August in Yonkers carries a special kind of energy. The long days of summer, the warmth that lingers well into the evening, and the diverse communities of the city all come together in a series of festivals that are both vibrant and deeply rooted in local culture. When I decided to spend the entire month of August in Yonkers, I thought I would catch a few events, maybe attend a parade or two, but what I found was a living tapestry of music, food, and tradition that turned every week into an unforgettable memory.
To make my trip seamless, I booked my flights into New York through Google Flights, found a centrally located hotel in Yonkers via Booking.com, and secured tickets to some of the paid events on Viator. For dining reservations, especially during festival weekends when restaurants can get packed, I relied heavily on OpenTable. With the logistics sorted, I had the freedom to immerse myself fully in Yonkers’ festival season.
Riverfest: Yonkers’ Signature Summer Festival
Location: Yonkers Downtown Waterfront Esplanade
Timing: Usually the third Saturday in August
The first festival I attended was Riverfest, and it set the tone for my entire stay. Walking down to the Yonkers Waterfront, I was greeted by the sounds of live music spilling into the air, the Hudson River shimmering under the sun, and crowds of people moving between food stalls, craft vendors, and stages.
What I Experienced
- Music Everywhere: From salsa to jazz to local rock bands, the performances created a soundtrack that kept me moving. I remember standing in front of one stage where a salsa band had the crowd dancing, strangers holding hands and spinning each other to the rhythm. I joined in, clumsy at first, but completely caught up in the joy of the moment.
- Food Heaven: I couldn’t resist sampling from the food trucks lined up along the river. Dominican empanadas, Jamaican jerk chicken, Italian ices—it felt like a world tour through food. I reserved dinner later that evening at a riverside restaurant via OpenTable, but honestly, the street food could have been enough.
- Art & Crafts: I wandered through stalls selling handmade jewelry, paintings, and ceramics. One artist told me her Hudson River–inspired paintings were all done en plein air, and I could see the light of the river captured in her brushstrokes.
Practical Tips
- Arrive Early: By noon, the waterfront is already buzzing. I arrived around 10:30 a.m., which gave me time to stroll leisurely before the crowds thickened.
- Transportation: I took the Metro-North into Yonkers Station—just steps from the festival—which spared me parking hassles. Tickets can be purchased easily through the MTA TrainTime app.
- Cost: Riverfest is free, but bring cash for food and crafts. Some vendors take cards, but not all.
Jazz & Blues at the Hudson
Location: Yonkers Waterfront Amphitheater
Timing: Select August evenings
Music lovers will find paradise at the Jazz & Blues at the Hudson series. One evening, I spread out a blanket near the amphitheater and let the sound of a saxophone wash over me as the sun set behind the Palisades. The setting couldn’t be more perfect: the river reflecting hues of pink and orange, kids dancing barefoot on the grass, and adults swaying with drinks in hand.
What Stood Out
The intimacy of the event surprised me. Unlike large city concerts, this felt personal. Between sets, musicians mingled with the audience, chatting casually. I even got to talk with a bassist about his favorite spots in Yonkers.
Tips
- Pack a Picnic: While there are food stands, many locals bring picnic baskets. I stopped at a deli nearby to grab sandwiches and cold drinks before heading over.
- Comfort: Bring a light sweater; the breeze off the Hudson gets cool in the evenings, even in August.
- Booking: Entry is free, but some premium seating can be reserved via Viator, which I recommend if you prefer a guaranteed view.
Yonkers Puerto Rican Day Parade and Festival
Location: South Broadway and Getty Square
Timing: Early August
One Sunday morning, I found myself surrounded by the sounds of drums, trumpets, and the steady beat of Puerto Rican music. The Puerto Rican Day Parade in Yonkers is one of the most spirited cultural celebrations I’ve ever experienced. Floats adorned with red, white, and blue flags rolled past, dancers in vibrant costumes performed choreographed routines, and the entire city seemed alive with pride and joy.
Highlights
- Community Spirit: Unlike larger parades in Manhattan, this one had a neighborhood feel. Families gathered on stoops, waving flags, children perched on their parents’ shoulders.
- Festival Afterward: The parade ends in Getty Square, where food vendors and performers continue the celebration. I devoured a plate of arroz con gandules and pernil that still makes my mouth water thinking about it.
- Cultural Education: Beyond the fun, the festival also had booths about Puerto Rican history and contributions to New York life.
Tips
- Transportation: Buses and trains were crowded. I walked from my hotel to the route, which saved time. Booking accommodation close to Getty Square through Booking.com made this possible.
- Timing: Arrive early for a good viewing spot. I got there 45 minutes before the start and still had to squeeze in between families.
- Attire: Wear something red, white, or blue—you’ll feel part of the celebration.
Summer Film Nights in the Park
Location: Tibbetts Brook Park and various Yonkers parks
Timing: Friday evenings in August
One of the most charming traditions I discovered was outdoor film nights. On one balmy Friday, I joined families at Tibbetts Brook Park, where a giant inflatable screen had been set up on the lawn. Kids chased each other with glow sticks while adults set up folding chairs.
My Experience
The night I went, the movie was a classic family film. As soon as the opening credits rolled, a hush fell over the crowd, punctuated only by laughter and applause. Sharing that moment with hundreds of strangers under the stars made me feel connected in a way few events do.
Tips
- Bring a Blanket: The ground gets damp as the night cools.
- Snacks: Vendors sell popcorn and cotton candy, but I packed my own picnic.
- Cost: Free entry. Just check the Yonkers Parks Department website for schedules.
Farmers Markets and Local Food Festivals
August is peak season for fresh produce, and Yonkers’ Farmers Markets are festivals in their own right. I visited the Downtown Farmers Market on a Saturday morning and found it bustling with energy.
What I Found
- Fresh Produce: Peaches, tomatoes, corn—all bursting with flavor.
- Local Treats: Freshly baked bread, local honey, and artisanal cheeses.
- Live Music: A guitarist strummed folk tunes while I sipped on fresh lemonade.
On another weekend, I stumbled into a small Caribbean food festival tucked into a side street, where jerk chicken grills filled the air with spice and steel drums provided the soundtrack.
Tips
- Cash Helps: Some vendors take cards, but smaller ones don’t.
- Timing: Arrive early for the best selection.
- Booking Nearby Meals: For sit-down dining after the market, I used OpenTable to secure a table at a nearby restaurant, avoiding the post-market rush.
Cultural Street Fairs
August in Yonkers also brings smaller street fairs organized by different community groups. These are less advertised but incredibly rewarding.
One I Attended
On a sunny Saturday, I wandered into a Dominican cultural fair near South Broadway. Booths overflowed with hand-embroidered dresses, domino games were set up at tables, and merengue music played from speakers. I bought a plate of tostones and chatted with locals about their favorite Yonkers spots.
Tips
- Keep an Eye Out: These fairs are often announced locally—flyers on lampposts, social media pages, or community boards.
- Bring Curiosity: Don’t just browse—talk to the people. That’s how I learned about hidden restaurants and upcoming events.
Practical Advice for Festival-Goers
After weeks of immersing myself in Yonkers’ festival scene, I gathered practical advice that I wish I had known earlier:
- Plan Accommodation Early: August is busy. Hotels near the waterfront and Getty Square fill quickly, so use Booking.com to lock in a spot.
- Flights: Fares spike in late summer, so I booked through Google Flights months ahead to save money.
- Tickets: While many festivals are free, paid events like premium concert seating or guided tours can be booked through Viator.
- Dining: Festival weekends overwhelm local restaurants—reserve tables via OpenTable if you want guaranteed seating.
- What to Bring: Sunscreen, a hat, water, and cash are essentials. Comfortable shoes are a must since you’ll be on your feet for hours.
- Stay Flexible: Some of the best events I discovered weren’t listed on major websites—they were stumbled upon while walking the streets.
Why August in Yonkers Stands Out
By the end of the month, I felt like I had traveled through multiple countries without leaving the city. Puerto Rican drums, Dominican merengue, Caribbean spices, jazz notes on the river, family films under the stars—all woven together against the backdrop of Yonkers’ historic streets and the Hudson River.
Every festival wasn’t just an event but an invitation—to dance, to taste, to listen, to belong. As I boarded my return flight (booked again through Google Flights), I carried not just souvenirs but the sounds, flavors, and smiles of Yonkers in August.
For anyone planning a trip, don’t just see Yonkers—celebrate it. August is the perfect month to do so, when the city throws open its arms and invites everyone to join the party.
