BETHEL, NY — Town, county and state officials along with representatives from Bethel Woods held a news conference on August 6, talk about their plans for Woodstock Anniversary Weekend and many of them urged members of the public to have “patience.”

Roberta-Byron Lockwood, president of the Sullivan County Visitors Association said the county expects up to 100,000 people to visit the facility from August 15 -18, and only people with travel passes will be able to drive on the roads leading and near Bethel Woods. Only people with tickets to events, and people who live on the roads, will be able to access the local roads. Anyone without a ticket will not be allowed on the Bethel Woods grounds during those days. Travel passes can be applied for via the website www.bethelwoodscenter.org.

The county will provide shuttle bus service from the race track in Monticello and 4296 State Route 55 in Swan Lake to the monument and back. A flyer from the county says it’s the only way people will be able to visit the monument during those days.

The following comes from a Bethel Woods press release: “Please note that individuals without concert or event tickets during Anniversary Weekend must visit Bethel Woods on a different weekend as the Center will be at permitted capacity. Visitation, to Bethel Woods, including the Museum, monument and grounds, will be available to ticketholders only.

“The Museum at Bethel Woods will offer extended hours (9am-9pm) the weekend before Anniversary Weekend (August 10-14) as well as the week following (August 19-25).
“Visiting on alternate dates, other than Anniversary Weekend, will ensure a more enjoyable experience for guests. There are a variety of other events all throughout 2019.

“Bethel Woods encourages all guests to stay patient and positive during the Anniversary Weekend, embracing the once-in-a-lifetime event honoring the history of Sullivan County and the Town of Bethel.

“Given the increased visitation, Bethel Woods is hopeful that the community and local businesses will welcome guests and provide patrons with the best possible experience throughout the entire summer.”