Bethel Woods at 20: A Cultural Landmark Looks Back While Looking Ahead

BETHEL, N.Y. — Twenty years after its first concert, Bethel Woods Center for the Arts has grown from an ambitious vision on the historic site of the 1969 Woodstock festival into one of the nation’s most celebrated outdoor music venues.

For CEO Eric Frances, who has been with the organization since opening day, the milestone is about more than marking the passage of time. It’s an opportunity to reflect on how the nonprofit has helped reshape Sullivan County while expanding its role as a destination for music, arts, education and tourism.

“It’s about gratitude to the community and the county,” Frances said. “Bethel Woods has delivered on its mission to create economic development here and bring entertainment to our underserved region.”

He points to the transformation of nearby communities over the past two decades, where once-vacant downtowns have become home to breweries, coffee shops and other small businesses.

The venue’s reputation continues to grow well beyond the Catskills. This year, Bethel Woods was again named USA Today‘s Best Amphitheater in the country, while Rolling Stone recognized its campground among the coolest places to camp.

Frances credits founder Alan Gerry’s vision of creating an experience unlike any other concert venue.

“Every blade of grass and every tree” reflects that commitment, he said, noting that visitors often comment on the natural setting that distinguishes Bethel Woods from urban amphitheaters dominated by concrete. “We see that in our research and our guest surveys. Once people come here, this becomes their home venue.”

More than concerts

While major touring acts remain the public face of Bethel Woods, Frances said the organization’s mission has expanded dramatically since the pavilion opened in 2006.

After opening the Museum at Bethel Woods, the nonprofit steadily built education and community programming that now serves approximately 15,000 students annually. Last year it also launched a youth academy offering more in-depth arts education.

“To see all these things that have happened has just been amazing,” Frances said. “The growth… how things that become ideas actually come to fruition.”

Another newer addition has been the Bethel Woods campground, which Frances described as a “game changer.”

The campground allows concertgoers traveling longer distances to stay on-site while reducing traffic concerns and encouraging visitors to spend additional time exploring Sullivan County.

According to visitor surveys, campers report a more relaxed experience and often extend their stays by visiting the museum, exploring the Delaware River or enjoying other local attractions.

“I think it definitely is introducing a new audience to the county,” Frances said.

A celebration for the community

The centerpiece of the anniversary celebration comes July 24, when Bethel Woods hosts a community celebration headlined by The Beach Boys.

The event will include family-friendly arts activities across the campus, fireworks and discounted $20 tickets in recognition of the venue’s 20th anniversary. Children 12 and under will be admitted free.

“It’s really about getting the community out to thank them,” Frances said.

Looking toward Woodstock’s future

Beyond the main pavilion, Bethel Woods continues to use its campus in a variety of ways, hosting performances on multiple stages, educational programs and special events throughout the property.

The organization is also preparing for another milestone on the horizon: the 60th anniversary of the original Woodstock Music and Art Fair in 2029.

“This is our 20th anniversary, but the 60th of Woodstock’s coming up in three years,” Frances said. “This is sort of the precursor to hopefully some big things we’ll be able to talk about as we get to Woodstock 60.”

Bethel Woods is a financial supporter of Radio Catskill.

Image: The original Woodstock festival site is now home to Bethel Woods Center for the Arts and its award-winning museum. (Bethel Woods Center For The Arts)