Hudson Winter Walk 2024 back on
HUDSON, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- On Thursday, the City of Hudson announced the 2024 Hudson Winter Walk is back on, only days after organizing group Hudson Hall announced its cancelation. According to the City of Hudson, both the city and the new producing organization Foundry At Hudson, will work together to put on the annual street festival.
"We know what a treasured event Winter Walk is for the whole region, so we’re going to follow in the footsteps of the talented staff at Hudson Hall and immediately leap into the organizational trenches to make something beautiful happen on December 7th," Tim Banker, executive producer of Foundry At Hudson, a Galvan affiliate, said.
Foundry At Hudson aims to produce highly participatory civic gatherings and live performances for Columbia County and the surrounding areas. The new business is set to open at the Gifford Foundry building, 726 Columbia Street, in 2025.
On Sept. 20, Hudson Hall announced the event would be canceled, as Hudson Hall could not financially produce it on its own. Despite efforts within the city to keep the event happening, the City of Hudson was hopeful to continue the legacy Hudson Hall created in 1997 when the Walk began.
"I understand how difficult this decision to step down must be, but I hope they know how much their efforts have meant to the community," Mayor Kamal Johnson said on Sept. 20. "While it’s bittersweet to see this chapter close, I’m hopeful that a new generation will rise to continue the legacy, ensuring the spirit of Winter Walk lives on for years to come." Since the announcement, Johnson has sought partners to revive the event.
"We are deeply committed to honoring the dedication and tireless efforts of Hudson Hall," Johnson said Thursday. "By giving Winter Walk a fresh beginning, we hope to inspire a new generation to carry forward this cherished tradition for years to come."
With this new partnership, the public can expect the same traditional fun, food, shopping and activities. However, new surprises, performers and ideas will happen this year.
The Winter Walk 2024 producing partnership invites the community's ideas, input, and participation. Anyone interested in participating as a performer, vendor, or volunteer, please contact Daniel Osofsky at dosofsky@foundryhudson.org.
Additionally, local businesses and parks will be hosting other holiday-themed events. “Hudson for the Holidays” events kick off with the lighting of the Hudson Athens Lighthouse on Nov. 2 and continue with attractions including Santa’s Village and a tree-lighting at 7th Street Park on Dec. 7 and the lighting of the Menorah at 7th Street Park on Dec. 25.