Woodstock revisited: Hippiefest returns to Bethel Woods

BETHEL, NY — Hippiefest will return to Bethel Woods Center for the Arts on Sunday, August 3. The third annual concert at the site celebrates the music and bands of what was arguably rock’s most important decade, the 1960s. Fans will be treated to a trip back in time with musical pioneers Jack Bruce of Cream; Eric Burdon & The Animals; The Turtles, featuring Flo & Eddie; Melanie; Badfinger, featuring Joey Molland; and Terry Sylvester, formerly of The Hollies.

The tour has been praised as “A taste of Woodstock without the mud and bad acid” (Miami Herald) and “guaranteed to get boomers misty-eyed enough to fog up their bifocals” (Newsday). The New York Post simply declared, “No shoes, no shirt, no problem.” Tour creator Toby Ludwig explains, “This festival is for people who weren’t around in the ‘60s and ‘70s or were and just can’t seem to remember. Bring your parents, your grandparents and your kids. Come be a Hippie for a day!” A full line of flower power paraphernalia, such as tie-dye T-shirts, skirts, caps, bags, stickers and posters will be available at the show, and it’s the perfect opportunity to visit the award-winning new Museum at Bethel Woods.

An integral part of the non-profit Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, the mueseum tells the story of the ‘60s and Woodstock through a state-of-the art interactive experience. The main exhibition gallery includes more than 300 photographic murals, 164 artifacts, 70 video testimonials and 20 different films. More than 2,000 music, film and photographic elements are included.

Reserved ticket prices are $60, $40, $30 and $23 for lawn. Doors will open at 3:30 p.m. for a 6:00 p.m. performance. Tickets are available at www.BethelWoodsCenter.org, by phone at 845/454-3388 and at all Ticketmaster outlets. Tickets are also available in person at the Bethel Woods box office. Parking is free.