On Thursday, October 7, 2021, Park supporters came together in appreciation of Hudson River Park and all that this green and blue oasis provides to millions of New Yorkers at our annual Gala, raising more than $2.5 million to keep the Park clean, green, beautiful and growing.
We were thrilled to welcome fully-vaccinated guests back into the Park for this year’s celebration, kicking off the evening with Cocktails by the Carousel at HRPK’s beautiful Pier 62. High-energy performers from Ajna Dance Company – the team behind the Park’s free Bollywood & Bhangra programming in summer – led the crowd into Pier Sixty for our dinner program.
The evening abounded with laughter, music and appreciation for the essential role Hudson River Park plays in the lives of New Yorkers and celebration of the Park’s exciting growth and bright future. Host Mario Cantone kept us entertained throughout the evening as we honored prominent Park notables Madelyn Wils, past President and CEO of Hudson River Park Trust; Google, accepted by Ruth Porat, CFO of Alphabet and Google; and Alan Cumming, actor, author and activist. A powerhouse performance by Wyclef Jean ensured this year’s Gala was a night to remember.
Led by Lydia Fenet, an exciting live auction invited bidders to compete for fabulous lots — all in support of the future Pier 26 Science Play Area. Thanks to the generosity of our Gala attendees, combined with the support of our Capital Campaign donors and a tremendous Challenge Match from Friends Board Chair, Mike Novogratz, we were able to complete funding for the $3.5 million playground. We are thrilled that this one-of-a-kind, imagination-inspiring play space will become a reality for NYC families. (Learn more about how you can add your, your family’s, or your child’s name on the Pier 26 Science Play Area donor wall.)
Thank you to our sponsors and supporters and all who attended and contributed to making our 2021 Gala such a momentous success – the generosity and dedication of our community help ensure that Hudson River Park will continue to thrive, grow and enhance the lives of New Yorkers.
On Thursday, October 28, we extended the celebration virtually, and all were invited take part. You can enjoy our fabulous virtual program here. For a closer look at the in-person event, explore our 2021 Gala Gallery.