If you’re looking for a reason to head up the Hudson this fall, Nyack has you covered. From October 3–16, 2025, the charming riverside village will once again transform into a cultural hotspot as the Phoenix Festival: Live Arts in Nyack returns for its fourth exciting year.

This is not your typical arts festival—it’s a “one-night-only” celebration where each performance happens just once, making every event truly special. Think theater, dance, music, and even a few surprises, all packed into two vibrant weeks.

Festival Highlights You Won’t Want to Miss

• “Sugar Ray” (Oct 3 @ The Angel Nyack) – Award-winning actor Reginald L. Wilson brings boxing legend Sugar Ray Robinson’s story to life in a riveting solo performance.

• “The Odyssey” (Oct 4 @ The Nyack Library) – Broadway veteran Joseph Medeiros takes audiences on a whirlwind, one-hour journey through Homer’s epic.

• “The Crucible” (Oct 5 @ The Nyack Center) – Arthur Miller’s timeless play gets a powerful community-driven revival, staged with local actors for a fresh, immersive experience.

• “Out of the Hat” (Oct 7 @ The Nyack Center) – Four brand-new short plays performed by actors who don’t know their roles until five minutes before showtime. Expect the unexpected!

• “Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill” (Oct 10 @ Prohibition River Rose Hall) – Billie Holiday’s iconic songs and life story take center stage in this award-winning play.

And that’s just the beginning—over two dozen performances will take place throughout the festival, from Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream to experimental theater, live music, and even a Closing Night Party on October 16.

Why It Matters

Craig Smith, co-founder of the Phoenix Theatre Ensemble and Executive Director of the Festival, sums it up perfectly:

“Each fall, Nyack reminds us of what happens when a whole community says yes to live art.”

This festival isn’t just about great shows—it’s about community, creativity, and keeping live performance thriving in the Hudson Valley.

The Setting: Why Nyack?

If you haven’t spent time in Nyack, you’re in for a treat. The historic riverfront village is bursting with charm—Victorian architecture, independent shops, art galleries, and cozy restaurants line its Main Street. Fun fact: artist Edward Hopper grew up here, and theater legend Helen Hayes once called Nyack home. Add in stunning views of the Hudson and the Palisades, and it’s the perfect backdrop for an arts festival.

Tickets & Passes

• Single tickets: $38 each

• Flex Pass: 4 tickets for $132 (save $20)

• VIP Pass: 6 tickets with reserved seating perks

Since many venues are intimate, tickets sell quickly. You can grab yours at liveartsinnyack.com or by calling the box office at 833-681-4800.

Bottom Line

If you love live performance—or just need a fall weekend escape—the Phoenix Festival is your perfect excuse to discover Nyack. Go for the art, stay for the charm, and leave with stories you’ll be talking about all season.

👉 Full schedule and tickets here: liveartsinnyack.com