Viral Internet ‘Legend’ Making Rare Appearance in Rhinebeck, NY
This weekend, thousands of people will descend on Rhinebeck, NY. Luckily for us, one of the nicest and most creative creators on the Internet will be one of them.
The Hudson Valley is no stranger to celebrities. From Paul Rudd and Jeffrey Dean Morgan's candy shop (also in Rhinebeck) to the random movie star cameos at local home improvement stores, it's no longer necessary to travel to Hollywood to get a glimpse of the stars. The man making an appearance in Dutchess County this weekend, however, is famous for an entirely different reason.
New York State Sheep and Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, NY
The reason for the Hudson Valley cameo has nothing to do with movie premieres and everything to do with one of the most celebrated annual events in Rhinebeck, NY: the New York State Sheep and Wool Festival. While not on the official schedule, one famous knitter (yes, that's a thing) recently announced his planned attendance.
Famed Knitter Coming to the Hudson Valley, NY
Meet Sam Barsky, or as he's known to his nearly 250,000 followers on Instagram, @sambarskyknitter. His rise to Internet fame can be credited not only to his decades-long experience with knitting tapestry-like sweaters that depict everything from dolphins breaching in the ocean to Niagara Falls (below), but to the joyful way in which he presents his work.
Celebrities Flock to the New York State Sheep and Wool Festival
Recently, Barsky made a post that sent his comment section into a frenzy. "Just wondering, who among my friends and followers will be at the Rhinebeck Sheep and Wool Festival on Sunday", he asked. Many couldn't believe that the Maryland-based knitter made the decision to travel all the way to the Hudson Valley.
Internet Knitting "Legend" Headed to Rhinebeck, NY
"The legend will be in my town!", said one excited fan. "Holy Moley my own back yard!", exclaimed another. While so many needle jockeys celebrated Barsky's decision to make the trip, credit should also be given to the New York State Sheep and Wool Festival for organizing such a thorough and attractive event.
About the New York State Sheep and Wool Festival
From exhibits and vendors to classes and demonstrations, the annual festival seems to cover literally everything related to sheep and wool. For nearly 40 years, the festival has evolved from its beginnings as a place for local farmers to buy and sell sheep to the massive weekend-long event that it is today.
The 2023 New York Sheep and Wool Festival will be held at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck, NY on Saturday October 21st and Sunday October 22nd. Learn can learn more and find the extensive schedule of events here, and while you're in Dutchess County, why not check out the most expensive house for sale in the county's history? Check out photos below.
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Gallery Credit: Conor Walsh