Attendee #1
CELEBRATE WITH FRIENDS OF THE WALKWAY
Each October, we mark the anniversary of the grand opening of Walkway Over the Hudson by celebrating the millions of special moments, lasting connections, and shared experiences made high atop the Hudson River since 2009.
On Friday, October 2, 2026 at 6 p.m., join us for Starry Starry Night - a perfect autumn evening beneath the stars at Upper Landing Park in Poughkeepsie. Honorary chairs Kip Bleakley O'Neill, Elizabeth Waldstein and Sarah Johnstone Levine, along with event chairs Shirley Rinaldi and Anita Jones, invite you to enjoy an open-air culinary celebration featuring chef-crafted dishes from Main Course Catering expertly paired with regional wines, brews, and spirits. Live music, art, and surprise performances will create a dazzling, festival-like atmosphere as we gather in support of one of the Hudson Valley's most iconic destinations.
As twilight falls, guests will ascend the Walkway's glass elevator for exclusive after-hours access to the bridge and spectacular views high above the Hudson River. A brilliant fireworks display will cap off the evening in an unforgettable fashion.
This is more than a celebration, it's an evening to honor our community champions, uplift the mission of Friends of the Walkway, and invest in the future of one of the Hudson Valley's most cherished landmarks.
STARRY STARRY NIGHT GOES GREEN!
Friends of the Walkway is proud to partner with Royal Carting/Casella to launch the Zero Waste Initiative at this year's Starry Starry Night. As the presenting partner of this exciting new effort, Royal Carting/Casella is helping reduce landfill waste by maximizing recycling and diverting food waste through composting.
In collaboration with Greenway Environmental Services, food waste generated throughout the evening will be collected and composted, reinforcing a shared commitment to sustainability. Together, we are taking meaningful steps to reduce our environmental impact and help preserve the Hudson Valley's natural resources for future generations.
STARRY STARRY NIGHT HONORS
For those unable to attend the event but wishing to show support for our honorees and their impact on our mission, please make a donation and your name will be listed in our event materials.
EXTEND YOUR STAY AT INN AT BELLEFIELD
Need overnight accommodations to continue exploring the Hudson Valley? The Inn at Bellefield in Hyde Park (located just a short drive from Upper Landing Park) is the official hotel partner of Friends of the Walkway.
Enjoy their all-suites property located directly across from the Culinary Institute of America at a special discounted rate when booking via the link below.
RENT OUR TENT
On Saturday, October 3, the beautifully appointed Starry Starry Night tent at Upper Landing Park in Poughkeepsie is available for a private rental. Take advantage of an exceptional space on the Hudson River waterfront at a fraction of its retail value!
For $2,500*, you'll receive access to a fully outfitted event venue featuring:
- 60' x 90' pole tent
- Tables and chairs for up to 200 guests
- Interior café string lighting
- Generator
- Four-stall flush restroom trailer
- Catering tent
- Welcome entrance tent
- 10' x 15' stage
- Two tent heaters
- Optional on-site tent rental staff
With an estimated retail value of more than $15,000, this is an extraordinary opportunity to host a wedding, celebration, fundraiser, corporate event, or private gathering in one of the Hudson Valley's most iconic settings.
The spectacular views of the Hudson River and surrounding valley are included at no extra charge!
Rental Time: 9:00 a.m. Saturday, October 3 through 9:00 a.m. Sunday, October 4
*Additional charges for overnight security, required Dutchess County permits, and an event certificate of insurance may apply
To inquire, email Diane at [email protected].
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
PAY OFFLINE
Want to mail a check or pay over the phone?
Call us at 845-454-9649 x105.
URSA MAJOR
CASSIOPEIA
ANDROMEDA
ORION
Alpha Win | Chestnut Market | Ron & Ellie Carlton | Kevin Cleary & Holly Wahlberg | Dutchess ProPrint | Inn at Bellefield | Helena Lee | Lemon Love | Thomas P. Lepre | NBT Bank | Oakwood Friends School | Nothing Bundt Cakes | Optum | Scenic Hudson | John Storyk & Beth Walters-Storyk | Ulster Savings Bank | WMCHealth
PHOENIX
LaBella Associates | Mill House Brewing Company | Orthopedic Associates of Dutchess County | Jill & John Romeo | Queen City Strategies | Redl's Towing
Starry Starry Night is a cocktail-style celebration with no assigned seating. Guests are invited to mingle, enjoy delicious food and drinks, take in the views, and explore throughout the evening. Seating will be available throughout the event on a first-come basis.
All ticket sales are final. Tickets are non-refundable and cannot be exchanged or refunded after purchase.
All winning bids in our silent auction are final. Before placing a bid, please take a moment to read the full description and details of each auction package so you know exactly what's included. Once a bid is placed, it is considered a commitment to purchase the package if you are the winning bidder.
We look forward to celebrating with you under the stars!
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