Pete Seeger Celebration at Clearwater

The Clearwater Festival, one of the country’s largest annual music and environmental celebrations, returns to Croton Point Park this Father’s Day weekend, June 15 and 16. Founded in 1966 by the late folk singer and activist Pete Seeger, the Clearwater Festival was inspired by his mission to clean up the Hudson River. It raises money for the Hudson River Clear­water sloop and organization, which provides environmental research, education and advocacy to help preserve and protect the river and its tributaries. This year, the Clear­water Festival, also known as the Great Hudson River Revival, marks Seeger’s centennial birthday and the 50th anniversary of the flagship with diverse music, dance, educational and family-friendly programs. Gospel singer Mavis Staples and folk singer-songwriter Ani DiFranco headline on Saturday, followed by Railroad Earth and legendary reg­gae band The Wailers on Sunday. The Mammals, Tom Paxton and the DonJuans, Joel Rafael, Tom Chapin and numerous others join the eclec­tic lineup of more than 70 performers. Festival guests can also explore the vendor and exhibitor areas, including a juried Handcrafters’ Village, show­casing more than 50 crafters and the Working Waterfront offering small boat exhibits and rides. There will be hands-on environmental educational activities at the Green Living Expo and Discovery and Tideline Tents. An artisanal food and farmer’s market rounds out this two-day event with everything sourced from the Hudson Valley. For more info, visit clearwaterfestival.org.

A version of this article first appeared in the June issue of ArtsNews, ArtsWestchester’s monthly publication. ArtsNews is distributed throughout Westchester County. A digital copy is also available at artsw.org/artsnews.