2026 Hudson River Music Festival to Celebrate Woody Guthrie and Bob Dylan Legacies

The 2026 Hudson River Music Festival will celebrate the legacy of American folk music legends Woody Guthrie and Bob Dylan this Father’s Day weekend, June 19–20, at New York’s Croton Point Park. Headlined by acclaimed singer-songwriter Jesse Welles, the second annual event expands its programming to include a Woody Guthrie exhibit, family-focused creative workshops, and performances spanning folk traditions and contemporary Americana.

The festival, presented by Harper House Music Foundation, RiverFest FPS (For Pete’s Sake), and Dayglo Presents, traces its roots to the folk picnics organized by Pete and Toshi Seeger decades ago. This year’s lineup features the Guthrie Family Singers, Warren Haynes, Grahame Lesh, and cosmic country guitarist Daniel Donato, alongside Margo Price, Cimafunk, Chaparelle, and others. The event also introduces America 250 programming, spotlighting the cultural impact of Guthrie and Dylan through partnerships with the Guthrie and Dylan Centers.

Why this festival matters
The Hudson River Music Festival stands out as a bridge between folk traditions and modern Americana, emphasizing community engagement and environmental activism. Unlike commercial music festivals, it prioritizes intergenerational participation, with dedicated family programming on the North Star Stage, including performances by The Rock and Roll Playhouse and interactive puppet shows from Arm of the Sea. Environmental advocacy remains central, with a Zero Waste initiative and a climate-focused panel discussion in the North Field.

Key performers and programming
Headliner Jesse Welles joins a lineup that blends established artists with emerging talent. The Guthrie Family Singers will perform alongside Warren Haynes, a Grammy-winning guitarist known for his work with Allman Brothers Band and Gov’t Mule. Grahame Lesh, former member of the Eagles, and Daniel Donato, a rising star in cosmic country, add depth to the festival’s folk roots. The Rainbow Stage will feature Leah Song of Rising Appalachia and Damaris Bonita, while the Hudson Stage includes Margo Price and Snacktime.

Family-friendly and educational elements
The festival expands its family-focused offerings this year, with free admission for children 12 and under. Creative writing workshops inspired by Woody Guthrie’s songwriting spirit will be held in the Woody Guthrie Tent, alongside arts-and-crafts activities and community sing-alongs. A large-scale puppet performance, Fish Migration, created by artists from Jim Henson Studios, will highlight the festival’s commitment to storytelling and environmental themes.

Environmental and community impact
Organizers emphasize sustainability, aiming for a Zero Waste model and hosting nonprofit organizations in the North Field. The festival continues its tradition of environmental activism, aligning with the Hudson Valley’s folk scene roots. The event’s timing on Father’s Day weekend underscores its mission to unite generations through music, activism, and shared experiences.

Ticketing and logistics
Tickets for the 2026 Hudson River Music Festival are available on the official website, with expanded amenities including a larger food court, regional vendors, and enhanced VIP offerings. The festival’s growth reflects its increasing relevance in the contemporary music landscape, blending legacy artists with innovative programming.

For more details, visit the official Hudson River Music Festival website.