June 21, 2022 – Join us to celebrate African-American Culture and honor essential workers at the African-American Heritage Festival on Sunday, June 26, from noon to 6 p.m. at Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla.

County Executive George Latimer said, “African-American culture focuses on values emphasizing the closeness of family and the importance of community. I applaud the organizers of this festival for honoring our essential workers. These dedicated and selfless employees held the frontline while serving the greater community and helping all of us navigate through the pandemic.”

Parks Commissioner Kathleen O’Connor said, “We are excited to be able to come together in person at the Kensico Dam Plaza and celebrate African-American heritage and culture. Gather with friends and family to enjoy this majestic park and the live entertainment.

The African-American Heritage Festival takes place from Noon until 6 p.m. There will be live entertainment, music, dance, drama, poetry, ethnic foods, line dancing, cultural arts and crafts, health vendors, educational vendors and much more!

The festival will be held rain or shine. Seating is informal; bring blankets or folding chairs for seating on the lawn. No coolers will be allowed. Admission and parking are free. Carpooling or taking mass transit is encouraged. A free shuttle service will be offered (by Accredited Limousine Service) to and from Valhalla and North White Plains Train Stations from 1:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m.
The other heritage festivals in the series are:

  • Hispanic Sunday, July 10 Noon – 6 p.m. Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla
  • Italian Sunday, July 24 Noon – 6 p.m. Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla
  • India Sunday, Aug. 7 Noon – 6 p.m. Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla
  • Jewish Sunday, Aug. 21 Noon – 6 p.m. Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla
  • Muslim Heritage Sunday, Aug. 28 Noon – 6 p.m. Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla

The African-American Heritage Festival is co-sponsored by Westchester County Parks and the Coalition of African American Organizations.

Kensico Dam Plaza is located at 1 Bronx River Parkway, Valhalla. More information or call (914) 864-PARK.

Please be advised that on June 26 the Bronx River Parkway will be closed for Bicycle Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. between Scarsdale Road in Yonkers and the Westchester County Center in White Plains. The park can be accessed via Route 22, from the north or south.