WHY WE GATHER
COMMUNITY SERVICE is a labor of love, rooted in a simple idea: music has a special way of bringing people together.
We want to create something that is missing from our little corner of the world: a place to experience great house music, dance freely, connect with neighbors, and enjoy the unique energy of a locked-in dance floor that is hard to find around here.
Our gatherings are an invitation to step away from the everyday, spend time outdoors, groove, and connect—with ourselves, with nature, and with each other.
These events take a lot of time, care, and effort to bring to life. We do it because we believe that good music, meaningful connection, and a stronger local community are worth showing up for. Putting Peace, Love, Unity and Respect into action.
THE EXPERIENCE
What is COMMUNITY SERVICE?
We're a community-oriented house music event series bringing people together through music, nature, and shared experiences. Think open-air dance floors, topflight house music, good people, and a welcoming atmosphere.
What kind of music should I expect?
House music is at the heart of what we do. Expect thoughtfully selected sounds that are made for moving. We want to share music that hasn’t otherwise found its way to our local community in a live setting. “Not everyone understands house music. It’s a spiritual thing, a body thing, a soul thing.” “It’s not just a groove. House is a feeling, and when you feel it, you will understand that house music is freedom. Freedom to be who you want to be. It doesn’t matter who you are, it doesn’t matter where you come from; for in my house, we are all free…”
Do I need to know anything about house music or be a good dancer?
Nope. Whether you've been dancing to house for decades or are hearing it for the first time, you're welcome here. There's no dress code, no choreography, no VIP and no right or wrong way to enjoy yourself. Just come with an open mind and a willingness to have a good time.
Are the events family-friendly?
Yes! Our events are intended to be welcoming to all ages. Bring the kids, bring your friends, or come on your own. We encourage everyone to be mindful that this is a shared, family-friendly public space.
GOOD TO KNOW
Where are the events held?
Our first gathering, HOUSE IN THE PARK, takes place at Fox Valley Park Pavilion in Katonah, New York.
Is there an admission fee?
No. COMMUNITY SERVICE events are intended to be open to everyone. There is no cover charge.
Do I need to RSVP?
Please RSVP so we can get a sense of how many people to expect and keep you informed of any event updates.
Where should I park?
Parking is free. At Fox Valley Park, there is one handicap spot next to the pavilion. Please park only in designated areas and be considerate of nearby residents. Do not block access roads or emergency vehicle access.
Are there bathrooms?
There are bathrooms at the park. If the bathrooms are closed for the season, there will be portos available. We don’t maintain these ourselves, so plan accordingly.
Will water be available?
Free drinking water will be available, but we recommend bringing a full reusable bottle. No glass please. We won’t have an alcohol permit, so be mindful of the park rules regarding alcohol to help us keep these events sustainable.
Will food be available?
We aren’t planning on arranging food at our first event, but feel free to bring your own and share if you feel so inclined. We’ll be reaching out to select food purveyors in the community to see if there is any interest in collaborating for future events – if you are one and you’re interested, please reach out!
What should I bring?
Bring yourself, your friends + fam, your dancing shoes and a water bottle. Depending on the weather, you may also want to bring:
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Layers of clothing for changing temperatures.
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Sunscreen, sunglasses or a hat for daytime events.
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Ear protection for anyone sensitive to loud music.
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Anything else you need to make yourself comfortable.
Keep track of your personal belongings and help us keep the park as clean as you found it.
What happens if it rains or the weather is bad?
Any party in a covered pavilion is rain or shine. We’ll have outdoor heaters on the dance floor for our first event. Going forward, if it’s chilly, we’ll bring in outdoor heaters, and if it’s hot, we’ll run fans.
Is the venue accessible?
Fox Valley Park has one handicap parking space next to the pavilion, otherwise all parking is down a slope from the pavilion. There is a small patch of gravel between the pavement and the pavilion. If you have questions about accessibility or need assistance, please contact us ahead of time at hello@communityservicesessions.org.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, but we suggest leaving them home. We love dogs, but they need to be on leash, are sensitive to loud music, and aren’t really conducive to dancing, plus some attendees may be afraid of them.
COMMUNITY GUIDELINES
The best gatherings happen when everyone feels welcome, comfortable, and free to be themselves. We're all responsible for creating that kind of environment.
Respect one another. Treat everyone with kindness and consideration. Discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or aggressive behavior have no place here. If you experience or witness anything that makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, please let an event organizer know.
Consent matters. Respect personal space. Ask before touching, dancing closely with, or photographing someone. A no—or no response—is a no.
Come as you are. Everyone is welcome, regardless of age, background, experience, or how they choose to express themselves.
Be present. Enjoy the moment. If you take photos or videos, be considerate of others' privacy and don't make anyone feel like they're on display.
Look out for one another. We're a community, not just a crowd. If someone needs help or something doesn't feel right, lend a hand or reach out to an event organizer.
Respect the park and nature. Please use designated trash and recycling bins, respect the environment, follow park rules, and leave the space as you found it.
GIVING BACK
Our intention is to feature a local charitable organization or nonprofit doing meaningful work in our community at each of our parties. We'll use these events as an opportunity to shine a light on their work and invite you to support them if you feel called to do so. We haven’t been able to clear the government red tape to do this for our launch party, but expect to see it in the future.
WANT TO BE PART OF IT?
Whether you come to dance, discover new music, meet your neighbors, support a local cause, or simply enjoy some time outdoors, we're glad you're here.
Have something you'd like to bring to the table? Whether you're interested in helping bring future gatherings to life, sharing your talents behind the decks, adding a live artistic element, or helping keep our dancers fueled and hydrated, we'd love to connect. Find us at an upcoming gathering or reach out at hello@communityservicesessions.org and let’s see if we can make something happen together