Another well-loved tradition is the arrival of Santa on Christmas Eve. For 78 years, he’s arrived by a creative, sometimes dangerous, yet always secret means of transportation—in past years, a hot air balloon, a hang glider, an elephant, and a jet pack have all been employed—and handed out stockings with gifts to the children. There has been pressure recently, however, to tame the extravagant stunts and go back to more traditional means of arrival. “It’s part of the fabric of the town,” says organizer Rennie Cantine. “The community comes to life, and townspeople and visitors gather on the Village Green to witness history. There’s a committee of hundreds of people involved, and thousands attend. It’s one of the most beautiful things you can imagine. It’s what dreams are made of.”
The dream of Woodstock continues despite continuous changes and challenges. And those who believe in that dream will continue to strive for the hopes and ideals upon which this “most famous small town on Earth” was founded.
Kelly Merchant
Musician Clark Garnier entertains passers-by in Downtown Woodstock.
Kelly Merchant
Sitting meditation at Karma Triyana Dharmachakra monastery.
Kelly Merchant
Shoppers at mower’s Saturday flea market in Woodstock.
