Summer has arrived here in the lower Hudson Valley, and it got off to a rousing start with the Clearwater’s Great Hudson River Revival at Croton Point Park in Croton-on -Hudson this weekend. If you missed the Festival this year, be sure to bookmark it for the future. Croton Point Park, situated on a large peninsula in the Hudson River, is a great place to visit at any time. Like other Westchester County Parks, it is home to a variety of events throughout the year. In summer it is also a favorite spot from which to launch a boat, swim, camp or hike. Other Westchester County Parks within the Town of Cortlandt are: Blue Mountain Reservation, Croton Gorge Park, and George’s Island. Another summer perennial in the area is the Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival. The 23rd season is already underway at Boscobel in Garrison with this year’s first selection, “Troilus and Cressida,” but tickets are still available for it and the other 2 plays in this year’s series. Plan to arrive early to tour Boscobel House and Gardens and enjoy a picnic overlooking the Hudson River before the show begins. These are a few of my favorite ways to celebrate summer here in the Hudson Valley. There are many others – from shopping at my local Farmers’ Markets in Croton-on-Hudson and Ossining, to walks along the riverfront, to exploring the art galleries in Peekskill – let me know what favorites of yours I’ve missed so I can add to my list.

Posted by:  Liz Pereira