KINGSTON, N.Y. — Volunteers from the Ulster County SPCA were hoping the Winterfest at the Cornell Restaurant + Bar on the Rondout on Saturday afternoon would attract just one family willing to take Bernard the Akita home.
Bernard, 6, who was recently blinded by incurable glaucoma, also seemed open to meeting a new family. Bernard was recently surrendered by a family who had to leave the country, volunteer Wendi Piper of Saugerties said.
Alayna Fisher of West Hurley, N.Y., tended bar at the annual Winterfest Saturday, Feb. 15, 2026, hosted by the Cornell Restaurant + Bar on the Rondout in Kingston, N.Y. (Diane Pineiro-Zucker/Daily Freeman)
The fifth annual family-friendly celebration opened Friday, Feb. 13, and will continue through Sunday, Feb. 15. This year’s event embraces the theme “Love Your Community” with a special Valentine’s Day twist. It featured activities for all ages at the restaurant, formerly known as Ole Savannah and located at 100 Rondout Landing.
The event concludes Sunday, Feb. 15, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday’s event will also be geared to children and adults. It will include free ice skating on an outdoor ring, owner Dave Amato said.
Saturday’s celebration featured activities during the day. They included ice skating sessions with appearances from characters from the movie “Frozen.” There were also family friendly activities, fire pits, a s’mores station, cotton candy, popcorn, winter lawn games, a Winter Wonderland Brunch, and a hot chocolate station, as well as opportunities to take photos with characters and snowman decorating.
Guest bartenders were also on hand Saturday. They sold alcoholic beverages with tips and proceeds benefiting non-profits, including People’s Place, The Boys & Girls Club, Ulster County SPCA, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Make-A-Wish, and other organizations.
People’s Place will again host its popular Chili Cook-Off from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday. Attendees can vote for their favorite chili in categories ranging from traditional, spicy, and vegetarian to the most creative. Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit People’s Place and its community programs.
For Sunday’s schedule and more information, visit https://cornellkingston.com/event/winterfest2026/.