Photographs by Tom Nycz. Courtesy of Historic Hudson Valley.
Nestled in Croton-on-Hudson is an illuminated world of enchantment making its second annual appearance. “Lightscapes,” a nighttime light show created by Historic Hudson Valley, is a spring-themed walk through garden life, art and media.
“Last year, we drew more than 20,000 visitors, which is just an awesome result for year one,” said Rob Schweitzer, director of marketing, public relations and new media for the nonprofit HHV, which oversees several historic sites, including Van Cortlandt Manor, home of “Lightscapes” and fall’s “The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze.” As with ‘The Blaze,” the audience for “Lightscapes” is “a real mix of folks, but definitely lots of families with kids.”
The event features eco-friendly sculptures handcrafted on site by a small HHV team. This year, the team worked with nonprofit Collaborative Concepts on the project.
Cathrin Hoskinson of Accord, N.Y., created a “Delft bunny” made from a recycled steel rod covered in spandex and decorated with materials from a blue umbrella, mangled courtesy of the artist’s dog. Sarah Haviland of Crompond made 1½-foot fireflies, crafted from water bottles, wire and mesh and mounted onto wire rods. Elena Kalman of Stamford fashioned a caterpillar head from wrought iron, aluminum, fabric, spandex, pipe insulation and tubing that serves as the entrance to the “Caterpillar Cavern.” “It’s a light and art show that is … really unlike anything else is the area,” Schweitzer said.
At the beginning and end of the experience, visitors can explore a garden-themed gift shop, which includes homemade candy and baked goods from Geordane’s of Irvington and Blue Pig of Croton.
“Lightscapes” is held Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings throughout May. Timed tickets are available at hudsonvalley.org.
