Mercer County officials are organizing an anniversary tribute to celebrate the Woodstock festival that brought almost a half-million people together 50 years ago in Bethel, N.Y.
On the Mercer County Park festival grounds in West Windsor, performances in honor of peace, music and love will be played from 4-10 p.m. Aug. 18. Bands such as Home Again, Kiss the Sky and Groovin’ on Tour will all be a part of the event.
“We think Woodstock was such an iconic festival that we would be remiss not to honor it on its 50th anniversary in some way,” said Aaron Watson, executive director of the Mercer County Parks Commission. “We always knew we would do something like this. We are getting a lot of hits on our (online) sites. People are definitely interested in coming.”
“You close your eyes and think you are listening to Jimi Hendrix, which is so cool,” Watson said in regard to Kiss the Sky, which is known for its covers of Hendrix’s songs.
The anniversary event will have free admission for all who attend. Parking is $5.
“Woodstock was a time of peace, a time when people came together and enjoyed some good music. This happened at a time when the country was going through great turmoil,” Watson said. “I can say we can use a little bit of that (Woodstock spirit) today.”
Watson said he believes residents will be enthusiastic about the opportunity to see a Woodstock-themed production at a minimal cost.
“The festival grounds are a place where people, I think, realize this is something great to come to and is a great venue. We are always trying to have something for everybody here,” he said.
Guests may bring lawn chairs, blankets and coolers with sealed bottles of water. No outside food and/or alcohol will be allowed on the festival grounds.
For more information about the Woodstock Tribute, visit www.mercercountyparks.org
