By Cris Alarcon, InEDC Writer. (May 12, 2025)
Get ready to break out the tie-dye and peace signs — a groovy celebration is coming to El Dorado County just in time for the start of summer.
The First Annual Woodstock: Peace, Love & Seniors event, presented by Western Slope Pines at Placerville, is set to take place Friday, May 30, from 12 to 3 p.m. at 3280 Washington Street, Placerville, CA. The family-friendly festival is open to the public and invites attendees of all ages to come together for an afternoon of live music, local food trucks, craft vendors, and community resources aimed at supporting local seniors.
“This event is all about honoring the wisdom and spirit of our seniors while bringing the whole community together,” said Jessica Allen, event coordinator at Western Slope Health Center. “We’re combining nostalgia with purpose — think Woodstock meets community outreach.”
The event is not just a throwback to flower-power and folk music. It also offers practical support for local seniors and caregivers, including booths from area nonprofits, senior services, and health resources.
“We wanted to create a space that was both fun and informative,” Allen added. “Whether you’re looking to dance to classic hits or learn more about Medicare options, you’ll find it here.”
Guests are encouraged to come in costume, with organizers promising prizes for the best 60s-inspired outfits. Activities will include:
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Live performances from local bands playing 60s and 70s classics
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A variety of food trucks with options for all dietary needs
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Handmade crafts from local artisans
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Informational booths on senior health, wellness, and support programs
Seniors attending a Woodstock-themed event will likely appreciate songs that bring back the golden memories of the late 1960s and early 1970s. While the original Woodstock Music & Art Fair took place in August 1969, the music from that era still resonates deeply with the generation that lived it.
Here’s a list of songs a senior might enjoy hearing from a Woodstock-inspired stage:
Woodstock Favorites Likely to Bring Smiles and Swaying
(Many performed at the original Woodstock, others from the same era)
Classic Rock Anthems
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“With a Little Help from My Friends” – Joe Cocker (Woodstock highlight)
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“Somebody to Love” – Jefferson Airplane
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“Piece of My Heart” – Janis Joplin
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“Born to Be Wild” – Steppenwolf
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“Proud Mary” – Creedence Clearwater Revival
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“Bad Moon Rising” – Creedence Clearwater Revival
Peace & Love Vibes
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“Blowin’ in the Wind” – Bob Dylan
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“The Weight” – The Band
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“Turn! Turn! Turn!” – The Byrds
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“Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In” – The 5th Dimension
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“Woodstock” – Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young (written by Joni Mitchell)
Folk Revival Favorites
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“If I Had a Hammer” – Peter, Paul and Mary
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“Where Have All the Flowers Gone” – Pete Seeger
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“Leaving on a Jet Plane” – John Denver
Groovy Dance Tunes
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“Dancing in the Street” – Martha and the Vandellas
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“Shout” – The Isley Brothers
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“Twist and Shout” – The Beatles
Soulful Sing-Alongs
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“Respect” – Aretha Franklin
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“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” – Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell
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“My Girl” – The Temptations
This marks the first large-scale community festival hosted at Western Slope Pines, a skilled nursing and rehabilitation center that has served Placerville for over 50 years. Staff say they hope the event becomes an annual tradition.
For updates, visit the Western Slope Health Center’s Facebook page, where updates, photos, and good vibes are already flowing.
Peace, love, and a strong sense of community — Placerville-style.
