On August 15, 1969, the Woodstock Music & Art Fair began in Bethel, New York. The festival, which lasted for four days, became a defining moment in music history and a cultural icon of the 1960s counterculture.

Originally planned as a paid event with an expected attendance of 50,000 people, Woodstock quickly became a free concert when the organizers realized they were overwhelmed by the hundreds of thousands of attendees who had flocked to the site. The festival grounds transformed into a massive makeshift city, with people camping out and sharing resources.

The lineup featured some of the most influential musicians of the era, including Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, The Who, Santana, Joe Cocker, The Grateful Dead, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Jefferson Airplane, and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. Many of these artists delivered iconic performances that have become part of rock 'n' roll lore.

One of the most memorable moments was Jimi Hendrix's rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" on the morning of August 18. His electrifying and unconventional interpretation of the national anthem, complete with distortion and feedback, became a symbol of the era's social and political upheaval.

Despite the challenges posed by inclement weather, food shortages, and sanitation issues, Woodstock remained relatively peaceful. The festival embodied the "peace and love" ethos of the hippie movement and demonstrated the power of music to bring people together.

The Woodstock Music & Art Fair has since become a legendary event, immortalized in films, documentaries, and countless stories passed down through generations. It remains a testament to the spirit of the 1960s and the enduring impact of music on our cultural landscape.