City of New Rochelle and Ward Acres Conservancy Present “Goatsfest 2026” at Ward Acres Park
The City of New Rochelle Department of Parks and Recreation and the Ward Acres Conservancy are pleased to announce the return of Goatsfest 2026, a unique, family-friendly celebration of sustainability, community, and the annual return of grazing goats to Ward Acres Park. The event will take place on Saturday, June 6, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Ward Acres Park, across from William B. Ward Elementary School.
Ward Acres Park is a 68-acre public park in New Rochelle featuring 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 will feature live music, food trucks, environmental exhibits, local vendors, guided walks and educational talks, demonstrations, and activities for all ages. The festival will also showcase sustainable practices including composting, recycling, and eco-friendly land management.
Adjacent to the festival grounds, a herd of approximately 30 goats will once again help clear invasive plant growth throughout the park using environmentally sustainable targeted grazing techniques. The goats are provided by Hudson Valley Forestry, a company specializing in ecological land management. For the safety of visitors and animals alike, the goats will remain inside secure solar-powered, low-voltage fencing and will not be available for petting.
“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,” said Council Member Sara Kaye. “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.”
“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,” said Steve Cadenhead, President of the Ward Acres Conservancy. “Goatsfest gives the community an opportunity to see that work up close while celebrating the beauty, ecology, and shared value of Ward Acres Park.”
“Our parks are places where community, education, and environmental responsibility come together,” said Parks & Recreation Commissioner Vincent Parise. “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.”
This year’s event 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.
Free parking will be available at William B. Ward Elementary School and along Broadfield Road where permitted. Visitors are encouraged to walk, bike, or use the Bee-Line 45Q bus when possible. Dogs are welcome but must remain leashed at all times.
For updates, including the full list of participants and event schedule, please visit wardacresconservancy.org.