Exploring the New York State Sheep and Wool Festival

The New York State Sheep and Wool Festival is a delightful celebration of all things woolly and wonderful. Nestled in the scenic Hudson Valley, this annual event is a haven for fiber enthusiasts, knitters, and anyone with an appreciation for the charm of sheep. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a virtual tour of this unique festival, where you’ll discover the heartwarming world of wool, vibrant crafts, and the embodiment of rural charm.

A Weekend at the New York State Sheep and Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, NY

Every fall, I make my way to one of the Hudson Valley’s most beloved events: the New York State Sheep and Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, New York. Held annually at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds, this iconic festival is more than just a fiber-lover’s dream—it’s a full-on rural escape filled with creativity, tradition, and community.

A Scenic Rural Escape in the Hudson Valley

Set against the rolling hills of Rhinebeck, NY, the festival feels like stepping into a postcard. Picturesque barns, wide-open fields, and crisp autumn air create the perfect backdrop for a weekend getaway. For city dwellers, it’s a refreshing break from concrete and crowds—an invitation to slow down and reconnect with nature.

Sheep, Sheep, and More Sheep

The true stars of the festival are, of course, the sheep. From rare heritage breeds to well-known favorites like Merino and Shetland, the variety is incredible. Visitors can get up close with these gentle animals and even watch live sheep shearing demonstrations, learning firsthand how raw fleece becomes the foundation of so many fiber arts.

Fiber Arts Paradise: Yarn, Tools, and Inspiration

One of the biggest highlights of the New York Sheep and Wool Festival is the massive Marketplace. With over 300 vendors, it’s a must-visit destination for knitters, spinners, weavers, and fiber artists of all levels. Think hand-dyed yarns, luxury fibers, spinning wheels, looms, knitting needles, and tools you didn’t even know you needed. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned maker, inspiration is everywhere.

Handmade Artisanal Crafts

Beyond fiber, the festival is also a showcase of incredible artisan craftsmanship. From hand-carved woodwork to beautiful pottery and handmade goods, the talent on display is impressive. It’s the perfect place to shop for unique, one-of-a-kind gifts—or something special for yourself.

I picked up some of these cute handmade soap sheep.

A message from the DCSWGA President:

(Quoted from the Sheep and Wool program)

“The Dutchess County Sheep and Wool Growers Association welcomes you to the 43rd New York State Sheep and Wool Festival. The festival is a year-long labor of love for the Association. We take our education mission seriously, and this annual event gives us the opportunity to acquaint our visitors with a variety of experiences. These include sheep and goat shows, breed talks, fiber demonstrations, a skein and garment competition, used fiber and farm equipment sale, fleece sale, photo contest, make it wool contest, leaping llamas, and so much more. We have upwards of 260 vendors, including 25 brand new to us, as well as information booth concerning the new Clean Fleece scouring facility in Mechanicville, NY and Rowan Tree fiber tours. We are also pleased to once again welcome Backyard Green Films, who will be streaming content all weekend long. Thank you to both Backyard Green Films and RE Synergy Foundation for their support in making the livestream happen. Follow them on Instagram @backyardgreenfilms and @re_synergy. And to all our attendees, exhibitors, and volunteers, a huge thank you for continuing to make the NYS Sheep and Wool Festival a part of your Fall! We are so happy to share our weekend with you each year.”