Summer 2026 in New York’s Westchester County

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. – June 3, 2026 – As summer arrives in the Hudson Valley, Westchester County comes alive with waterfront festivals, outdoor adventures and cultural experiences just outside New York City. This season is especially notable as the region prepares to welcome global visitors for the FIFA World Cup while continuing celebrations tied to America’s 250th anniversary.

Easy to reach thanks to a robust network of trains and major roadways, Westchester offers a blend of scenic river towns, historic landmarks, vibrant arts and attractions for visitors of all ages, making it a welcoming destination for a wide range of summer travelers.

Summer’s Blockbuster Events

World Cup Energy Arrives in the Region: Some moments are better experienced together. The New York State United – 2026 World Cup Watch Experience is a free, statewide initiative featuring large-scale, family-friendly community viewing events, including a World Cup Final watch party at Kensico Dam Plaza, connecting fans and community members to watch live matches on giant outdoor screens, enjoy entertainment and celebrate the world’s game together. Whether you’re a soccer fan or not, these Watch Experiences will include entertainment, activities, and special moments for everyone to enjoy.

America’s 250^th Celebrations: Westchester’s Revolutionary War landmarks and the American Revolutionary Trail invite visitors to explore the places where key moments of American history unfolded – including White Plains, where the Declaration of Independence was first publicly read on July 11, 1776. This fall, history comes to life at REV FEST 250 (October 24–25) with a large-scale reenactment of the Battle of White Plains, set against the scenic backdrop of Ward Pound Ridge Reservation.

Hudson Valley Summer for Families: From classic attractions like Playland Park and Westchester’s beaches along Long Island Sound and Hudson River to interactive nature centers and outdoor festivals, the County offers a wide range of activities for families looking for easy summer getaways, just outside NYC.

A Summer of Music, Food and Festivals: Outdoor concerts, whimsical festivals and community events take center stage across Westchester throughout the summer, with performances ranging from large-scale music festivals like Hudson River Music Festival and Pleasantville Music Festival to intimate outdoor concert series. Visit Tune into Westchester for more information.

Historic Hudson Valley Expands Summer Programming: The 2026 season features the debut of Rip Van Winkle’s Journey, an immersive outdoor experience at Sunnyside, along with returning performances like An Audience with Poe and seasonal events across its historic sites.

Westchester as a Convenient FIFA World Cup Home Base

• Soccer fans can gather at Kensico Dam Plaza for a free, large-scale 2026 World Cup Watch Experience for the World Cup Final on July 19 in one of Westchester’s most iconic outdoor spaces.

• Westchester Soccer Club continues its season at Memorial Field in Mount Vernon, with matches throughout the summer offering a chance to experience professional soccer locally.

• Village Soccer Shop in Tarrytown is a must-visit for soccer enthusiasts this summer, offering gear, apparel and accessories – perfect for fans heading to matches or looking to get into the World Cup spirit.

• For an immersive viewing experience, Kanopi hosts World Cup residency watch parties from June 14–July 19, featuring game-day action on more than 20 screens paired with a classic steakhouse menu.

• White Plains Soccer Fest transforms downtown White Plains into a citywide World Cup celebration with free outdoor watch parties, live entertainment, food and drink vendors, interactive soccer activities and inclusive programming on select dates throughout June and July.

Celebrate America 250

Westchester County played a pivotal role during the American Revolution, and the region’s historic sites also reflect the diverse communities and complex histories that shaped early America. Founding Father John Jay lived in Westchester and his historic homestead remains a popular destination today. As the U.S. commemorates America’s 250th anniversary this summer, visitors can explore this history through landmarks, tours and special programming across the County.

• Follow Westchester County’s American Revolutionary Trail connecting key historic sites where pivotal moments of the American Revolution unfolded. Landmarks include Philipsburg Manor, Washington Irving’s Sunnyside and John Jay Homestead.

• From engaging lectures on key Revolutionary War moments to guided walking tours and interactive events with historical reenactors, a wide range of America 250-themed talks, tours and living history experiences will take place across Westchester throughout the summer. For a full calendar of events, visit Westchester County Tourism’s Rooted in Westchester landing page.

• Rochambeau Festival in Yorktown Heights takes place June 6–7, offering a two-day living history experience with Revolutionary War reenactments, colonial crafts, guided tours and multigenerational programming tied to America’s 250th anniversary.

• Katonah Museum of Art presents Diplomacy at Home: The Domestic Lives of the Founding Families (June 28–Oct. 4), an exhibition offering a behind-the-scenes look at early American life through objects like George Washington’s dinnerware, John Jay’s traveling bookcase and letters from Abigail Adams, revealing how everyday moments helped shape the nation’s founding.

• Commemorate the Reading of the Declaration of Independence at White Plains & The Birth of NY State on July 12, honoring the first time the Declaration of Independence was read by Judge John Thomas of Purchase on the steps of the White Plains Court House with a reenactment, parade and many other activities.

• Bedford’s Historical Hall hosts performances of the musical, 1776, on select dates from June 19 to June 28, telling the story of the events leading up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and the efforts of John Adams to persuade his colleagues to vote and sign for American independence.

• The Armour-Stiner Octagon House will mark America’s 250th anniversary with its special 1876 Centennial Tour, a one-hour guided experience exploring the site’s Revolutionary-era history and how New Yorkers celebrated the nation’s centennial during the Gilded Age.

• Through August 2, ArtsWestchester presents Art in a Season of Revolution, a group exhibition inviting artists to reflect on the 250^th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

Westchester Summer Traditions

• Bicycle Sundays creates a car-free stretch of the Bronx River Parkway, a beloved tradition for walkers, bikers and skaters.
• Playland Park in Rye offers classic rides like the newly reopened Dragon Coaster, along with family-friendly attractions, shoreline views from the Gondola Wheel, new food offerings and the return of Friday night fireworks.

• Discover Westchester’s beach scene and the beauty of Long Island Sound at Rye Town Park & Beach and Playland Beach, both offering easy water access from Rye. For Hudson River views head to Croton Point Park Beach in Croton-on-Hudson, where water enthusiasts can enjoy swimming, kayaking, boating and stand-up paddleboarding.
• Friends of the Old Croton Aqueduct offers free, guided walking tours along the historic aqueduct trail throughout the summer, providing a unique way to explore this scenic greenway and learn about its role in New York’s early infrastructure.

• Farmers markets are open for the season throughout the County, offering locally sourced produce, baked goods, artisanal foods and prepared meals from regional vendors.

• Yorktown Grange Fair returns September 11–13, continuing a more than 100-year tradition as Westchester’s only agricultural fair. This year’s theme, “Goats, Games and Good Times,” brings together livestock shows, homegrown competitions, live music, midway rides and  activities for visitors of all ages.

A Summer of Music, Food & Festivals

• Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard in North Salem debuts its new Summer Saturdays series, bringing themed outdoor evenings to the farm through August with live music, food trucks, craft beverages, family-friendly activities and seasonal experiences ranging from jazz nights and dueling pianos to rodeo-themed celebrations and Caribbean-inspired events.
• The Sleepy Hollow Mermaid Festival returns to Kingsland Point Park on July 18, creating a whimsical waterfront celebration on the Hudson River with mermaid parades on land and water, costumed paddleboarders and kayakers, live music, environmental programming, food  and inclusive activities celebrating river culture and community.

• Faraway Farm Alpacas hosts Wild Muse Arts’ concert series kickoff this May, featuring an intimate outdoor chamber performance centered on themes of growth and renewal.

• ArtsWestchester hosts a Juneteenth Kickoff Celebration in White Plains from May 28-31, celebrating Black-owned businesses with speakers, live entertainment, a business expo and fashion showcase.

• Lyndhurst Mansion has planned a vibrant lineup of events this summer, from garden events like Rose Day on June 7, to open-air performances of A Midsummer Night’s Dream in its historic greenhouse running July 9–26, along with specialty markets and seasonal experiences set across its scenic Hudson River estate.

• Westchester Pride takes place on June 7, welcoming thousands for a day of celebration, entertainment and connection. This free, community-oriented event features a full lineup of performances, activities, and resources for all ages.

• Westchester Magazine’s Wine & Food Festival (June 9–14) showcases the County’s culinary talent with signature events including Burgers, Beer & Barrels, the Grand Tasting Village and Party on the Pier at Playland, with convenient access via Metro-North.

• Jacob Burns Film Center is celebrating Pride Month by building on its Out There series featuring films, Q&As and community events from June 4-30.

• Downtown Hastings hosts the 4th Annual Friday Night Pride on June 12 with pre-event festivities at The Good Witch Coffee Bar, followed by a parade up Warburton to a festival. The plentiful entertainment includes a full line up of musicians, dancers and performers, projects with ArtsWestchester’s ArtsMobile, and delicious food.

• Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts presents its highly anticipated summer season, featuring more than 30 performances across its scenic estate, including special programming like Roots Festival with City Winery and a variety of docent-led tours of the historic Rosen House. Not to miss: the annual July 4th “Pops, Patriots, and Fireworks” celebration.

• Honeybee Grove in Somers features summer u-pick flower experiences and special events like “Graze at Golden Hour” on June 11, an intimate evening with a grazing dinner, live music and sunset views.

• The White Plains Juneteenth Parade and Festival on June 13 is packed with entertainment for the whole family, plus arts and crafts and a wide variety of tasty foods.

• Yonkers Pride Festival returns on June 13 along Main Street, featuring a lineup of talented drag kings, drag queens and a diverse range of performers, including special headlining appearances from stars of RuPaul’ Drag Race.

• Hudson River Music Festival runs June 21 at Croton Point Park, combining live music with environmental awareness and community engagement.

• On July 11, the Pleasantville Music Festival will once again rock, featuring national headliners, local talent, food and activities for all ages.

• Up the River Blues Festival debuts September 12 at Louis Engel Waterfront Park in Ossining, marking the village’s first major blues event since B.B. King’s legendary 1972 performance at Sing-Sing. The festival features live music, food trucks, craft beer and more.

Outdoor Excitement and Adventures

• Muscoot Farm in Katonah unveils new ADA-accessible hayride wagons this summer, expanding access to its signature hayride experience and making seasonal programming more inclusive for visitors of all abilities.
• Hudson River Recreation offers kayak, canoe and paddleboard rentals at multiple waterfront locations across Westchester, inviting visitors to explore the region’s waterways at their own pace with guided or self-led options.
• Untermyer Gardens in Yonkers offers free admission and is known for its Persian-inspired garden design and dramatic temple architecture.

• Westchester’s natural escapes range from the rugged trails of Mianus River Gorge Preserve in Bedford to the scenic, family-friendly paths at Croton Gorge Park. Visitors can also explore Teatown Lake Reservation in Ossining or spend the day at the Greenburgh Nature Center in Scarsdale, a 33-acre preserve with wildlife exhibits and hands-on experiences. Trails Without Limits offers adaptive hiking experiences using all‑terrain trackchairs so individuals of all abilities can explore Westchester’s park system.

Dining Worth Traveling For

• Alfresco season is in full swing, with garden and waterfront dining spots serving up local flavor with a view. Along the Hudson River, sip and savor at Half Moon in Dobbs Ferry, Harvest on Hudson which is debuting a new terrace this season, 3 Westerly and The Boathouse in Ossining, or The Sailhouse in Tarrytown, which brings back its popular Summer Stage series with live music. On the Sound Shore, waterfront staples like bartaco in Port Chester or Tiki Beach Pier Restaurant and The Barley Beach House in Rye offer scenic waterfront settings.

• Westchester’s growing craft beverage scene spans breweries, cideries and distilleries. Through the Westchester Craft Beverage Trail free mobile passport, visitors can meet local makers and sample small-batch creations throughout the County.

• Westchester’s love affair with ice cream dates back to the invention of soft serve by Carvel in Hartsdale, and today that legacy lives on through dozens of local spots. Get inspired by a robust list of ice cream spots across the County.

• It’s spritz season and visitors can enjoy standout options like Burrata’s Torino Spritz in Eastchester, Italian-inspired creations at Café Alaia in Scarsdale, The Spritz Kiss at RiverMarket Bar & Kitchen in Tarrytown or gather friends to share The Tasty Table’s Aperol Spritz Fountain, served in a playful, absinthe-style format in Ossining.

• Blue Hill at Stone Barns, the acclaimed Michelin-starred restaurant and farm, offers an immersive summer of food and agriculture, with hands-on workshops, seasonal markets and culinary demonstrations. Experiences like Botanical Beverages invite guests to tour the farm before enjoying a cocktail demonstration and tasting led by Blue Hill’s beverage team.

Where to Stay

• Tarrytown House Estate offers a serene escape, blending historic 19th-century mansions with modern accommodations. Guests can enjoy swimming pools, tennis courts and spa amenities, along with dining at the acclaimed Goosefeather, set within the elegant King Mansion and its scenic outdoor patio.
• The Abbey Inn & Spa is a modern reinvention of a restored convent overlooking the Hudson River in Peekskill. There guests can unwind at the full-service spa, dine at Apropos, and explore nearby parks, galleries and riverfront trails.
• Sonesta White Plains is in the heart of the city’s downtown featuring modernized guest rooms, reimagined public spaces and enhanced amenities designed to support both business and leisure travelers.

• Westchester Marriot in Tarrytown features contemporary accommodations and dining, all within easy reach of iconic sites like Lyndhurst Mansion and Washington Irving’s Sunnyside.

• Bedford Post Inn, part of the Relais & Châteaux collection, provides an intimate escape with wellness programming and standout dining, highlighted by a newly renovated and reimagined restaurant.

Easy to Reach

• Metro-North Railroad provides a fast 35-minute commute from Midtown Manhattan to White Plains, with three main lines (Hudson, Harlem and New Haven) serving the east side of the Hudson River in Westchester. Additionally, Amtrak offers service to Yonkers, New Rochelle and Croton-on-Hudson. 

• Westchester County enjoys easy access to New York City’s three major airports, plus Westchester County Airport in White Plains (HPN), which provides direct flights to key markets nationwide. Wings Air also offers private chartered helicopter services. Worth noting: HPN’s Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program ensures a positive travel experience for passengers.

Westchester County Tourism & Film is Westchester County’s official destination marketing organization. Its mission is to generate economic benefits by enhancing the image and promoting Westchester County as a premier business and leisure destination in the Hudson Valley region. Flanked by Long Island Sound and the Hudson River, Westchester is made up of big cities, small towns, villages, farms, and miles of natural beauty. The county is easily accessible by major interstate highways and parkways, its own regional airport, Amtrak and three commuter rail lines and is home to more than 40 hotels and conference centers.

For information about visiting Westchester, visit www.visitwestchesterny.com, connect on Facebook (@westchestercountytourism), Instagram (@westchestercountytourismny) and Twitter (@westchestertour), or call 1-800-833-9282.