Illustration of a marching band in red coats leading a night parade of lit floats along a main street (Sinterklaas Festival Day in Rhinebeck)

Sinterklaas Festival Day in Rhinebeck

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

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.

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Plan Your Visit

Last year

Tickets

FREE

Ages

All ages

Featured Performers

  • Musicians
  • Dancers
  • Storytellers
  • Puppets
  • Magicians
  • Batala NYC
  • Bond St. Stilt Band
  • Brasskill Brass Band
  • +32 more

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.

Going?

Location

Rhinebeck Village · Rhinebeck, NY Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and children

Vibe

Magical, festive, community-oriented

Energy Level

High

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Rain or shine

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.

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.

Links & Contact

Run by Hudson Valley Community Productions

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

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.

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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. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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