Bring a blanket, skip the cooler, and clear your Sunday afternoon: the Italian Heritage Festival returns to Kensico Dam Plaza on July 26, free and open to everyone from noon to 6 p.m., rain or shine.
The plaza sits about a 14-minute drive from Harrison, with Rye and Rye Brook just as close via Route 22 — an easy Sunday outing for the whole family. County Executive Ken Jenkins called the festival "a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the traditions, music, food and culture that have helped shape Westchester."
Italian American trio Pane E Cioccolato headlines, joined by special guest Ella Cristina and DJ Rocco Ruscito, with emcee Nando Alpuche keeping the day moving. Beyond the music, expect food vendors, arts and crafts, children's games, dancing, and cultural exhibits scattered across the plaza. Westchester County Parks and the Antonio Meucci Lodge 213 of the Order Sons of Italy in America co-sponsor the event.
One thing to plan around: the Bronx River Parkway closes for Bicycle Sundays between Scarsdale Road and the Westchester County Center from 8 a.m. to noon on July Sundays. That closure lifts right as the festival begins, but expect some lingering traffic — Route 22 from the north or south is your best bet to avoid it.
Seating is informal, so pack a blanket or folding chairs for the lawn. Coolers aren't allowed, but admission and parking are both free. Questions can go to Westchester County Parks at 914-231-4500.
More Heritage Festivals to look forward to this summer:
- Aug. 2 — Heritage of India Festival, noon-6 p.m.
- Aug. 16 — Jewish Heritage Festival, noon-6 p.m.
- Aug. 23 — Muslim Heritage Festival, noon-6 p.m.
- Sept. 13 — Arab-American Heritage Festival, noon-6 p.m., Ridge Road Park, Hartsdale
All festivals are free.
