Summer is the perfect season for festivals – and of course, New York is no exception! What’s better than enjoying the warm temperatures outside while listening to live music or watching an open air movie? New York City hosts multiple festivals during the summer, and one of them is the Summer On The Hudson festival!

Many different events take place along the Hudson River over a period of five months. From live music to sports activities and extra programs for kids and families, there’s something for everyone. And the best part? All of the events are free! To make your summer vacation in New York unforgettable, we have summarized all the important information about the Summer On The Hudson for you in this article.

What is Summer on the Hudson?

Summer on the Hudson is a free arts and culture festival held every summer in New York. From May to September, there are various events along the Hudson River from 59th Street to 181st Street. The diverse program includes performances, outdoor movies, special wellness activities, dance parties with live DJ and a variety of shows for children. In total, the program consists of more than 280 different activities and events for all ages.

Seating is limited at the events and reservations are not possible. So be there early if you want good seats. If there is heavy rain during a day, events may be canceled.

In addition to the diverse entertainment program, there will of course be a variety of food offerings. There are cafés on 70th and 105th Street in the park, where you can get something to eat in between. You’ll also find a few food trucks scattered throughout the park, so you don’t have to worry about food and drinks. Of course, you can also bring your own snacks and drinks.

When does Summer on the Hudson take place?

Summer on the Hudson starts in May and runs through the end of September. Except for Mondays, events and shows take place every day of the week at various venues. Because Summer on the Hudson is an outdoor festival, events are dependent on the weather. In the event of heavy rain, events may be cancelled and not all will have an alternate date. To stay up to date, check the Summer on the Hudson Instagram page regularly.

Where does Summer on the Hudson take place?

As the name suggests, Summer on the Hudson takes place along the Hudson River. You’ll find the numerous events, activities and shows at several locations in Riverside Park and West Harlem Piers Park. The venues stretch from 59th Street to 181st Street. Both parks close at 1 a.m. each night.

What kind of events are there?

Summer on the Hudson is a festival with a variety of events spread over five months. It would take too long to list them all here, so we’ve picked out a few highlights for you.

Special Events:

Kite flying for children & adults

• When? August 19, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
• Where? Pier 1, 70th Street

Star Gaze Saturdays

• When? May 6, June 3, July 1, Aug. 26 & Sept. 23, 8 p.m.- 11 p.m.
• Where? Pier 1, 70th Street

Music & Dance

Silent Disco

• When? June 3, July 1, August 5, 6 p.m. -10 p.m.
• Where? Pier 1, 70th Street

Everybody Tango!

• When? Wednesdays in July from 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
• Where? Pier @125th & Marginal St.

Wellness

Pilates in the Park

• When? Tuesdays, May 30 – June 27 & Thursdays in September at 6:30 p.m.
• Where? Pier 1, 70th Street

Yoga

• When? June 7 – Sept. 27 every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.
• Where? Plaza, 66th Street

For Families & Kids

Play days (for children up to 12 years)

• When? Tuesdays in August from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Where? 125th & Marginal St.

Soccer (for children up to 5 years)

• When? Thursdays in August from 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
• Where? Soccer field at 71st St.

The list of events is very long! If you want to know what else is happening along the Hudson River during the summer months, check out the official Summer on the Hudson calendar here.