May 30, 2024 – Albanian Heritage Day will take place on Sunday, June 2, from noon to 6 p.m. at Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla.
This festival will include Albanian cuisine, beverages, dancing and a variety of sports including soccer. The event will feature live performances by Ermina Bushi, Lleshaj and Valdet Luka, as well as DJ Edi will perform traditional Albanian music from all regions.
Westchester County Executive George Latimer said, “Experiencing Westchester’s many cultures right here at scenic Kensico Dam Plaza encourages awareness and fosters a greater understanding of the varied ways our residents live and think. The heritage festivals enhance empathy and compassion by revealing the common humanity that crosses all boundaries.”
Westchester County Parks Commissioner Kathy O’Connor said, “Learning about different cuisines, art and music provides immense personal satisfaction and inspiration. It’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy with family and friends.”
The festival will be held rain or shine. Seating is informal; bring blankets or folding chairs for seating on the lawn. Admission and parking are free.*
The other heritage festivals in the series are:
- African-American, Sunday, June 23, noon to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla
- Hispanic, Sunday, July 7, noon to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla
- Irish-American, Saturday, July 14, noon to 6 p.m., Ridge Road Park, Hartsdale
(admission: $5 adults; free for ages 14 and under)* - Italian, Sunday, July 21, noon to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla
- Arab, Sunday, July 21, noon to 6 p.m., Ridge Road Park, Hartsdale
- India, Sunday, Aug. 4, noon to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla
- Ecuadorian, Sunday, Aug. 11, noon to 6 p.m., Croton Point Park, Croton-On-Hudson
- Jewish, Sunday, Aug. 18 noon to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla
- Muslim Heritage, Sunday, Aug. 25, noon to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla
Please be advised that the Bronx River Parkway will be closed for Bicycle Sundays in June from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and in July from 8 a.m. to noon. The parkway will be closed between Scarsdale Road in Yonkers and the Westchester County Center in White Plains. Kensico Dam Plaza can be accessed via Route 22, from the north or south.
Kensico Dam Plaza is located at the north end of the Bronx River Parkway, in Valhalla. (Directions)
Ridge Road Park is located at 287 Ridge Road, Hartsdale (Directions)
Ridge Road Park is located at 287 Ridge Road, Hartsdale (Directions)
More information or call (914) 864-PARK; dates and times are subject to change.
This event is sponsored by The Mother Teresa Center of Our Lady of Shkodra Parish in Hartsdale and Westchester County Parks.