Mayor's Message – June 1, 2026

Dear Neighbors,

Can you believe it's already June?

As another school year comes to a close and summer begins to peek around the corner, I know this is one of the busiest times of year for many families. Between graduations, recitals, sporting events, end-of-year celebrations, vacations, and all the excitement that comes with the start of summer, our calendars are certainly full. Amid the hustle and bustle, I hope you'll find time to enjoy some of the many events, programs, and community gatherings happening throughout the Village this month.

Celebrating June
June is a month of celebration, reflection, and recognition. This month we observe:

• Pride Month

• Caribbean American Heritage Month

• National Immigrant Heritage Month

• Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month

These observances remind us of the many people, cultures, traditions, and experiences that make Irvington such a vibrant and welcoming community. They offer opportunities to learn from one another, celebrate our diversity, and continue building a Village where everyone feels valued and included.

In recognition of Pride Month, the Pride flags will line Main Street once again, celebrating the LGBTQ+ community. We're also excited that the rainbow crosswalks near the Irvington Public Library will soon be repainted, creating another visible symbol of our commitment to inclusion and belonging.

I hope you'll join us to celebrate Pride at the Irvington Pride Picnic & Pet Parade on June 7 from 2:00–5:00 p.m. at Matthiessen Park. This family-friendly event will feature activities for all ages, a community art project, and of course some four-legged fun. Everyone is welcome to attend and celebrate together.

Facilities Planning Project Update
Thank you to everyone who continues to engage in the Village's Facilities Planning Project. Your participation and thoughtful feedback are helping shape important decisions about Irvington's future.
If you haven't yet had a chance to participate, I encourage you to visit the online Sites & Scenarios Workshop. It provides a convenient way to review materials, explore potential concepts, and share your ideas on your own schedule.
Community input remains essential as we evaluate long-term facility needs, potential locations, project priorities, and funding considerations. Together, we're working to ensure future investments meet today's needs while positioning Irvington for generations to come.
Please also save the date for our next Public Workshop on June 24 from 6:00–8:30 p.m. in the Main Street School Cafeteria. More details will be shared soon.

Learn more about the Facilities Planning Project here.

Irvington Woods Committee Survey
The Recreation & Parks Department and the Irvington Woods Committee would like to hear from you.

We're seeking community feedback about how residents use and enjoy Irvington Woods Park, how often you visit, what activities you participate in, and what programming you'd like to see offered at the O'Hara Nature Center.

The survey takes less than four minutes to complete, and all responses will remain confidential. Please submit your feedback by June 15.
Thank you for helping us continue to improve one of Irvington's most treasured natural resources.

Upcoming Event: Chaos & Catharsis
On June 3, residents are invited to attend Chaos & Catharsis: From Breakdown to Belonging, a unique evening exploring how art can help us navigate challenges, foster understanding, and strengthen community connections.

The program brings together artists and community members for conversation, reflection, and creative expression while highlighting the important role the arts play in community life.

June 3 | 7:00–8:30 p.m.
Irvington Presbyterian Church

Summer Concert Series Returns to Matthiessen Park
One of my favorite signs of summer is the return of live music along the Hudson River.
Pack a chair, bring your friends and family, and join us at Matthiessen Park for another great season of free outdoor concerts:

• June 5 | 6:30–8:30 p.m. – The Barn Vultures

• June 12 | 6:00–8:00 p.m. – Divining Rod Band & Bent Branches

• June 26 – LONG STORY SHORT (details coming soon)

• July 18 | 6:00–8:00 p.m. – The Now Stories

• July 31 | 7:00–9:00 p.m. – The Femme Fighters

There's nothing quite like summer evenings by the river with great music and great company.

Ice Cream Social – June 25
What's summer without ice cream?
Join your neighbors on June 25 at Matthiessen Park for our community Ice Cream Social featuring live music from The Gentleman Brawlers.

We're excited to launch what we hope becomes a favorite Village tradition—a fun and relaxed opportunity to gather, enjoy a sweet treat, and celebrate the start of summer together.

The Bulldogs Are Back!
As you stroll through downtown this summer, keep an eye out for the return of Irvington's beloved Bulldog Gallery, sponsored by the Arts & Culture Committee.
From June through September, Main Street will once again transform into an outdoor art gallery featuring uniquely painted bulldog sculptures created by talented local artists. Sponsored by local businesses and supporters of public art, these colorful works celebrate the creativity, character, and community spirit that make Irvington special.

Whether you're a longtime resident or visiting downtown for the first time, I encourage you to take a walk, discover the bulldogs, support our local businesses, and enjoy this uniquely Irvington tradition.

Save the Date: Matthiessen Park Stage Ribbon Cutting
We're excited to celebrate the new Matthiessen Park Stage with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 11.
The event will feature performances by Local Politics and The Skam, along with additional festivities for the community. More information will be shared as we get closer to the event.

We look forward to marking this exciting addition to our waterfront with all of you.

Jazz Concert Series in Matthiessen Park
Beginning Thursday, July 9 and continuing every Thursday evening through August 27, the Matthiessen Park stage will host the Jazz Forum Arts Summer Concert Series in Irvington.
This beloved summer tradition was previously held at Lyndhurst Mansion and now continues in the heart of Irvington, bringing live jazz to the waterfront.
All concerts are free and open to the public, beginning at 6:30 PM. Attendees of all ages are welcome to enjoy an evening of music, community, and summer atmosphere.
View the full concert lineup here for details.

Looking Ahead to Summer

As the days grow longer and the school year winds down, I hope you'll take time to enjoy everything Irvington has to offer, from our parks and waterfront to our arts programs, concerts, community celebrations, and local businesses.

The summer season gives us countless opportunities to reconnect with neighbors, spend time outdoors, and appreciate the special sense of community that makes Irvington such a wonderful place to call home.

Thank you, as always, for your engagement, participation, and support. I look forward to seeing many of you around the Village this month and throughout the summer.

Wishing everyone a happy, healthy, and fun-filled June!

Sincerely,
Mayor Arlene Burgos
Village of Irvington