Woodstock ’69 devotees, both new and old, gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking festival’s 50th anniversary, starting with a performance from Arlo Guthrie on August 15.
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This past weekend, Bethel Woods Center for the Arts hosted a series of events Thursday through Sunday at the iconic concert site, located on Max Yasgur’s Bethel farm.
Guthrie, one of the original Woodstock performers alongside Jimi Hendrix and The Who, played an evening set of his own classics, as well as a few songs from Bob Dylan and his father, Woody Guthrie.
Guthrie’s evening performance drew a crowd, mostly of baby boomers alongside some younger faces, many with tie-dye shirts and peace signs. Unlike the original festival, the crowd was tame and seating was comfortable, as well as plenty of food, water, and alcohol from vendors. Art installations, including an eye-catching pyramid featuring faces of iconic 60s musicians, created a dazzling atmosphere at the venue.
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After the singer’s performance, attendees headed to the nearby Woodstock festival field, where a giant peace sign and a number “5,” making a giant “50,” were lit up.
Then attendees headed to the Bethel Woods pavilion, where the Academy Award-winning Woodstock documentary was screened. Ringo Starr, Santana, and John Fogerty of Creedence Clearwater Revival performed in the pavilion the remaining days of the weekend.
