The Bethel Business Association (BBA), in conjunction with the Sullivan County Conservation Club (SCCC), hosted the first Bethel Big Burn on February 17.  Held at Alton Distillery on Route 17B, food was provided by Annie’s Ruff Cut and live music was performed by Poison Love Band. It was a huge success.

It was estimated that more than one hundred people were in attendance, watching as the pile of used Christmas trees was set alight by members of the White Lake Fire Department. The Bethel constables were there, as well as local officials Matt McPhillips (District 1 legislator) and Dan Sturm (Bethel town supervisor). 

The idea was conceived by one of the members of the BBA board, James Loney, the proprietor of Sticky Fingers Delectables. The BBA was looking for a way to bring the community together and support the local businesses in the lean winter months. They decided to join forces with the SCCC, which hosts the popular King of the Ice Festival every year, and make it a weekend full of fun in Bethel. 

Unfortunately, due to unseasonably warm weather conditions this year, the ice festival was canceled. 

The groups plan to host the Bethel Big Burn annually on the same weekend as the King of the Ice Festival.

Contributed by the Bethel Business Association.