NEW ROCHELLE, NY —The City of New Rochelle Department of Parks and Recreation and the Ward Acres Conservancy announced the return of Goatsfest to Ward Acres Park this year.
The annual return of the beloved grazing goats, along with the family-friendly celebration of sustainability and community, will take place on Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., across from William B. Ward Elementary School.
Goatsfest 2026 will have live music, food trucks, environmental exhibits, local vendors, guided walks, educational talks, demonstrations, and activities for all ages. Organizers say the festival will also focus on sustainable practices such as composting, recycling, and eco-friendly land management.
Right next to the festival grounds, the herd of around 30 goats will once again help clear invasive plant growth throughout the park using environmentally sustainable targeted grazing techniques. The goats will be provided by Hudson Valley Forestry, a company specializing in ecological land management. The animals will remain inside secure, solar-powered, low-voltage fencing, and will not be available for petting.
"The goats are more than a novelty — they're an effective and environmentally responsible tool for managing invasive vegetation and improving the health of the park," Steve Cadenhead, President of the Ward Acres Conservancy, said. "Goatsfest gives the community an opportunity to see that work up close while celebrating the beauty, ecology, and shared value of Ward Acres Park."
The 68-acre public park in New Rochelle has open fields, woodlands, walking paths, a community garden, historic structures, and the largest dog park in Westchester County. The park is stewarded in partnership with the Ward Acres Conservancy, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing the park for future generations.
"Goatsfest has become one of New Rochelle's most anticipated community events because it brings together environmental stewardship, education, and family fun in a truly memorable way," Council Member Sara Kaye said. "Seeing nearly 30 goats helping restore the park naturally demonstrates how innovative and sustainable solutions can strengthen our public spaces and connect residents to the outdoors."
This year's Goatsfest is sponsored in part by Academy Tennis Innovators, MPG Manhattan Parking, Monroe University, Como Dental Designs, GOAT USA Apparel, the New York Knicks, and additional community partners, with significant support provided by the Friends of New Rochelle Parks Fund and the Ward Acres Conservancy Group.
"Our parks are places where community, education, and environmental responsibility come together," Parks & Recreation Commissioner Vincent Parise said. "Goatsfest is a perfect example of the creative partnerships and programming that help activate our parks, engage residents of all ages, and promote long-term stewardship of New Rochelle’s natural resources."
Free parking will be available at William B. Ward Elementary School and along Broadfield Road where permitted. Visitors are urged to walk, bike, or use the Bee-Line 45Q bus, if possible. Dogs are welcome but must remain leashed at all times.
Any updates, including the full list of participants and event schedule, can be found on the Ward Acres Conservancy website.
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