Hudson River Music Festival Honors Pete Seeger’s Legacy
The Hudson Valley Music Festival is gearing up for its second year, bringing back the spirit of the original Clearwater Festival established by Pete and Toshi Seeger. The Hudson River Music Festival (HRMF) is more than just a music event; it is a platform for environmental education and activism at Croton Point Park. This festival focuses on sustainability, social justice, and showcasing the beauty of the Hudson River through folk, rock, and family-friendly performances, arts, and a special ‘Activist Area’ to continue the Seegers’ vision for a cleaner planet.
The key aspects of the Hudson River Music Festival are rooted in its legacy and mission. The festival aims to carry on the tradition of the Clearwater Festival initiated by Pete Seeger in the 1960s to clean up the Hudson River. It continues to promote environmental justice, sustainability, and community engagement through music and education. The event takes place at Croton Point Park, which holds historical significance as the original site of the Clearwater Festival. It features diverse musical performances, art installations, food vendors, craft vendors, and an ‘Activist Area’ where environmental groups gather to spread awareness.
One of the distinctive features of the festival is its family-friendly atmosphere. In addition to musical acts, the festival offers kids’ activities, puppet shows, and educational elements that celebrate life along the river. The festival is organized by RiverFest FPS (For Pete’s Sake), a non-profit organization dedicated to its mission of promoting environmental consciousness through music and education.
The Hudson Valley Music Festival made its debut on June 14, 2025, at Croton Point Park in Croton-on-Hudson, New York, with a star-studded lineup that included Grahame Lesh & Friends, Lucius, Steve Earle, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, and several other renowned artists. Following the success of its first edition, the Hudson River Music Festival announced on social media that the event will be returning on Father’s Day weekend, Sunday, June 21, 2026. Lineup and ticket information will be released soon, so festival-goers are encouraged to stay updated by visiting the festival website.
In conclusion, the Hudson Valley Music Festival is more than just a music event; it is a celebration of environmental advocacy and community engagement. By honoring the legacy of Pete Seeger and promoting sustainability and social justice, the festival aims to inspire positive change and raise awareness about important environmental issues. With its diverse lineup of musical acts, art installations, and family-friendly activities, the Hudson River Music Festival is set to captivate audiences once again in its second year.