Return of Copake Falls Day draws crowds

Return of Copake Falls Day draws crowds

Visitors enjoy ice cream provided complements of the Copake Falls Post Office.

Photo by Charlie Greenberg

COPAKE FALLS, N.Y. —Copake Falls Day, a celebration held annually in the hamlet of the same name, returned on Saturday, July 19, with food, music, and shopping, among other activities available at the community event.

Copake Falls Day is held annually by a collection of organizations, namely the Copake Falls Post Office and Fire Department, businesses such as the Taconic Wayside Inn and private individuals to bring attention to the area’s history and natural beauty, with activities to engage attendees of all ages.

The Copake Fire Department and rescue squad were in attendance, advertising to recruits and showing off new equipment. In addition to their official duties, members of the fire department took advantage of the downtime to sell hamburgers and hotdogs to attendees.

The Copake Fire Department served hamburgers and hot dogs to hungry fair-goers.Photo by Charlie Greenberg

There were deals to be had for visitors, too, including a silent auction and tag sale, with small businesses in the area selling everything from rummage sale items to raw honey. “It’s a great time to get in front of people,” said exhibitor Alfred George from behind a table of homemade household wares.

Also on offer at the event were tours of the distinctive Copake Ironworks Blast Furnace — the center around which historic Copake grew — and the Roecliff Jensen church, home of the hamlet’s historical society.

Visitors to the event could also swim or hike at the nearby Taconic State Park or Bash Bish falls. Within walking distance from Copake Falls Day’s center on a closed section of Route 344 is the swimming pond at Taconic State Park, complete with diving platforms and a lifeguard.

A total of 22 events in all drew strong attendance from those looking to enjoy the summer weather, said staff member Robin Jones.

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