Goose Lake Music Festival’s 50th anniversary celebrates ‘Michigan’s Woodstock’ – MLive.com
JACKSON COUNTY, MI — The celebration was nearly scrapped because of the novel coronavirus, but not even a pandemic can halt the music, the magic and the memories of the Goose Lake Music Festival.
The original festival began 50 years ago today, Aug. 7, 1970, in a field along the shores of Goose Lake in the middle of nowhere in eastern Jackson County. It drew some big-name rock bands and 200,000 members of the youth counterculture from all over the country to Leoni Township.
‘Michigan’s Woodstock’ transformed Goose Lake into a nest of peace and love in 1970
This year, the Goose Lake Jamboree’s funky fonts, psychedelic decorations and classic rock will welcome those wishing to pay tribute to “Michigan’s Woodstock.” The 50th anniversary celebration isn’t at the original location, though. That’s now Greenwood Acres, a campground with permanent residents.
This year’s festivities, which began Wednesday, Aug. 5, are at the 280-acre Wildwood Acres Campground, 14508 Goose Lake Road near Jonesville – also known as “the wrong Goose Lake” in 1970 because many people looking for the festival did end up there.
The pandemic has stopped some planned tribute bands from attending, but two stages will feature 32 bands over the five-day festival that concludes Sunday, Aug. 9, said Steve Basnaw, one of the event’s organizers.
There also are 14 vendor spots, a kid-friendly “paint the wall” activity and access to the lake for camping activities. History buffs can also enjoy a “museum” area to display original posters, T-shirts and other memorabilia, Basnaw said.
“We’re not trying to copy (the original festival),” Basnaw said. “We’re just trying to pay tribute to their party. It was a great party and a great festival.”
Last year’s Jamboree, a trial run for this year’s event, brought about 800 people throughout the event, Basnaw said. He thinks it could be bigger this year because of the milestone anniversary. But, he said it can’t be too big to cause overcrowding on the grounds and raise concerns of spreading COVID-19.
‘Michigan’s Woodstock’ returns with reimagined celebration of 1970 Goose Lake Music Festival
Organizers ask attendees to bring masks and distance each other when it’s appropriate, and he said attendees have already been well-spaced while outside.
Campsites are largely reserved, but passes for the concerts are still available. Attendees can also stay in their cars to watch the concerts in drive-in style. Passes are sold on site, cash only, for $15 each.
“It’s the same amount of money it was 50 years ago to get into,” Basnaw said. “It’s pretty cheap for a weekend of a really good time.”
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