The Hudson Valley’s most vibrant celebration of creativity is back as the Beacon Bonfire Music + Art Festival returns for its third edition this weekend, November 5–9.
More than a festival, Beacon Bonfire is a five-day takeover of the city, transforming streets, breweries, galleries, and unexpected corners of town into stages and canvases.
Inspired by the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and Burning Man, Bonfire blends grassroots energy with Beacon’s unique history, drawing artists and audiences from across the Hudson Valley and beyond.
“The Bonfire is about igniting the spark that happens when art and community collide. Beacon has always been a place where creativity burns bright – this festival is our way of stoking that fire for everyone, and creating the space and support that artists of all disciplines need to explore new ideas and projects,” said Kelly Ellenwood, co-founder of the festival.
Since its inception, Beacon Bonfire has drawn thousands of visitors to the Hudson Valley, providing a platform for local artists and boosting the regional economy. Dozens of past participating artists have chosen to relocate to Beacon, inspired by the festival’s spirit of collaboration and its promise of what organizers call the city’s “indefinable magic.”
The festival is designed for walking, biking, and public transit and with the Beacon Free Loop running on Sundays, this makes it easy to experience the full festival footprint.
The Beacon Bonfire Music + Art Festival The Beacon Bonfire Music + Art Festival is produced by the BonfireWORKS Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting artists and fostering community through creativity. Learn more here.
Opening Night Ceremony (Nov. 5): “Syncretic Liturgy in Service to the Bonfire” at Prophecy Hall, the landmark former Dutch Reformed Church.
Beacon Bonfire Film Festival @ Industrial Arts Brewing (Nov. 6–7): A cinematic spotlight featuring screenings, pop-up events, and filmmaker talks.
On Saturday, November 8, the full mile of Main Street will pulse with music, dance, and street performance—from the historic Fishkill Landing (West End) to Matteawan (East).
10K Firetower Run (Nov. 8): Start the day with a race to Beacon’s iconic firetower.
Sunday Reprise (Nov. 9): A family-friendly finale of community art, fire dancers, and the beloved Beacon Drum Circle.
In partnership with the Beacon Unicorn Fund, every festival pass purchased can fund a pass for a community member who may not otherwise attend. Get tickets here.
See the full lineup of artists and venues here.
Supported by the New York State Council on the Arts, Dutchess County, Destination Dutchess, and Arts Mid-Hudson, Beacon Bonfire continues to grow as a premier cultural destination while staying true to its grassroots origins.
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