Despite its name, the 1969 Woodstock Festival did not actually take place in Woodstock New York. The event that would forever change history happened nearby on the dairy farm of Max Yasgur in Bethel Woods: a place which, so many years later still maintains its musical roots.
That original farm site has since become the site of world class Bethel Woods Performing Arts Center; more refined but still just as committed to bringing people together in the name of art. And next year, music enthusiasts will officially commemorate the 50th anniversary of the historic Woodstock Music & Art Fair.
This summer, New Yorkers get to celebrate early with a new concert series in honor of the upcoming 50th anniversary which offers impressive musical acts mixed with an easy-to-get-to weekend destination. Offering a combination of epic performances, nature, and affordable package prices, it’s a music lovers outdoor dream.
The Backdrop:
New Yorkers are no strangers to headlining bands and high profile performances but this concert series offers more than just music. Here sounds mix with sights with the stunning backdrop of the Sullivan Catskills, an area that has been a weekend getaway for New Yorkers for decades.
It’s a place to relax after a hectic week and a place where nature lovers enjoy expansive views and starry night skies. Meanwhile, the adventurous will find a feast of trails and rivers to explore by foot, bike or boat.
The Music:
From the Steve Miller Band to Lady Antebellum, there’s something for everyone this summer. The gorgeous Bethel Woods pavilion is situated on 800-acres of property and fits 15,000 people – so bring a friend, or two.
2018 Summer Schedule Highlights
Friday June 8th Saturday June 16th Friday June 29th Saturday July 14th Thursday July 26th Sunday August 5th September 2nd (Labor Day Weekend) September 2nd (Labor Day Weekend) |
Explore the History:
Before settling in for a concert, attendees will find the on-site museum a fascinating window into the history of the area. Along with video footage and artifacts from 1969, the museum also dives into the butterfly effect Woodstock had on American history, connecting the now iconic event to our lives today. One of the most unique aspects of the museum experience is the docents, many of whom were at the original Woodstock festival.
Insider Tip:
Get a package deal by booking through local tour operator RMP Travel. Their $250 package includes accommodation, transportation between the concert and hotel, concert tickets, and admission to the Bethel Woods Art Museum.
How to Get there & Get Around:
The Catskills can be tough without a car which is why the RMP Travel package (which includes a shuttle between hotel and concert) is a great option for those heading to Bethel Woods. We recommend choosing RW Catskills as your hotel package option as there are myriad buses that head there from the five boroughs.
Go Beyond Woodstock:
A journey back in time to Woodstock is just one of the experiences RMP Travel provides. Stay local with their Catskills, Niagara or Montauk fly fishing excursions, Long Island Vineyards tour and winter ski trips to Hunter & Windham. For 2019, they’ve even created a special Pride Package for those looking to celebrate WorldPride and 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots in New York City. Or go beyond the bounds of New York State with their seemingly endless group travel opportunities around the U.S. Whether you’re a student or senior, corporate team or theater group, looking for outdoor sports or indoor culture, RMP will create something special for your crew and can be contacted at Operations2@rmptvl.com.
This post brought to you by RMP Travel, Bethel Woods & Sullivan Catskills.
Photo courtesy of Bethel Woods Center for the Arts.
Sarah Knapp is a Brooklyn based entrepreneur whose love for the outdoors and community building led her to the October 2013 creation of OutdoorFest. She has a BA in History, is a Wilderness First Responder and a NY state hiking, camp and boating guide. Her proudest achievement to date is reading the Aeneid in Latin. 
Allison was one of our first top writers and Chief Editor but is no longer working with offMetro. Allison is a native New Yorker, who has lived in Rome, Tuscany, Melbourne, Toronto and Los Angeles. She frequently contributed travel pieces to Family Travel Forum, using her own children as guinea pigs as they travel the globe. She never missed a chance to sample local delicacies, as her love for travel goes hand-in-hand with her love for food and wine. 
Josh Laskin is a freelance travel writer and photographer based in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. When he is not at work or on the road, you can find him in the mountains snowboarding, climbing, hiking, fly fishing, mountain biking, and eating bagel bites.
Annie is a travel writer, environmentalist, and surfer based in Venice, CA. She heads up our West Coast team, keeps our grammatical errors in check, and makes sure our California writers always have a plan for their next adventure. Follow Annie’s travels @annelisemcb.
Carly Pifer is a freelance writer who has been known to follow whims inspired by romantic movie scenes or colorful street style shots to India, Japan, Tunisia and Argentina. After stints living in Seoul, Boston, Paris and Los Angeles, writing and searching for something intangible, she landed somewhat steadily in Brooklyn and has begun to find inspiration in her more immediate surroundings. 
Kate E. O’Hara is a New York based freelance writer and photographer who loves all things food—especially the people who make it and market it. Her writing aims to capture the essence of the food experience; the stories that go well beyond a plate of ingredients. In addition to her love of food, Kate is also known to have a hankering for red wine and craft beer. You can also find Kate on Instagram