Celebrating the anniversary of Henry Hudson's voyage up the Hudson in 1609, the Island plays host to the New Island Festival next month. Sponsored by the Dutch government, it will transform the Island with a cavalcade of Dutch culture - art, live performances, concerts and an abundance of creativity from the folks who first settled here in 1624. Much of the festival will be free; some of it ticketed. The Island will be open, and the free ferry will operate, until midnight, Thursday through Sunday, September 10-13 and September 17-20. Check the listing of events here.