Woodstock + Bethel

Picnicking @ Bethel

The second annual "Party Bus to Bethel" departed from Woodstock on Friday, August 12, promptly at 3 p.m. On the way to Bethel we enjoyed a DVD and complimentary sandwiches. Guests also shared wine and other treats. Once at Bethel, a number of us visited The Museum, while others were transported directly to the picnic area. Three tables were reserved there for our group. The concert gates opened at 6:30. Just after 8 p.m. Leon Russell took the stage in fine form. Next up . . . a great performance from the poet of the 60s generation: Bob Dylan, together with his band.

After the concert the party bus picked us up in the VIP circle, and we were whisked away, munching homemade chocolate chip cookies. The party bus is a fun, green way to experience Woodstock + Bethel.

The party bus @ Bethel

If you'd like to recapture the magic of the sixties and the 1969 festival, the party bus is one way to do it. But there are additional options. The Bethel Woods web site offers The Woodstock Daytripper as well as the Total Woodstock Experience Overnighter. Both begin in Bethel at The Museum, and travel on to Woodstock, where visitors can explore the roots of the famous '69 festival . . . at the Byrdcliffe Arts and Crafts Colony campus, the handcrafted Maverick Concert Hall, the Sound-Out meadow and much more.

Another way to enjoy Woodstock + Bethel is through the Experience Woodstock Card. Check out the top section labeled "Experience Woodstock Corridor." Offers include a special on admission to The Museum at Bethel Woods. That's also where we post "Party Bus to Bethel" news and related offers.

80th Annual Library Fair

It's a great tradition in Woodstock. Locals wouldn't miss it and visitors are always thrilled they've discovered it: The Woodstock Library Fair.

It takes place annually on the last Saturday in July. This year's, the 80th, was especially grand. The weather was perfect and there was something for everyone: gourmet food, great books at amazing prices, wonderful music, a white elephant tent, crafts, plants, and plenty for the young at heart: face painting, hat making, games and much more. Oh yes, and a giant 80th birthday cake.

If you missed this year's, don't despair: the next one is Saturday, July 28, 2012.

Hat Making at the Library Fair

A Favorite Group: "Not the Beatles"