Legends & Lanterns: A Hudson Valley Fall Escape

Trade the city for crisp fall air, legendary stories, extraordinary art and thousands of glowing pumpkins on the ultimate Hudson Valley autumn escape. Join Women of Culture for a members-only day trip to Historic Hudson Valley, bringing together some of the region’s most fascinating cultural treasures—and ending with one of New York’s most spectacular fall traditions. Our adventure begins at Washington Irving’s Sunnyside, the enchanting riverside home and landscape designed by the author of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. We’ll step inside Irving’s world and discover the place where one of America’s most enduring literary legends came to life. Next comes an unexpected artistic gem: Union Church of Pocantico Hills. Hidden inside this intimate country church are breathtaking stained-glass windows by Henri Matisse and Marc Chagall, commissioned by the Rockefeller family—including Matisse’s final commissioned work and nine windows by Chagall. After soaking up the history and art, we’ll slow things down over drinks & bites at Twenty 105, with time to relax and connect before the grand finale. As night falls, we’ll head to Van Cortlandt Manor for The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze—an immersive wonderland of more than 7,000 hand-carved, illuminated pumpkins, brought to life with elaborate installations, synchronized lighting and an original soundtrack. It’s bigger and brighter this year, with an expanded trail and new displays alongside beloved Blaze favorites.