Lights Across the Hudson 2025

Hudson Valley Hospice Foundation invites the community to join us for Lights Across the Hudson, a luminary event celebrating those we have lost.

Join us for this spectacular tribute on Friday, May 9, 2025 from 7-9:30PM at The Walkway Over the Hudson, which will shine brightly as thousands of glowing luminaries light the way in memory of loved ones. This event will feature:

  • Luminaries – Each luminary will represent a life remembered. You can dedicate a luminary to honor your loved ones and contribute to this stunning visual tribute.
  • Inspirational Readings – Hear beautiful tributes and readings that celebrate life and healing from a number of local spiritual leaders from various faiths.
  • Special Moments – Reflect, connect and share memories with others in a serene, supportive environment.
  • Music –  Check back for details soon.
  • Food Trucks – Savor delicious offerings from local food trucks.

This event is FREE and open to all who wish to join us! Whether you’re honoring a loved one or simply looking to be a part of this community remembrance, everyone is welcome to attend and share in the spirit of togetherness.

Come celebrate life, remember those we’ve lost, and be a part of something truly meaningful!

Bag Purchases and Sponsorships

Remember a loved one with a luminary purchased in their name! Bags are available for pre-purchase, and will also be available the night of for an additional fee.

Sponsorship Options

  • Community Partner Sponsorships are available at $500 and are perfect for a business that wants to make a difference.
    • Company name listed as a Community Sponsor on our website from the date of your commitment through February 28, 2026
    • Company logo or name featured on the banner at the event
    • Ten complimentary luminary bags to place your logo or the name of someone on

For more information, email Erin at stimsone@hvhospice.org, call 845-240-7609

Parking & FAQs

PARKING – Parking is available on both sides of the Walkway. Handicapped parking is available on the west side of the park in Highland. For complete parking details, visit walkway.org/visit. Please note the elevator is not operating during this event, so the bridge will not be accessible via parking at the Poughkeepsie Train Station or along Water Street in Poughkeepsie.
ELEVATOR – The elevator does not operate during Lights Across the Hudson.
PETS – We welcome pets to Lights Across the Hudson. Animals must be controlled at all times and on leashes that are no longer than 6 feet. Pets are not permitted in buildings or in any area that is designated as closed to pets. Owners must pick up after their pets and dispose of pet waste properly. We recommend pets wear an illumination device during their visit. This could be an light-up collar, harness, or other device.
ACCESSIBILITY – The Walkway has ADA handicapped-accessible entrances on both ends. Due to construction, handicapped parking and access is easiest on the west (Highland) side of the park. No stairs are required to access the bridge. The Walkway is a linear park that spans 1.28 miles from gate-to-gate. It is approximately 0.3 miles from the parking lot on the west (Highland) side to reach the bridge. The tram will be operating during Lights Across the Hudson, and can accommodate up to 10 people. To read about accessibility features, visit the Walkway’s FAQ webpage.
RESTROOMS – Indoor restrooms are available inside the Welcome Centers on both approaches.
WEATHER – If inclement weather makes the bridge unsafe for visitors, New York State Parks staff may close the bridge until conditions improve. If this happens during Lights Across, the event may be postponed or cancelled. Updates will be posted to Hudson Valley Hospice’s website and social media channels. Our scheduled rain date for the event is the following evening, Saturday, May 10th.
GENERAL PARKING INSTRUCTIONS:
Getting to the Walkway
Several parking lots and substantial on-street parking is available near the Walkway.  Please follow posted signage for information about metering and availability.
Walkway West (Highland)
West Side General Parking – As of January 1, 2025, the Town of Lloyd charges for parking all lots and marked spaced along Haviland Road. This includes the Rail Trail Caboose Lot and the lower gravel lot. Please follow posted signage in all lots and along the street for information about how to pay for parking.
West Side Handicapped Parking is available in the Rail Trail Caboose Lot. All handicap spots are free parking at all times.

Town Of Lloyd Resident Parking – Town of Lloyd residents and property taxpayers may register their vehicle(s) with the Town Clerk to exempt them from paid parking on Haviland Road and in lots near the Walkway.  To register, follow the link above.  You will need to provide your vehicle registration and a utility bill, property tax bill or other document showing your name and address.

Annual Passes – Non-Lloyd residents can purchase an annual pass for up to two cars in the same household. Vehicle registration and plate information is recorded, so no sticker or tag is needed. The fee is $100 for adults and $50 for seniors (62+). For more information on how to purchase an annual parking pass please contact (845) 691-2144 ext.2.

Walkway East (Poughkeepsie)
*DUE TO CONSTRUCTION, THE WALKWAY’S MAIN EASTERN PARKING LOT AT 61 PARKER AVENUE IS CLOSED UNTIL JANUARY 2026*
*DUE TO CONSTRUCTION, THE UNPAVED SCENIC HUDSON LOT ON PARKER AVENUE IS CLOSED UNTIL LATE SUMMER 2025*
East Side General Parking – There is free parking available near the Poughkeepsie entrance to the Walkway in Pulaski Park (170 Washington Street – approximately 0.2 miles from the Walkway’s Washington Street Stairs entrance) and along Brookside Avenue between Washington Street and Garden Street. Follow posted signage for additional paid or free on-street parking in the vicinity.
Additionally, the City of Poughkeepsie operates a large, multi-story pay-to-park garage located at 41 Civic Center Plaza located approximately 0.6 miles from the Walkway’s Washington Street Stairs entrance accessible to Walkway patrons.
East Side Handicapped Parking – Due to construction, handicapped parking in Poughkeepsie is challenging. For the easiest access to the Walkway, park on the west side of the bridge in Highland, New York. All handicapped parking spaces are free parking.
Washington Street Stairs (Poughkeepsie).
A staircase located at 131 Washington Street in Poughkeepsie offers entrance to the park directly at the East Gate Plaza. The Washington Street Stairs are 0.7 miles from the Poughkeepsie Train Station and accessible by a short walk or car ride.

Make a Difference

Can’t attend the event, but still want to support our cause? No worries! Your donation will make a meaningful impact by helping us deliver essential care and support when it matters most. Life-limiting illnesses affect everyone, and now more than ever, your generosity is crucial to ensure that all members of our community receive the best care for themselves and their loved ones during life’s most challenging moments.

Donate Today!