Nothing beats summertime in Hudson River Park. Kayakers, canoers and sailors explore our waters. The Park’s sports fields and courts fill with athletes of all ages. New Yorkers and visitors from around the world enjoy spectacular riverfront dining. And our four miles come alive with fun, diverse, educationally and culturally-rich programming, free for all to enjoy.
Part of what makes the Park’s busiest, most fun-filled season so special is that Park members make it possible. Hudson River Park is NOT a City-run park and relies on supporters like you for its maintenance, operations and free programs. This year our biggest ever programming season — featuring 260+ free events — is presented in part by Hudson River Park Friends, the Park’s philanthropic partner, dedicated to the completion, care and enhancement of the Park.
When you become part of HRPK Friends’ growing community of supporters as a Friends with Benefits member, you unlock new ways to experience summer in the Park and celebrate summer in NYC while helping the Park thrive. We call our members Friends with Benefits for a reason — perks include VIP opportunities, special invitations and perks at numerous local businesses that take part in our Community Partner Program.
This summer is already off to an exciting start for this dedicated group of Park supporters. Read on to see highlights from the season so far, and learn more about what’s coming up for the rest of the summer. Want to join in on the fun? Become a Friends with Benefits member today!
Members-Only Fitness and Dance Classes
Every summer, our Arbor, Skipper, Gardener and Steward members are invited to take part in exclusive Healthy on the Hudson and Dance in HRPK experiences. We hosted the first of two members-only Healthy on the Hudson classes at the start of the summer, and we’ll be back for another in the fall!
Coming up later this summer, these members are invited to take part in an exclusive Friends with Benefits Dance in HRPK experience at Hudson River Parks’ Bollywood & Bhangra series. Run by Ajna Dance Company, this series invites dancers of all levels to learn technique from the best. Originating in India, these dance forms highlight rhythm, expression and passion.
This event is open to the general public, but instructors will be available to lead our private members group during the “open dance” portion of the evening.
Annual Members Party
This June we invited all of our Friends with Benefits members to celebrate their ongoing support for Hudson River Park and toast the start of summer aboard the Frying Pan. Park supporters enjoyed drinks and hors d’oeuvres with spectacular views. Check out the event gallery (and take a peek at other past events!).
While our 2022 Members Party has past, our Friends with Benefits always enjoy special discounts at the Frying Pan — along with many other popular businesses in-and-around the Park. Check out our full list of Community Partners!
VIP Experiences
This August, the Park’s signature Blues BBQ Festival returns for the first time since 2019, a day-long celebration featuring savory barbecue, delicious drinks and live music, all on our riverfront. Members at the Skipper, Gardener and Steward levels receive special VIP access — including top notch seating and complimentary drinks and food. Sign up today to reserve your spot!
As a member, you become an integral part of the community that supports outstanding free events — like Blues BBQ, Healthy on the Hudson, Dance in HRPK and so much more — and keeps the Park looking great for all who enjoy it year-round. That makes enjoying the concerts, workouts, dance parties, gardens, river breezes and spectacular views even sweeter! Do you enjoy the Park with your best Four-Legged Friend? We also have a special membership program just for HRPK pups. Join as a member now, and enjoy your Park’s best all season long — knowing you helped make it possible for all to enjoy.