On June 18th, the City of Newburgh will host its 4th annual Newburgh Illuminated Festival. The free all-day Festival will once again celebrate one of the most diverse historic Hudson Valley communities with an even wider variety of unique food offerings, musical and performing arts events, indoor and outdoor activities, a trolley tour, the popular color celebration, and more. Thousands of attendees are expected to fill Broadway and Liberty Street in downtown Newburgh, against a backdrop of breathtaking Hudson River views and the historic Washington's Headquarters.
The Newburgh Illuminated Festival will host dozens of area bands and performers on multiple stages all day and night. Corey Glover, lead singer of Living Colour, and actor in several movies including Platoon, will be headlining. Favorites like local composer and synth great Neil Alexander, the Funk Junkies, and Martyr Art are in the mix, along with many more.
Visitors will have the chance to sample some of Newburgh's amazing ethnic cuisine and visit eclectic food establishments like Caffe Macchiato, The Wherehouse, Juice Headquarters, and 2 Alices. Food truck festival favorites such as Roadies Diner, Forget Me Not Cupcakes, Los Portales, Reggae Boy, and Eddie’s Churros & Empanadas will be onsite. Over 125 vendors are expected, selling unique gifts and handcrafted items made in the Hudson Valley. Local retailers are open all day, including Newburgh Mercantile, Landmark Antiques, and Simple Gifts & Goodies.
History lovers can grab the favorite Trolley Tour and learn about Newburgh’s architectural treasures and enjoy the same stunning river views made famous by the mid-19th century Hudson River School of painters. Pop-up art galleries and studios featuring photography, sculpture, and surprise, interactive installations, are sure to delight visitors of all interests. The family-friendly Indian Holi Celebration of Color, a big hit at last year’s festival, is also back, ensuring fun for all ages!
The Festival celebrates “everything good about our city,” says Newburgh Mayor Judy Kennedy. “It gives our visitors and residents alike a chance to enjoy themselves and opens a small window into the soul of a wonderfully diverse and lively community of families, artists, and small business owners.”
“It’s been an amazing process,” adds June Henley, Director of Tenant Services and Special Events at Safe Harbors of the Hudson, and tireless Festival volunteer. “I’ve seen this grow from our very first effort in 2013, to the kind of event that people are talking about and planning for all year. The 2015 Festival was really a breakthrough for us, with well over 4,000 visitors, and I know it’s going to be even bigger and better this year!”