Spanning four miles along Manhattan's west side, Hudson River Park is home to dozens of outdoor activities, from kayaking and canoeing to concerts and performances. This year, in honor of its 25th anniversary, the park will host over 400 events—all free and open to the public!

While New Yorkers have come to expect free programming from the park, this year promises to be better than ever, with more events and a Blues and BBQ Festival in August. We've rounded up all the free can't-miss happenings in one place, including concert lineups and class schedules, so you don't miss any of it!

Every Free Event and Activity at Hudson River Park This Summer

Kayaking at Downtown Boathouse

It’s not summer in NYC without a day (or two, or three) on the water. And one of the easiest ways to experience the city’s largest waterway is kayaking at Pier 26. While Hudson River Park offers lots of different water activities, the Downtown Boathouse is where you can do it all for free.

This popular program provides free sit-on-top kayaks for public use in the Hudson River embayments at various locations throughout the season, which runs from May to October. You’ll receive brief instructions and are equipped with life vests, lockers with locks, sunblock, changing rooms, and first aid equipment. Note: you need to know how to swim in order to participate!

When: Every weekend and Holiday from May 27 – October 9. Open from 10 AM–4:30 PM (last boat goes out at 4:30).
Where: Downtown Boathouse, Pier 26

More information.

 

Concerts at Hudson River Park

Sunset on the Hudson

This free outdoor concert series kicks off on June 2 at Pier 45, with sunset performances running every Friday evening through August. From brass to choral, bass to alto, and so much more, there is something special for everyone. Bring a blanket, and enjoy live music right on the water! Concerts begin at 7 pm.

2023 Hudson River Park Concert Lineup
June 2: Resistance Revival Chorus
June 9: VIVA
June 16: Tin Pan Alley Presents a Night on the Pier
June 23: Red Baraat
July 7: Peter Collins
July 14: AMYRA
July 21: Queer Urban Orchestra
July 28: Linda Diaz
August 4: Rebolu
August 11: The Big Takeover
August 19: Sterling Strings
August 25: Queer Big Apple Corps

When: Every Friday from June 2–August 25 at 7 pm.
Where: Pier 45

More information.

 

Jazz at Pier 84

Every Wednesday night starting June 7, you can swing by Pier 84 for free live performances along the Hudson River. As a spirited tribute to NYC’s storied history of jazz, this Park-favorite series features local legends all summer long. Concerts begin at 7 pm.

2023 Blues & Jazz Lineup
June 7: Harlem Blues and Jazz Band
June 14: Artist to be confirmed
June 21: Bertha Hope Quintet: Elmo Hope at 100
June 28: Ariacne Trujillo Quartet
July 12: Salongo
July 19: Eric Person Quintet
July 26: Dick Griffin
August 2: Annette St John
August 9: Camille Gainer Jones and the Immortals
August 16: The Harmony Bartz Experience

When: Every Wednesday from June 7–August 16
Where: Pier 84

More information.

 

Dance in Hudson River Park 

Sunset Salsa

Hudson River Park’s popular dance series, Sunset Salsa, is back for another season! Every Thursday, dance the night away under the shimmering NYC lights while learning a new move or two!

When: Every Thursday evening from June 1 – August 31
6:30 PM Beginner Lessons
7:15 PM Open Dance
Where: Pier 76

More information.

 

Bollywood & Bhangra

Join Hudson River Park's Bollywood & Bhangra series for an exciting opportunity to learn dance techniques from top professionals. These dance styles, originating from India, emphasize rhythm, expression, and passion. Bhangra, in particular, is a lively folk dance with roots in Punjab, India, and Pakistan, which has gained popularity worldwide.

Led by talented dancers and choreographers from Ajna Dance Company in New York City, this one-hour session welcomes dancers of all levels and ages. It promises to be a highlight of your week and the perfect way to kickstart your Saturday.

Where: Pier 63
When: Every Saturday at 10:00 AM from June 3 – August 26

More information.

 

Fitness Classes

This year, Hudson River Park will host free, instructor-led classes almost every day of the week! From HIIT workouts to restorative yoga sessions, there’s something for everyone.

Healthy on the Hudson 2023 Schedule
Mondays: Meditation & Restorative Yoga at Pier 84 at W 44 St.
Tuesdays: HIIT at Pier 25 at N Moore St.
Wednesdays: Yoga/HIIT at Pier 57 at W 15 St. (8:00 AM); Yoga at Pier 64 at W 24 St.
Thursdays: HIIT on Pier 46 at Charles St.
Fridays: Yoga at Pier 26 at N Moore St.

Where: Various locations, see schedule for class details.
More information.

 

To see the full calendar of events, click here.

 

EXPLORE MORE:
NYC's Ultimate 2023 Summer Bucket List
Free Movies, Concerts, and Events Return to Bryant Park This Summer
Every Street Festival in New York City This Summer