2 New Hair-Raising Fall Experiences From Historic Hudson Valley Come To Life

SLEEPY HOLLOW, NY — If you think you've seen everything the Hudson Valley has to offer in the way of fall fun, you couldn't be more wrong.

Historic Hudson Valley announces two new events this year that debut this week.

Visitors are invited to "step into the shadows" at Raven's Nest in the Historic Hudson Valley Library, in Sleepy Hollow, for "An Audience with Poe," featuring an immersive evening of storytelling and cocktails inspired by America's master of gothic literature, Edgar Allan Poe.

From Oct. 3 through Nov. 1, professional storytellers will conjure the "powerful graphic effect" that Washington Irving once praised in Poe's writing, with haunting renditions of The Raven, The Tell-Tale Heart, The Black Cat, and The Masque of the Red Death.

The spooky tales will be paired with complimentary themed cocktails, mocktails, and treats, designed to capture the spirit of the stories.

Handcrafted cocktails include:

• "The Midnight Cat," a take on a whiskey mule paired with The Black Cat
• "Prospero's Toast," a bubbly drink with cranberry and orange juice, paired with The Masque of the Red Death
• "Nevermore Nogg," a version of one of Poe's favorite drinks, paired with The Tell-Tale Heart

The evening will begin in the library's grand foyer, where visitors will be able to sip their first drink while standing among the historic volumes and enjoying the first chilling story.

From there, the experience will then move to an intimate theater setting, where three more of Poe's masterpieces will unfold.

Guests will be able to enjoy drinks, a pretzel, and fine chocolate along with the deliciously dark tales.

"An Audience with Poe" is recommended for ages 14 and up. (Proper ID is required for consuming alcohol.)

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Also debuting this year, on October 3, is "The Headless Horseman Files: An Immersive Sleepy Hollow Whodunit," a daytime theatrical mystery walk where visitors will have the chance to gather clues and find out what really happened to Ichabod Crane. On this 45-minute walk through the historic grounds of Sleepy Hollow's Philipsburg Manor, visitors will encounter "suspicious townsfolk," each with their own tale and motive for causing the demise of Crane. Visitors will be able to work together to mine the clues and decide who they think the Headless Horseman really is.

Other events returning this year include:

• "The Spirits of Sleepy Hollow Country: A Night of Legendary Magic," at Philipsburg Manor in Sleepy Hollow. Mark Clearview and Nick Wallace, master illusionists, will take visitors on a supernatural journey, conjuring the spirits of Sleepy Hollow lore, including Hulda, Major Andre, and the Headless Horseman, for a night of mystery and fun. Snacks and drinks, including local wine and beer, will be available to purchase. Premium tickets include a complimentary beverage and cabaret-style seating. New matinee performances have been added this year by popular demand.
• Irving's "Legend": At Irving's home Sunnyside, in Irvington, master storyteller Jonathan Kruk will cast a spell with dramatic performances of Irving's "Legend," performed outdoors under the stars. Complete with live music by Jim Keyes, this performance is sure to thrill audiences of all ages. Snacks and drinks, including local wine and beer, will be available to purchase.
• "Twilight Village at Sleepy Hollow" at Philipsburg Manor in Sleepy Hollow: the "atmospheric outdoor experience" will have fire performers, storytellers, a pop-up market, and a "dramatic" sound-and-light show recreating the Horseman's midnight ride.

All events will be held rain or shine.

Find out more information and buy tickets online here. Proceeds support Historic Hudson Valley, the Tarrytown-based private, non-profit educational organization that owns and operates several National Historic landmarks.

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