When the thermostat goes up and the evenings grow long and golden, Hudson River Park’s riverfront becomes a breezy haven. All summer long, we’re celebrating this magical time in the Park by doing what we do best — bringing free, fun, diverse, educationally and culturally-rich programming to your riverfront backyard. And this might just be our most spectacular season yet — want to know why?
For the first time since 2019, we’re hosting our full roster of in-Park, open-air events, including our signature Hudson River Dance Festival and Blues BBQ Festival. Since we were last able to invite our community to enjoy this full lineup, Hudson River Park has opened more than 12 acres of open space. That means more beautiful piers to transform into your open-air classroom, waterfront workout studio, outdoor concert venue, sunset dance floor and so much more.
This programming season is also special because you make it possible. The 2022 events are presented in part by Hudson River Park Friends, dedicated to the completion, care and enhancement of the Park. We are proud that our community of park supporters and members has enabled Hudson River Park to provide such an outstanding and diverse lineup of free programs for all to enjoy. You can help by joining in here!
Our full event calendar is officially live, and we encourage you to explore your favorite programs and those you have yet to try! Read on to learn more about what we’re especially excited about this season.
Dance and Hudson River Park Sunsets Are a Perfect Match
One of our season’s shining gems, the Hudson River Dance Festival returns to HRPK’s Pier 63 on Thursday, June 9 and Friday, June 10. This free festival features a vibrant cast of world-class dance performances, set against the stunning Hudson River at sunset. This program is presented by Hudson River Park Friends, in association with The Joyce Theater Foundation, Inc, with additional support from SHS Foundation. And there are opportunities to get on your feet with participatory dance nights all summer long as well! Our Dance in HRPK series turns the Park into your personal dance floor with free beginner’s Salsa, Afro-Caribbean and Bollywood & Bhangra classes followed by high-energy open dance sessions, in new locations – Piers 76 and 84.
Meet Hudson River Wildlife and More
HRPK’s River Project is gearing up for a busy season of hands-on environmental science, with opportunities for all ages to discover and engage with our Estuarine Sanctuary and unique riverfront environment. Be sure to mark your calendars for Meet the Fishes on Thursday, June 2, where we will celebrate the season opening of our Pier 40 Wetlab. All season long, open hours at this unique research aquarium will give visitors a chance to meet dozens of species of Hudson River fish and invertebrates.
Other highlights for the season include the return of Big City Fishing this July and our engaging Ask a Scientist series, which welcomes guest STEM experts for humorous and informative talks followed by a live Q&A. And, of course, later this season, we look forward to diving into everything marine science at the SUBMERGE Marine Science Festival on Friday, October 14 and Saturday, October 15. For even more, visit here.
Savor the Riverfront Music
There is nothing quite like live music along the Hudson River, and this season we’re bringing a wide variety back to HRPK. While our beloved Jazz at Pier 84 series, presented in partnership with the Jazz Foundation of America, hosts performances from legendary jazz performers, our Sunset on the Hudson series passes the mic to established and emerging NYC-based artists across a wide range of genres. This popular Friday night series is one of the best ways to kick off the weekend in the Park. Later this season, on August 13, we are thrilled to welcome our signature Blues BBQ Festival to HRPK’s Pier 76 with an incredible line up, and delicious food and drink to go along with it.
Explore our Four Miles with Park Tours
We are also excited to introduce you to some of our favorite spaces in HRPK during our Park Tours led by knowledgeable local experts. This year’s offerings include opportunities to discover our waterfront’s past by exploring historic vessels, see how our Community Compost Program diverts nearly 500,000 pounds of compost each year, experience our Pier 26 Tide Deck’s unique habitat and learn about the bird species seen along our four miles.
Get Healthy on the Hudson
Work up a sweat five nights a week at HRPK’s Healthy on the Hudson, presented by lululemon. Our scenic green spaces become your riverfront gym with free, friendly fun classes led by lululemon ambassadors. From yoga classes to HIIT workouts to guided meditations, there are many ways to embrace wellness on the waterfront.
Family Programming brings Music, Movement and Laughter
The Park has an outstanding array of features and programs for little ones to enjoy. This year, we’re thrilled to bring Hudson RiverKids back into HRPK two days a week – Mondays in Tribeca, and Thursdays in Chelsea. With an array of performances and programs all made with kids especially in mind, this series is fun for the whole family. Check out our full lineup on our calendar!
Roll up Your Sleeves in Your Park
Volunteers play a vital role in keeping the Park looking great year-round and are a key part of the Hudson River Park community. Our Saturday Green Team events are a great way to meet neighbors and enjoy the outdoors while beautifying a specific section of the Park. Check our full schedule, and explore other ways to volunteer, including opportunities to help our Community Compost Program.
With lots of fun ahead — and some exciting surprises on the way — be sure you’re signed up for our newsletter, and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter @HudsonRiverPark. We can’t wait to see you in the Park!