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The Big Dill: 7 Must-Know Updates For The Rosendale International Pickle Festival 2024

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The Rosendale International Pickle Festival is one of the Hudson Valley’s most unique and beloved annual events, drawing thousands of pickle enthusiasts to celebrate all things brined, soused, and preserved. For those planning to attend, the most important update for the coming year is the date and location: the 27th Annual festival is set to take place on Sunday, October 20, 2024, at the spacious Ulster County Fairgrounds in New Paltz, New York.

This massive, one-day celebration is far more than just a place to buy a jar of cucumbers; it is a full-scale cultural event that features over 100 diverse vendors, competitive eating, and a deep dive into the global art of fermentation. Whether you are a dedicated 'Dill' fan or a 'Sweet' pickle purist, this is your complete guide to the latest news, history, and everything you need to know about the legendary "Picklefest."

The Rosendale Pickle Festival: A Brined and Soused Biography

The Rosendale International Pickle Festival, affectionately known as "Picklefest," has a surprisingly humble and international beginning that has grown into a major regional attraction. The event is a testament to the community spirit of Rosendale and the entrepreneurial vision of its founders.

  • Founders: Bill and Cathy Brooks
  • Inaugural Year: 1997
  • Original Concept: The festival began after the founders hosted a small Japanese dinner party. They were hoping for around 200 guests but were stunned when over 1,000 people showed up, revealing an unexpected local passion for preserved foods.
  • Original Location: Rosendale, NY (The festival’s namesake town)
  • Current Location: Ulster County Fairgrounds, 249 Libertyville Road, New Paltz, NY
  • Annual Timing: Held once a year, traditionally on the 3rd Sunday of October.
  • Attendance: The event now attracts between 4,000 and 5,000 visitors annually.
  • Organization: The festival is run by the Rosendale Chamber of Commerce.

The 2024 Festival: Date, Location, and What to Expect

The 27th Annual Rosendale International Pickle Festival promises to be the largest yet, consolidating its status as a premier Hudson Valley event. Mark your calendars for the essential details.

Latest Event Details (2024)

The festival has moved from its original, smaller location in Rosendale to the more expansive Ulster County Fairgrounds to accommodate the growing crowds and over 100 vendors.

  • Official Date: Sunday, October 20, 2024
  • Time: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Venue: Ulster County Fairgrounds, New Paltz, NY
  • Vendor Count: Over 100, including more than 20 dedicated pickle vendors.
  • Future Date: For early planners, the 2025 festival is already scheduled for Sunday, October 19, 2025.

The sheer variety of vendors ensures that every palate is satisfied. Beyond the numerous pickle purveyors offering everything from classic dill spears to exotic preserved vegetables, you will find a wide array of other goods. Vendors sell groceries, hot food, baked goods, crafts, jewelry, and fashion items, making it a great place to get a head start on holiday shopping or find a unique local gift.

Pickle Contests and Culinary Entities: The Heart of Picklefest

No pickle festival would be complete without some friendly, brine-soaked competition. The Rosendale International Pickle Festival hosts two main competitive events that draw massive crowds and spirited contestants.

1. The Home Pickling Contest

This is where local and regional pickling masters bring their “A” game. The Home Pickling Contest is a formal competition judged on flavor, texture, and appearance. The contest typically features two main categories, though others may be added:

  • Dill Pickles: The classic, sour, and savory category. Past winners include Kashuba's Pickling Company and Jered Haag.
  • Sweet Pickles: For those who prefer a sweeter brine, often featuring entities like Puckers in the winner's circle.

The coveted "Best in Show" award has been claimed by local favorites like Frank's Fresh Pickling Co., cementing their status as top-tier picklers in the Hudson Valley region. Contestants, including Backyard Briners, register on the day of the festival to compete for first and second place in each category.

2. The Pickle Eating Contest

For the speed eaters and true pickle fanatics, the Pickle Eating Contest is a must-watch event. Contestants race against the clock and each other to consume an entire small jar of Mt. Olive pickles as quickly as possible. This high-energy event is always a fan favorite, providing a fun, messy spectacle that embodies the spirit of the festival.

The "International" Mystery and Other Essential Entities

The name "Rosendale International Pickle Festival" often sparks curiosity. The "International" moniker is a nod to the global history and variety of preserved foods. The festival’s roots trace back to a Japanese dinner party, and the vendors celebrate the vast world of brined, soused, and preserved items that exist across cultures, not just the traditional American dill. Here, you can find everything from classic dill cukes to deep-fried pickles and perhaps even international ferments like kimchi or sauerkraut.

Key Vendors and Culinary Entities to Look For

With over 100 vendors, the selection is immense. While the pickle vendors are the stars, other food and craft vendors make the event a full-day experience:

  • Pickle Purveyors: Frank's Fresh Pickling Co., Kashuba's Pickling Company, Backyard Briners, Puckers (and many more local, specialized producers).
  • Hot Food: BBQ Crew (offering Texas-style brisket and smoked pulled pork).
  • Sweets and Drinks: New York Soda Jerks (hand-crafted sodas and eggcreams), Pura Vida Kettle Corn.
  • Sponsorship Tiers: The festival recognizes its major supporters at levels like The Big Dill, The Spear, and The Gherkin.

Making a Weekend of It: Nearby Attractions in New Paltz

Since the festival is held at the Ulster County Fairgrounds in New Paltz, it is the perfect anchor for a weekend trip to the Hudson Valley. The fairgrounds itself is a hub of activity, hosting other major events throughout the year.

When you are not enjoying the pickles, consider exploring these nearby attractions and events to build out your topical authority trip:

  • Arts and Crafts: The Ulster County Fairgrounds is also home to the Woodstock-New Paltz Art and Craft Fair, held on Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends.
  • Local Fairs: The annual Ulster County Fair.
  • Other Events: Depending on the season, you might find the Mid-Hudson Comic Con, the Hudson Valley Pirate Festival, or the Hudson Valley Draft Horse Association Square Dance.

The Rosendale International Pickle Festival is more than a simple food fair; it is a vibrant, community-driven celebration of a simple yet globally beloved food. With the 2024 date set for October 20th, pickle lovers from New York City, the Hudson Valley, and beyond are already planning their pilgrimage to the Ulster County Fairgrounds. Don't miss your chance to be a part of this annual "Big Dill" and taste the best brined and preserved foods the region has to offer.

The Big Dill: 7 Must-Know Updates for the Rosendale International Pickle Festival 2024
pickle festival rosendale ny
pickle festival rosendale ny

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