Summer things to do: Festivals, fairs, activities

Donna Kessler, Rockland/Westchester Journal News
·2 min read

This will be a summer to remember. So many events, fairs and festivals are taking place and there are also so many activities to participate in.

This list will be updated throughout the summer — check back as we add more.

Food festivals: One of the best things to return after the pandemic. There are many planned for the local area. Bring your appetite and check them out!

Check out a zoo: New York has some of the largest and oldest zoos in the country and a drive-thru zoo. Here's a guide for visitors.

Great hikes: There's so many ways to take in the beauty that nature has to offer and onw of those ways is taking a hike. There are local trails that are easy and some that are suited for the expert. This is a great outdoor activity for the whole family. Find a local trail near you right here.

Check out a different culture: The Hudson Valley has a roster of heritage festivals taking place all summer, from the annual Greek Festival in Rockland to a native Pow Wow to the Muslim Festival in Kensico Dam Plaza.

Pick-your-own: The season for fresh fruits and vegetables is finally upon us. Local farms will offer a variety of fruits and vegetables throughout the summer, changing as the months go by, for families to pick together. Check here for full picking schedules.

People enjoy riding their bicycles on the Walkway over the Hudson in Poughkeepsie.
People enjoy riding their bicycles on the Walkway over the Hudson in Poughkeepsie.

Bike routes: Rather pedal than walk? The Hudson Valley offers bicycle routes for every skill level from asphalt covered routes to a more rugged trail for mountain biking. Be sure to wear your helmet and check out these local routes.

Peonies in full bloom, for about one more week, at Rockefeller State Park Preserve in Pleasantville May 15, 2019. The 500 tree plants were a gift from Yatsuka Cho, a small town in Japan, to the Friends of the Rockefeller State Park Preserve to help unite the two countries after September 11.
Peonies in full bloom, for about one more week, at Rockefeller State Park Preserve in Pleasantville May 15, 2019. The 500 tree plants were a gift from Yatsuka Cho, a small town in Japan, to the Friends of the Rockefeller State Park Preserve to help unite the two countries after September 11.

Great gardens: There are plenty of public spaces you can visit to experience the beauty of nature. Here are a few suggestions.

Revisit history: After two year absence due to the pandemic, Historic Hudson Valley sites have reopened to the public this summer. Book a tour now.

Bikers and walkers on the opening day of the shared use path on the Gov. Mario Cuomo Bridge June 15, 2020.
Bikers and walkers on the opening day of the shared use path on the Gov. Mario Cuomo Bridge June 15, 2020.

Cross that bridge: The Hudson River offers ample opportunities to literally walk over water! From the George Washington to the Rip Van Winkle, these bridges offer pedestrian paths and some unique outings on the shore.

Dive in: Pools, beaches and waterparks are open. Find one to  check out.

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Summer is fast approaching. We have plenty for you to do to enjoy it