When one has to be a responsible adult most of the time, the unhealthful vices of one’s youth tend to fall by the wayside; but caffeine addiction, because it enhances productivity even while providing pleasure, remains easy to rationalize over a long lifetime. For many of us, our stimulating beverage of choice has become one of the basic Four Food Groups. To that end, the Culinary Institute of America will host the inaugural Cup of the Valley Coffee & Tea Festival this Sunday, April 22.Â
Presented by the Poughkeepsie South and Wappingers Falls Rotary Clubs, Cup of the Valley runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on April 22 in the CIA’s Marriott Pavilion. Products from some favorite local coffee roasters and tea blenders will be highlighted, including Irving Farms, Harney and Sons Fine Teas, the Dutchess Coffee Company, North River Roasters, the Poughkeepsie Grind and more. There will be a variety of brews to love, accompanied by coffee- and tea-themed desserts, treats and eats, all made in the Hudson Valley. There will be live music by area performers all day, plus workshops and presentations like a Latte Art Competition for budding baristas and an authentic Japanese tea ceremony.
Admission costs $17 in advance, $20 on the day of the event, $15 for students with ID. Children aged 16 and under get in free when accompanied by an adult. Call (845) 489-6465 to preorder. The Marriott Pavilion is located on the campus of the Culinary Institute of America at 1946 Campus Drive, just off Route 9 in Hyde Park.Â