By Indigo James, Senior Correspondent
The serene landscape of Croton Point Park in Croton-on-Hudson, New York, was transformed into a vibrant musical hub on June 14, 2025, as the much-anticipated Hudson River Music Festival took place. A tribute to the iconic folk musicians Pete and Toshi Seeger, the festival provided a day-long celebration of music, environmental advocacy, and community spirit. From rising country stars to seasoned rock performers, the event drew thousands of music lovers and environmentalists alike, creating a unique blend of entertainment and awareness.
A Nod to Pete and Toshi Seeger’s Legacy
Pete Seeger, the legendary folk singer and social activist, is synonymous with both music and activism. Together with his wife, Toshi Seeger, they dedicated much of their lives to causes related to environmental protection and social justice. In honoring their legacy, the Hudson River Music Festival served as a reminder of their passion for preserving both cultural and environmental heritage.
The festival’s organizers worked hard to create an event that would echo Pete Seeger’s enduring influence on the folk music community while integrating a message of environmental stewardship. The choice of Croton Point Park as the venue was fitting, as the park lies along the banks of the Hudson River, a region that Pete Seeger himself helped to protect.
A Diverse Lineup of Performers
The festival attracted top-tier talent across various genres of music, ensuring there was something for everyone. Highlights included performances from some of the most celebrated contemporary country and Americana artists such as Bailey Zimmerman, Cody Jinks, Jelly Roll, Lainey Wilson, and Larkin Poe. Each artist brought their own unique sound to the stage, blending storytelling and soulful melodies that resonated with festival-goers.
Bailey Zimmerman’s country-infused rock anthems had fans singing along to his hits, while Cody Jinks’ deep, resonant vocals and traditional country sound captivated the audience. Jelly Roll, with his blend of hip-hop, rock, and country, brought a raw energy to the event, while Lainey Wilson, known for her modern take on traditional country music, had fans tapping their feet and swaying to her tunes. Larkin Poe, with their bluesy, roots-inspired sound, provided a perfect balance to the musical diversity of the day, offering an unforgettable performance that highlighted their mastery of the genre.
These artists were not just here to entertain; they were also passionate about supporting the festival’s message of environmental conservation. Many spoke of the importance of protecting natural spaces like the Hudson River and the role that artists can play in raising awareness about climate change. Their performances reflected this commitment, turning the festival into a platform for both entertainment and advocacy.
Promoting Environmental Awareness
In addition to the music, the Hudson River Music Festival offered a space for environmental organizations to share their message with attendees. Local and national groups dedicated to sustainability, clean energy, and environmental advocacy set up booths and interactive displays, providing visitors with resources and information on how they could get involved.
One notable presence was the Hudson River Sloop Clearwater, a nonprofit organization founded by Pete Seeger himself to promote environmental protection and sustainability along the river. The Clearwater booth showcased their initiatives, including educational programs for children and adults about the river’s ecological importance.
Festival-goers were encouraged to learn more about how they could protect the river and its ecosystem, and many took part in clean-up initiatives that were organized before and after the event. The presence of these organizations created an engaging space where music lovers could also become active participants in environmental advocacy, further strengthening the festival’s mission of blending entertainment with meaningful causes.
The Impact of Community and Connection
More than just a music festival, the event served as a powerful reminder of the strength of community. The atmosphere at Croton Point Park was electric yet grounded, with people of all ages and backgrounds coming together to celebrate both the power of music and the shared responsibility of protecting the environment.
Local food vendors provided a variety of sustainable and locally sourced options, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to environmental consciousness. From farm-to-table offerings to eco-friendly packaging, every detail was considered to reduce the event’s carbon footprint. The festival even encouraged attendees to use public transportation to get to the venue, further promoting eco-friendly travel.
For many, the festival was a chance to connect not only with the artists but also with fellow advocates, musicians, and families. The event created a sense of unity and purpose, a reminder that music has the power to bring people together for a cause that goes beyond entertainment.
A Look Toward the Future
With its successful launch in 2025, the Hudson River Music Festival is expected to return next year, continuing the legacy of Pete and Toshi Seeger and further cementing its place in the region’s cultural landscape. The festival’s organizers have already hinted at expanding the event, with more artists and additional programming aimed at amplifying both the environmental message and the celebration of community.
If the first iteration of the festival is any indication, the Hudson River Music Festival has the potential to become a cornerstone event for music lovers and environmental advocates, blending art and activism in a way that is both impactful and unforgettable.
