The Healing Cookout: A Wellness Day in Poughkeepsie is a free, public event created to promote wellness, joy, and community connection. It will bring together local wellness practitioners, artists, small businesses, and nonprofits to offer experiences focused on physical, emotional, and spiritual care.

The event will include free yoga, sound healing, and a live DJ, along with wellness services, food vendors, art, and shopping opportunities. While there is no entry fee, guests will be able to purchase food, wellness items, and services at their discretion. This model supports local entrepreneurs while ensuring core offerings remain free and accessible to all.

By blending the feel of a cookout with culturally relevant wellness experiences, this event creates a space that is welcoming and joyful. Our goal is to reach residents who may not typically see themselves reflected in traditional wellness spaces and invite them into something that feels affirming and rooted in community.

We are prioritizing BIPOC-led businesses and healers, eliminating barriers to participation, and uplifting holistic health in a way that resonates with the spirit of Poughkeepsie. This is about creating new traditions of healing, care, and community celebration.

The event will take place at a vibrant venue with full access to indoor and outdoor space, generously donated by Sundaze. The first 50 attendees will receive welcome bags with wellness samples and community resources. We will also host a raffle with items and services from participating vendors. These additions create a festive and inclusive atmosphere while supporting local talent. This is not a commercial or profit-driven event. It is a community offering, curated with care and intention to uplift the city we love.