Joe Bonamassa Announces 2026 U.S. Summer Tour;

Select Shows with Gov’t Mule, JJ Grey & Mofro, and D.K. Harrell

Special Fan Pre-Sale Begins Tuesday, December 9th at 10 am Local Time

Public On-Sale Follows Friday, December 12th at 10 am Local Time

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit:

jbonamassa.com/tour-dates

Blues-rock titan Joe Bonamassa will return to big stages across America next summer with a newly announced run of U.S. amphitheater and festival dates. The 2026 Summer Tour kicks off June 26th at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts in Bethel, NY, and continues through late August with marquee stops across the country concluding at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, CO.

The run includes select co-headline performances with Gov’t Mule – the enduring, GRAMMY-nominated band led by guitar legend Warren Haynes, celebrated globally for its improvisational depth and roots-rich catalog. JJ Grey & Mofro, the Florida-born soul-rock powerhouse known for vivid storytelling, swamp funk, and masterful Southern songwriting will also join select dates for special-guest performances. Rising blues phenom D.K. Harrell joins the June 26th Bethel, NY date.

A special fan pre-sale launches Tuesday, December 9th at 10 am local time for participating shows, The public on-sale begins Friday, December 12th at 10 am local time, though some dates will go on sale in early 2026 as noted below. Fans can sign up HERE for priority access to the best available seats and to receive exclusive JB content.

Next summer’s dates extend a touring schedule that has kept Bonamassa in motion across the U.S. and Europe for much of the past year. Following a sold-out run of summer amphitheater shows, he has spent the fall performing across the South and Midwest, including the final stretch of dates with longtime keyboardist and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Reese Wynans, who will step back from regular touring after this season. Early 2026 brings another major run through theaters and arenas nationwide before Bonamassa heads overseas for a months-long European tour anchored by two nights at London’s Royal Albert Hall.

At the same time, Bonamassa is releasing B.B. King’s Blues Summit 100 – the wide-reaching, 32-track centennial project created with the B.B. King Estate. The album has been rolling out in monthly volumes since September, with contributions from artists across generations. The full collection arrives February 6th, 2026, underscoring one of the most ambitious recording initiatives of his career.

Amid this activity, Bonamassa’s latest studio album Breakthrough earned a GRAMMY nomination, marking a new milestone at a defining moment in his creative and touring life.

U.S. SUMMER TOUR 2026 (NEWLY ANNOUNCED)

June 26 – Bethel, NY – Bethel Woods Center for the Arts w/ special guest JJ Grey & Mofro & D.K. Harrell**

June 27 – Atlantic City, NJ – Ocean Casino Resort**

June 28 – Newark, NJ – New Jersey Performing Arts Center**

July 29 – Vienna, VA – Wolf Trap w/ Gov't Mule*

July 31 – Bangor, ME – Maine Savings Amphitheater w/ Gov't Mule**

August 1 – Gilford, NH – BankNH Pavilion w/ Gov't Mule**

August 3 – Hyannis, MA – Cape Cod Melody Tent**

August 5 – Bridgeport, CT – Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater w/ special guest JJ Grey & Mofro**

August 7 – Selbyville, DE – Freeman Arts Pavilion*

August 8 – Baltimore, MD – Pier Six Pavilion w/ Gov't Mule**

August 9 – Youngstown, OH – The Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre w/ Gov't Mule**

August 12 – Highland Park, IL – Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, IL*

August 14 – Interlochen, MI – Kresge Auditorium*

August 15 – Welch, MN – Treasure Island Resort & Casino w/ Gov't Mule**

August 16 – Lincoln, NE – Pinewood Bowl Theater w/ Gov't Mule**

August 19 – Cheyenne, WY – Cheyenne Civic Center**

August 21 – Salt Lake City, UT – Eccles Theater**

August 23 – Morrison, CO – Red Rocks Amphitheatre**

*On sale in early 2026

**Participating in 12/9 Fan Presale

ABOUT JOE BONAMASSA

Blues-rock superstar Joe Bonamassa is one of the most celebrated performing musicians of today. As a five-time GRAMMY-nominated artist and 15x Blues Music Award Nominee (4-time winner), he achieved his 29th No.1 album on the Billboard Blues Chart with his highly acclaimed 17th studio album Breakthrough, which has been described as his most adventurous and genre-defying album to date. Only in his 40s, Bonamassa has become a living legend with an astounding multi-genre catalog. He has released more than 50 albums, including studio and live recordings, as well as collaborative albums with his adventurous side projects: Black Country Communion and Rock Candy Funk Party.

A prolific writer who is always on the hunt to expand his eclectic musical horizons, Bonamassa has a limitless work ethic, whether it’s in the studio, on the road, or working with other artists to spur new music. In recent years, he has produced an immense number of albums including Joanne Shaw Taylor, Marc Broussard, Larry McCray, Jimmy Hall, Robert Jon & The Wreck and others for his independent labels Journeyman Records and KTBA Records, and has also launched Journeyman LLC, a full-service artist management, record label, concert promotion, and marketing company that builds awareness for independent artists worldwide. Visit http://www.jbonamassa.com for more information.

For more information, please contact Jon Bleicher at Prospect PR

[jon@prospectpr.com, 973.330.1711]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025

HARDY SETS THE COUNTRY! COUNTRY! TOUR! FOR 2026

TOUR SUPPORT INCLUDES CAMERON WHITCOMB, TUCKER WETMORE, MITCHELL TENPENNY, MUSCADINE BLOODLINE, JAKE WORTHINGTON AND MCCOY MOORE

HARDY FAN CLUB PRESALE STARTS TUESDAY (10/7) AT 12 P.M. LOCAL

GENERAL ONSALE BEGINS FRIDAY (10/10) AT 10 A.M. LOCAL

THE COUNTRY! COUNTRY! TOUR! Admat | Download here

NASHVILLE, TENN. – Making the whole damn country, country, “Nashville wildcard” (Rolling Stone) HARDY continues an electric run with the release of his new studio album COUNTRY! COUNTRY!, its deluxe counterpart COUNTRY! COUNTRY! COUNTRY! and recent headliner at Madison Square Garden. Today he announces THE COUNTRY! COUNTRY! TOUR! set for 2026. Tickets will be available starting with a HARDY Fan Club Presale beginning Tuesday, Oct. 7 at 12 p.m. local time. Additional presales will run throughout the week ahead of the general on-sale beginning Friday, Oct. 10 at 10 a.m. local time at HardyOfficial.com.   

The tour presented by Live Nation kicks off in February in Ontario and continues through August with arenas and amphitheaters across North America. Genre standouts Cameron Whitcomb, Tucker Wetmore, Mitchell Tenpenny, Muscadine Bloodline, Jake Worthington and McCoy Moore will join the tour for select dates.

A variety of different VIP packages and experiences for fans will be offered to take their concert experience to the next level. Packages vary but include premium tickets, exclusive Meet & Greet and individual photo with HARDY, VIP-exclusive merchandise and more. VIP package contents vary based on the offer selected. For more information, visit vipnation.com.

HARDY’s new album COUNTRY! COUNTRY! is a return to his roots. The album and tour take their name literally with songs ranging from celebrations of his youth in the Mississippi mud — “Bottomland” being named for a specific camo pattern HARDY favors for hunting — to commentary on the state of country music at large. In sum, it’s a celebration of what makes HARDY HARDY.

The new collection of songs written by “one of country music’s most talented tunesmiths” (Billboard) includes deluxe-release “Good Ole Boy,” solo penned fan-favorite “Dog Years,” collaborations with ERNEST (“Bro Country”) and Stephen Wilson Jr. (“Bedrooms In The Sky”), and surging radio single “Favorite Country Song” – performed on Jimmy Kimmel Live!.

Wrapping his coast-to-coast rocking JIM BOB World Tour last month, HARDY will round out the year with Country vs. Cancer, a special show benefiting the American Cancer Society – headlining alongside Miranda Lambert, Dierks Bentley, Lanie Gardner and McCoy Moore at the Pinnacle in Nashville. The charitable show is presented by ACS, his recently launched charity endeavor The HARDY Fund and Whiskey Jam. More information here.

The pride of Philadelphia, Mississippi has earned his reputation as “a promising purveyor of keeping the spirit of classic heavy Southern rock alive” (American Songwriter), “capable of writing the big hits for radio, obstinate enough to do something completely unexpected, and savvy enough to find the throughline for it all” (Rolling Stone). A five-time ACM award winner and two-time CMA award winner, HARDY has also won three CMA Triple Play awards, was named the 2022 BMI Country Songwriter of the Year and is a three-time AIMP Songwriter of the Year. He’s collaborated and shared stages with Thomas Rhett, Morgan Wallen, Florida Georgia Line and more.

THE COUNTRY! COUNTRY! TOUR! DATES

February 5 – Oshawa, ON – Tribute Communities Centre*

February 6 – Hamilton, ON – TD Coliseum*

February 7 – London, ON – Canada Life Place*

February 11 – Winnipeg, MB – Canada Life Center*

February 12 – Saskatoon, SK – SaskTel Centre*

February 13 – Edmonton, AB – Rogers Place*

February 19 – Calgary, AB – Scotiabank Saddledome*

February 20 – Penticton, BC – South Okanagan Events Centre*

February 21 – Abbottsford, BC – Abbottsford Centre*

March 19 – Green Bay, WI. – Resch Center*

March 20 – Moline, IL – Vibrant Arena at The MARK*

March 21 – Omaha, NE – CHI Health Center*

March 26 – Allentown, PA – PPL Center*

March 27 – Charleston, WV – Charleston Coliseum*

March 28 – Evansville, IN – Ford Center*

April 9 – Knoxville, TN – Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center^

April 10 – Tupelo, MS – Cadence Bank Arena^

April 17 – Durant, OK – Choctaw Grand Theatre+ **

April 18 – Durant, OK – Choctaw Grand Theatre+ **

April 23 – Jacksonville, FL – VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena^

April 24 – Charleston, SC – Credit One Stadium^

April 25 – Orlando, FL – Kia Center^

May 21 – Cincinnati, OH – Riverbend Music Center #

May 22 – Huntsville, AL – Orion Amphitheater #

May 23 – Orange Beach, AL – The Wharf Amphitheater #

May 28 – Cuyahoga Falls, OH – Blossom Music Center #

May 29 – Buffalo, NY – Darien Lake Amphitheatre #

May 30 – Bethel, NY – Bethel Woods Center for the Arts #

June 4 – Rogers, AR – Walmart AMP*

June 5 – St. Louis, MO – Hollywood Casino Amphitheater *

June 6 – Noblesville, IN – Ruoff Music Center*

June 11 – Columbia, MD – Merriweather Post Pavilion #

June 12 – Virginia Beach, VA – Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach #

June 13 – Raleigh, NC – Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek #

June 25 – Gilford, NH – BankNH Pavilion~

June 26 – Mansfield, MA – Xfinity Center~

June 27 – Camden, NJ – Freedom Mortgage Pavilion~

August 20 – Lubbock, TX – Cooks Garage % **

August 21 – New Braunfels, TX – Whitewater Amphitheater + **

* Cameron Whitcomb, McCoy Moore

^ Mitchell Tenpenny, McCoy Moore

+ McCoy Moore

# Tucker Wetmore, McCoy Moore

~ Muscadine Bloodline, McCoy Moore

% Jake Worthington, McCoy Moore

** indicates non-Live Nation date

CONNECT WITH HARDY

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | X | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE

#   #   #

Media Contacts
Corey Brewer + Rachel Heatherly | Big Loud
corey@bigloud.com, rachel@bigloud.com

 Maya Sarin | Live Nation Concerts
MayaSarin@livenation.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: [Your Name]
press@bethelwoodscenter.org / [Phone]

Peace, Love & Pumpkins Returns to Bethel Woods for Fifth Consecutive Year

Immersive walk-thru Halloween experience with family fun, themed displays, and special events

BETHEL, NY (September 23, 2025): Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, the nonprofit cultural center at the historic site of the 1969 Woodstock festival, announces the return of Peace, Love & Pumpkins, a half-mile walk-thru Halloween experience running nightly from October 10 through November 2, 2025.

Guests will wind through garden trails illuminated by thousands of jack-o-lanterns and glowing displays of themed pumpkin art. Fan-favorite scenes include Woodstock festival icons, dinosaurs, mermaids, witches, and more. New displays for 2025 include “Farm Animals,” “Tim Burton,” “Frankenstein,” “Skeleton Band” on the Horizon Stage, and “Grateful Dead” members Phil Lesh and Bob Weir.

New Highlights

• Halloween themed Drone Show on October 11, 17, 25, and 31 with shows at 7:00 PM and 8:30 PM.
• Peace Glow at the Terrace Stage featuring hundreds of hand carved jack-o-lanterns lining the stone tiers.

Alongside the trail, visitors can enjoy pumpkin spice treats, seasonal food and drinks, and capture festive photo moments across the historic grounds.

Special Events & Add-Ons

• Murder Mystery Mixer: A Wedding in Transylvania (October 17)
• Sensory-Friendly Experience (October 22) for individuals of all ages with autism, complex developmental disabilities, or sensory sensitivities
• Friday Night Fright (October 24)
• Halloween at Peace, Love & Pumpkins (October 31)
• Add-on: Boos & Booze (October 11, 18, 25, and November 1)

Please note: Access to the Night Market is exclusive to Peace, Love & Pumpkins ticket holders.

Admission & Ticketing

Admission is $25 for adults (ages 18 and up), $15 for youth (ages 3–17), and free for children ages two and under. Timed ticketing will be in effect on Fridays and Saturdays. Day-of prices are $30 for adults and $20 for youth. Advance purchase is encouraged.

The Museum at Bethel Woods will be closed to the general public and to Peace, Love & Pumpkins guests on October 19 and 26 after 5 PM.

Presented in partnership with Johnstons Subaru, Craft New York, Beam Suntory, and CDPHP.

When

October 10–November 2, 2025 | 6:30–10:00 PM nightly (last entry at 9:00 PM)

Where

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts
200 Hurd Road, Bethel, NY 12720

About Bethel Woods Center for the Arts

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, located at the historic site of the 1969 Woodstock festival, is committed to building upon its rich history of peace and music by providing extraordinary experiences and access to the arts. With the belief that the world can be made better through the power of music and the arts, Bethel Woods makes music, visual, performing, and creative arts programming available and accessible to the community, helping people of all ages tap into their creative potential.

Located 90 miles north of New York City in Bethel, NY, the 1,000-acre campus includes the Pavilion Stage amphitheater with seating for 16,000, an intimate 422-seat indoor Event Gallery, a 528-site Campground, and a Conservatory and Studios for arts education programming. The award-winning Museum at Bethel Woods carries on the history, spirit, and learnings of the 1960s and the Woodstock Music & Art Fair through preservation and interpretation of the historic site. Bethel Woods is a not-for-profit organization that relies on the generous support of individuals, corporations, and foundations. Learn more at BethelWoodsCenter.org.

###

DRAFT FOR REVIEW
Contact: Melissa Banks
melissa@rosengrouppr.com / 406-599-1648

Woodstock Alumnus, Filmmaker & Leadership Coach Steve Alexander Joins Board of The Museum at Bethel Woods

BETHEL, NEW YORK (June TK, 2025) – Steve Alexander, filmmaker, licensed psychotherapist, executive leadership coach, and 1969 Woodstock Music and Art Fair alumnus, has joined the board of The Museum at Bethel Woods, located on the historic site of the original Woodstock festival.

Alexander was just a teenager when he attended Woodstock in 1969. Since then, he has remained deeply connected to the cultural legacy of the festival, as a keynote speaker and contributor at Woodstock’s 50th anniversary and serving as a key voice in the PBS documentary Woodstock: Three Days That Defined a Generation.

“Steve represents the spirit of Woodstock—an era defined by authenticity, activism, and creative expression,” said Dr. Neal V. Hitch, Senior Curator, The Museum at Bethel Woods. “He not only witnessed this pivotal cultural moment but has spent his life advancing the values it inspired through his work in filmmaking and storytelling through film, leadership coaching and years of public service. His perspective will be invaluable as we continue to share the story of Woodstock in deeper, more meaningful ways.”

The Museum at Bethel Woods explores the social, political, and cultural impact of the 1960s through the lens of the Woodstock festival. Through immersive exhibits, personal stories, and multimedia experiences, the Museum highlights Woodstock as a defining moment in a decade of radical transformation and connects its legacy to today’s conversations around community, creativity, and change. Educational programs and events cultivate intergenerational dialogue, while ongoing preservation efforts honor the history of the site itself.

In addition to his deep ties to Woodstock, Alexander brings decades of experience in communications, leadership, and public service. He is the founder of The Steve Alexander Group, a consulting firm that has trained thousands in public speaking, media relations, and organizational strategy, and has held senior roles at top agencies including chief executive of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists and Regional Director of Burson-Marsteller, the world’s largest public relations firm.

His creative work includes The Secret Art of Human Flight, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival and was named one of 2024’s top ten independent films. He is currently completing a book on communication, I Don’t Mean to Interrupt, and has two films in development, My Elephant Odyssey and Nuur.

Alexander has also served in a number of public appointments, including president of the Medical Board of California, chairman of the California Behavioral Sciences Board and a commissioner for the California State Athletic Commission.

“Woodstock shaped my worldview in ways I’m still discovering,” said Alexander. “To join the board of The Museum at Bethel Woods is to come full circle. I’m honored to help steward the legacy of Woodstock, amplify its messages for a new generation, and support a museum that continues to inspire reflection, dialogue, and connection.”

To learn more about The Museum at Bethel Woods, visit https://www.bethelwoodscenter.org/museum.

###

About Bethel Woods Center for the Arts

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, located at the historic site of the 1969 Woodstock festival, is committed to building upon its rich history of peace and music by providing extraordinary experiences and access to the arts. With the belief that the world can be made better through the power of music and the arts, Bethel Woods makes music, visual, performing and creative arts programming available and accessible to the community, helping people of all ages discover and tap into their creative potential.

Located 90 miles north of New York City in Bethel, NY, the 1,000-acre campus includes the Pavilion Stage amphitheater with seating for 16,000, an intimate 422-seat indoor Event Gallery, a 528-site Campground, and a Conservatory and Studios for arts education programming. The award-winning Museum at Bethel Woods carries on the history, spirit, and learnings of the 1960s and the Woodstock Music & Art Fair through the preservation and interpretation of the historic site. Bethel Woods is a not-for-profit organization that relies on the generous support of individuals, corporations, and foundations. For more information, please visit www.BethelWoodsCenter.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Robyn Gerry and Patricia Salenger Elected to Bethel Woods Center for the Arts Board of Trustees

Bethel, NY – May 27, 2025 — Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, the nonprofit cultural center and site of the 1969 Woodstock festival, today announced two new members of the organization’s esteemed Board of Trustees: Robyn Gerry and Patricia Salenger.

“Both Robyn and Patricia bring a wealth of experience in philanthropy, community engagement, and leadership that supports Bethel Woods’ mission to provide extraordinary experiences, expand access to the arts, and preserve and interpret the 1969 Woodstock site,” said Eric Frances, CEO of Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. “Robyn and Patricia are long-time supporters of Bethel Woods and have played a pivotal role in the creation and expansion of some of our most impactful projects. They each support numerous nonprofits and initiatives across the region, and their perspective and input will be invaluable as we continue to grow our impact.”

With more than four decades of experience in marketing, nonprofit governance, and community development, Gerry brings a deep-rooted personal and professional commitment to the mission and legacy of Bethel Woods. The original concept for Bethel Woods—which was founded by her father Alan Gerry—came from Gerry’s idea to preserve the historic site of the 1969 Woodstock festival and create an arts and cultural center to serve as a hub in the community. She has held senior positions with Group W Communications and Cablevision Industries, where she served as Director of Marketing and later Director of Work/Life Resources. Before retiring, she was Bethel Woods’ Vice President of Marketing. Alongside her professional endeavors, she has passionately served numerous civic and nonprofit organizations, including founding and leading Nana’s House Child Care Center and serving as Board Chair for the Sullivan County Child Care Council and C.A.C.H.E.

“I'm honored and thrilled to serve on the Board of Trustees for Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, a place very near and dear to me. Having held many roles there since its inception, it is a privilege to serve in this new capacity,” said Gerry.

Gerry also serves on The Museum at Bethel Woods’ Board of Trustees and has been a long-standing member of the fundraising committee, serving as the 2025 Chair of the annual “Backstage at Bethel Woods” gala. She is also a board member of the Gerry Foundation.

A resident of Sullivan County, Salenger has a storied history of supporting nonprofits. She helped start the Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center, founded the organization Mothers Voices—which helped families with AIDS—and served on the board of The American Cancer Society and Honors Bridge Club, one of the most renowned in the world. Salenger started her career as a flight attendant with TWA and Pan Am, wanting to travel the world. Her professional career began with a company she started, Pateli Fashions, part of the Russ Togs family.

“Joining the board at Bethel Woods is more than an honor. It's a meaningful opportunity to help steward a place where history, art, and inspiration intersect. As a board member, I’m proud to contribute to a legacy that began with a movement for peace and continues today through education, music, and cultural connection. Together, we’re not only preserving the spirit of Woodstock, but also nurturing future generations to dream, create, and lead with peace and purpose,” said Salenger.

The Bethel Woods Board of Trustees supports the Center’s vision to make the world a better place through the power of music and the arts. This group brings decades of experience from their professional careers and tenures on other boards to contribute a variety of skills in key areas including management, business development, fundraising, and marketing.

About Bethel Woods Center for the Arts

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, located at the historic site of the 1969 Woodstock festival, is committed to building upon its rich history of peace and music by providing extraordinary experiences and access to the arts. With the belief that the world can be made better through the power of music and the arts, Bethel Woods makes music, visual, performing and creative arts programming available and accessible to the community, helping people of all ages discover and tap into their creative potential.

Located 90 miles north of New York City in Bethel, NY, the 1,000-acre campus includes the Pavilion Stage amphitheater with seating for 16,000, an intimate 422-seat indoor Event Gallery, a 528-site Campground, and a Conservatory and Studios for arts education programming. The award-winning Museum at Bethel Woods carries on the history, spirit, and learnings of the 1960s and the Woodstock Music & Art Fair through the preservation and interpretation of the historic site. Bethel Woods is a not-for-profit organization that relies on the generous support of individuals, corporations, and foundations. For more information, please visit www.BethelWoodsCenter.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts Awarded $219,000 by the New York State Council on the Arts

Funds Will Go Toward an Upgraded Lawn Sound System for Award-Winning Pavilion Stage

Bethel, NY (June 3, 2025) — Bethel Woods Center for the Arts announced today a grant award totaling $219,000 from the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) to support the organization upgrading the lawn’s sound system for the pavilion stage. This grant is part of a capital project funding announcement by NYSCA, which totals over $86 million to 134 capital projects across New York State.

The sound system upgrade will significantly enhance the audio experience for guests seated on the lawn at the iconic outdoor amphitheater, located at the site of the 1969 Woodstock festival. The improvements come on the heels of Bethel Woods being named the Best Outdoor Music Venue in the U.S. by USA Today’s 10Best Readers' Choice Awards in 2025. This investment will ensure that all guests, regardless of where they sit, enjoy an immersive, high-quality audio experience that matches the venue’s national reputation for excellence.

“We are deeply honored to receive this generous support from NYSCA,” said Eric Frances, CEO of Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. “We are committed to providing an exceptional experience for every guest who visits our hallowed grounds. This grant allows us to make meaningful upgrades to our lawn sound system so that every person, no matter where they choose to sit, can fully enjoy the magic of live performance in our award-winning amphitheater.”

“Our arts and culture sector is a powerhouse, inspiring the world with innovation and creativity,” Governor Hochul explained. “By investing in our museums, our theaters and our arts centers, we enrich our communities, strengthen local economies and improve tourism all over the State.”

NYSCA Executive Director Erika Mallin added, “These transformative projects improve communities, drive tourism and foster innovation in the field. Thanks to the Governor and the Legislature’s dedication to arts and culture, we are building a thriving future for our world-renowned creative sector. Congratulations to Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, NYSCA is a proud supporter of your contributions to New York’s arts and culture.”

About Bethel Woods Center for the Arts

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, located at the historic site of the 1969 Woodstock festival, is committed to building upon its rich history of peace and music by providing extraordinary experiences and access to the arts. With the belief that the world can be made better through the power of music and the arts, Bethel Woods makes music, visual, performing and creative arts programming available and accessible to the community, helping people of all ages discover and tap into their creative potential.

Located 90 miles north of New York City in Bethel, NY, the 1,000-acre campus includes the Pavilion Stage amphitheater with seating for 16,000, an intimate 422-seat indoor Event Gallery, a 528-site Campground, and a Conservatory and Studios for arts education programming. The award-winning Museum at Bethel Woods carries on the history, spirit, and learnings of the 1960s and the Woodstock Music & Art Fair through the preservation and interpretation of the historic site. Bethel Woods is a not-for-profit organization that relies on the generous support of individuals, corporations, and foundations. For more information, please visit www.BethelWoodsCenter.org.

About the New York State Council on the Arts

The mission of the New York State Council on the Arts is to foster and advance the full breadth of New York State’s arts, culture, and creativity for all. To support the ongoing recovery of the arts across New York State, the Council on the Arts will award over $161 million in FY 2026, serving hundreds of arts organizations and artists across all 10 state regions. The Council on the Arts further advances New York's creative culture by convening leaders in the field and providing organizational and professional development opportunities and informational resources. Created by Governor Nelson Rockefeller in 1960 and continued with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature, the Council is an agency that is part of the Executive Branch. For more information on NYSCA, please visit www.arts.ny.gov, and follow NYSCA's Facebook page, on X @NYSCArts and Instagram @NYSCouncilontheArts.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts Named #1 Amphitheater by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards

Bethel, NY – May 21, 2025 — Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, the nonprofit cultural center and site of the 1969 Woodstock festival, is thrilled to announce that the Pavilion at Bethel Woods has been named the #1 amphitheater in the United States by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. This prestigious honor underscores the venue’s commitment to delivering exceptional live music experiences in a beautiful setting, rich with cultural heritage.

“We are deeply honored to receive this recognition from USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards,” said Eric Frances, CEO of Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. “To be named the best amphitheater in the country on the very grounds where a generation gathered to celebrate peace and music is incredibly meaningful. At Bethel Woods, we strive not only to honor that moment in history but to carry its spirit forward through every performance, every gathering, and every guest experience.”

Nestled on the historic site of the 1969 Woodstock Festival, Bethel Woods offers a unique blend of world-class performances, breathtaking natural surroundings, and a deep connection to music history. The 15,000-seat Pavilion, complemented by the intimate Event Gallery and scenic Terrace Stage, provides a diverse range of performances from renowned artists across various genres.

As part of the award-winning venue, visitors can access the Museum at Bethel Woods, educational classes, and access to arts and culture. Plus, the Campground at Bethel Woods offers a one-of-a-kind experience for concert goers and tourists alike. Following an incredibly successful first season, the campground will now be open beyond show nights with new features and accommodations, including a 9-hole disc golf course.

Summer Concert Lineup

Bethel Woods is set to host an exciting lineup of performances at the pavilion this summer, featuring a diverse array of artists including: Dave Matthews Band, Luke Bryan with special guests George Birge, Avery Anna, Drake Milligan & DJ Rock, Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Avril Lavigne with special guests Simple Plan and We The Kings, KIDZ BOP, "Weird Al" Yankovic with special guest Puddles Pity Party, Def Leppard with special guest The Struts, Cyndi Lauper with Jake Wesley Rogers, Barenaked Ladies with special guests Sugar Ray & Fastball, The Offspring with special guests Jimmy Eat World and New Found Glory, +LIVE+ & Collective Soul with special guests Our Lady Peace and Greylin James Rue, Bret Michaels & Vince Neil with special guest Stephen Pearcy, Steve Miller Band with special guest The Rascals, Dierks Bentley with Zach Top and The Band Loula, Bonnie Raitt with special guest Jimmie Vaughan & The Tilt-A-Whirl Band, Neil Young and the Chrome Hearts, The Black Keys with special guest Gary Clark Jr., blink-182 with special guest Alkaline Trio, The Black Crowes, and Heart. The venue plans to announce several more A-list performances over the coming weeks. See full lineup HERE.

“Thank you to everyone who joins us each year, and to those who voted for us,” added Frances. “This award reflects the dedication of our team, the support of our community, and the enduring legacy of the Woodstock festival. We look forward to the season ahead and continuing to provide unforgettable experiences for music lovers and artists from around the world.”

Tickets for all events are available now at www.BethelWoodsCenter.org.

About Bethel Woods Center for the Arts

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, located at the historic site of the 1969 Woodstock festival, is committed to building upon its rich history of peace and music by providing extraordinary experiences and access to the arts. With the belief that the world can be made better through the power of music and the arts, Bethel Woods makes music, visual, performing and creative arts programming available and accessible to the community, helping people of all ages discover and tap into their creative potential.

Located 90 miles north of New York City in Bethel, NY, the lush 800-acre campus includes the Pavilion Stage amphitheater with seating for 16,000, an intimate 422-seat indoor Event Gallery, and a Conservatory for arts education programming. The award-winning Museum at Bethel Woods carries on the history, spirit, and learnings of the 1960s and the Woodstock Music & Art Fair through the preservation and interpretation of the historic site. Bethel Woods is a not-for-profit organization that relies on the generous support of individuals, corporations, and foundations. For more information, please visit www.BethelWoodsCenter.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Melissa Banks
melissa@rosengrouppr.com / 406.599.1648

New Experiences Await as Bethel Woods Unveils 2025 Season Lineup

– Concerts, culture, and expanded camping options promise an unforgettable season in the Sullivan Catskills –

NEW YORK (April 16, 2025) — Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, the nonprofit cultural center and site of the 1969 Woodstock festival, today shared what’s to come in its 2025 lineup of summer concerts, festivals, exhibits, and educational programming.

“With the Museum’s new special exhibit, a stellar concert lineup, immersive family programs, and the ability to camp on site throughout the season, 2025 is going to be a jam-packed year at Bethel Woods,” said Eric Frances, CEO of Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. “Whether you're here for the music, the history, or the creativity, there’s something for everyone, and we’re thrilled to welcome our community back to experience it all.”

Star-Studded Concert Lineup: Dave Matthews Band, Bonnie Raitt, Avril Lavigne, and More

A leading contender for Best Amphitheater in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, Bethel Woods’ robust concert calendar will feature an array of artists including: Dave Matthews Band, Luke Bryan with special guests George Birge, Avery Anna, Drake Milligan & DJ Rock, Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Avril Lavigne with special guests Simple Plan and We The Kings, KIDZ BOP, "Weird Al" Yankovic with special guest Puddles Pity Party, Def Leppard with special guest The Struts, Cyndi Lauper with Jake Wesley Rogers, Barenaked Ladies.

DRAFT FOR APPROVAL

Media Contact: Sabrina Christiansen
sabrina@rosengrouppr.com / 801.836.0789

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts Seeks Proposals to Memorialize Iconic Message Tree

- Artistic tributes will pay homage to beacon of 1969 Woodstock festival -

Bethel, NY (December 10, 2024) — As part of its commitment to preserving the legacy and history of Woodstock, Bethel Woods Center for the Arts—the historic site of the 1969 music and art festival—is seeking proposals from artists and artisans to create commemorative works of art in honor of the legendary Message Tree, a central symbol of the 1969 Woodstock festival. The Message Tree, a 60-foot red maple located on the site of the original festival, served as a unique gathering place for attendees who left messages, notes, and well-wishes pinned to its bark, making it an enduring symbol of peace, love, and community.

After more than 100 years of life, the Message Tree was no longer viable and at risk of falling. In September 2024, the tree was carefully taken down, but its legacy will live on. As part of an effort to preserve and honor this iconic piece of history, Bethel Woods is seeking proposals from artists to transform the wood of the fallen tree into lasting works of art that celebrate its role in the 1969 festival and its significance in the cultural memory of Woodstock. These works will be exhibited as part of the *Arts and Crafts of Woodstock* at the Bethel Woods Museum in 2025.

RFP Details:

• Project Scope: The selected artists will create sculptures, carvings, or other artistic works from the wood of the Message Tree. These pieces will be displayed at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts and may be used to further preserve and communicate the history of the Message Tree and the spirit of Woodstock.
• Artistic Vision: Artists are encouraged to draw inspiration from the Message Tree’s rich legacy as a symbol of free expression, unity, and the enduring impact of the Woodstock festival. The works will serve as both a tribute to the past and a tangible connection

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact: Sabrina Christiansen

sabrina@rosengrouppr.com 801-836-0789

Stay Where Music is the Destination
Campground at Bethel Woods Expands Booking Dates and Offerings
– Original site of Woodstock’s campsite now available beyond show days  –
 

March 19, 2025 (BETHEL, NY) – A historical pillar of the American music scene, Bethel Woods Center for the Arts—a non-profit performance venue and original site of the 1969 Woodstock festival—is excited to announce that bookings for its second season of camping are officially open. Following an incredibly successful first season, the one-of-a-kind campground will now be open with new features and accommodations.
 

Bethel Woods is expanding its camping options beyond show nights. From May through October, guests can now enjoy a variety of camping experiences in the days surrounding concerts and festivals. This change comes after Bethel Woods surveyed first-season campers and found a strong demand for extended accommodations. The survey also highlighted that nine out of ten guests reported being very or extremely satisfied with their experience.
 

“Throughout our first season, we closely monitored the feedback from our guests and made the necessary changes to enhance their experience. Among their favorite perks of camping, guests told us they loved the freedom to skip post-concert traffic and unwind under the stars of our historic campground.” said Eric Frances, CEO, Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. “An original festival advertisement read, ‘walk around... without seeing a skyscraper or a traffic light,’ highlighting that the iconic weekend was about much more than just music; it was an escape from reality. We are thrilled to continue offering that sense of retreat today.”
 

The Campground offers two camping locations. Pavilion Camping features in-venue glamping and premier tent sites, steps away from the main stage; and Historic Camping, on the original 1969 camping sites, with spaces for RVs and cars—a legendary location with modern amenities. Guests will now be able to choose their exact campsite while booking, making it easier to stay next to friends. Other new amenities to the campground include a camp store and food service, additional picnic tables, fire pits, and community game areas, including a Woodstock historically-focused disc golf course. Plus, with Lake Superior State Park located just around the corner, the site is perfect for a day trip to the lake for boating and swimming.

“The Campground at Bethel Woods was a dream of ours for years, and seeing it come to life for the community has been surreal. We are excited to continue expanding and evolving the campground for years to come,” added Frances.

For full details on booking and offerings please see: https://www.bethelwoodscenter.org/camping

About Bethel Woods Center for the Arts

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, located at the historic site of the 1969 Woodstock festival, is committed to building upon its rich history of peace and music by providing extraordinary experiences and access to the arts. With the belief that the world can be made better through the power of music and the arts, Bethel Woods makes music, visual, performing and creative arts programming available and accessible to the community, helping people of all ages discover and tap into their creative potential.

Located 90 miles north of New York City in Bethel, NY, the lush 800-acre campus includes the Pavilion Stage amphitheater with seating for 16,000, an intimate 422-seat indoor Event Gallery, and a Conservatory for arts education programming. The award-winning Museum at Bethel Woods carries on the history, spirit, and learnings of the 1960s and the Woodstock Music & Art Fair through the preservation and interpretation of the historic site. Bethel Woods is a not-for-profit organization that relies on the generous support of individuals, corporations, and foundations. For more information, please visit www.BethelWoodsCenter.org.

– Interactive installation explores the lesser-known elements of Woodstock’s historic site, from the festival’s marketplace to its revolutionary camping experience –

March 10, 2025 (BETHEL, NY) – The Museum at Bethel Woods, located on the historic site of the 1969 Woodstock Music and Art Fair, is excited to announce the opening of its 2025 Special Exhibit, How Bazaar: Arts, Crafts, & Camping at Woodstock. This exhibit explores two integral pieces of the Woodstock experience: the Bindy Bazaar marketplace and the festival’s pioneering approach to on-site camping. Drawing on over five years of extensive research, oral histories, and archaeological investigations, this exhibit invites visitors to explore the rich and often overlooked elements that contributed to Woodstock’s legacy.

Woodstock was one of the first major music festivals to offer on-site camping, allowing attendees to remain immersed in the experience without ever leaving the grounds. This communal atmosphere fostered a unique sense of togetherness that became central to Woodstock’s cultural significance. Vast stretches of farmland east and west of the festival site transformed into vibrant tent cities, providing festival-goers with a peaceful escape in nature as they enjoyed three days of peace, love, and music.

Another key feature of the festival was the Bindy Bazaar, a wooded marketplace that was meant to serve as the festival’s main entrance. Featuring winding trails and vendor booths nestled among the trees, the Bindy Bazaar was designed to bridge the gap between the real world and the festival experience. Attendees strolled through trails like Gentle Path, Groovy Way, and High Way, where artisans and vendors sold crafts, clothing, and handmade goods. Over the years, extensive research and preservation efforts have uncovered new insights into this area, leading to the restoration of the Bindy Bazaar trails and a deeper understanding of its role in the Woodstock story.

The launch of this exhibit coincides with a new era for Bethel Woods, as the historic site now offers camping opportunities for concert attendees, allowing modern visitors to experience the same landscape that welcomed 450,000 people during the iconic 1969 festival.

“This exhibition is the culmination of years of dedicated research, storytelling, and archaeological exploration to uncover a deeper understanding of the Woodstock experience and the nature of our historic site,” said Museum Director and Senior Curator, Dr. Neal V Hitch. “As we continue to activate and preserve new areas of the historic site, we are excited to offer visitors the opportunity to connect with the festival’s legacy in a meaningful way and see how its spirit still inspires us today.”

The exhibition will showcase a selection of artifacts collected over several years in preparation for this event. Many of these connections with donors were fostered through the Museum’s ongoing Oral History Initiative, which launched in 2020 and has since preserved over 1,000 stories.

Photographs captured by David Shelburne, and generously donated by his wife, Ellen Shelburne, will bring the Woodstock experience to life as large-scale murals of the Bindy Bazaar Woods and Best Road campgrounds. Ellen, who was interviewed for the Museum’s oral history project in 2023, returned to the festival site in 2024 for the first time to experience Bethel Woods’ new glamping offering and revisit her Woodstock memories—a journey that was highlighted in an AP article.

Camping equipment, sleeping bags, blankets, and clothing worn at the festival will come together to form a diorama of a festival campsite. Also featured are a camp stove and lantern donated by Carl and Wayne Kieper, who were interviewed by the Museum in 2023 and 2024. Their 2024 return to the site, where they saw Woodstock alumni Santana, was recently featured in a Toronto Sun article.

Kenneth Bray, a silversmith who had a booth at the festival in 1969 has recreated some of his iconic Woodstock designs for display. His jewelry will be for sale through the Museum Store.

Archaeological artifacts collected by the Museum during professional surveys of the site will also be displayed, showcasing the types of food items and cooking equipment that were brought to Woodstock by attendees prepared to camp.

How Bazaar: Arts, Crafts, & Camping at Woodstock will be open to the public from April 1 through December 31, 2025. Admission to the Special Exhibit is included with a ticket to The Museum at Bethel Woods or available separately for $5. Tickets are on sale now at www.BethelWoodsCenter.org.

About Bethel Woods Center for the Arts

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, located at the historic site of the 1969 Woodstock festival, is committed to building upon its rich history of peace and music by providing extraordinary experiences and access to the arts. With the belief that the world can be made better through the power of music and the arts, Bethel Woods makes music, visual, performing and creative arts programming available and accessible to the community, helping people of all ages discover and tap into their creative potential.

Located 90 miles north of New York City in Bethel, NY, the lush 800-acre campus includes the Pavilion Stage amphitheater with seating for 16,000, an intimate 422-seat indoor Event Gallery, and a Conservatory for arts education programming. The award-winning Museum at Bethel Woods carries on the history, spirit, and learnings of the 1960s and the Woodstock Music & Art Fair through the preservation and interpretation of the historic site. Bethel Woods is a not-for-profit organization that relies on the generous support of individuals, corporations, and foundations. For more information, please visit www.BethelWoodsCenter.org.