The Westerleigh Folk Festival Returns for Its 18th Year
Staten Island’s very own Westerleigh Folk Festival is back for its 18th year, promising a full day of live music, art, food, and family fun in the heart of Westerleigh Park. Known as WestFest, the free annual event has grown into a true borough tradition, bringing together neighbors, performers, and visitors from across the city for a celebration of community spirit and creativity.
This year’s festival will take place Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 11 am to 7 pm (with a rain date of October 4). Founded by Jim Indelicato and Joan Caddell, and now directed by the nonprofit Community Arts Commission Inc., the festival has grown into one of Staten Island’s beloved cultural events.
Psssttt… Check Out: The Hello Kitty Cafe Truck Is Rolling Up To Staten Island!
About the Westerleigh Folk Festival
The Westerleigh Folk Festival is a free all-day music and arts festival. Founded 18 years ago, the Westerleigh Folk Festival is a nonprofit, community-driven event dedicated to celebrating music, art, and culture on Staten Island. Through performances, workshops, and family-friendly activities, the festival strives to inspire creativity, strengthen community bonds, and showcase the artistic talent of the borough.
Music Across Two Stages
This year’s WestFest 18 features two stages of performances showcasing an eclectic mix of folk, rock, country, and multicultural sounds. From local favorites to rising talents, the lineup highlights the diversity and talent of Staten Island’s music scene. View the lineup below!
Gazebo Stage Lineup:
- 11:35 am–12:20 pm: Brandi and the Alexanders
- 12:40 pm–1:20 pm: Divine Women (featuring Joan Caddell & The Midnight Choir, Queen Tipsy, Mackenzie Terry, Jaylin Sky, Eric and John Michaels, and more)
- 1:45 pm–2:30 pm: Savannah Jaine Band
- 2:55 pm–3:15 pm: Niall O’Leary Irish Dance Troupe
- 3:40 pm–4:20 pm: The Diamond Spur Rodeo
- 4:45 pm–5:30 pm: Our Own Yokos
- 6:00 pm–7:00 pm: Headliner Amanda Cross
Meadow Stage Lineup:
- 11:00 am–11:30 am: The Rock-A-Silly Band
- 12:20 pm–12:35 pm: Aria Narang
- 1:20 pm–1:40 pm: Jack Romano & the Staten Island Three
- 2:30 pm–2:50 pm: Gabrielle Lea
- 3:15 pm–3:35 pm: Ab-Do
- 4:20 pm–4:40 pm: Jaylin Sky
- 5:30 pm–5:50 pm: Prasanna
More Than The Music
WestFest isn’t just about what’s happening on the performance stages. The festival grounds will be filled with food vendors, craft stalls, and artisan displays, making it the perfect place to spend the day exploring and supporting local businesses. Children can enjoy pony rides, face painting, and hands-on art workshops, while adults can relax in the park’s beautiful setting and enjoy the community atmosphere. The event is family-friendly, ensuring that everyone, from young children to adults, finds something to enjoy.
A Mission of Community and Culture
At its core, the Westerleigh Folk Festival is dedicated to fostering unity through the arts. By offering a free, multicultural, and multigenerational day of music and creativity, the festival continues to highlight the power of the arts to bring people together.
This year’s event is made possible by the dedication of volunteers and the support of generous sponsors, including Staten Island Arts, The Lois and Richard Nicotra Foundation, and Stop & Stor.
What to Know/Event Details
Location: Westerleigh Park, Staten Island, NY
Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025
Rain Date: Saturday, October 4, 2025
Time: 11 am – 7 pm
Admission: Free
For more information or to learn about volunteer opportunities, visit communityartscommission.org or contact the team at communityartscommission@gmail.com.
Psssttt… Check Out: Sofia’s Creations: Meet Staten Island’s 9-Year-Old Business Entrepreneur
