The Hudson River Music Festival has announced the lineup for their return to Croton Point Park on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 21. Rooted in the spirit of Pete and Toshi Seeger’s folk picnics, the festival is set to return for the second year presented by Harper House Music Foundation, Riverfest FPS (For Pete’s Sake) and Dayglo Presents. This all-ages day aims to bring together music lovers, environmental advocates, and families for a vibrant celebration. From musical performances to community-driven experiences, the festival continues to carry the torch of a beloved tradition in the Hudson Valley area. Dedicated to sustainability, and commitment to a Zero Waste future, attendees will be encouraged to reduce their environmental impact and enjoy a greener, more responsible experience.
On the Hudson Stage, folk musician and four-time Grammy nominee Jesse Welles brings his socially conscious songs that echo the spirit of past generations. A self-described troubadour from Arkansas, Welles first gained traction through raw, politically charged acoustic performances shared online. Filmed outdoors – often beneath rows of power lines and dressed in worn, unassuming clothing – his videos struck a chord for their authenticity and urgency. That unfiltered approach quickly resonated across TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, propelling Welles into the national spotlight. Since then, he has translated viral momentum into late-night television appearances, multiple Grammy nominations, and a string of sold-out shows nationwide.
For the first time ever, Warren Haynes, legendary guitarist, vocalist, and founding member of Gov’t Mule and longtime force behind The Allman Brothers Band, joins Grahame Lesh, a torchbearer of the Grateful Dead legacy and co-founder of Midnight North, alongside Daniel Donato, whose electrifying “Cosmic Country” sound is redefining the next generation of jam and roots music. Blending deep musical lineage with fearless improvisation, this one-of-a-kind set at Hudson River Music Festival promises to be a highlight of the summer, bringing together the true spirit of collaboration.
Grammy-nominated country star Margo Price brings her heartfelt storytelling rooted in classic Americana, Grammy-nominated Cuban artist Cimafunk delivers his signature mix of funk, hip-hop, and Afro-Caribbean rhythms, and Chaparelle blends modern sensibilities with classic country charm.
Multi-talented singer, composer, and musician Toshi Reagon joins this year’s lineup. With a sound that spans folk, funk, blues, and rock, her deeply rooted approach to Americana honors the festival’s origins and reflects the enduring influence of Toshi Seeger, for whom she is named.
This year, the festival introduces the Rainbow Stage, featuring a full day of programming that celebrates musical heritage and community. Composer and multi-instrumentalist David Amram, whose career spans decades of American music history, will perform, as will Damaris Bojor, a rising star in the Mexican music scene and creator of the innovative new genre “Folkpirano.”
Tom Chapin & The Chapin Sisters carry forward the family folk tradition, while Guthrie Family Singers celebrate a multi-generational legacy of storytelling through song. The Ebony Hillbillies bring their unique African-American string band tradition, and Leah Song, American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, storyteller, poet, and activist, is known as one of the frontwomen of Rising Appalachia. And that’s just a taste, there are many more incredible artists performing throughout the festival.
Hudson River Music Festival is committed to an inclusive experience for all guests. The festival offers ADA parking, accessible shuttles (including to Croton-Harmon Train Station), and accessible viewing areas at both stages, including an elevated platform on the main stage. ASL interpreters will be available for all Hudson Stage and Rainbow Stage performances, with dedicated viewing from the Deaf Zone.
Taking place on Father’s Day, Hudson River Music Festival will invite families to celebrate together with a full day of interactive, all-ages programming across the festival grounds. On the new North Star Stage, which will focus on activities and family fun, young music fans can rock out with The Rock and Roll Playhouse, Bash The Trash, and Feel Trip Yoga sessions! Families can get creative in the Kids & Family Arts & Crafts Area, and join the participatory Circle of Song. Roaming performances from Arm of the Sea, a whimsical Fish Migration with puppets and puppeteers from the Jim Henson Studios, New Vaudevillain (stilts and magic), and Nate the Great (music and juggling) will pop up throughout the day. Families can flow together with yoga from Feel Trip, make music from recycled materials with Bash the Trash, and musical moments from the Walkabout Clearwater Chorus. The North Field will transform into a hub for advocacy, education, and action, hosting a curated selection of community environmental organizations, grassroots activist groups, and a high-level panel on Climate Change. From hands-on creativity to river-inspired spectacle, the festival offers a vibrant, multi-generational celebration perfect for Father’s Day along the waterfront.
Early Bird pre-sale begins on Thursday, March 26, with Public on sale this Friday, March 27. There are ticketing options for General Admission, parking passes and a newly enhanced VIP with added benefits. Children 12 and under are admitted free when accompanied by a GA ticketed adult (children 12 and under entering VIP will require a “kids vip ticket”). To purchase tickets, view transportation options and more, visit hudsonrivermusicfestival.com.
Growing from the success of last year’s festival, this year will include a food court that’s doubled in size and even more food options featuring regional food vendors to ensure everyone is fed and happy all day. The expansion means for shorter wait times and more options. VIP benefits include guaranteed parking close to the entrance, a dedicated express entry line, VIP-only food vendors, full-service cash bar, air-conditioned luxury restrooms, charging stations, shaded lounge seating under a tented VIP area and elevated bleacher seating with premium sightlines.
