New York State Wineries and Regional Craft Beer On Tap at Bethel Woods festivals

BETHEL, N.Y. — Fall festivals at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts continue into October with the return of the annual Wine Festival on Saturday, Oct. 4 and the Craft Beer Festival and Chili Cook-Off on Saturday, Oct. 11. Besides a variety of the region's best locally made beer and wine, both festivals feature specialty food and unique craft vendors, set against a backdrop of live music and the beauty of the Sullivan County Catskills ablaze in the height of fall color.

The third annual Wine Festival returns on Saturday Oct. 4 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will feature more than 20 regional wineries from around the Hudson Valley and Finger Lakes regions. Admission, which includes a complimentary wine tasting glass, is $20.

The day will also feature performances by Dan Brother Band and Liza Doolite.

The 2014 Wine Festival is sponsored by Black Bear Film Festival, Formaggio Cheese, and Lazy Pond Bed and Breakfast.

After the success of 2013’s inaugural Craft Beer Festival and Chili Cook-Off, the outdoor beer, food and music festival returns for a second year on Oct. 11. The event, running from 12 to 4 p.m., will once again feature craft beers from more than 20 breweries available for sampling. Guests will enjoy a backdrop of music with performances by Marah and Emish, all taking place at the historic site of the 1969 Woodstock festival.

General admission, which includes a commemorative glass and unlimited sampling, is $40 if purchased in advance and $45 if purchased the day of. Only a limited number of tickets will be sold. VIP sampling passes are available for $75 and include early entry, souvenir shirt and laminate, and admission to the Museum at Bethel Woods. Admission to the traditional Chili Cook-off, beginning at 12 noon in the Event Gallery, is free for all ages. A $2 donation is suggested to benefit the variety of community organizations participating in the event.

The Craft Beer Festival and Chili Cook Off is sponsored by Black Bear Film Festival, Jeff Bank, and Roscoe Beer Company.

Both the Wine Festival and Craft Beer Festival are only for adults older than 21 years of age. No one under 21 years of age will be permitted into either festival.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit http://www.bethelwoodscenter.org/performances-festivals/festivals or call 1-866-781-2922.