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Summer is that time of year when you can not only get out and enjoy the weather but also enjoy all the fun events and activities that only happen during the summer. In and around the Peekskill, New York, area, there are lots of activities and events that go on throughout the summer months. From festivals to concerts and more, there's something for everyone, no matter where their interests lie. The team at Meadowland of Carmel has put together this list of some of the things that can keep you busy this summer in Peekskill. Peekskill Arts Alliance Open Studios Weekend The Peekskill Arts Alliance Open Studios Weekend will take place on June 3 and June 4. This is the 24th year for this event, and if you're a fan of the arts, it's something you don't want to miss. Over 100 different artists and over 30 galleries and studios will open up their doors to allow the public an inside look at what they do. They'll open their studios from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, and there'll also be some special exhibition areas, including Off the Beaten Track at Westchester Community College and the Peekskill Clay Studios. Some of the artists that'll be opening their studios include: Maddi Angelini at 1000 N. Division St., Suite 11C. Andrew Barthelmes at 901 South St. Larry D'Amico at 901 South St. Marcy B. Freedman at 1006 Brown St. 203. Doreen Pagano Halsall at 105 S. Division St., Second floor. Beatrice Kern at 1000 N. Division St., Suite 2A. Paul Magliari at 14 S. Division St., Third floor. These are just a few of the artists on the list. You can visit the Peekskill Arts Alliance website to find out the others. Hudson Valley Food Truck Festival For an afternoon of food and fun, head to the Hudson Valley Food Truck Festival. The fun starts at 11 a.m. on June 24 at Barton Orchards in Poughquag, and the event runs until 5 p.m. You'll have plenty of food options to choose from, with several food trucks and vendors cooking up their specialties. Some that'll be serving food include: Cousin's Maine Lobster. Max's Melts Gourmet Grilled Cheese. Reggae Boy Café. Empanada Mama. This event is more than just food. There'll be a petting zoo, a farm market, a beer garden, and live music. If you get your ticket early, it's only $15, and you can enjoy all the food and fun at the festival. Once these early tickets sell out, the remaining tickets are $20. The City of Peekskill Riverfront Concert Series Enjoy live music all through the summer with the City of Peekskill Riverfront Concert Series. The series starts on July 4 with the Ladies of the ‘80s,  and fireworks will follow this initial performance. Each Wednesday night throughout the summer, you can head to Riverfront Green Park on Hudson Avenue in Peekskill for a different music experience. Admission to all the concerts is free, and you can make an afternoon and evening out of it. Get your spot all set starting at 3 p.m. and stay until 9 p.m. when the music stops. Some of the bands and performances you can see this summer include: July 12 — Billy & The Showmen. July 19 — Bria, the Artist. July 26 — Loose Wheels. Aug. 2 — Everything Else. Make sure you save the date for Sunday, Aug. 20. This is the Jazz in the Park performance that you don't want to miss. If it rains, make sure to check the City of Peekskill website for rain dates. Hudson Valley Ciders, Seltzers, & Sours The Hudson Valley Ciders, Seltzers, & Sours is a fun-tasting event at Barton Orchards on Apple Tree Lane in Poughquag, New York. This event takes place on June 3 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. There'll be over 50 different hard ciders, sour beers, and hard seltzers to taste. Some of the offerings will be from local brewers, and others are from some of the best brewers and makers from across the country. If you want to make your tasting a VIP experience, you can purchase a VIP pass. This gets you in at 1 p.m. for an extra hour of tasting. The festival will also feature food from several gourmet food trucks, live music all throughout the day, and fresh cider doughnuts from Barton Orchards. Want some more fun? Take a hard cider hayride, explore the bakery, and find unique food and gift items at the farm market. There'll also be fun yard games, such as cornhole. Tickets start at $50.60 for general admission, and VIP tickets are $66.46. Family Movie Nights If music in the park is not your thing, then head to Riverfront Green Park on Fridays for Family Movie Nights. The movies start at 8:30 p.m. and usually run until about 10:30 p.m. This summer, you can see: July 21 — Turbo. Aug. 11 — The Bad Guys. Sept. 8 — Lyle, Lyle Crocodile. Admission to these movies is free; just make sure to bring your lawn chair or a blanket so you can set up a spot and then sit back and relax while you watch. Bicycle Sundays Are you looking for a way to get the entire family out for a bike ride together? Head to Depew Park on Sunday mornings until Nov. 5 for Bicycle Sundays. It's the perfect time to get the kids safely out on their bikes because the roads will be traffic free. The rides start at 8 a.m. and go until noon, so you can get up early and get out for a ride or wait until later in the morning. These are some of the Peekskill activities and events we'll be heading to this summer. What about you? Did we miss something that you think should be on the list? Stop by Meadowland of Carmel and tell us about it. We can show you our lineup of Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, and Ram vehicles to get you around town this summer.

Carmel Hamlet, New York, is a beautiful town in Putnam County that serves as the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Surrounded by scenic reservoirs, rolling hills, and crystal-clear lakes, it is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts looking for the ultimate summer in Carmel, NY. If you're looking for unforgettable day trips in Putnam County, NY or hunting for the best things to do in Carmel, NY, our team at Meadowland of Carmel has refreshed this guide with the absolute top places to visit in Carmel, NY this season! more Visit Fahnestock State Park If you enjoy spending time outside, Fahnestock State Park is one of the best places to enjoy some of your summer days. This park has hiking trails that wind through and up the mountains, and once you get to the top, you can enjoy beautiful views of the woods. In addition to the hiking trails, the 14,086-acre park has picnic areas for when you want to stop for lunch, a campground, and lots of opportunities for birding, hunting, and fishing. You can fish by boat on Stillwater and Canopus Lakes or do it from the shore on all four ponds and the two lakes. No matter what season you drop a line, you'll be able to catch bass, perch, pickerel, and rainbow trout. You can't beat a day or weekend spent at this park. There are endless activities for the outdoor enthusiast, whether you like spending time on the water or on the trails or enjoying the scenery. Play a Round at Centennial Golf Club If you're a golfer, you should check out the Centennial Golf Club this summer. This is an ideal club for golfers who don't want to be limited by the average nine- or 18-hole course, as it has a 27-hole championship course. Designed by World Hall of Fame member and U.S. Open winner Larry Nelson, it features rolling hills and natural rock outcroppings. The three nine-hole courses at this club are Meadows, Lakes, and Fairways, and whether you play all three or just one, you're sure to have a memorable experience. Centennial's courses have multiple tees, so they can accommodate players of all levels. The club is also home to the area's best practice facility, with a double-ended driving range, bunkered target greens, and a short-game area. If you want to take a lesson, the Centennial Golf Academy offers instruction for those who are just getting into golf and for experienced players who are looking to up their game. The Academy is dedicated to teaching players of all levels and uses a four-step process to help with your game. Cool Off at Putnam County Veterans Memorial Park & Museum For a classic summer day trip packed with recreation and history, head straight to Putnam County Veterans Memorial Park on Gipsy Trail Road. Spanning over 200 acres, the lower park features a pristine lake with a sandy beach open for swimming and fishing throughout the summer months. Families can relax at the shaded picnic pavilions, view historic military displays (including an authentic M-60 tank and a Vietnam-era Cobra helicopter), or let the kids burn off energy on the playground. Best of all, a brand-new Putnam County Veterans Museum just held its grand opening at the park in June 2026, giving visitors an incredible educational space to explore local military history dating back to the Civil War. It is a premier Carmel NY attraction that offers something for everyone. Hike to the Mount Nimham Fire Tower If you want to experience 360-degree views of Carmel and the surrounding areas, take a short hike to the Nimham Mountain fire tower. It's just 1.5 miles up and back and a relatively easy walk over a gravel road to the fire tower. As you walk along the gravel, keep an eye out for some cool stone chambers along the way. It's unclear what they are or where they came from, but these formations are a unique feature to explore. It takes about 30 minutes to reach the top. Once you get there, you might not feel like you're at the top of a mountain, but you can climb the fire tower for unbelievable views of the Catskills in the distance and forests that stretch as far as you can see. Take a Tour of the Chuang Yen Monastery Many Carmel visitors don't know that this town is home to the largest indoor Buddha statue in the Western Hemisphere. You can find this 37-foot-tall statue at the Chuang Yen Monastery. When you visit here, you should also explore the 225-acre property, which has several halls and attractions for you to see. These include: Kuan Yin Hall: Built in 1985 in the Tang Dynasty style, this hall features a statue of Professor Yinfeng Yang enclosed in a wooden shrine. Great Buddha Hall: This hall looks similar to the Kuan Yin Hall and was opened in 1997 with a prayer for world peace. Woo Ju Memorial Library: This library provides educational resources for visitors who want to learn more about the study and practice of Buddhism. The Monastery is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. every day from April through January. A vegetarian lunch is served outside from noon to 1 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. There's a small gift shop at the back of the Great Buddha Hall where you can buy a variety of Buddhist souvenirs. Other sites to visit include a Zen Garden to help quiet your mind and the Seven Jewel Lake. Visitors are asked to remove their shoes before entering any of the halls. From scaling the heights of the Mount Nimham Fire Tower to exploring the freshly unveiled exhibits at the Veterans Memorial Park museum, there are endless ways to fill your calendar with local places to visit in Carmel, NY. Before you embark on your next Hudson Valley summer road trip, make sure your vehicle is ready for the adventure. Visit us at Meadowland of Carmel to check out our rugged new vehicle inventory, or schedule a quick seasonal checkup with our factory-trained service center today! Photo Credit: golf by emmolos is licensed with CC BY 2.0

Some may think that since Carmel has a relatively small population, with just over 34,000 at last count, there's not much to do around town after the sun goes down. However, that is absolutely untrue, as Carmel surprisingly offers a nice variety of nightlife and activities for those who like to stay out late. If you're looking for a big night out with friends or your significant other, or you want to show off Carmel to visitors from out of town, we've put together a list of some of our favorite nightlife destinations in town to make your evening plans easier to put together. Whether you're in the mood for a laidback lounge or a hopping, noisy bar, Carmel has something for you. Fiddler's Green Pub If you're looking for a local, laidback bar that's almost always certain to be a good time, look no further than Fiddler's Green Pub. This establishment has been around for years and is one of Carmel's premier gathering places and most entertaining dive bars. The amusing, sometimes kitschy, Irish-themed bar is a wonderful place to kick back and relax with a large pint of Guinness and a plate of chicken wings. People looking for a late night out will appreciate the pub's late closing time. It's open until 2 a.m. Monday through Wednesday and until 3 a.m. Thursday through Sunday, so you can keep the party going well into the night. Drop by and enjoy the friendly service, comfortable neighborhood vibe, and live music on Fridays and Saturdays. Molly Darcy's Another great Irish pub and restaurant in the area, though it's located a little further away in Danbury, is Molly Darcy's. The pub is open until 1 a.m. Tuesday through Friday and until 2 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. This pub has a similar atmosphere to Fiddler's Green Pub but a good deal more selection for bar food and menu items. Try a juicy burger or delicious shrimp po'boy. In addition, Molly Darcy's has fun bar games, such as pool, and some cool themed nights. Come by for Country Line Dancing on Tuesdays and Karaoke Night on Wednesdays. Swing by on Saturday to get a taste of some live music. Spins Bowl For a change of pace and something a little different, grab your friends and head out to the alleys at Spins Bowl. It has 26 new professional bowling lanes. But if you're not a bowler, Spins Bowl offers over 50 video arcade games, air hockey, foosball tables, darts, and six axe throwing lanes. The Carmel location of this establishment is over 30,000 square feet in area, so it can fit in all the fun you could want. You can also take a break from the games to enjoy the fully stocked kitchen and bar. Spins Bowl stays open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, so you can enjoy the space all evening and sit down for a delicious meal and drinks at the bar. Players Club Open every day from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m., the Players Club at the Brewster Ice Arena is a great gathering spot for night owls in town. Sports fans love coming here, as it's one of the few tried and true sports bars in the area, with beer buckets and bourbon for fans who spend hours here while watching the game on one of the high-definition TVs around the bar. Come here with your friends to watch your favorite team play, then spend the rest of the evening enjoying classic bar eats, snacks, and a wide selection of beers on tap. As a bonus, you can watch some teams live in the ice rink below the bar. That's right, local hockey leagues play their games here, and anyone in the bar can sit or stand by the massive windows looking out into the ice rinks and root for their favorite upstate New York team. McCarthy's Family Eatery The family-owned and operated McCarthy's Family Eatery has been a staple in the Carmel area for years. The restaurant prides itself on its friendly service and tasty comfort food, making regular customers feel like they're coming home instead of going out. Try the French onion soup — a local favorite — or the shepherd's pie. If you prefer more classic bar-and-grill food, the burgers on the menu are absolutely delicious. McCarthy's outdoor area is usually full of diners in the spring and summer, as tables are moved outside to the patio near a small scenic waterfall. After you're done with your meal, stay late into the night to taste the beers on tap and perhaps play a game of pool. Tequila Escape If you want to try something different from the usual Irish pub fare, burgers, and American comfort food in the Carmel area, head to Tequila Escape for another kind of menu. As you may have guessed from the name, Tequila Escape specializes in Latin Fusion cuisine and, of course, a whole lot of tequila. Try the shrimp and tuna tacos, the quesadillas, and of course, as in every good Latin-inspired restaurant, the guacamole. If anyone in your group isn't partial to Latin cuisine, don't worry — there are still great American staples on the menu, including a classic burger. After you're done with your meal, order one of the many margaritas served at Tequila Escape or try one of the specialty cocktails on the menu, such as the strawberry pico sour. The bartenders here are excellent, so you can get adventurous with which drinks and spirits you try. Tequila Escape is open until 1 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Carmel has a small-town charm, but unlike other sleepy hamlets, it also has a range of late-night dining, drinks, and entertainment nightspots to enjoy. If we left your favorite Carmel spot off this list, contact us at Meadowland of Carmel and let us know, as we'd love to include it in a future post. Photo Credit: Bar by Helen Cook is licensed with CC BY-SA 2.0

People who associate New York State with the bustling, crowded streets of New York City would do well to venture out to the upstate haven of Carmel for a refreshing change of pace. This historic town with a population of approximately 35,000 people sits on the tranquil shores of Lake Gleneida and the West Branch Reservoir, surrounded by the lush green landscapes of the Hudson Valley. New Yorkers, as well as residents of Connecticut and New Jersey, love to visit Carmel for a fun weekend to picnic by the lake or try some local breweries. So, how do you get to Carmel? We will give you a whole host of ways to venture up, whether you're traveling by car, train, or bus, and share a little bit of the city's history. Carmel: A Brief History The town of Carmel has a small population spread out over a relatively large area. The town technically has no incorporated villages, but locals count the unofficial hamlets of both Carmel and Mahopac as villages. Carmel was founded in 1740 by George Hughson, before the United States was even established as a country. It was a thriving town by the time of the Revolutionary War, and Patriots like Sybil Ludington rode through Carmel to warn locals of the British arriving, much like Paul Revere. One of the most charming buildings in town, and an interesting glimpse into the local history, is the Putnam County Courthouse. Built all the way back in 1814, it is the second oldest courthouse in the United States that is still in operation. How to Get to Carmel From New York City Thanks to its peaceful location, surrounded by New York's beautiful upstate nature, Carmel provides a lovely retreat for urban New Yorkers looking to get away for the weekend and relax. Getting to Carmel from New York City is relatively easy, as there are several methods of travel. The first and perhaps most common way to get to Carmel from New York City is by car. Drive 62 miles on I-87 North to I-684 North toward Albany, though you will reach your destination long before you get to the capital. The drive up should take about 1 hour and 15 minutes, provided there's little to no traffic. If you're leaving during the afternoon or evening rush hour or early on a Saturday morning, it may take you a much longer time to leave the city. To avoid driving in traffic, you can take a Metro North-Railroad (MNR) train up to Carmel from New York City. Purchase a ticket for the Harlem line to get all the way to Southeast station, near Brewster. The Harlem train leaves almost hourly from Grand Central, so you won't have to wait very long to catch the next one. However, look up the schedule to get to the station right before the train departs. Then, take a cab from the station to Carmel. The drive should only take about 10-15 minutes. Train tickets cost between $13 and $28; they are more affordable during off-peak hours and if you buy them in advance. The train between New York and Carmel takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. How to Get to Carmel from Connecticut Though there are many possible options for getting from Bridgeport, Connecticut, to Carmel, driving definitely makes the most sense. It covers a shorter distance, takes less time, and provides the most direct route; buses and trains must take a very indirect road to get to Carmel, as they must follow the coastline of Connecticut west toward New York and then travel upstate. Since Carmel is almost directly northwest of Bridgeport, this route can add a lot of time and driving distance to your trip. To drive from Bridgeport, take CT-25 North to I-84 West, where you will cross the state line from Connecticut to New York before eventually arriving in Carmel. The route is 45 miles long and takes about 55 minutes to drive without traffic. Buses and trains will take at least 3 hours to get you from one city to the other. How to Get to Carmel From Jersey City If you're trying to reach Carmel from Jersey City, the easiest option (assuming there's not much traffic) is to drive. Cross into Manhattan via the Holland Tunnel and then take Henry Hudson Parkway North to get out of the city. Then you must switch to I-684 North before transferring onto NY-22 North to eventually reach Carmel. This route is 64 miles long and takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to drive on a good day. Sometimes, GPS may show you that traffic to reach Manhattan and then out of the city will more than double your travel time. If this is the case, take the PATH train from Jersey City to Penn Station, a ride of about 23 minutes, then walk over to Grand Central — or alternatively, take the Q32 bus from one station to the other, a ride of about 7-10 minutes — and take the Harlem train up to Southeast, as you would to get to Carmel from New York City. Though this is a travel route possibility, only take it if traffic is truly unmanageable. Even if you time the trains right, getting from Jersey City to Carmel this way will take at least two and a half hours. Once you get to the area, immerse yourself in Carmel's stunning nature and quiet setting. Take a walk through its historic streets, sit by the lake and gaze out onto the water, explore the small-town shops the village offers, or try out one of the many beautiful hiking trails in the area. What's your favorite way to get to Carmel for a weekend escape, or to get out of Carmel to visit a nearby city? Let us know, and if you have a great travel suggestion we didn't think of, contact us at Meadowland of Carmel; we would love to include your tip in a future article. Photo Credit: Carmel, New York by Doug Kerr is licensed with CC BY-SA 2.0

Aside from your home, your car is often the most important investment you will make. Not only is it one of the more expensive items you may own, but you probably also depend on it for your and your family's livelihood. Therefore, it's important to keep your car in good working order. While every vehicle requires the occasional pricey repair, keeping up with maintenance can make a world of difference in the day-to-day performance of your car and how much money needs to be spent on its condition. Although this is important, regular maintenance and servicing can also improve your and your passengers' safety and even increase your vehicle's value and lifespan. Here in New York State, annual inspections are compulsory. Let's look more in-depth at the many important reasons to keep up with your car's regular service and maintenance. Service Department Search Inventory It Improves Safety One of the biggest reasons for ensuring your vehicle is always in good shape is that a well-maintained car is significantly safer to drive than an infrequently serviced car. According to the American Safety Council, when you maintain the condition of your brakes, windshield, lights, tires, mirrors, oil, and other basic elements, you reduce the chances of ending up in an emergency that could have been avoided. Giving the proper attention to preventive maintenance ensures that you'll have plenty of visibility and control during your drives, as seemingly small issues such as a cracked windshield or squeaky brakes can potentially cause injury or even death in the case of an unexpected event. After all, you want your vehicle to behave as expected, even in unpredictable circumstances that are out of your control. It Reduces Expensive Repairs In addition to keeping your passengers safe, regular maintenance can reduce the likelihood that you will need to make costly repairs. Though servicing your car regularly may feel like an unnecessary expense, it can be even worse to find yourself paying for an expensive repair due to a deterioration in its condition, especially if it's a used vehicle or its factory warranty has expired. Plus, if your car breaks down, obtaining a replacement vehicle can cost even more while you wait for the repairs to be completed. Therefore, maintain your car's oil, brakes, and battery in good working order since it's well worth the investment upfront. It Increases the Value One benefit of vehicle upkeep that's often overlooked is that a well-maintained vehicle has a greater value than one in poorer condition, particularly if you're planning on reselling or trading in your car in the future. Dealerships or general buyers don't just consider the make and model of your car when valuing their potential purchase; the condition is also a major factor. In addition to general wear and tear, major repairs in your car's past can significantly reduce its overall value. So, regular maintenance can help prevent unnecessary repairs and significantly enhance the value of your car in case you decide to resell it. If you're located in Carmel, New York, or the surrounding areas, feel free to review the value of your car for a trade-in offer via our online tool to get an idea of what your car is worth in its current condition. It Enhances Daily Performance Even if you don't plan on reselling your car in the near future, regular service and maintenance can improve its daily performance and enhance your safety on the road. After all, the benefits of maintenance and upkeep aren't meant exclusively to increase your car's value for resale. You'll experience the immediate effects of maintaining its condition in your daily driving routine. Keeping up with your vehicle's servicing can increase your car's safety, affordability, and reliability. For example, ensuring that your car is in good shape improves fuel efficiency. Clean oil increases the reliability of your car's engine. Additionally, you'll spend less on fuel and avoid lower gas mileage by timeously sorting out any leaks. Another basic form of maintenance is ensuring that your car's tires remain in good condition by rotating them regularly. Not only does this improve the safety of your vehicle by giving you better steering control, but it also prevents your tires from wearing out unevenly and requiring costly replacements. Regular maintenance can provide you with a reliable daily driving experience that you wouldn't get with a car in poor condition. It Extends the Lifespan of Your Car Regular maintenance can ensure that your vehicle performs optimally for years to come. Keeping your car in good condition can save you hefty expenses in the long run by avoiding the need to purchase a new car when your current one deteriorates. Plus, a well-maintained older car often has much greater resale value than a poorly maintained newer car. Therefore, whether you intend to be the sole driver of your car or whether you plan to resell it or trade it in, your vehicle's lifespan can be extended by servicing it regularly, making it an excellent long-term investment. Service Your Vehicle at Meadowland of Carmel It may seem overwhelming to keep track of the various aspects of the regular maintenance a vehicle requires. That's why Meadowland of Carmel is here to help with all your servicing needs. Not only do we offer a great selection of new and pre-owned vehicles to buyers in the Carmel, New York, area and beyond, but we also have a convenient service department where you can book affordable, high-quality services for your vehicle, including oil changes, battery replacements, brake works, tire rotations, and any other scheduled maintenance. We also offer state inspections. In addition, to express servicing, our service department is open Monday to Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Contact us today at 845-842-7355 for more information on how to ensure your drive is at its best.

Carmel is a gorgeous place to live any time of the year, but sometimes the weather can be tricky to deal with. As much as you like visiting Wonder Lake State Park or hiking Catfish Loop Trail, you might find that some days are just better suited for indoor activities. Perhaps you just aren't an outdoorsy person, but you still want to take advantage of everything Carmel has to offer. Carmel is no stranger to community events, but finding things to do inside can be difficult. If you're looking for fun ways to spend time inside in Carmel, these are some places you might want to explore: 1. Spins Bowl Spins Bowl is the place to eat, drink, and game in Carmel. In fact, the bowling alley features 26 professional lanes as well as dozens of arcade games. Even if you don't feel like bowling or gaming, you'll find air hockey and foosball tables as well as darts. Plus, you can try your hand at axe throwing as well. This location offers indoor and outdoor throwing, so you can get a feel for both options before you leave. Spins Bowl has a well-stocked bar and a menu jam-packed with delicious favorites, so you can make sure that you have a full day of activities and dining no matter the weather outside. You can even book your next event at Spins Bowl, a great birthday location for kids. Location: 23 Old Route 6, Carmel. Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday, noon to 10 p.m. Wednesday, 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, noon to midnight Friday, 11 a.m. to midnight Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. 2. Hudson Valley Airsoft Hudson Valley Airsoft is an airsoft battleground and a great place for teens and adults to get competitive. It's a great place to learn with others, and you can even book a private event. Open play hours are available consistently on the weekends, so there's always a great way to spend a cold weekend. You can rent gear or bring your own; games are available throughout the day. Location: 39 Seminary Hill Road, Carmel. Hours: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. 3. Flying Arrow Sports Flying Arrow Sports is an archery pro shop that offers more than a great shopping experience. It also has an indoor archery range so that you can try out your new tools. This is also a great place to spend time if you want to ask questions about different bows. You'll leave feeling much more confident about your archery items. You might even want to join a league or take some archery lessons while you're there. Spending one afternoon learning to shoot an arrow could lead to many more opportunities for fun, even if you've never shot outside before. Location: 92 Old Route 6, Carmel Hamlet. Hours: 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. 4. Chuang Yen Monastery While you'll find plenty to explore outside at Chuang Yen Monastery, it's certainly worth exploring the Great Buddha Hall as well. You'll find a 37-foot-tall Buddha statue made of marbles in the Great Buddha Hall. The statue sits on a bed of lotus flowers. Whether you want to worship Buddha or simply admire the statue in the hall, you can visit the hall between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. each day. You don't need a reservation to visit, and you can also pick up a vegetarian lunch if you show up on Saturday or Sunday between noon and 1 p.m. Throughout the year, you can also visit the monastery for events and classes where you'll learn about mindfulness, meditation, Buddhism, and more. The monastery also offers retreats in Chinese and English. If you do wish to venture outside, you can explore the 225 acres of land that make up the monastery grounds. Location: 2020 Route 301, Carmel. Hours: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Sunday. 5. Carmel Cinema 8 Carmel Cinema 8 is an eight-screen theater offering feature films on their first runs. The theater uses digital projection and offers snacks and drinks. Additionally, the stadium seating means everybody has a great seat. Whether it's a rainy day or way too hot outside, the cinema is a great place to enjoy the indoors. You can even book the facility for a private event. So, you don't have to worry about your birthday party getting rained out or not having enough space for guests. Location: 156 Route 52, Carmel. Hours: Noon to 10 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, and noon to 8 p.m. Tuesday. 6. Arts on the Lake Arts on the Lake is a Kent nonprofit that brings art to the area. If you're looking for a way to spend an afternoon or evening, this is the place to go to find local art exhibits and performances. You can take an art class if you want to spend more time. Classes available for adults and children provide instruction in dance, theater, and more. Recent and current events include a holiday train show through Christmas Village Square, an art dinner party, a drumming workshop, and more. Look into programs available at Arts on the Lake to learn more about the many ways you can spend your time. Reserve a spot in a class or buy tickets to an upcoming performance to see what's available in the near future. Location: 640 Route 52, Kent Lakes. Office Hours: 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, and by appointment. As you can see, Carmel is full of indoor destinations. You don't have to love the outdoors to love living here. At Meadowland of Carmel, we love having access to so many great places to spend time with loved ones. You don't have to spend a long time in your car (even if you want to) to find fun. Which is your favorite place to go? Photo Credit: Image by Ella Christenson is licensed with Unsplash License

In Carmel, we love community events and getting together to celebrate. Even when a New York team isn't playing in the Super Bowl, Carmel lights up for the big game. Local sports bars and restaurants provide the perfect opportunity to watch the game with other excited fans. If you're in Carmel for the Super Bowl this season, the following establishments are some of the best places in the area to catch some football. The Mahopac Inn The Mahopac Inn is a dine-in restaurant with several TVs, allowing you to watch the game while you eat. Plus, the restaurant delivers. So, even if you decide to stay home, you'll have a tasty meal. Delivery is available until 8:45 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and 9:45 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Whether you sit at the bar or restaurant, you'll have a perfect vantage point to watch the game. If you're unsure what to order from the menu, The Mahopac Inn has tasty beer-battered boneless wings in various sauces. You may also consider the Blue and Gold Burger, which has mushrooms, caramelized onions, blue cheese, and horseradish sauce. The Four Alarm Burger is also promising with its Cajun seasoning, pepper jack cheese, chili, and chipotle ranch sauce. Location: 927 South Lake Blvd., Mahopac Hours: Noon to midnight, Monday to Sunday. Fiddler's Green Pub Fiddler's Green Pub offers indoor dining and takeout in a casual, light environment. If you show up early on Sunday, you can even catch a traditional Irish breakfast for brunch. If you visit the night before the game, you'll notice that the pub also offers trivia and live music. The pub also airs American and Irish sports throughout the year. If you plan on coming hungry for more than a great football game, you'll want to know what's on the menu. Visitors recommend French onion soup, boneless and bone-in wings, tater tots, Philly cheesesteak egg rolls, salads, and fish and chips. Location: 1870 Route 6 Putnam Plaza, Carmel Hours: 9 a.m. to midnight Monday and Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 1 a.m. Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. Thursday to Saturday, and 11 a.m. to midnight Sunday. Red Mills Pub Red Mills Pub, just a short drive from Carmel, has a neighborhood pub atmosphere and has been in the area for decades. One of the first things you'll notice when you step inside is that the pub offers plenty of high-definition TVs for watching the big game and local sports events throughout the year. The pub also offers a jukebox, pool table, and darts. The Red Mills Pub provides lunch and dinner daily. The menu includes a wide variety of sandwiches and salads. Of course, you'll also find plenty of beers to wash down your meal while you root for your team. Location: 575 Route 6N, Mahopac Hours: 10 a.m. to midnight Monday to Saturday and 11 a.m. to midnight Sunday. Tavern on 52 Tavern on 52 is a dine-in and takeout restaurant with a rustic, woodsy atmosphere. In fact, some refer to it as "Putnam County's home away from home." It's also a great place to watch the game, thanks to the abundance of TVs. Tavern on 52 is known for its wide array of food offerings. The menu is filled with American and Mexican favorites, with several vegan options. The menu includes sandwiches, wings, burgers, seafood pasta, steaks, ribs, chicken, and more. Mofongo, a Puerto Rican dish made with plantains, is one of the most unique items. Location: 474 NY-52, Carmel Hamlet Hours: 12:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday. La Famiglia Bar & Grill One of the friendliest restaurants around is La Famiglia Bar & Grill. The menu boasts a wide selection of soups, salads, starters, sandwiches, steaks, seafood, and burgers. Note that the kitchen closes before the bar, so you can still enjoy a drink and watch a game even when the kitchen isn't open. The bar offers several TVs, allowing you to watch the game comfortably. If you'd rather stay home to watch the game, you can also order food for delivery. Location: 110 Route 311, Lake Carmel Hours: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday to Saturday, and 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. Spins Bowl Carmel This is one of the best bowling alleys in the area. Spins Bowl Carmel is much more than a bowling alley. It offers 30,000 square feet of space to explore, which makes it a great option for those bringing the whole family to watch the game. The kids can bowl or play arcade games while you enjoy a drink and view the big game on the screen. The lounge also offers air hockey tables, darts, and more. The kitchen and bar are fully stocked, so you won't be hungry while cheering for your team. If you book space early, you may even have the option to secure a private space for your group. Location: 23 Old Route 6, Carmel Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday, noon to 10 p.m. Wednesday, 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, noon to midnight Friday, 11 a.m. to midnight Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Finding the best place to watch the game in Carmel is difficult only because there are so many great places to choose from. Super Bowl Sunday can become busy quite quickly, so it's always a good idea to call ahead and see if you need to reserve a spot. Of course, the next consideration is how you'll get to your restaurant or bar of choice for the game. It may be time to choose a new vehicle so you can show up for the game in style. At Meadowland of Carmel, we're happy to help you find the ideal car for you and your family. Photo Credit: Image by Project 290 is licensed with Unsplash License

For people who love reading, few things are as gratifying as the smell and feel of books. Whether you like the snap of a new spine cracking open or the feel of a well-loved book in your hands, a visit to the bookstore does something for the soul that browsing through an online bookstore can't match. When you want to escape the bustle of the city, walking into a good bookstore can help you reconnect with yourself and ground your thoughts. Read on to learn about our selection of the top five most popular bookstores around Carmel, New York. Binnacle Books If you're looking for a place to get lost, or just a great place to spend an evening searching through shelves and shelves of quality books, Binnacle Books is the place to visit. The selection of inventory available includes new works in the humanities and sciences, best-selling fiction and non-fiction pieces, and youth favorites and children's classics. For those with unique likes, you can find foreign and domestic magazines and newspapers, plus other special interest genres like travel, gardening, interior design, architecture, photography, wine, and sports and recreation. The quaint and visually interesting Binnacle Books is in One Nature Center Garden. The address is 321 Main Street in Beacon, New York. Check the website for regular business hours. For more information or to learn about special orders and shipping or how to sell your books to Binnacle, call 845-838-6191. Bruised Apple Books and Music For an exceptional fairy tale experience, visit Bruised Apple Books and Music. This gorgeously decorated store with large, picturesque windows has been proudly serving Carmel and the neighboring communities since 1993. Because this establishment is in the business of buying, selling, trading, and housing some of the rarest books, it's an ideal location to find that unique gift for someone that has everything. The store also features rare, out-of-print books, hard-to-find records, CDs, and movies. Part of this location's charm is its small and unique touches. The outdoor sign is hand-painted, the interior and exterior decors showcase many interesting clippings and articles, and it's all wholly personalized by family and friends. Welcoming and detailed, the Bruised Apple feels like a bookstore out of one of your favorite children's books. It is a fun place to explore and has a great selection of books that'll leave you wanting to return weekly for a new read. You'll find Bruised Apple Books and Music at 923 Central Ave. in Peekskill, New York. Whether you need to find a gift for your best friend's wedding or stop in for a break from the busy streets, you'll find the solace of this bookstore a relief. For more information or to inquire about store hours, visit their website or call 914-734-7000. Kent Comics Kent Comics is a great place to start if you like visually stunning images to accompany your text or want to introduce someone to another reading genre. You'll find unique series such as Sketchy People, created by the shop's owner, Jack Kent. Avid comic book readers will also rejoice in seeing some of their favorites, including top picks like Minus Tide and Toons at Work. Kent Comics also sells novelty items such as mugs, unique t-shirts, and original comic prints. Kent Comics is at 1110 Route 52 in Carmel, New York. The welcoming environment makes this an ideal location to get young readers hooked on the next big comic book series or to introduce them to some classics. For more information or to see if they have a specific comic, visit their website or email gullscomic@gmail.com. The Book Cove Bookshop The Book Cove Bookshop, an independent bookstore serving the Pawling, New York, community, offers book lovers a fun experience by providing special suggestions based on your interests and reading habits. Whether shopping for yourself or a loved one, the knowledgeable staff is ready to help you locate the perfect read. Suppose you're looking for friendly service with a smile or an escape from the big box bookstores that are often over-commercialized and lack individuality. In that case, the Book Cove Bookshop is your ideal destination. The store carries popular genres, including young adult literature, fiction, non-fiction, manga, fantasy, games, and puzzles. Gift cards are available, and an exceptionally convenient registry service can help avid readers build their home libraries in no time. The Book Cove Bookshop is at 22 Charles Colman Blvd. in Pawling, New York. Regular business hours are Wednesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The store is closed on Monday and Tuesday. For more information or to place a special order, visit their website or call 845-855-9590. Scattered Books Scattered Books is a family-owned establishment in Chappaqua, New York. If you don't mind a short half-hour drive from Carmel, this bookstore is a great small-town destination to find gifts, sit in on author signings, and, if you have kids, attend some notable kid-centered events. There are also classes available for adults. Scattered Books carries contemporary best-sellers, children's literature, and more. The knowledgeable staff can offer great recommendations or help you place special orders. It also has a party room ideal for your next book club meeting or event. Scattered Books is at 29 King St. For more information, including business hours and how to rent out the lounge for your next themed party, visit their website or call 914-529-8013. So, there you have it. Meadowland of Carmel has enjoyed sharing our selection of the five most popular bookstores around Carmel, New York. These are great places for bibliophiles and casual book lovers alike. What do you think of our list? Did we miss your favorite bookstore to head to when you need to get lost in a new book? If we did, please let us know. Leave us a message sharing your thoughts, and we'll be happy to check out your ideas. You may even find your suggestion featured in a future post. Photo Credit: Bookstore by Rene Schwietzke is licensed with CC BY 2.0

In 1963, Andy Williams released a popular holiday song that describes Christmas as “the most wonderful time of the year.” At Meadowland of Carmel, we agree and especially appreciate the verse from the song that describes “parties for hosting, marshmallows for toasting, and caroling out in the snow; there'll be scary ghost stories, and tales of the glories of Christmases long, long ago.” There's something special about being part of Christmas festivities and the great traditions handed down in the Carmel area for generations. In the holiday spirit of giving, we'd like to share some of the Christmas festivities in Carmel, NY, during the holidays of 2022, and invite you to join in the celebrations with hearts “glowing when loved ones are near.” Holidays in the Park The holidays in New York are about our families and our community, and celebrating is twice as wonderful when those two groups can gather and celebrate at the same time. The Greater Mahopac-Carmel Chamber of Commerce would like to invite your entire family to join the communities of Carmel and nearby Mahopac in the Mahopac Chamber Community Park for the lighting of the Christmas tree and giant menorah. In addition to the fun and excitement of watching the holiday lights come to life, there will be caroling and refreshments for all, and even a visit from Santa Claus. Date: Saturday, Nov. 26, 2022 Time: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Location: Mahopac Chamber Community Park, 953 S Lake Blvd., Mahopac, NY There is no admission fee for Holidays in the Park. Just bring your loved ones and your warm, joyful hearts and share in the Christmas spirit with your community neighbors. World Ballet Series: The Nutcracker Just to the southwest of Carmel, the Paramount Hudson Valley Theater in Peekskill will be hosting a performance of the holiday classic, The Nutcracker. Set to the amazing music of Tchaikovsky, this live performance by 50 multinational ballet dancers will thrill you and your family and usher in the sights and sounds of the holiday season. Date: Saturday, Nov. 26, 2022 Time: 7 to 9 p.m. Location: Paramount Hudson Valley Theater, 1008 Brown St., Peekskill, NY For more information on this great Christmas tradition, you can write to the Paramount Hudson Valley Theater at boxoffice@paramounthudsonvalley.com or call 914-739-0039, ext. 2. Holiday Wreath Decorating There's nothing like seeing a beautiful Christmas wreath hanging on a door to let you know the holidays have arrived and that you're welcome inside. And there's no more meaningful wreath than one you've made yourself by hand. The Carmel Recreation and Parks Department want to allow you to do just that at Holiday Wreath Decorating with Dee Dee. Bring your friends or make new ones as we gather just between Carmel's west side and Mahopac's north side. The best thing about this holiday opportunity is that you won't have to bring your own materials. Just bring $70 per wreath, and you'll receive everything you need to make a natural and beautiful 24-inch Christmas wreath. For a personal touch, everyone participating is encouraged to bring one personal item to include in your wreath to make it uniquely yours and special to your family or friends. Date: Sunday, Nov. 27, 2022 Times: 1 to 3 p.m. or 4 to 6 p.m. Location: 790 Long Pond Road, Mahopac, NY Registration for this fun time of holiday wreath decorating begins October 1 at 9 a.m. Register online at carmelny.org/recreation. For more information, call the Carmel Recreation and Parks Department at 845-628-7888. Holiday on the Lake Parade and Tree Lighting You'll love participating in both holiday events sponsored each year by the Carmel Civic Association. The first part is the annual Christmas parade through the streets of Carmel Hamlet, which includes marching bands, firetrucks, and up to 40 floats from local businesses and organizations. You'll find that the lights, the music, and the community cheer are spectacular ways to kick the holidays into high gear. The festivities then move on to the shores of Lake Gleneida, where families watch the lighting of up to 75 Christmas trees along the lake. The glow of the trees reflects the radiance of the community, which your whole family will enjoy being part of. Date: Saturday, Dec. 3, 2022 Time: begins at 5:30 p.m. Location: Carmel, NY and Lake Gleneida There's no charge for either part of the Holiday on the Lake celebration, but don't forget to dress warmly. For more information on the parade or the lighting of the trees, you can go to carmelcivicassoc.org for updates. Santa is Coming to Town A week after the Holiday on the Lake festivities, your kids will have a special chance to visit Santa to let him know they've been nice and not naughty and what they hope to find in their stockings or under the tree on Christmas morning. In addition to meeting Santa, there will be food, crafts, and entertainment your entire family will enjoy. Date: Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022 Time: begins at 10 a.m. Location: Sycamore Town Park, 790 Long Pond Road, Mahopac, NY The Santa is Coming to Town event costs $10 per person for everyone two years old and older. You can find Santa at the RFG Building in the park. For more information, check the Carmel Recreation and Parks Department website or give them a call at 845-628-7888. These Christmas traditions that happen each year in our community are truly wonderful. But we know there are as many Christmas traditions in Carmel as there are families, and some special community-based traditions may have been overlooked. We'd love to hear about the festivities you and your family have celebrated. Write to us at Meadowland of Carmel and tell us what makes Christmastime so special for your family. Thank you for keeping our community's traditions alive and making Christmas in Carmel "the most wonderful time of the year." Photo Credit: Christmas Wreath by Jonathan Cutrer is licensed with CC BY 2.0

The holidays encourage us to think about others and give back, not just to our nearest and dearest but also to the wider community. If you have some time to spare this holiday season, put it to good use by volunteering with some of these wonderful organizations. Cook Meals With Second Chance Foods You can assist at Second Chance Foods if you're a talented gourmet chef or simply love spending time in the kitchen. This non-profit, based in Brewster, nine minutes southeast of Carmel, reduces food waste by making dishes from unsold, unserved, and aesthetically imperfect food sourced from local restaurants, farms, and grocery stores. It then distributes the completed meals to local community outreach organizations dedicated to feeding people in need. If you don't have culinary talents, don't worry. You can help distribute meals, wash dishes, clean the kitchen, collect ingredients, label and pack meals, and perform simple meal prep. Location: 116 Federal Hill Road, Brewster. Requirements: Age 13+ who can spare at least 2.5 hours, although children under 18 need parental supervision. How to apply: Apply online for the role you're interested in via Signup Genius. Help Out at Putnam/Northern Westchester Women's Resource Center Putnam/Northern Westchester Women's Resource Center in Mahopac, 10 minutes southwest of Carmel, has a variety of volunteer opportunities for people passionate about helping women. If you're interested in advocacy, you could help survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence at the center or at local hospitals, police stations, shelters, and courtrooms. You could also assist the center with its fundraising efforts, perform data entry, work the hotline, or perform basic administrative tasks. The center also encourages high school and college students to apply for its internships. The center provides professional training, in-service workshops, and supervision to help you find your feet. Location: 935 South Lake Blvd. Suite #2, Mahopac. Requirements: Age 18+ for trained roles. There is also a community service program for volunteers aged 14 to 18. How to apply: Call the center at 845-628-9284. Assist at the Hammond Museum and Japanese Stroll Garden The Hammond Museum and Japanese Stroll Garden in North Salem, 20 minutes southeast of Carmel, welcomes volunteers with various skills. It's especially interested in people with expertise in gardening, carpentry, painting, marketing, planning, and accounting. However, anyone with the drive to help could assist the museum by running its programs or tending the Japanese Stroll Garden. Hammond Museum and Japanese Stroll Garden also accepts high school and college students in its volunteer internship program. Location: 28 Deveau Road, North Salem. Requirements: Anyone motivated to help. How to apply: Email the director of the Hammond Museum at director@hammondmuseum.org. Support the Arts at Katonah Museum of Art Katonah Museum of Art is another local museum that welcomes volunteers. Located in Katonah, 20 minutes south of Carmel, this museum has embraced the contributions of motivated community members since its inception. Depending on your skills and available time, you might lead tours, greet visitors, promote the museum, run special programs or events, or get involved in administration. Volunteers enjoy a special annual luncheon and year-round perks. Location: 134 Jay St., Katonah. Requirements: Pass an interview and attend orientation. How to apply: Complete the application form, mail it to the museum, or email it to education@katonahmuseum.org. Lend a Hand at Danbury Hospital The global pandemic made us all stop and appreciate the vital work that hospital employees do. While volunteer opportunities in health care are still limited, Danbury Hospital in Danbury, 21 minutes from Carmel, accepts a select number of volunteers. Join around 400 people who give their time to help the hospital's employees, patients, and their families. Volunteer program organizers take the time to get to know applicants and find them positions that match their interests and skills. Location: 24 Hospital Ave., Danbury. Requirements: Complete the mandatory orientation and online training before you begin volunteering. How to apply: Call Amy Faith Lionheart, the hospital's volunteer services program manager, at 203-739-7277. Beautify the Local Area With Keep Putnam Beautiful Carmel residents live in one of the most beautiful parts of the country. However, litter can detract from the area’s allure. You can do your part by volunteering with the Keep Putnam Beautiful program. Rally a group of friends or family and hit the streets, parks, or anywhere you feel needs some TLC. Log a pickup report via the Keep Putnam Beautiful website, indicating where you cleaned up, how many bags of trash you collected, and the time you spent beautifying the area. Lead as many clean-ups as you like to make your local neighborhood ship-shape this holiday season. Location: Anywhere you see the need. Requirements: Anyone can participate. How to apply: Complete the form on the Keep Putnam Beautiful website. Volunteer Virtually With the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of Dutchess County You don't need to leave the house to lend a helping hand if you have a reliable internet connection. RSVP of Dutchess County is best known for distributing nutritious meals to seniors, but it also provides friendship and a link to the community. The organization needs virtual volunteers who will log on and chat with the people this program helps. This opportunity fits in with your lifestyle. You can choose how many days you volunteer, up to two hours a day. RSVP of Dutchess County also provides orientation and training programs to help you feel confident in your role. Location: Virtual opportunity. Requirements: Seniors 55+ with a driver's license. How to apply: Call RSVP of Dutchess County at 845-452-5104 ext. 101. When others count on you, you don't want your car to let you down. If your vehicle is less than reliable, visit our friendly team at Meadowland of Carmel. We've got the latest vehicles from Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram and quality pre-owned cars and trucks. No matter what you're looking for, we can offer you a fair trade-in and help you find the right set of wheels this holiday season. Photo Credit: katonah museum of art by istolethetv is licensed with CC BY 2.0

With MetLife Stadium more than an hour away, most Carmel residents rarely get to experience NFL games in person. However, you can enjoy a similar rush cheering along your favorite team with other football enthusiasts at your local sports bars. If you’re yet to find your favorite bar or are ready to expand your horizons, we recommend visiting one of these great venues near Carmel. Fiddler’s Green It might be an Irish pub, but Fiddler’s Green embraces America’s favorite sports. Located right here in Carmel’s Putnam Plaza, this friendly, family-owned pub has been a part of the community for more than 40 years. While the fish and chips nod to the bar’s heritage, the menu is mostly made up of American classics such as pub pretzels, wings, and burgers. Fiddler’s Green also offers special football specials during each NFL game to help fans save. Location: 1870 Route 6 Putnam Plaza, Carmel. Hours: 9 a.m. to midnight Monday and Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 1 a.m. Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. Thursday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Sunday. The Mahopac Inn The Mahopac Inn, 10 minutes southwest of Carmel, bills itself as “the best viewing place in town.” With its vibrant atmosphere and array of large high-definition TV screens, it’s hard to argue with that assessment. The Mahopac Inn proudly broadcasts all NFL games every Sunday, Monday, and Thursday. The Monday games clash with the bar’s Monday jam night though, so expect to watch those games with the sound off. If you visit any night, make it Sunday. With 85-cent bone-in and boneless wings and $5 domestic drafts, it’s a real bargain. Location: 927 S. Lake Blvd., Mahopac. Hours: 11:30 to 3 a.m. Monday through Sunday. O’Brien’s Sports Pub & Restaurant O’Brien’s Sports Pub & Restaurant is another Irish pub that loves the NFL. Located in Danbury, 22 minutes east of Carmel, the pub serves Irish favorites, such as bangers and mash and shepherd’s pie, alongside American classics like burgers, wings, and mozzarella sticks. The service is always friendly, and there are plenty of drink options, from beers to cocktails. Several big TVs ensure you won’t miss a play, no matter where you sit. Discover why Insider named O’Brien’s the best sports bar in Connecticut. Location: 83 Lake Ave., Danbury. Hours: 3 p.m. to 1 a.m. Monday, 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday and Sunday, 11.30 a.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Pippa’s Sports Café With plenty of large TV screens and personal sets on some tables, you’ll never miss a moment of the action at Pippa’s Sports Café. Another Danbury venue, Pippa’s offers different specials every night of the week to help you save. Enjoy 75-cent wings and $12 Bud Light and Coors Light pitchers every Thursday night and $3 Bud Light and Coors Light drafts during the Monday game. The full menu is incredibly diverse, with light, healthy “Spring Training” options and heartier “Big League” dishes such as the gorgonzola sirloin dinner and baked mac-n-cheese with your choice of toppers. Location: 114 South St., Danbury. Hours: 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday. TK’s American Café If you enjoy beer and wings while you watch the game, head to TK’s American Café in Danbury. With 76 different wings flavors and 50 beers on tap, you’re spoiled for choice this NFL season. The bar also boasts 30 HD flat-screen TVs providing you with a clear view of every touchdown, no matter where you sit. The Wi-Fi is also free, so you can easily stay connected to your buddies all over the country and your fantasy football league. Location: 255 White St., Danbury. Hours: 11 a.m. to midnight Monday through Sunday. Rooster’s Wings & Brew Rooster’s Wings & Brew in Mohegan Lake, 24 minutes southwest of Carmel, is another obvious choice for NFL fans who love wings and beer. There are special deals for 10, 20, 30, and even 40 wings, so bring your friends. Rooster’s flavors its wings with your choice of sauce or dry rub and serves them with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing. You can also add extra sides, such as salads, fries, and onion rings. Cheer on your team with this quirky sports bar’s giant rooster mascot. Location: 1 Baker St., Mohegan Lake. Hours: Midday to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, midday to 8:30 p.m. Sunday. The Blazer Pub The Blazer Pub isn’t flashy, but that’s a big part of its charm. Established in 1971, pictures and pennants adorn the walls and knick-knacks line the shelves of this North Salem pub. It feels like home, and locals love gathering here for a meal and watching the big games. The TVs behind the bar aren’t as big as you’ll find in many modern sports bars, but you can’t beat the vibe here. The menu is as unpretentious as the atmosphere, with burgers, wings, and tasty sandwiches served the way you like them. Location: 440 NY-22, North Salem. Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. Yorktown Grille Yorktown Grille is a friendly sports bar in Yorktown Heights, 25 minutes from Carmel. Owners Bob and Matt Crossett ensure every patron that visits feels like part of their family. The portions of classic Americana fare, such as burgers, wings, and center-cut pork chops, are generous. Beer pitchers and buckets are also a great way to save on your beverages during the football season. Park yourself in front of one of the 13 flat-screen TVs and soak up the electric atmosphere. Location: 347 Downing Drive, Yorktown Heights. Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The Meadowland of Carmel team has shared their favorite sports bars, but we’d love to hear yours. Drop us a line or swing by our Carmel dealership to share where you love watching NFL games. Photo Credit: Bad Dog Tavern - Playoff Game by Andrew Seaman is licensed with CC BY 2.0

Team sports have been enjoyed for centuries by participants and spectators alike. This list is for you if you count yourself among the ranks of sports enthusiasts. The town of Carmel, New York, and the wider Putnam County area are home to several high school and amateur sports teams that you should check out if you're a sports fan. Whether you prefer classic American high school football, junior ice hockey, soccer, baseball, or lacrosse, you can find a game to attend close by. Here are a few Carmel and Putnam County teams that we think you'll enjoy supporting. Carmel Rams High School Football If football is your game, then you'll want to know who the local high school team is. Lucky for you, it’s a good one — perhaps the best in the state as of 2021. The Carmel Rams are Carmel's high school football team and have been making a name for themselves recently by winning last year's state championship for the first time. It’s the first team from Putnam County to earn this title. With a winning score of 42-12 against their opponent, this will be the team to watch in the 2022 high school football season. Lacrosse Teams Lacrosse is a uniquely North American team sport, first played by the Indigenous Peoples of the Americas in parts of New York and Canada, possibly as far back as the 12th century. It involves sticks with a net or basket that is used to catch, pass, and toss a ball between teammates and into the goal nets of the opposing team on the field. Though some of the rules have changed and become standardized over the years, lacrosse is still played in schools across the USA, and there are lacrosse leagues and fans worldwide. Putnam Valley Lacrosse Club If you have any young lacrosse fans in your family, you'll want to get them involved in the Putnam Valley Lacrosse Club. This club has teams for boys and girls from kindergarten through eighth grade and works as a feeder program to the Putnam Valley High School, a varsity lacrosse team for boys. Team sports, such as lacrosse, are a great way for kids to make friends, build skills, and increase confidence. As an additional benefit, your kids will be taking part in a sport with a proud history that goes back nearly a thousand years. Mahopac Water Panthers The Mahopac Water Panthers is a new senior men's box lacrosse team based in Mahopac, just 15 minutes south of Carmel. Box lacrosse is a version of the game played indoors, often on a hockey rink covered with turf. If you're a fan of box lacrosse or just a sports fan who enjoys a good game played by dedicated athletes, you'll want to check out this team, which won its first home game in June 2022. The Mahopac Water Panthers will be returning for the fall season, so you can go watch a game to see what they can do. Hockey Teams Hockey has an interesting history. Its origins are suspected to be rooted in the Scottish game of curling combined with elements of Irish hurling, field hockey, and a game played by the Indigenous Peoples of Nova Scotia, Canada. It is one of the most popular team sports in Canada and the USA and is also played in the Olympics and around the world, with ice hockey particularly popular in the colder Nordic countries. Brewster Ice Area, just down the road from Carmel, is home to several local teams, including the Junior Rangers teams for boys and girls, the Lady Bulldogs, and the Westchester Express. New York Apple Core Junior Hockey If you're looking for a great team to support at the Brewster Ice Arena, then check out the New York Apple Core junior hockey team. A member of the Eastern Hockey League, this is a top-level junior team made up of players with the potential to go on to play for the area's top colleges and universities. Many players from this team have gone on to play in the American Collegiate Hockey Association programs, and some are now professional hockey players. If you love hockey, this is your chance to see a great team in action. Soccer Soccer is one of the most popular team sports in the world, with professional and pickup teams playing just about everywhere, including Europe, the Americas, Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East. People have been kicking around balls made from animal hides for at least a couple of thousand years, but it was the British that formalized the game and established the rules we know today. From its humble origins, soccer has grown to have the World Cup, where national teams play to be the best in the world, and the winners are cheered on by millions of passionate fans. Carmel United Soccer Club The Carmel United Soccer Club is a volunteer, nonprofit organization that supports local soccer through its programs within the Carmel school system. It was founded over forty years ago in 1980 and offered recreational programs for kids ages 3 to 13. For more serious players ready for their next step, there’s a travel program for kids ages 8 up to twelfth grade, which competes in the East Hudson Youth Soccer League. The Carmel United Academy offers participants additional training by the area's top coaches to help with players’ skills and development. While Carmel doesn't have the major sports teams, you’d find in a big city, finding a local team that you can support and be proud of in our community is still a lot of fun. Sports have always been a great way to bring people together, and this can be even more personal in a smaller setting where the players are your friends and neighbors. We love our local teams at Meadowland of Carmel and hope you enjoyed reading about them. Contact us if there's a great local team you want us to know about.