Phish performed two benefit concerts at Saratoga Springs, NY’s Broadview Stage at SPAC this weekend, raising over $3.5M for flood recovery efforts in Vermont and Upstate New York. Both shows featured special pre-show acoustic sets with Phish’s Page McConnell and Trey Anastasio, while the Saturday, August 26 performance saw Phish joined on stage by a surprise appearance from guitarist Derek Trucks.
"We are so grateful to everyone who donated their time and resources to make these benefits possible, and those that attended the shows or watched online," said McConnell. "The joy in the room at these concerts was undeniable. But for the people affected by the flooding, it is an ongoing struggle. That’s why we are continuing to accept donations, raise awareness and distribute the funds."
Held August 25 and 26, the two concerts were webcast for free at LivePhish.com and Phish’s YouTube channel, allowing fans around the world the opportunity to donate directly to The WaterWheel Foundation’s 2023 Flood Recovery Fund. Monies raised from both events include 100% of net proceeds from all ticket revenues and merchandise sales, as well as individual donations. Individuals can still donate to WaterWheel through PayPal here: http://waterwheelfoundation.org. In addition, an array of Benefit merchandise is available now at the Phish Dry Goods store.
Communities throughout Vermont and Upstate New York were inundated last month with historic levels of rain and major flooding. Working strategically with the Vermont Community Foundation and similar organizations in New York, the Flood Recovery Fund will use the entirety of the funds to benefit victims and their families, area businesses, and local non-profit organizations, supporting both shorter-term needs and long-term recovery and resiliency projects.
Created by Phish in 1997 to oversee the band’s various charitable activities, The Waterwheel Foundation has been harnessing the kindness of the Phish fan community to create positive change for over 25 years. Phish would like to offer special thanks to benefit promoter Live Nation as well as Broadview Stage at SPAC for their generous support.
