Randall's Island

MLK Day of Service - Morning
2025-01-18 09:30 - 11:30 UTC | Icahn Stadium
Volunteers will assist our Urban Farm team to create these seed packets by placing seeds into packages and clearly labelling each. Seed-saving has a long and rich history, and we’re proud to take a small part in this tradition and pass on our seeds to others in the community to grow. Hot chocolate and light snacks will be provided.
Each growing season, the Urban Farm gives away hundreds of seed packets at its welcome table during the farm’s weekend Open Hours. Seed packets are extremely popular with our visitors — so much so that it is hard to keep the table stocked.
We maintain a wide range of seeds for giveaway! At any given time, you might find rice, lotus, carrot, or lettuce seeds in our library. Some of the seeds we share with the public are extra seeds that we purchased and no longer use. Others are seeds that we save ourselves from the plants growing on the Urban Farm.
Registration is required here. Please arrive early to sign in.
Location: East Entrance of Icahn Stadium
For inquiries about accessibility, to request an accommodation, or for event information, please email publicprograms@randallsisland.org.

MLK Day of Service - Afternoon
2025-01-18 12:30 - 14:30 | Icahn Stadium

Celebrating Black History Month
2025-02-20 15:00 - 17:00 | East Harlem Neighborhood Health Action Center, 158 E 115th Street, New York, NY, 10029, United States
Join RIPA in this celebration of Black History Month as we uplift the stories and work of our local Black community. We’ll gather at the East Harlem Neighborhood Health Action Center for some nature and community-based activities and an Afro-Brazilian Samba class. Enjoy music, games, and snacks! This program is free and accessible to all ages—geared toward families with opportunities for engagement for all.
Location: East Harlem Neighborhood Health Action Center
For inquiries about accessibility, to request an accommodation, or for event information, please email publicprograms@randallsisland.org.

Volunteer Enrichment: Controlling Emerging Invasives through Education and Eradication (RESCHEDULED to MARCH 1)
2025-03-01 09:30 - 12:30 | Icahn Stadium
Our Natural Areas Manager, Doug Kenney, will present an informative workshop on four invasive species RIPA is targeting for removal as part of a DEC-awarded grant, followed by a hands-on activity removing one of the species (Italian Arum) in the Water’s Edge Garden/Forest Pathway area.
We will gather in Icahn Stadium for the presentation, enjoy some snacks, and hot cocoa. Following the presentation attendees will go in the field and directly identify and remove some of these and these potential future invasive plants.
Due to weather conditions, this event will now be held on Saturday, March 1!
Registration is required here.
Location: Icahn Stadium
For inquiries about accessibility, to request an accommodation, or for event information, please email publicprograms@randallsisland.org.

Volunteer Enrichment: Bridges of Randall's Island Bike Tour
2025-03-08 09:30 - 12:30 | Icahn Stadium
Join us to examine the bridges that surround Randall’s Island Park! This tour will start with a presentation of the history behind and specifics of the bridges on Randall’s Island. We will look at:

Important people behind these bridges
Bridge design
Bridges on the island

After, we will take a ride around the island, examining the bridges and their distinctive features.
Registration is required here.
Citi bikes will be available for those who need them. To reserve a Citi Bike please send an email to Volunteers@RandallsIslandPark.org.
Location: Icahn Stadium
For inquiries about accessibility, to request an accommodation, or for event information, please email publicprograms@randallsisland.org.

Wake Up the Farm Volunteer Day
2025-03-16 10:00 - 13:00 | Urban Farm
At this special volunteer event, you will help us clear the straw-covered garden beds to prepare for planting!
Let’s celebrate a new season and welcome back our farm volunteers. Volunteers will work for two hours and then we will get together to celebrate a new season with:

Hot cocoa
A fire pit
Live Lyall karaoke/sing alongs, and more

Registration is required here.
Rain Date: Sunday, March 23
Location: Urban Farm
For inquiries about accessibility, to request an accommodation, or for event information, please email publicprograms@randallsisland.org.

Team RIVER Volunteers
2025-03-19 09:30 - 12:30
Volunteer with Team RIVER (Randall’s Island Volunteer Ecological Restorers) and help keep Randall’s Island Park beautiful! Team RIVER Volunteers regularly work with the Natural Areas team twice a month to take care of and restore our natural spaces on the island. With our Horticulture team, volunteers care for the many gardens, green streets and meadows, every second Wednesday of each month. Team RIVER also works with our Sports Field and Operations teams, keeping our park clean and maintained. If you are only able to volunteer on a limited basis, you are still very much welcome!
This volunteer opportunity is open to individuals from the community. Groups of more than 5 people must contact: Volunteers@RandallsIsland.org
Volunteers must be at least 11 years old. Anyone under the age of 18 must have a waiver signed by their legal guardian before starting any work. Children under 16 must also have an adult with them while volunteering. A downloadable volunteer waiver can be found at this link: General Volunteer – Randall’s Island
Registration is required here.
Location: Volunteers will be notified after registration.
For inquiries about accessibility, to request an accommodation, or for event information, please email publicprograms@randallsisland.org.

Urban Farm Volunteers
2025-03-23 10:00 - 13:00 | Urban Farm
Volunteer with our team to manage our one-acre Urban Farm!
Whether you are new to our farm or have been a tried-and-true weekly volunteer, come and join us! Volunteers must be at least 10 years old. Individuals under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult who volunteers with them. Individuals ages 16 & 17 can volunteer if a parent or guardian has signed a waiver. Please find a downloadable waiver here: Waiver for unaccompanied 16 & 17 year olds
Registration is not required but we ask that you commit at least two hours of volunteering.
This volunteer event is for individuals from the community and not open to groups larger than 5 people. If you wish to bring more than 5 people, you must first contact us at volunteers@randallsisland.org.
Location: Urban Farm
For inquiries about accessibility, to request accommodation, or for event information, please email publicprograms@randallsisland.org.

Waterfront Data: Bridging Science & Community on Randall’s Island
2025-03-27 15:00 - 16:00 | Icahn Stadium
Join Randall’s Island Park Alliance and New York Sea Grant for a discussion on data sharing in the environmental field. Olivia Smith, Park-as-Lab Coordinator, will present on ongoing environmental monitoring projects on Randall’s Island, focusing on waterfront stewardship. The Park-as-lab website will be used as a model for sharing long-term datasets. Catherine Prunella, Water Quality Extension Specialist, will highlight community datasets on flooding and marine debris through the New York Sea Grant interactive dashboard. The event emphasizes the importance of community engagement in collecting environmental data and fostering collaboration among community members, non-profits, and academics.
After the discussion, join a brief guided tour of the Little Hell Gate Salt Marsh to see a restored ecosystem and participate in a microplastic sampling demo. All those interested in environmental science, community data collection, and ecological restoration are welcome!
Registration is required here.
Location: Icahn Stadium
For inquiries about accessibility, to request accommodation, or for event information, please email publicprograms@randallsisland.org.

Let’s Go Birding Together (LGBT) with NYC Bird Alliance
2025-03-29 10:00 - 11:30
Join an experienced bird guide from NYC Bird Alliance for a free tour of Randall’s Island Park in search of fleeting, feathered friends at the beginning of spring! Let’s Go Birding Together tours are for anyone who loves birds, likes birds, is vaguely interested in birds, or just wants something fun and different to do outdoors.
We welcome those who identify as LGBTQIA+, allies, families, and anyone who wants to enjoy an outdoor experience that is inclusive and informative. Participants can borrow binoculars!
RSVP through NYC Bird Alliance here!
Location: Icahn Stadium, East Entrance
For inquiries about accessibility, to request an accommodation or for event information, please email publicprograms@randallsisland.org.

2025 Metropolitan Championship (Outdoor)
2025-04-04 11:00 - 19:00 | Icahn Stadium
Spend April 4th here at Icahn Stadium at the 2025 Metropolitan Championship (Outdoor) where some of the region’s best collegiate track & field programs square off for titles and bragging rights!
You can find last year’s results here, and we’re looking forward to another day at the track filled with competition and sportsmanship!
Location: Icahn Stadium

2025 USATF New York Youth Challenge Series
2025-04-06 10:00 - 16:00 | Icahn Stadium
US Track & Field New York returns its Youth Challenge Series to Randall’s Island Park and Icahn Stadium!
Learn more about USTF New York from their website and come and cheer the next generation of track & field stars!
Location: Icahn Stadium

The New York Relays - High School - Friday Events Postponed to Saturday
2025-04-11 15:30 - 22:00 | Icahn Stadium
Watch some of the top high-school talent that New York has to offer at this year’s New York Relays at Icahn Stadium.
Friday’s events have been postponed due to inclement weather. The event will resume on Saturday and Sunday.
Results for 2024 are here!
Location: Icahn Stadium

CANCELLED Spotted Lanternfly Egg Hunt
2025-04-12 13:00 - 15:00 | Freshwater Wildflower Meadow, 1 Central Road, New York City, NY, 10035, United States
This event has been CANCELLED due to weather.
It’s almost Spotted Lanternfly season at Randall’s Island Park which means that it’s time to learn about these insects and how to manage their populations at this free program! Learn how to identify and remove egg masses and help us squash as many eggs as possible both in the park and beyond. In between squash sessions, participants can keep warm with hot beverages and a bonfire, roast marshmallows, and explore Spotted Lanternfly fun facts with our Educators.
Location: Freshwater Wildflower Meadow
For inquiries about accessibility, to request an accommodation, or for event information, please email publicprograms@randallsisland.org.

Earth Day 5K by We Act for Environmental Justice
2025-04-19 07:00 - 12:00 | Icahn Stadium
Come join We Act for Environmental Justice for an Earth Day 5K as part of our Earth Day celebrations!
Founded in 1988, WE ACT’s mission is to build healthy communities by ensuring that people of color and/or low income residents participate meaningfully in the creation of sound and fair environmental health and protection policies and practices.
To learn more about WE ACT, visit their website!
Location: Icahn Stadium

New York Road Runners Spring Jamboree
2025-04-19 10:00 - 15:00 | Icahn Stadium
Take the kids to Icahn Stadium on Randall’s Island for a fun day of track and field events! Kids can choose from age-appropriate activities they’d like to try, including sprints, a longer distance run, relays on the track, shot put, long jump, obstacle courses, and more! Icahn Stadium is a world-class track and field facility, and this event is a perfect way to introduce kids to the sport.
Registration for this event is FREE and open to participants ages 2 to 18 of all abilities. Every finisher will receive a New Balance lunchbox. Please note that souvenirs are subject to availability.
Learn more about registration here!
Location: Icahn Stadium

Pressed Botanicals Workshop with the Horticulture Team
2025-04-19 13:00 - 15:00 | Icahn Stadium
Join us for a relaxing, creative, and free workshop where you’ll learn how to press and arrange flowers and leaves to create beautiful works of art hosted by RIPA’s Horticulture Team! Whether you’re an experienced botanist, or someone who appreciates the beauty of a flower, this workshop is for you. We’ll provide all the materials you need, including a selection of plants harvested from the gardens around the park, and guide you through the process of making your own unique piece of botanical art to take home.
Registration is required here.
Location: Icahn Stadium
For inquiries about accessibility, to request an accommodation, or for event information, please email publicprograms@randallsisland.org.

CANCELLED Bike Ride to Earth Day Festival
2025-04-26 11:30 - 13:00 | Citi Bike: E 114th Street and 1st Ave
Ride to Earth Day Festival with El Barrio Bikes has been CANCELLED due to expected inclement weather.
El Barrio Bikes will be hosting riding events at our Waterfront and Harvest festival later this year, so please kickoff those events with a beautiful bike ride to Randall’s Island Park!
For inquiries about accessibility, to request an accommodation, or for event information, please email publicprograms@randallsisland.org.

Modified Earth Day Festival (Weather Permitting)
2025-04-26 12:00 - 15:00 | Urban Farm
We’re planning a modified Earth Day Festival – but there’s still plenty to enjoy!
Join us tomorrow at the Urban Farm (barring thunderstorms) for:

Farm and Cherry Blossom Signs of Spring Tour
Cherry Blossoms
Ocean Acidification and Biofacts
Seedling and Compost Giveaway
Lawn Games
Free kite kit craft giveaway
Seedballs
Tree care and more!

Please note: Performances and face painting will be cancelled.
Let’s welcome spring and celebrate the planet together!
Location: Urban Farm
For inquiries about accessibility, to request an accommodation, or for event information, please email publicprograms@randallsisland.org.

Discus Thrower Day
2025-04-28 14:30 - 16:30 | Icahn Plaza, Icahn Stadium, New York, NY, 10035, United States
Join us for Discus Thrower Day at Randall’s Island Park—a celebration of art, history, and athletic spirit! Discover the fascinating story behind the iconic Discus Thrower, originally sculpted by Konstantino Dimitriadis and even awarded a gold medal at the 1924 Paris Summer Olympics when art was part of the Games.
Enjoy an afternoon full of engaging activities:

Meet & Greet Pinky Keehner: Don’t miss this chance to hear behind-the-scenes insights, ask questions, and learn the history of the Discus Thrower on Randall’s Island Park by the author of The Discus Thrower Meets Peter Pan!

Art Class: Unleash your creativity by learning to draw the legendary discus thrower with local artist Sarah Noda.

Learn to Throw: Get hands-on instruction from our RIPA staff and master the art of the discus.

Cheer On: Stay and support local athletes at an exciting track meet.

Plus, the first 50 attendees to arrive will receive an autographed copy of Discus Thrower Meets Peter Pan by Pinky Keehner!
Mark your calendar and be part of this unique celebration at Randall’s Island Park. We can’t wait to see you there!
Please register for the event here!
Location: Icahn Stadium Plaza by Field 10
For inquiries about accessibility, to request an accommodation or for event information, please email publicprograms@randallsisland.org.

CUNY Championship
2025-05-03 09:00 - 15:00 | Icahn Stadium
CUNY Schools Hunter College, Lehman College, Medgar Evers College, and York College meet again at Icahn Stadium for the right to call themselves 2025 CUNY Outdoor champions!
Visit their website as they update events and participants up until the May competition!
Location: Icahn Stadium

Riverkeeper Sweep
2025-05-03 09:30 - 12:00 | Icahn Stadium
Join hundreds of others throughout the Hudson River watershed to help keep our shoreline free of marine plastics and refuse at the annual Riverkeeper Sweep. Community friends and partners band together to remove and prevent hundreds of pounds of litter from getting into our rivers.
Registration is required here.
Location: East Entrance of Icahn Stadium
For inquiries about accessibility, to request an accommodation, or for event information, please email volunteers@randallsisland.org.

Therapy Dogs on the Farm
2025-05-03 10:00 - 12:00 | Urban Farm
In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, join Randall’s Island and the Good Dog Foundation for a morning with BRUNO and Massimo, two trained therapy dogs! Come by and spend some time with our furry friends who are experts in helping us calm down and feel a little happier. This program is accessible to all ages.
Location: Urban Farm
For inquiries about accessibility, to request an accommodation, or for event information, please email publicprograms@randallsisland.org.

Herbal Medicine Workshop: Roots and Remedies
2025-05-03 13:00 - 15:00 | Urban Farm
Join us for a journey into the world of herbal medicine amidst the vibrant setting of our Urban Farm at Randall’s Island Park!
Led by seasoned herbalist Jess Turner from Olamina Botanicals, this hands-on workshop will guide you through plant identification, the history of botanical medicine, harvesting techniques, and a variety of herbal remedies. Don’t miss this opportunity to create your own custom-made tincture, reconnect with nature and empower yourself with the healing power of plants!
To learn more about Olamina Botanicals, check out their website here.
To register for the event, click here!
Location: Urban Farm
For inquiries about accessibility, to request an accommodation, or for event information, please email publicprograms@randallsisland.org.

CANCELLED Yoga in the Park
2025-05-06 18:30 - 19:30 | East River Picnic Area
UPDATE: Yoga in the Park has been cancelled on Tuesday, May 6, due to weather.

Stretch, breathe, and find your inner peace at Randall’s Island Park’s free outdoor yoga series. Guided by a beloved, local yoga instructor, participants will flow through a calming and grounding sequence against the backdrop of the uptown skyline. All levels and abilities are welcome. Bring a friend, family member or two, or your yoga-loving pet!
No registration required—just show up ready to move! We’ll have water and a limited number of mats available to borrow, so please bring your own if possible or show up early to claim one.
Our free yoga classes run weekly on Tuesdays from 6:30 – 7:30pm from May 6 – September 9 (no class June 10), and Saturdays from 10:00 – 11:00am, June 28 – August 30. On Saturdays, stay after and join our dance class! Please check Instagram for the most updated schedule.
Location: East River Picnic Area
For inquiries about accessibility, to request an accommodation, or for event information, please email publicprograms@randallsisland.org.

Bird Bonanza
2025-05-10 10:00 - 13:00 | Urban Farm
Fly over to Randall’s Island Park to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day at our annual Bird Bonanza! Enjoy a day dedicated to our feathered friends with engaging activities, a bird tour, and a bird-themed puppet show and storytime. Learn about local birds with a special focus on those that are currently migrating through NYC. Whether they’re birds of prey soaring high in the sky, ducks dabbling on the water, or songbirds that frequent the farm, they’ll be celebrating with us!
Schedule:

10 AM – Spring Migration Bird Tour with Efua Peterson: Registration for the bird tour is recommended but not required here.
11 AM – Puppet Show with Wonderspark Puppets: The Little Red Hen, followed by a puppet making workshop
12 PM – Storytime Stretches with Jazy: Jazy will read a bird-themed book and do a movement session

Ongoing Activities: Habitat Toss, Bird Feeder Making, Lawn Games, Make your own bird craft, Produce and Seedling Giveaway, Urban Farm Exploration
Location: Urban Farm
For inquiries about accessibility, to request an accommodation, or for event information, please email publicprograms@randallsisland.org.

WonderSpark Puppet Show: The Little Red Hen & Puppet-Making Workshop
2025-05-10 11:00 - 12:00 | Urban Farm
Join RIPA and WonderSpark Puppets for a puppet show and workshop at the urban farm during Bird Bonanza! Help us figure out “Who Will Help Me Make the Bread?” The classic story of a Hen who needs YOUR help to make some bread!
The Little Red Hen is an interactive play that gets kids moving their bodies, calling out and laughing! Every animal on the farm wants to eat the Hen’s bread, but no one wants to help make it.
We will learn the benefits of helping out and teamwork while exercising and singing along! Then, we’ll make our own puppets!
Location: Urban Farm Kitchen
For inquiries about accessibility, to request an accommodation, or for event information, please email publicprograms@randallsisland.org.

Big Truck Day!
2025-05-17 12:00 - 15:00 | Asphalt Pad
Strap on your seatbelt and head over to Randall’s Island Park for our free, annual Big Truck Day celebration!
Get a close-up view of the large vehicles that keep New York City clean and safe. Learn how garbage truck drivers, police officers, farmers, and other big truck operators use these vehicles to drive our city forward.
Visit each truck and learn from the operators themselves about how they use their truck every day. You might have the chance to sit in the front seat and pose for a photo!
There will also be story time, snacks, games, and other truck-related activities.
Location: Asphalt Pad next to Icahn Stadium
For inquiries about accessibility, to request an accommodation or for event information, please email publicprograms@randallsisland.org.

CANCELLED: Wetland Wednesday
2025-05-21 14:30 - 16:30 | Little Hell Gate Salt Marsh
UPDATE: Wetland Wednesday has been cancelled on May 21 due to weather.
Drop in to explore the Little Hell Gate Salt Marsh during Wetland Wednesdays!
The salt marsh is one of our most beloved natural areas, and is a vital ecosystem that protects nearby areas from flooding and erosion and creates habitats for many different species of animals.
From 2:30-4:30PM on the second Wednesday of every month, the marsh pathway gates on the boardwalk will be open and members of RIPA’s Natural Areas Team will be on site to answer questions, share interesting facts and show off some of the unique species of plants and animals that call this amazing and dynamic ecosystem home!
Location: Little Hell Gate Salt Marsh
For inquiries about accessibility, to request accommodation, or for event information, please email publicprograms@randallsisland.org.

New York State Catholic High School Athletic Association Intersectional Championship
2025-05-24 09:00 - 14:00 | Icahn Stadium
Come enjoy the New York State Catholic High School Athletic Association Intersectional Championship at Icahn Stadium!
The culmination of the CHSAA spring season happens at 10 Central Road where legends are made! Visit their website for more information.
Location: Icahn Stadium
