I’m sure many of us are going to spend the first few weeks of summer lazily in bed, melting in the heat, snacking on watermelon and crackers until the crumbs practically invite roaches into our rooms. But for those looking for a little more pizzazz this summer than sleeping, pools, beaches and even more sleeping, White Plains has a surprising number of free community events right at your doorstep.
Weekend Culture Festivals at Kensico Dam
From May 31 through Sept. 13, Kensico Dam Plaza—and occasionally portions of Ridge Road in Hartsdale—will host a wide variety of cultural festivals every weekend throughout Westchester County.
The festivals will run from noon to 6 p.m., rain or shine.
The next festival will take place on Saturday, June 27, and Sunday, June 28.
Aside from admission fees for adults attending the Irish American Celebration, all events—including parking—are completely free.
Wednesdays at the White Plains Farmers Market
If you’re looking for food, community and a little live music, the weekly White Plains Farmers Market on Court Street is the perfect destination. The market runs every Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. through Thanksgiving.
On June 10, “Milton,” specializing in pop, jazz, folk and country music, will perform live. On June 24, violinist-singer duo “The Wood Vibrations Duo” will take the stage, with performances beginning at noon.
Rock the Block in Downtown White Plains
With live music curated by local artists and an expanded outdoor dining experience, Rock the Block transforms Mamaroneck Avenue into a lively summer gathering space every third Wednesday.
There’s ping pong, cornhole, al fresco dining and live performances, filling the streets with energy.
The next event will take place on Wednesday, June 17, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., featuring Tito Puente Jr. and Mansa G. Code.
With live music curated by local artists and an expanded outdoor dining experience, Rock the Block transforms Mamaroneck Avenue into a lively summer gathering space every third Wednesday.
There’s ping pong, cornhole, al fresco dining and live performances, filling the streets with energy.
The next event will take place on Wednesday, June 17, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., featuring Tito Puente Jr. and Mansa G. Code.
White Plains is hosting a massive soccer-themed celebration throughout the summer.
Want to try human foosball? Decorate soccer cookies? From soccer darts and pop-up goals to outdoor movie nights and watch parties, Soccer Fest offers activities for all ages and creates a fun way for the community to come together.
Events are happening almost daily throughout the summer, with the next watch party taking place on June 27.
Independence Day Celebration at WPHS
On Wednesday, July 2, join the White Plains community outside White Plains High School for a night of fireworks, food, music by the Showtime Dance Band, interactive games and more.
The event will run from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
On Sunday, July 12, the City of White Plains will host a celebration honoring America’s 250th anniversary, featuring a Revolutionary War-themed parade and a public reading of the Declaration of Independence.
The parade will begin at 11:30 a.m., traveling from Renaissance Plaza to the American Legion Post.
Neighborhood Nights offers families a chance to connect with one another and strengthen community bonds throughout White Plains.
From “Revolutionary Sounds” at the Library Auditorium on July 2 to Backyard Sports at Delfino Park, the city has planned a wide variety of family-friendly events this summer.
Live music and community spirit come together at Renaissance Plaza this summer.
Carozza Entertainment will perform on July 23, while Bob and Norm will take the stage on Aug. 13.
The White Plains Police Department will host National Night Out on Tuesday, Aug. 4, at 7 p.m.
The evening will feature entertainment, music, giveaways and community awareness activities designed to bring residents together for a night of fun and engagement.
