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100 Unforgettable FREE Summer 2025 Activities for Kids in Westchester and the Hudson Valley

Bring your tots to Ridge Hill for the free Little Explorers programming. Photo courtesy of Ridge Hill
Bring your tots to Ridge Hill for the free Little Explorers programming. Photo courtesy of Ridge Hill
6/8/25 - By Katherine Dhurandhar

Looking for FREE things to do in Westchester and the Hudson Valley this summer? Here are some family-friendly events and activities to add to your list.

With school getting out soon, it's time for summer fun in Westchester and the Hudson Valley! With amazing parks and beaches offering hundreds of acres of outdoor space, as well as awesome community libraries, it's no wonder that there are tons of FREE activities to keep kids occupied all summer. 

You can find even more cool seasonal activities and destinations in our Ultimate Westchester and Hudson Valley Kids Summer Vacation Guide.

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Why Summer in Westchester and the Hudson Valley is Perfect for Free Kid Activities

Westchester and the Hudson Valley offer tons of free kids' activities in the summer, ranging from indoor STEAM programs in the libraries to free outdoor culture and music festivals. While the libraries offer many free indoor kids' programs, a majority of free summer activities are held outdoors, and with the warm weather and extended daylight hours, what better time to enjoy the amazing outdoors of Westchester and the Hudson Valley? 

Frequently Asked Questions About Free Summer Activities in Westchester and the Hudson Valley

  • How do I find out about free events happening each week? 
  • Are these activities suitable for all ages?
    • While most of these activities are suitable for all ages, some are specifically geared toward little kids or teens, so always check the age range, which we have listed for each event. That said, all of our events are family-friendly.
  • What should I bring to a free outdoor event?
    • Many outdoor events require you to bring chairs or blankets for seating. Also, we recommend packing snacks and water, although most events offer food and drinks for purchase. Sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a change of clothes for kids are also recommended, as well as rain gear in case of an unexpected shower.
  • How early should I arrive for popular free events?
    • Depending on the size and length of events, the best time to arrive can vary, but generally, earlier is better. Parking spaces can be a concern for large free events, particularly festivals. For some kids' activities, supplies might be limited, so try to arrive at least 15 minutes before the listed start time.

 

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Free Things To Do in Westchester and the Hudson Valley All Summer Long

Westchester Bicycle Sundays

Various Towns
Multiple Dates from May to October
Cyclists, joggers, walkers, in-line skaters, and scooters can take to the open road on Sundays when the Bronx River Parkway is closed to motorized vehicles for a 13.1-mile stretch from Main Street in White Plains to Scarsdale Road in Yonkers.  READ MORE

Family Fun Days at Westchester Pools/Beaches

Multiple locations
Weekends through August 2, 2025
Four Westchester County pools/parks will play host to a series of five family fun days this summer, featuring a DJ, dancing, and games.  READ MORE

Poughkeepsie Waterfront Market

Poughkeepsie
Tuesdays through October 21, 2025
The Poughkeepsie Waterfront Market at the Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum will run weekly through October 21 on Tuesday afternoons. The market offers a wide range of farm-fresh greens and vegetables, fruit, herbs, apple cider, baked goods, eggs, poultry, and vegetable plant starts. The market also features live music and community outreach vendors.  READ MORE

Outdoor Movies in Harbor Island Park

Mamaroneck
Saturday, June 14 -Sunday, September 6, 2025
Enjoy FREE outdoor family movies at Harbor Island Park on select dates between June and September. Admission is free. July 11 is also a Tiki Party, and the September 6 showing is a family camp-out night.  READ MORE

Cortlandt Summer Concert and Movie Nights

Cortlandt
Select Thursdays, June 12 -August 7, 2025
Enjoy the sounds of live bands, then stick around (on select nights) for a kid-friendly movie. Pre-show entertainment kicks off each evening starting at 6pm. Views of the Hudson River in the background add to the charm. READ MORE

Neighborhood Nights in the Parks in White Plains

White Plains
Multiple dates from Monday, July 7-Thursday, August 18, 2025
The Nights in the Park series returns to White Plains with FREE outdoor entertainment events in summer evenings in six different parks, including free concerts and special performances. Kids' programs include art in the park, magic shows, kids' concerts, and dancing dogs.  READ MORE

Movies Under the Walkway at Walkway Over the Hudson

Poughkeepsie
Select Saturdays from June 28 to August 9, 2025
Set against the scenic Walkway Over the Hudson, outdoor flicks are presented on four summer Saturdays. Films start at sunset.  READ MORE

Ridge Hill Music on the Hill Summer Concert Series

Yonkers
Fridays through September 26, 2025
Come out and enjoy outdoor concerts this summer with talented musicians every Friday through September. This year’s musical lineup features multiple genres, including jazz, Latin jazz, Salsa, and Afrobeats. READ MORE

Tarrytown & Sleepy Hollow (TASH) Farmer's Market

Tarrytown
Saturdays Memorial Day Weekend through Thanksgiving
Enjoy farm-fresh food, live music, and kids' activities every Saturday in the summer at the TASH Farmer's Market.  READ MORE

Wild Wednesdays: Animal Introductions at the New Rochelle Library

New Rochelle
Select Wednesdays in July and August 2025
Meet different animals every week at the library, presented by the Stamford Museum and Nature Center and the Weinburg Nature Center. Kids are invited on this one-hour journey featuring mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds presented by a naturalist.  READ MORE

Kensico Dam Screenings Under the Stars

Valhalla
Select days in July and August 2025
Grab your picnic blankets or lawn chairs and enjoy an outdoor movie on three evenings this summer at Kensico Dam Plaza.  READ MORE

Family Free Night at the Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum

Poughkeepsie
Repeats every third Saturday of the month, 2025
Come in after-hours and explore all of the museum exhibits for free at family free nights at the Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum.  READ MORE

North Salem Farmers Market

North Salem
Repeats every second Saturday through October 11, 2025
The North Salem Farmers Market is on Back Street in Croton Falls from May to September on the second Saturday of each month. Showcasing 30+ vendors from the region. There will also be kids' activities and live music.  READ MORE

Saturday Summer Sings at the New Rochelle Library

New Rochelle
Select Saturdays in July and August, 2025
Enjoy songs, stories, and lots of movement and dancing with special musical guests on select Saturdays in summer at the New Rochelle Library.  READ MORE

Summer Sizzle Outdoor Concerts in New Rochelle

New Rochelle
Every Saturday through August 30, 2025
Enjoy free concerts in Ruby Dee Park every Saturday this summer, accompanied by food trucks on Lawton Street. A series of special signature events also offer afternoon festivities where attendees can enjoy local food trucks, craft tents, and engaging activities for the whole family.  READ MORE

Peekskill Movies in Pugsley Park

Peekskill
Select days from June 27 - August 16, 2025
Catch summer flicks outdoors in Pugsley Park on Friday evenings this summer. A different film is shown each month from June through September. READ MORE

Yorktown Summer Concerts at the Gazebo

Yorktown Heights
Sundays, June 29 - August 24, 2025
Bring your lawn chairs and dancing shoes to Jack DeVitto Memorial Park for any of the Sunday-evening outdoor performances, which also feature local food trucks, artisan vendors, raffles, and fun. READ MORE

International Music and Dance Festival at New Rochelle Public Library

New Rochelle
Tuesdays, July 8-August 12, 2025
Enjoy professional music and dance performances from a variety of cultures, featuring a different culture each week.   READ MORE

STEM Lab with Mad Science at the New Rochelle Library

New Rochelle
Tuesdays, July 8-August 12, 2025
Kids can delve into a new topic each week and perform experiments in unique, fun, hands-on science workshops for children at the New Rochelle Library. The program is hosted by Mad Science of Westchester. READ MORE

Splashdown at the Huguenot Children's Library

New Rochelle
Thursdays, July 10-August 14, 2025
Water fun on the patio is back at HCL! Come play with toys at the water tables and plan to get wet. READ MORE

Peekskill Riverfront Children's Entertainment

Peekskill
Select Mondays from June to August 2025
In addition to offering free outdoor concerts and family films, Peekskill Recreation has also lined up entertainers to get the giggles out. Enjoy bubbles, magic tricks, and storytelling.  READ MORE

Little Explorers at Ridge Hill

Yonkers
First Tuesdays June-September, 2025
Bring your tots to Ridge Hill for a morning they won’t forget at Little Explorers! Each month will feature themed activities, crafts, games + more to help their imagination grow.  READ MORE

Summer No-Limit Ninja Pop-Up at Cross County Center

Yonkers
Select Sundays June-August, 2025
Join No Limit Ninja on the green at Cross County Center for a FREE thrilling pop-up event. Experience the excitement as you jump, climb, and swing your way through the Mobile Ninja Course. READ MORE

Science Barge in Yonkers

Yonkers
Weekends through October 5, 2025
Join Groundwork Hudson Valley for the season opening of the Science Barge, a floating environmental education center showcasing sustainable urban agriculture and clean energy technologies. Don’t miss out on exciting opening-weekend activities and giveaways. READ MORE

Summer STEAM for Teens in the Edge - White Plains Library

White Plains
Monday-Thursday, July 1-August 21, 2025
The Edge is a space in the White Plains library for teens in grades 7-12 to hang out, pick up a book, socialize, learn new skills, and be themselves. The library is offering a workshop series featuring a different topic each week, Monday through Thursday, during the summer. Topics include game design, cooking, 3D printing, watercolors, and TV production. READ MORE

Dobbs Ferry Summer Music Series & Jitterbug Jams

Dobbs Ferry
Wednesdays, July 9-August 27, 2025
Enjoy free live jazz concerts on eight Wednesdays in summer at Waterfront Park on the Hudson River in Dobbs Ferry. Begun in 2000, Jazz Forum Arts’ longest-running series features an eclectic array of artists and groups. Bring the kids early for the Jitterbug Jams jazz for kids program.  READ MORE

Free Things To Do in June in Westchester and the Hudson Valley with Kids

Sensory Storytime and Petting Zoo at Pound Ridge Town Park

Pound Ridge
Friday, June 13, 2025
In celebration of summer, the Pound Ridge Library is having a petting zoo with baby goats and bunnies at the town park (at the library in case of rain), plus a sensory storytime. Sensory Storytimes are more interactive and provide built-in time for sensory play, including freedom of movement with more visual aids, gentle action, and sensory experiences. READ MORE

Hastings-on-Hudson Friday Night Pride

Hastings-on-Hudson
Friday, June 13, 2025
The community of Hastings is coming together to celebrate Pride with a march, live concert, and tons of family-friendly activities, including a giant rainbow slide, face painting, spray paint art, kids’ craft activities, dancing, community quiltmaking, a scavenger hunt, temporary tattoos, and games. READ MORE

Father's Day Movie Premiere Party at Palisades Center: How to Train Your Dragon

West Nyack
Friday, June 13, 2025
Join the Palisades Center Father’s Day Movie Premiere Party in honor of the new How to Train Your Dragon release! Families are invited to enjoy an afternoon of fun-filled activities on Level Four near AMC, including craft stations, a dragon meet & greet, games and contests, and more. READ MORE

Yonkers Ukrainian Heritage Festival

Yonkers
Friday, June 13-Sunday, June 15, 2025
Sponsored by the Ukrainian American Youth Association, this annual tradition brings Ukrainian food, culture, music, dancing, crafts, and traditions to Yonkers, along with carnival rides and games, plus assorted vendors.  READ MORE

Poughkeepsie Pride Parade and Festival

Poughkeepsie
Saturday, June 14, 2025
Celebrate Pride Month with a colorful parade and a festival featuring local food vendors, local queer-owned businesses, and activities for children and families. The Festival will feature nearly 100 local food vendors, artisans, retailers, and craftspeople all out in support of the LGBTQ+ Community. READ MORE

White Plains Juneteenth Parade & Festival

White Plains
Saturday, June 14, 2025
Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States. It is a day for African Americans to celebrate their culture, freedom, and most importantly, their achievements. This event will include a parade, food, and entertainment for the entire family!   READ MORE

River Arts Music Tour

Various locations
Saturday, June 14, 2025
Enjoy free live music from hundreds of musicians at 30+ venues throughout the Rivertown villages of Hastings on Hudson, Dobbs Ferry, Irvington, and Tarrytown. It’s the largest family-friendly, free event for music lovers in lower Westchester County and truly offers something for everyone—from classical and jazz to folk, rock, alternative, urban, and world music. READ MORE

Day of the Horseshoe Crabs at Marshlands Conservancy

Rye
Saturday, June 14, 2025
See the Atlantic horseshoe crabs as they arrive at Marshlands’ shoreline to mate and lay their eggs during high tides from May through June. The morning high tide allows participants to watch these ancient creatures continue their seasonal ritual.  READ MORE

Big Equipment Day at Muscoot Farm

Katonah
Sunday, June 15, 2025
Muscoot Farm invites visitors to get up close and learn about all the machines that run the farm, including tractors, mowers, and more.  READ MORE

Village of Pelham Juneteenth Celebration

Pelham
Sunday, June 15, 2025
The Village of Pelham invites you to a day of inspiration, education, cultural connection, and entertainment as we honor and celebrate the Juneteenth Federal Holiday. The annual Juneteenth Festival features live performances, diverse food vendors, unique cultural goods, and participation from local community partners. READ MORE

Celebrate Juneteenth at Caramoor

Katonah
Sunday, June 15, 2025
Caramoor presents an uplifting Juneteenth celebration—honoring African American freedom, heritage, and resilience—with the electrifying sounds of The Legendary Ingramettes, one of gospel music’s most revered groups.   READ MORE

Father's Day Antique Tractor Pull at the Orange County Farmers Museum

Montgomery
Sunday, June 15, 2025
Spend the day with dad at the Orange County Farmers Museum’s annual Father’s Day Antique Tractor Pull. Watch the pullers drag the weighted sled down the track in a friendly competition of who can go the farthest or make the 300-foot full pull. READ MORE

TLPC Juneteenth Celebration in Glen Island Park

New Rochelle
Thursday, June 19, 2025
TLPC’s Juneteenth Celebration in Glen Island Park includes an African marketplace, performances, a kids' fun zone, food trucks, and more! READ MORE

Juneteenth Celebration in Haverstraw

Haverstraw
Thursday-Saturday, June 19-21, 2025
The Haverstraw African American Connection’s 2025 Juneteenth events will take place over three days, starting with a flag raising on Thursday and ending with the Juneteenth Street Festival on Saturday. Activities include a live band, presentations, re-enactments, vendors, food, music, and KIDZone. READ MORE

Town of Eastchester Summer Kickoff & Fireworks

Eastchester
Friday, June 20, 2025
Kick off the summer at Eastchester's Lake Isle Country Club, featuring a DJ dance party, food trucks, and fireworks. READ MORE

Summer Night on the Hill

Yonkers
Friday, June 20, 2025
Hello, Summer! Kick off the season with a carnival-style block party on Market St! Enjoy live music, summer treats, and outdoor fun in our magical Town Square. Kids' activities include a Lego building station and crafts. READ MORE

Hudson Valley Food Truck Festival at Barton Orchards

Poughquag
Saturday, June 21, 2025
Sample a range of dishes from diverse food trucks and vendors with live music and a farm market at Barton Orchards in Poughquag. Activities for kids include a petting zoo, gem stone mining, a dog park, and playgrounds. The tap room and restaurant are also open.  READ MORE

Peekskill Juneteenth Parade and Festival

Peekskill
Saturday, June 21, 2025
The annual City of Peekskill Juneteenth Celebration features a parade, African drums and dance, gospel music, jazz, food & craft vendors, and more. The event also recognizes African-American leaders as well as "firsts" in Peekskill.  READ MORE

Big Truck Day at the FASNY Museum of Firefighting

Hudson
Saturday, June 21, 2025
Learn all about big trucks and even sit in the truck cabs! Fire trucks, a garbage truck, a street cleaner, a school bus, and many more vehicles will be visiting the museum for the day, so come check out all the big truck action. When you complete your BIG truck tour, try your hand at the prize punch game and meet Otto, the incredible, talking robot car who has a lot to say about safety! READ MORE

Seining by the Sound at Edith Read Sanctuary

Rye
Saturday, June 21, 2025
Come explore the beauty of the Long Island Sound, using a 25-foot seining net to catch, observe, and release creatures at Edith Read Wildlife Sanctuary. Family fun, especially for children. READ MORE

Nanuet Town Centre Grand Opening Block Party

Nanuet
Saturday & Sunday, June 21-22, 2025
Get ready for an unforgettable weekend of fun to celebrate the grand opening of Nanuet Town Centre! Enjoy two jam-packed days of free live music, delicious food trucks, beer & wine, a photo booth, games, giveaways, a kids' fun zone, an artisan market, and so much more! Kid-approved fun includes face painting, balloon art, chalk art, lawn games, prizes, and character meet-and-greets. READ MORE

STEAM Pride at the Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum

Poughkeepsie
Sunday, June 22, 2025
Join the Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum in recognizing the diverse community with a FREE Pride program in the outdoor Pavilion! Expect engaging science demonstrations, singing songs, and plenty of fun activities to keep you moving, led by a fabulous drag performer! READ MORE

African-American Heritage Celebration at Kensico Dam

Valhalla
Sunday, June 22, 2025
Celebrate African-American culture at Kensico Dam Plaza. Enjoy live music, food, dance, drama, poetry, and a wide array of vendors. Bring a blanket or folding chairs and enjoy performances on the lawn.  READ MORE

Puerto Rican Festival and Carnival

White Plains
Sunday, June 22, 2025
Celebrate Puerto Rican culture with live bomba drumming and dance with Grupo Cimarrones, performances by the Carlos Jimenez Mambo Orchestra, arts & craft vendors, as well as a procession led by the beloved and colorful vejigante, a folkloric character associated with Puerto Rican carnival. READ MORE

Dia De La Cultura Dominicana

White Plains
Sunday, June 22, 2025
Enjoy an afternoon of Dominican music, dance, food, and crafts! Guests are welcome to bring their own lawn chairs or picnic blankets to enjoy the performances. READ MORE

Mamaroneck Fireworks Spectacular and Fireman's Carnival

Mamaroneck
Thursday, June 26 - Saturday, July 5, 2025
Enjoy 10 days of festivities at the Mamaroneck Fire Department's Carnival, featuring a parade, classic carnival rides, and a dazzling fireworks finale in Harbor Island Park. The St. Thomas Orchestra plays a free concert to accompany the fireworks display.  READ MORE

Firefly Festival at Trailside Nature Museum

Pound Ridge
Friday, June 27, 2025
Join Trailside Nature Museum for a celebration of the most charismatic bioluminescent insects! There will be games, face painting, music, food, live owl for photo opps, firefly catch and release, and more in the meadow!  READ MORE

Peekskill Pride in Pugsley Park

Peekskill
Saturday, June 28, 2025
Join Peekskill Pride for its annual Family Pride in Pugsley Park, with live bands, drag shows, and family-friendly activities including arts & crafts and drag queen storytime.  READ MORE

Pound Ridge Fireworks Celebration

Pound Ridge
Saturday, June 28, 2025
This annual fireworks celebration takes place at Pound Ridge Town Park, with festivities beginning at 4:30pm featuring food trucks, live music, and more. READ MORE

Empire of the Foraging Ants at Read Sanctuary

Rye
Sunday, June 29, 2025
Learn about the species of ants that live at Read Sanctuary by the millions!  READ MORE

International Mud Day at Hudson Highlands Nature Center in Warwick

Warwick
Sunday, June 29, 2025
Come splash, roll, squish, slide, and get messy this International Mud Day. at Hudson Highlands Nature Center at the 3-Pines Nature Place. Make mud pies, explore mud as paint, and much more. READ MORE
Join the fun at the 2025 Sleepy Hollow Mermaid Festival. Photo courtesy of the festival
Join the fun at the 2025 Sleepy Hollow Mermaid Festival. Photo courtesy of the festival

Free Things To Do in July in Westchester and the Hudson Valley with Kids

Independence Day Celebration at White Plains High School

White Plains
Wednesday, July 2, 2025
Enjoy a fun-filled evening of entertainment, giant inflatable rides, food, and fireworks at the White Plains High School Independence Day Celebration. Music will be provided by Stolen Moments Entertainment.  READ MORE

Music Fest and Fireworks at Kensico Dam

Valhalla
Thursday, July 3, 2025
Start the Independence Day celebration a day early with entertainment, music, and fireworks in Kensico Dam Park. Enjoy eats from local vendors who set up a food court on-site. A kids' zone features a kids' DJ, inflatables, and kids' concessions. READ MORE

Somers Independence Day Celebration

Somers
Thursday, July 3, 2025
Celebrate Independence Day in Reis Park with a basketball tournament, hot dog eating contest, axe throwing, kids' activities, and a fireworks finale. There will be live bands performing and food available for purchase. READ MORE

Spark the Sound Fourth of July Fireworks

New Rochelle
Friday, July 4, 2025
A grand firework display, produced by the Grucci Family at the New Rochelle waterfront. Best viewing locations include Hudson Park, Five Islands Parks, and Municipal Marina upper parking deck. READ MORE

Cornwall Annual 4th of July Celebration

Cornwall
Friday, July 4, 2025
Celebrate our nation's independence with a full day of festivities, starting with a hearty firehouse breakfast at the Highland Engine Company and fun activities all day long, including an inflatable fun zone, children's art exhibition, a pie-eating contest, duck derby, pet show, and more. READ MORE

Celebrate America Fireworks in Greenwood Lake

Greenwood Lake
Saturday, July 5, 2025
Gather at dusk for the annual fireworks display in Greenwood Lake's Thomas P. Morahan Waterfront Park. Bring a chair or blanket.  READ MORE

Goshen Annual Great American Weekend

Goshen
Saturday & Sunday, July 5-6, 2025
This two-day annual tradition, organized by the Goshen Chamber of Commerce, features some 150 craft booths, live entertainment, children's activities, and extensive food choices. Kids' activities include a carnival, pony rides, and TumbleBus. READ MORE

Town of Southeast Fireworks Extravaganza

Southeast
Sunday, July 6, 2025
Enjoy an evening of fireworks with a DJ providing live entertainment in the parking lot in front of DeCicco’s in the town of Southeast.  READ MORE

Teen Pasta Making at the John C. Hart Library

Yorktown
Monday, July 7, 2025
School just got out and you're already bored and need something to do? Come to the library and learn a new skill! Homemade pasta is super simple to make. It only requires a few ingredients and can be made with tools as simple as a fork, a knife, and a rolling pin. Participants will use the pasta attachment on the food mixer to press and cut the dough, however.  READ MORE

Summer Picnic: Bubble Party at Nanuet Town Centre

Nanuet
Thursday, July 10, 2025
Get ready for a magical, high-flying adventure full of laughter and bubbles galore at Nanuet Town Centre! Watch in awe as giant bubbles soar 30 feet into the sky, shimmering like rainbows in the sun.  Don’t miss this FREE experience bursting with fun for all ages! READ MORE

Adventures with Animals at the Huguenot Children's Library

New Rochelle
Thursdays, July 10-24, 2025
The animal experts from the Stamford Nature Center and Museum are back at the Huguenot Children's Library with exciting creatures to meet! READ MORE

Fish Hut 2025 Summer Fishing Kickoff at Mamaroneck Marine Education Center

Mamaroneck
Saturday, July 12, 2025
Join the Marine Education Center for a fun-filled day of fishing and learning. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, this event is perfect for all ages and skill levels. Don't miss out on the chance to kick off your summer with a reel good time!  READ MORE

Tuckahoe Summer Fireworks

Tuckahoe
Saturday, July 12, 2025
The 4th of July might be over, but this mid-month spectacle features a fireworks display at 9:30pm, preceded by food trucks and entertainment starting at 7pm. READ MORE

The Bubble, Comedy, and Music Show at the John C. Hart Library

Yorktown
Saturday, July 12, 2025
Join Mr. Matt from Turtle Dance Music at the Hart Library for a colorful “turtle-riffic” musical experience designed to engage children through songs, movement activities, children’s stories, and interactive music technology where colors make music! The show is crafted to be inclusive for all children, including children on the autism spectrum, and a great time for parents and caregivers!  READ MORE

Hispanic Heritage Celebration at Kensico Dam

Valhalla
Sunday, July 13, 2025
Celebrate Hispanic culture at Kensico Dam Plaza. Bring your blankets and chairs and enjoy a day of live music, food, vendors, and more. READ MORE

Nyack's Famous Street Fair

Nyack
Sunday, July 13, 2025
More than 275 exhibitors showcase a selection of arts, crafts, and goods. Local vendors also offer delicious food, and live music streams from the gazebo. READ MORE

Performing Families: Jomion & The Uklos

Mt Vernon
Tuesday, July 15, 2025
Jomion & the Uklos, a family band from Benin, West Africa, combines traditional rhythms and songs from Vodoun culture with reggae, salsa, and jazz to create vibrant and joyful music that will get you on your feet. READ MORE

Summer Picnic: Magic Shows at Nanuet Town Centre

Nanuet
Thursday, July 17, 2025
Prepare to be amazed! Enjoy for a FREE, fun-filled afternoon of kid-friendly magic at the nanuet Town Centre, with four 30-minute shows starting at 12pm. Expect jaw-dropping tricks, plenty of laughs, and magical moments the whole family will love! READ MORE

Sleepy Hollow Mermaid Festival & Parade

Sleepy Hollow
Saturday, July 19, 2025
The Hudson River mermaids are back for another Sleepy Hollow Mermaid Festival! The fun begins with a parade on land and water, followed by a post-parade party in the park for all ages, with music, community art-making, face painting, food trucks, and bounce houses. READ MORE

Tie-Dye Day with Tote Bags at the John C. Hart Library

Yorktown
Saturday, July 19, 2025
Join the John C. Hart Library in recycling old summer reading tote bags with Tie-Dye! One tote bag will be supplied per registrant. READ MORE

Italian Heritage Celebration at Kensico Dam

Valhalla
Sunday, July 20, 2025
Celebrate Italian heritage at Kensico Dam Plaza. Enjoy live music, food, lots of family activities, and a wide array of vendors. READ MORE

Professor Pickles' World of Color Show

White Plains
Monday, July 21, 2025
Join the nutty Professor Pickle on an adventure of the eyes, ears, heart, and brain as he opens a world of color and unleashes the creative spirit in us all. Does RED have a sound? Can you taste PURPLE? How heavy is MAGENTA? Can SILVER fly? Can YELLOW make you yawn? Does WHITE bend or break? A hilarious, magical, colorful show at the White Plains Library. READ MORE

Slime Making for Teens at the John C. Hart Library

Yorktown
Monday, July 21, 2025
Learn how to make your own slime at the John C. Hart Library! It only takes a couple of ingredients to make a simple slime, but the customization options are endless! Glitter, food coloring, luster dust, and even things like sand can change the look and feel of your slime. Come to this workshop and experiment with different add-ins and colors.  READ MORE

Summer on the Avenue Block Party

Mamaroneck
Wednesday, July 23, 2025
The Mamaroneck Avenue Block Party is a community event that draws thousands of people to Mamaroneck and includes the best in musical entertainment, inflatable rides for kids, arts, crafts, local food, exhibits, children’s activities, and much more.  READ MORE

Otisville Country Fair

Otisville
Thursday-Sunday, July 24-27, 2025
This good old-fashioned country fair has a hay-bale toss, a chainsaw competition, horseshoe tournament, car show, tractor pull, cast-iron frying-pan toss, hayrides, antique machinery, storybook princess parties, animal tent, and food.  READ MORE

Minecraft Craft & Movie at the John C. Hart Library

Yorktown
Saturday, July 26. 2025
Create a Minecraft craft at the John C. Hart Library, followed by a screening of the Minecraft movie. Feel free to bring your own snacks. READ MORE

Barton Orchards Car Show & Touch a Truck

Poughquag
Sunday, July 27, 2025
Barton Orchards presents its 10th annual Car Show and Touch a Truck. The show features live music, food for purchase, and a tap room with offerings from 20 local breweries. Kids' activities include a slip n’ slide, a playground, a petting zoo, and more! READ MORE

Free Things To Do in August in Westchester and the Hudson Valley with Kids

Family Fun Day and Sand Art Competition at Glen Island Beach

New Rochelle
Saturday, August 2, 2025
Bring your best buckets, shovels, and molds (and a few friends) to this county-sponsored sand-castle competition. Enjoy family-fun games as well.  READ MORE

Heritage of India Festival at Kensico Dam

Valhalla
Sunday, August 3, 2025
Enjoy traditional Indian dance performances, music, food, vendors, and more at this celebration of the culture of India.  READ MORE

National Park Fee-Free Day

Various locations
Monday, August 4, 2025
On select dates in 2025, The National Park Service is offering free admission at all national parks, including sites that typically charge an entry fee. Though participating locations are scattered nationwide, there are several such attractions in the Hudson Valley area. READ MORE

Superhero Picnic at Nanuet Town Centre

Nanuet
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Join Nanuet Town Centre for a FREE heroic day of fun packed with action and adventure. Meet and greet with skating superheroes, strike your best pose in the themed photo booth, and enjoy hands-on crafting fun. Don’t forget to wear your favorite costume—capes, masks, and imagination welcome!  READ MORE

Whimsical Water Day at Sarah Lawrence

Yonkers
Saturday, August 9, 2025
Families are invited to learn about water quality in the community, go fishing with a seine net, play games, and win prizes at Sarah Lawrence College Center for the Urban River at Beczak. Enjoy free food and music. READ MORE

Author Visit with Laurie Klein

Yorktown
Saturday, August 9, 2025
Join the John C. Hart Library for a visit from local author Laurie Klein with a reading of her book Will Abbey See Whales Today? Kids then learn about whale sanctuaries and do a fun craft. READ MORE

Pirate Map Making at the John C. Hart Library

Yorktown
Saturday, August 9, 2025
X marks the spot in this imaginative, hands-on workshop where creativity meets cartography! Join librarian and craft-lover Gina Stanton for a journey through the fascinating history of pirate maps — from legends and lore to artistic flair. Then, grab your markers, ink up your stamps, and let your imagination run wild as you create your own pirate treasure map or fantasy world!  READ MORE

Beacon Corn Festival

Beacon
Sunday, August 10, 2025
This festival, hosted by the Beacon Sloop Club, celebrates all things corn at the Beacon Riverfront Park. Expect live music, food, craft vendors, and free kids’ activities. READ MORE

Mariachi México Internacional presents Summertime Fiesta Fun at the New Rochelle Library

New Rochelle
Thursday, August 14, 2025
Enjoy a Mariachi performance at the New Rochelle Public Library. The authentic sounds of Mexican music fill the library and will get everyone in the mood to sing, dance, and celebrate!  READ MORE

Summer Picnic: Pony Rides at Nanuet Town Centre

Nanuet
Thursday, August 14, 2025
Get up close and personal with friendly farm animals at Nanuet Town Centre's FREE Petting Zoo & Pony Rides event! Kids can meet and feed gentle alpacas, sheep, goats, chickens, and rabbits, then saddle up for a memorable pony ride. It’s a fun-filled day of hands-on animal encounters perfect for the whole family! READ MORE

Hudson Valley Caribbean Festival

Saugerties
Saturday, August 16, 2025
Experience the festive culture of the Caribbean at this fun, family-friendly carnival with face painting, a costume contest, DJ, arts & crafts, food vendors, and more, plus a colorful parade. READ MORE

Jewish Music & Arts Heritage Festival at Kensico Dam

Valhalla
Sunday, August 17, 2025
Celebrate Jewish culture at Kensico Dam Plaza at the annual Jewish Music and Arts Festival. Bring your blankets and chairs and enjoy a day of music, Israeli dancing, food, vendors, and children's activities, including free face painting, juggling by Ned Gelfars, a WonderSpark puppet show, and more. READ MORE

Dia de la Cultura Ecuatoriana - Westchester Roots Festival

Sleepy Hollow
Saturday, August 17, 2025
Join Westchester Roots for an afternoon of Ecuadorian music, dance, food, and crafts, along with family-friendly presentations that feature traditional Ecuadorian costumes and the indigenous Kichwa language. READ MORE

Summer Picnic: Bouncy House Magic at Nanuet Town Centre

Nanuet
Thursday, August 21, 2025
Get ready to bounce, leap, and laugh at Nanuet Town Centre! Kids can jump and play in three of Bouncy House Magic’s most popular inflatable attractions. With plenty of space to hop and tumble, it’s non-stop energy and excitement all afternoon long! READ MORE

Muslim Heritage Celebration at Kensico Dam

Valhalla
Sunday, August 24, 2025
Explore Muslim culture through exhibits, performances, and food. READ MORE

Summer Picnic: Mini Golf at Nanuet Town Centre

Nanuet
Thursday, August 28, 2025
Swing into the end of summer with Nanuet Town Centre's FREE 12-hole mini golf course pop-up—perfect for kids and families! Test your skills, enjoy the sunshine, and aim for the hole-in-one!  READ MORE

Places featured in this article:

Willson's Waves (and additional locations)
Turnure Park (and other locations)
Ruby Dee Park (in front of downtown New Rochelle Public Library)
Jack DeVito Veterans Memorial Park Gazebo
Huguenot Children's Library
Dobbs Ferry Waterfront Park
Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts
Haverstraw African-American Memorial Park
Edith Read Sanctuary, Playland Park
Trailside Nature Museum - Ward Pound Reservation
Edith Read Sanctuary, Playland Park
Hudson Highlands Nature Center - 3 Pines Nature Place
Thomas P Morahan Waterfront Park
First Presbyterian Church Park
Highlands Shopping Center
Huguenot Children's Library
Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum (and other locations)
Sarah Lawrence College Center for the Urban River at Beczak
Beacon Riverfront Park

About the Author

Katherine Dhurandhar
Katherine Dhurandhar is a Community Publisher for Mommy Poppins, representing the Westchester and Hudson Valley region of New York, and a freelance copyeditor for Westchester Publishing Company. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, camping, and traveling with her husband and son.
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