Summer is a time to take your thoughts, energy, and loved ones outside to enjoy the timeless pleasures of a lively season. If picking ripe berries or wildflowers in a mountain meadow sounds unrealistic, it’s no exaggeration — that’s every summer in Ulster County.
This pastoral haven for camping, hiking, boating, fishing, and agritourism is the perfect summer destination for any couple, family, or group looking for a “classic Americana” holiday worthy of their most beloved photo album. And Ulster County starts summer right with a Fourth of July booming with activities! As you’ll see below, Ulster County is marking summer with a full schedule of free and fun events and also plenty of fireworks fun on the Fourth!
It buzzes with arts, culture, and fun all summer long in Ulster County. Vocalists, musicians, actors, painters, sculptors, and cinephiles of all ages take their hard work and passion to the streets and audiences of Ulster, as the local communities stage a wide selection of art-focused festivals or events all summer.
The Hudson Valley’s natural beauty and wildlife are on full display throughout the summer. This is the ideal time for exploring the beautiful waterways and river itself on a kayak tour, paddleboard, canoe, or rental boat. Warm weather is also the prime time for roaming forest trails to find gorgeous waterfalls or cliff vistas, and for those needing less physical exertion, Rail Explorers and the Catskill Mountain Railroad offer one- to two-hour rides along similar paths.
Beat the city heat and discover your perfect summer in Ulster County!
Fourth of July Celebrations in Ulster County
Village of Saugerties: July 4th Parade & Fireworks
July 4th Parade starts at Robert Moser Drive at 11 am on July 4, 2025.
Fireworks at Cantine Memorial Field starting at 10 pm.
July 4th Fireworks Spectacular at Walkway Over the Hudson
Fireworks on July 4, 2025, from 6 pm - 9:30 pm at 87 Haviland Rd, Highland, NY.
Town of Shandaken: Independence Day Parade
Independence Day Parade on July 5, 2025 (rain date: July 6, 2025) at 10:30 am. Lineup at 10 am at Phoenicia Elementary School (11 School Ln, Phoenicia, NY).
Old Fashion Fireworks at Tony Williams Town Park
Fireworks on July 5, 2025, from 6 pm - 10 pm at S Riverside Rd, Highland, NY.
Fireworks at Thomas Felten Community Park
Fireworks on July 12, 2025 (rain date: July 13, 2025), start time TBD at 11 Patura Rd, Modena, NY.
Summer Festivals in Ulster County
July 13, 2025 - Sawyer Motors Car Show
At Sawyer Motors Car Show, or “The Best Little Car Show in the Northeast,” Main and Partition Streets are closed to traffic and lined with more than 500 vintage cars. A day of fun for all ages with live music on every corner.
July 17-21, 2025 - Upstate Art Weekend
A three-day, self-directed event, Upstate Art Weekend celebrates the cultural vibrancy of Upstate New York with hundreds of exhibitions and artist studio tours. Free and ticketed events.
July 26-27, 2025 - Borscht Belt Fest
Created by the Catskills Borscht Belt Museum, the Borscht Belt Fest celebrates the Borscht Belt era, pays homage to its vibrant past, and showcases its legacy and wide-ranging influence on contemporary American culture. It features stand-up comedy, live music, film, educational programming, and, of course, food!
July 29 - August 3, 2025 - Ulster County Fair
The annual Ulster County Fair promotes local agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, and good old-fashioned fun since 1886. Entertainment shows and exhibits.
August 16, 2025 - Caribbean Carnival
Authentic Caribbean food, music, and live performances; a costume contest, games, and family fun are all at the Caribbean Carnival. Donations suggested.
Soak Up the Summer Sun and Fun in Ulster County
Whether you're drawn to the rhythms of live music, the charm of small-town parades, or the tranquility of scenic trails and waterways, Ulster County invites you to make the most of every summer moment. With something happening every weekend, there's no shortage of ways to celebrate the season. Plan your visit today and experience a summer you’ll want to return to year after year.
