Woodstock Music & Arts Fair

October 13th 2024 - 12pm to 6pm

WOODSTOCK FESTIVAL

Experience the Magic – A Celebration of Music, Art, and Woodstock Spirit!

Join us in Bearsville on Sunday, October 13th, from noon to 6 pm, for a special event that brings the vibrant energy of Woodstock’s iconic Music & Art Fair back to life.

Woodstock’s enduring legacy to the 1960’s is its love of community, celebrated by the WAIV (‘Woodstock Appreciates its Volunteers’) day earlier in the summer, where volunteers are honored for their contribution to the town.

Our Woodstock Music & Art Fair in October raises money for these special organizations, via food and drink sales, ticket prices, and sponsorship. Please join us on October 13th and find out more.

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Local Live Music Lineup

Legendary Woodstock Sounds, Bluegrass Fusion & Soulful Delta Blues

Prepare for a diverse and captivating lineup at the Music & Arts Fair, featuring three outstanding performances: Woodstock icon Brian Mitchell, the contemporary bluegrass brilliance of the Abby Hollander Band, and the soulful, rollicking blues of Bennett Harris. This eclectic mix of musical styles promises an unforgettable day of music, honoring tradition while embracing new sounds.

  • Brian Mitchell

    A Woodstock Legend

    Brian Mitchell, a master of multiple instruments, has graced stages alongside some of the greatest names in music, including Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Levon Helm, and BB King.

    His versatility on piano, Hammond B-3 organ, accordion, and harmonica, paired with his soulful vocal style, has earned him five Grammy-winning albums and an induction into the New York Blues Hall of Fame. As the leader of Brian Mitchell & Friends and a member of The Weight, his deep connection to Woodstock’s musical legacy will shine in an unforgettable performance.

  • Abby Hollander Band

    Bluegrass with a Modern Twist

    Abby Hollander brings a fresh take on traditional bluegrass with her Brooklyn-based band.

    Featuring Jason Borisoff on guitar, Ellery Marshall on banjo, and Jacob Tilove on mandolin, the Abby Hollander Band blends time-honored bluegrass sounds with contemporary energy. Hollander’s award-winning songwriting and the band’s seamless collaboration have earned them spots at major festivals, including Grey Fox. Their music creates a vibrant, dynamic experience that reflects both the deep roots of bluegrass and the forward momentum of modern music.

  • Bennett Harris

    Soulful Delta Blues & Ragtime

    Get ready for a rousing performance when Bennett Harris takes the stage with his acoustic guitars and harmonica, delivering a blend of Delta blues, ragtime, and original compositions.

    With inspirations ranging from Bessie Smith and Robert Johnson to Muddy Waters and Bonnie Raitt, Bennett’s intricate fingerpicking and masterful bottleneck slide guitar bring to life the rich traditions of American blues. Playing an old Gibson flat top and a pre-WWII National steel guitar, he captures the raw, gritty essence of the Delta blues. Having performed at renowned venues across the Northeast, Bennett’s show is sure to evoke both emotion and excitement.

  • Phylis Elkind

    Song Circle

    Join the Bearsville Music & Arts Fair Song Circle for a break from the bands and a chance to sing with others.

    Open to all ages and skill levels, at 1.30pm in the Grove, this uplifting experience will be led by Phyllis Elkind, a talented singer and guitarist who teaches and performs across New York City and the Hudson Valley. Come sing with us - it's good for the soul

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Workshop, Exhibits & Demos

Experience a vibrant celebration of creativity at our Festival! Dive into interactive workshops like community painting, jewelry making, pottery, and textile art, or marvel at the incredible wood craft demonstrations. Our Festival also features exhibitions from Woodstock’s voluntary organizations, an artisan market filled with handcrafted goods, and fascinating displays of green technology and sustainability. Whether you're participating in the hands-on activities or exploring the exhibits, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss this unforgettable day of artistic expression and community spirit!

  • Branch Workshop

    Meet Linda Facci, founder of Facci Designs and a talented fiber artist known for transforming simple branches into beautiful, handcrafted pieces. At the Festival, she'll showcase her unique technique and lead a hands-on workshop. Don’t forget—it’s BYOB: Bring Your Own Branch from around the Park!

     

  • Nature Workshop

    Join Muriel Stallworth from the Woodstock School of Art at the Festival for Earth's Palette: Grind Your Own Pigment! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll grind local minerals into pigments, create tempera paints and inks, and craft your own artwork. All materials provided—come explore natural pigment-making!

  • Community Mural

    Renowned Woodstock artist Mike Dubois will be setting up a vibrant community mural atthe Festival, and YOU are invited to help bring it to life! Join in the fun, get creative, and leave your mark on this collaborative masterpiece. All supplies are provided, just bring your imagination! It’s interactive, hands-on, and guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience for artists of all ages.

  • Collage Workshop

    Join collage artists Pat Horner and Grian MacGregor for a hands-on workshop where you can create your own collage about climate change or a personal portrait for yourself, a friend, or a family member. All materials are provided! Pat Horner has exhibited her work internationally for over 30 years, while Grian MacGregor is creator of the Ivy Vine Players Puppet Theater.

  • Wood Carving Demo

    Introducing Hoppy Quick, "The Catskill Mountain Woodsman,". Known for his masterful chainsaw carvings
    of the region’s black bears, Hoppy has spent his life in the Catskill Mountains, earning the nickname "Bearman." Watch him in action as he brings these majestic creatures to life and explore his handcrafted works, available for purchase.

     

FESTIVAL MISSION

Supporting Our Community Through Art, Music, and Giving

A Festival with a Purpose

Bearsville's Music & Art Fair is more than just a celebration of music and culture—it’s a community-driven event with a mission to give back.

The Spirit of Woodstock is on show every day, expressed by the work of the community of volunteers. They organize the Fire Departments and Rescue Squad, offer food pantries and soup kitchens and ensure our environment stays as beautiful and pristine as it is. This Festival is designed around them Not only is money donated from the ticket sales and the food and drink on offer, but they will all be there - giving you an opportunity to find out more and maybe think about getting involved in some way.

Known for its intimate, family-friendly atmosphere, Bearsville has become a beloved destination for live music and one-day festivals nestled along the scenic Sawkill Creek. The Music & Art Fair, held at the peak of the breathtaking Leaf Peeping season, marks the final festival of the summer. Set against a backdrop of vibrant fall hues from sycamore, maple and oak trees, this festival offers an unforgettable experience, combining the beauty of nature with the joy of music and community spirit.

ARTS & ACTIVITIES

Arts & Crafts Exhibitors & Vendors

Come and be creative at the Woodstock Music & Art Fair! Join interactive art sessions that both adults and children can enjoy, including the chance to contribute to a Community Painting led by renowned muralist and international poster artist Mike Dubois.

Explore a range of hands-on activities such as painting, jewelry making, pottery, and textile art, with active artists eager to share their techniques and invite you to ‘give it a try.’

Stroll through the vibrant artisan market, where Woodstock’s talented makers showcase and sell their beautiful handcrafted goods, ranging from art to unique crafts. It’s a day of creativity, connection, and discovery!

MORE ABOUT THE EXHITBTIORS & VENDORS

FOOD & DRINK

Seasonal Food & Drinks to Savor

Indulge in a selection of fresh, homemade, and delicious food and drinks at the Music & Art Fair, perfect for both adults and kids! Enjoy seasonal favorites with plenty of kid-friendly specials, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

The Fall BBQ & Chilli Menu offers mouth-watering dishes that capture the essence of this time of year, while our handmade cocktails bring a seasonal twist. Sip on a creamy pumpkin spice coffee, warm up with Hot Apple Cider, or enjoy our favorite Berry Martini. For beer lovers, Sierra Nevada craft beer will also be available.

Fun for all the Family

This family-friendly festival is a celebration of creativity and community, designed to entertain and inspire visitors of all ages.

  • Kids Corner
    Fun

    There is a fun lineup of free activities for kids too! Enjoy outdoor games such as ping pong and corn hole, bocce ball, badminton and paddleball. And discover the cloth-covered tee-pee made from fallen tree-trunks, just waiting to be painted.

  • Bearsville Park & Creek

    Enjoy Bearsville Park, our stunning woodland, overlooking Sawkill Creek, showcasing beautiful fall colors. Stop by the Grove, a woodland 'cathedral' of tall pine and sycamore trees and the grave of Albert Grossman. Read abou the 12 iconic Woodstock albums on the Music Trail

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  • Rock & Roll Tours

    Take a journey through the history of rock and roll music with Larry Germick of NYC's Rock Junket. Unearth fascinating stories about iconic musicians and pivotal moments in rock history, all set against the backdrop of Bearsville's vibrant musical heritage.

    Tour Times: 2:00 PM & 4:00 PM

  • Explore the Nature Trail

    Step into the wild with our FREE Nature Trail adventures, guided by Trailsman Dave Holden. Discover the hidden wonders of the Bearsville landscape, and learn all about the Sawkill Creek, and the insects, animals and plants that make this area so unique.

    Trail Times: 1:00 PM & 3PM

  • Center Amenities

    Extensive car parking, hard-wired routers for faster wi-fi, high-quality bathrooms, as well as plenty of seating throughout the park are all available. Guests are welcome to bring their own lawn chairs and picnic blankets. Luxury seating in one of the seven pagodas on site is available to reserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the live music start?

The live music will start from 1pm through to the end of the day at 6pm. Woodstock icon Brian Mitchell, the contemporary bluegrass brilliance of the Abby Hollander Band, and the soulful, rollicking blues of Bennett Harris will be performing on the day.

Are we able to buy drinks at the Festival?

Yes! And we now have two bars to serve you more efficiently. The main bar will offer a full range of beverages, including our delicious, seasonal influenced handmade cocktails; a chilled Grog with pumpkin spice, Summer’s End Hot Apple Cider, and the ever popular Berry Martini’s and Sierra Nevada craft beer, while our second bar, located by the stage, will serve bottles and cans for quick refreshment. We also have plenty of bottled water and water taps around the park

What food is available to buy?

We have a wonderful selection of fresh, homemade food for both adults and kids, featuring our delicious BBQ & Chilli with tasty choices for vegetarians, vegans and meat eaters.

Is there parking on site?

We've significantly expanded our parking lot. If you're driving, please use the available spaces and avoid parking on Tinker Street. Our new lot is well-signposted, safer for our neighbors, and provides easier access to the park

Does the Park have WiFi?

Stay connected with our upgraded WiFi! We've installed hard-wired routers throughout the park. Share your festival moments on our socials—tag us to join the fun!

Do you have bathroom facilities?

We've installed high-quality outdoor bathrooms for your convenience. Please help us keep them clean throughout the day.

Can we bring our own food & drink into the Festival?

Unfortunately, no. Only food and drink purchased on site can be eaten in the park.

Do we need our own chairs or picnic blankets?

There are plenty of seats and tables all around the park, but please do feel free to bring your own.

Are dogs allowed in the Park?

Yes, but we do ask that they are kept on a leash and are well behaved!

What happens if it rains?

Come rain or shine the Festivals will always go ahead under our large tents. Our weather is changeable - the rain never lasts for long!

What is there to do for Kids?

We have plenty of free activities for kids, including ping-pong, lawn games, and a giant canvas for painting. We do ask that you please keep an eye on your children to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable time.

What other Activities are there?

This end-of-season festival has a ‘best of everything’ feel, with arts and crafts on sale, booths from the Woodstock volunteer groups, hands-on activities like painting, jewelry making, pottery, and textile art, with active artists eager to share their techniques and invite you to ‘give it a try.’  And some special exhibits from champions who are working with the community to make it more sustainable.  Plus our popular Festival Marketplace with clothing, skincare, herbal teas, musical instruments on sale. 

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