To the Editor:

The Helderberg Hilltowns are closer than you think. On Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 14 and 15, discover the Hilltowns as you visit farms and artisans in Berne, Knox, Rensselaerville, and Westerlo. This self-driving tour is free and sponsored by Helderberg Hilltowns Association.

Family-friendly activities include farm tours, visiting oxen Burt and Al, gathering eggs, feeding alpacas, meeting therapy horses, and walking a labyrinth or nature trail. Artisans will demonstrate custom band-sawing, caning chairs, spinning fleece, weaving, and constructing a barn quilt.

Local farmstands, restaurants, shops, museums, and libraries will be open at various times throughout the weekend. Be prepared to fill your cooler with farm-fresh produce and home-baked goodies. Maps are available in many locations throughout the area and may be downloaded at www.Hilltowns.org

Discover the Hilltowns’ central location is at the Berne Masonic Lodge, next to the post office, 1652 Helderberg Trail, and is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Stop by for a map, information, and refreshments. Vendors and crafters will be on hand.

On Saturday, help Phoebe Beebe tie a community quilt to be donated to a deserving Hilltowns senior citizen.

The tour will take place rain or shine. As several venues are working farms, visitors are asked to leave pets at home. For more information, visit www.Hilltowns.org, e-mail HHAinformation@gmail.com, or call 872-1390.

Jane McLean
Knox

Editor’s note: Jane McLean is a member of the Helderberg Hilltowns Association.