The New York State

Dutchess County Fairgrounds • Rhinebeck, NY

October 15-18, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the festival held?

The New York State Sheep & Wool Festival takes place at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck, New York. The fairgrounds are conveniently located just minutes from the village of Rhinebeck and are easily accessible by car.

Where can I park?

On-site parking is available at the fairgrounds. Parking attendants and directional signage will help guide you upon arrival. Arriving early is recommended, especially during peak attendance times.

Are tickets available at the gate?

Tickets may be available for purchase at the gate, subject to availability. To save time and guarantee admission, we encourage guests to purchase tickets online in advance.

Can I leave and re-enter the festival?

Yes. Guests may leave and return to the festival during the same day. Be sure to retain your admission credentials, as they may be required for re-entry.

Is the festival cash-only?

No. Many vendors accept credit and debit cards; however, payment methods vary by vendor. Bringing a small amount of cash is recommended, especially for smaller purchases or in areas with limited connectivity. ATMs are available on Saturday & Sunday.

Are ATMs available on-site?

Yes. ATMs are available on Saturday & Sunday throughout the fairgrounds for attendee convenience. Locations can be found on the festival map and in the event program.

What are the festival hours?

Festival hours vary by day. Please visit the festival schedule page for current dates, times, and special event information.

Is the festival family-friendly?

Absolutely. The festival welcomes visitors of all ages and offers a wide variety of activities, demonstrations, exhibits, and shopping opportunities that can be enjoyed by the entire family.

Can I bring my own food and beverages?

Guests are welcome to bring light snacks and non-alcoholic beverages for personal use. Please dispose of waste responsibly and help us keep the fairgrounds clean for everyone.

Where can I find a festival map and schedule?

Maps, vendor listings, workshop information, and event schedules are available on our website before and during the festival. Printed materials may also be available on-site while supplies last.

What should I bring to the festival?

Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a reusable shopping bag, and your enthusiasm for all things fiber are highly recommended. Many attendees also bring a shopping list to help navigate the hundreds of vendors and exhibitors throughout the weekend.

Can I bring my pet to the festival?

No. Pets are not permitted on the festival grounds. For the safety and comfort of all attendees, please leave pets at home. Service animals are welcome.

What happens if it rains?

The festival takes place rain or shine. October weather can vary, so we recommend dressing in layers and wearing comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking throughout the grounds.

Is there a place to store my purchases while I shop?

Yes. A bag check service is available on-site, allowing you to safely store purchases until you’re ready to leave for the day. Many attendees also bring a foldable tote or shopping bag to carry their finds.

Are strollers allowed?

Yes. Strollers and wagons are welcome, but please be mindful of other guests when navigating vendor buildings and narrow aisles. If possible, consider parking larger strollers outside vendor booths while shopping.

Can I rent a wheelchair or mobility scooter at the festival?

At this time, wheelchair and mobility scooter rentals are not available on-site. Guests are welcome to bring their own mobility devices to use throughout the festival grounds.

What food options are available?

A variety of food vendors are available throughout the festival offering a range of meal and snack options. Guests with dietary restrictions are encouraged to review the food vendor listings before their visit.

How can I find specific vendors before the festival?

Our online vendor directory makes it easy to search vendors by name, product category, or keyword before you arrive. It’s a great way to plan your shopping list and map out your must-visit booths.

Can I purchase festival merchandise in advance?

Yes. Festival souvenirs and merchandise may be available for pre-order before the event, allowing for faster pickup during the festival weekend.

How can I share photos from the festival?

We love seeing your festival experience. Share your photos and videos on social media and tag the festival so we can follow along and celebrate with you.

Any tips for attending with children?

The festival is family-friendly and involves a lot of walking. Bringing water, snacks, and any essentials your children may need can help make the day more enjoyable for everyone.

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