The Hudson River Folk Festival, also known as the Clearwater Festival or Great Hudson River Revival, is an annual music and environmental summer festival that has been captivating audiences since 1966. This iconic event, held at Croton Point Park in Croton-on-Hudson, New York, is America’s oldest and largest festival of its kind, drawing thousands of visitors each year to celebrate the beauty and importance of the Hudson River.
What is the Date and Location of the Hudson River Fest?
The Hudson River Fest typically takes place on a weekend in June, with the exact dates varying from year to year. In 2017, the festival was held on June 17-18, while in 2019, it was scheduled for June 15-16. The festival is held at Croton Point Park, a picturesque location along the banks of the Hudson River, in Croton-on-Hudson, New York.
What Activities and Performances Can You Expect at the Hudson River Fest?
The Hudson River Fest features a diverse lineup of musical acts, ranging from jam bands and rock to jazz, blues, and folk artists. Past performers have included renowned names such as Pete Seeger, The Persuasions, Grace Potter & The Nocturnals, Dr. Dog, and Old Crow Medicine Show. In addition to the musical performances, the festival offers a wide variety of activities and events, including:
Riverfront Activities
- Kayaking, rowboating, and rides on the tall ships Clearwater, Mystic Whaler, and Woody Guthrie, allowing visitors to experience the Hudson River up close.
Handcrafters’ Village
- Showcasing the work of talented crafters and folk artists, with demonstrations and workshops.
Green Living Expo
- Exhibiting sustainable products, services, concepts, and technologies for informed lifestyle and business choices.
Discovery and Tideline Tents
- Featuring Clearwater’s original hands-on environmental education programs and Hudson River research.
Environmental Action Tent
- Highlighting Clearwater’s watershed and environmental justice initiatives in Hudson Valley communities.
Artisanal Food & Farm Market
- Offering a variety of food and produce sourced from the Hudson Valley region.
How Does the Hudson River Fest Promote Environmental Awareness and Activism?
The Hudson River Fest is deeply committed to environmental awareness and activism. The festival is produced by Hudson River Sloop Clearwater, Inc., a nonprofit, member-supported, environmental organization. All proceeds from the festival go directly to support Clearwater’s environmental research, education, and advocacy efforts to help preserve and protect the Hudson River and its tributaries, as well as the surrounding communities.
Some of the specific initiatives and partnerships that the Hudson River Fest has in place to promote environmental awareness and activism include:
Valet Bike Parking
- Encouraging festival-goers to ride their bicycles to the event, reducing pollution and promoting cleaner air and water. Time’s Up provides free valet bike parking and runs an outreach environmental center.
Bike Rides to the Clearwater Revival
- Organized group bike rides from New York City to the festival, promoting sustainable transportation and reducing the carbon footprint.
Clearwater’s New Hudson River School
- An educational initiative that has helped over 430,000 young people and 250,000 adults experience the wonders of the Hudson River from aboard the Sloop Clearwater.
The Hudson River Fest is more than just a music festival; it is a celebration of the Hudson River’s natural beauty and a call to action for its preservation. By promoting sustainable practices, environmental education, and community engagement, the festival aims to inspire and empower attendees to become stewards of the river and its surrounding ecosystems.