Glamping and Grooving: My Unforgettable Phish Experience at Bethel Woods

A Musical Journey Begins

My journey with Phish began in 1993 at the New Haven Coliseum. As a junior in high school and a budding musician, that night changed my world forever. The energy of the crowd, the improvisational jams, and the sense of community were unlike anything I had ever experienced. Over the past 30-plus years, I’ve seen Phish more than 100 times, though I stopped counting long ago. For me, it’s never been about the numbers—it’s always been about the experience.

Bethel Woods: A Special Venue

This summer, I had the most incredible Phish experience yet at Bethel Woods, a venue that holds a special place in music history. Located on the site of the original Woodstock festival, Bethel Woods has an aura that perfectly complements the spirit of a Phish show. This year, they introduced premium camping and luxury glamping, which truly lived up to the hype.

Luxurious Glamping Accommodations

I went with my son and a few friends, and we stayed in a three-room glamping tent. It was fully stocked with comfortable beds, a full bathroom with a spacious shower, and a small kitchenette complete with a fridge. The porch was perfect for hanging out and soaking in the atmosphere before and after the show.

The Convenience of Glamping

The best part? Our tent was just a four-minute walk to our seats. During intermission, instead of standing in long lines for the bathroom, I simply strolled back to our tent. The glamping area offered a beautiful view of the surrounding countryside, and we could even hear the band’s soundcheck from our porch. Security patrols ensured we felt safe throughout the weekend, allowing us to fully relax and enjoy the experience.

Setting a New Standard

I’ve always loved Phish, but this experience at Bethel Woods has set a new standard. The combination of luxury and proximity made it an unforgettable weekend. It’s going to be tough to go back to old-school camping after this. The comfort, convenience, and sheer joy of that weekend made it my most memorable Phish show yet.