Your Guide to Hudson’s Annual Events: Celebrate, Explore, and Connect Year-Round

Hudson, Massachusetts, isn’t just a beautiful Main Street — it’s a town that knows how to come together. Throughout the year, downtown transforms for festivals, markets, concerts, and seasonal celebrations that draw visitors from across the region.

From beer lovers’ gatherings to art showcases, holiday magic to music-filled summer nights, here’s your guide to Hudson’s signature events — and how to make the most of them.

Spring: Creativity & Community Outdoors

ArtsFest Hudson (Spring)

Main Street becomes an open-air gallery during ArtsFest Hudson, hosted by the River’s Edge Arts Alliance. Local artists, makers, and crafters line the sidewalks with booths showcasing everything from paintings and photography to jewelry and textiles. Multiple stages feature live music, and interactive activities invite kids and adults to create art on the spot.

Don’t Miss:

• Live performances by local bands and school groups.

• Hands-on art workshops for all ages.

• Food trucks and downtown restaurants offering event specials.

Insider Tip: Arrive early to find parking and shop before the midday crowds. Many vendors bring one-of-a-kind items that sell quickly.

Summer: Music, Flavor & Street Parties

Summer Music Series (May–September)

Every Saturday evening, the steps of Town Hall turn into a stage for the Summer Music Series. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy free live performances while Main Street shops and restaurants hum with activity.

Don’t Miss:

• Local bands covering classic hits.

• Nearby patios perfect for dinner with a soundtrack.

• Family-friendly atmosphere.

Spirit of Hudson Brewfest (August)

Beer lovers rejoice — Spirit of Hudson Brewfest brings 40+ breweries to Main Street for an afternoon of tastings, food trucks, and live music. Guests can sample everything from IPAs and stouts to ciders and hard seltzers.

Don’t Miss:

• VIP hour for early access and smaller crowds.

• Creative food truck pairings.

• Live entertainment between pours.

Insider Tip: This event is 21+, but plan a designated driver or use a rideshare if you’re sampling.

Celebrate Hudson (September)

Hudson’s largest festival of the year, Celebrate Hudson, transforms downtown into a full-day party. The event features multiple live music stages, carnival rides, a petting zoo, face painting, vendors, and a Beer, Wine & Cocktail Garden.

Don’t Miss:

• The headlining band at the main stage.

• Local business booths and artisan market.

• Carnival rides and activities for kids.

Insider Tip: Plan to spend the whole day — there’s more to see and do than you can fit into a quick visit.

Fall: Foliage, Flavor & Festivities

While Hudson’s biggest fall events overlap with late summer, the season also brings smaller community markets and pop-up happenings. Many shops and breweries launch autumn menus — perfect for pairing with a foliage walk on the Assabet River Rail Trail.

Notable Highlights:

• Fall craft markets in local shops.

• Oktoberfest-themed brewery events.

• Seasonal food and drink specials downtown.

Winter: Lights, Warmth & Tradition

Hudson Holiday Stroll (December)

The Hudson Holiday Stroll is Main Street at its most magical. Twinkling lights decorate the buildings, carolers fill the air with music, and businesses stay open late for holiday shopping. Santa makes an appearance, and hot cocoa is never far away.

Don’t Miss:

• The tree lighting ceremony.

• Seasonal performances and live music.

• In-store promotions and gift specials.

Insider Tip: Bundle up and arrive early for the best parking and shopping before the evening’s entertainment.

Other Events to Watch For

While the above events anchor Hudson’s calendar, you’ll find smaller happenings sprinkled throughout the year:

• Library Programs: Author talks, kids’ story times, and seasonal reading challenges.

• Pop-Up Markets: Hosted by shops like Ritual Relics and Islay's Terrace.

• Brewery & Restaurant Specials: Trivia nights, live music, and themed menus.

• Charity Runs & Walks: Often starting or ending near downtown.

Planning Around Hudson’s Events

• Check the Calendar: Visit DiscoverHudson.org for exact dates and updates.

• Reserve Early: Restaurants like Rail Trail and Wild Hare fill up quickly during big events.

• Dress for the Season: Many events are outdoors, so layers are your friend.

• Make a Day of It: Arrive early to shop and stay after to enjoy dinner or drinks downtown.

Hudson’s events aren’t just things to do — they’re part of what makes the town feel alive. Each festival, concert, and market is a chance to meet neighbors, support local businesses, and make memories in one of New England’s most charming small towns. Whether you plan your visit around a major festival or stumble into a street fair by surprise, you’ll leave with a little piece of Hudson’s spirit.