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

It was estimated that more than one hundred people were in attendance to watch as the pile of used Christmas trees was lit 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 (proprietor of Sticky Fingers Delectables), while the group 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 who 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 festival was canceled. The groups plan to host the Bethel Big Burn annually the same weekend as the King of the Ice Festival.