hop Juggler
- Rob Lok
- Miss Jane
- The Queen’s Court
- The Ants
- The Dancing Bear
- The Pocket Lady
- Mother Holly
- The Dancing Ants
- Betty and the Baby Boomers
- Matoaka Little Eagle
- Vanaver Caravan
- Arm of the Sea Theater
- Bard College Georgian Choir
Organizer
Hudson Valley Community Productions
Practical Information
Parking
Parking on Sinterklaas Day in Rhinebeck can be difficult. Arrive early. Consider carpooling. Street parking is available, but be aware of posted NO PARKING areas and do not block driveways. Recommended parking lots include Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck High School, and Rhinebeck Town Highway Department. Disabled parking is at 47 W. Market Street.
Pet Policy
Service animals welcome
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early, especially for the Children's Starlight Parade at 6:00 PM, as parking in Rhinebeck can be challenging.
- Consider carpooling with friends to make the journey more enjoyable and to ease parking congestion.
- Pick up a program booklet upon arrival to plan your day and understand the full Sinterklaas story.
- Children can create their own crowns and branches at the 'Crowns & Branches' workshop to feel like royalty for the day.
- Purchase a Sinterklaas star to support the event and 'feed both the soul and the body' of the community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Sinterklaas Festival Day happening in 2025?
Organizers are hopeful for the return of Sinterklaas in 2025, but final commitments and funding are still being finalized. Check their website for the latest updates.
What is the main focus of the Sinterklaas Festival?
The festival honors children as the 'kings and queens' of the day, celebrating them as bringers of light during the darkest time of the year.
What kind of performances can I expect?
You can expect a wide array of performances including musicians, dancers, storytellers, puppeteers, magicians, and theatrical groups filling every corner of the village.
Is there a specific time for the parade?
Yes, the spectacular Children's Starlight Parade begins at 6:00 PM, culminating in a Pageant and Star Ceremony.
How is this event funded?
This is a completely FREE event made possible by donations, grants, sales of illuminated stars, and the support of gracious benefactors.
