Catch John DeRosa, the dynamic vocalist and multi-instrumentalist from Central NJ, rocking his tribute album 13. This album honors fallen soldiers and first responders, and was featured as #4 on Distrokid’s Spotify Country Playlist. Don’t miss this electrifying performance on the Highmark Community Stage from 3:30 to 5:00!
Hydraulic Lime | Thursday, July 4 from 5:30-7:30pm
Get ready to rock with Hydraulic Lime, a trio bringing the spirit of Grand Funk Railroad and Budgie with their mix of originals and covers. Join Todd Patnaude on bass, John Sekella on guitar, and Reed Thomson on drums for an electrifying set on Thursday, July 4th from 5:30 to 7:30pm—don’t miss out!
Big Bone Daddy | Thursday, July 4 from 9:30-11:00pm
Get ready to rock and groove with Big Bone Daddy, the dynamic Rock & Blues band from Eastern PA and Western NJ. Catch their electrifying performance from 9:30 to 11 with guitars, sax, keys, and more—it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
Melody Cruz and The Keystones | Friday, July 5 from 9:00-11:00pm
Be ready to groove with Melody Cruz & The Keystones, where top 40 covers and original music come alive with their fresh sonic fusion. Join them for an exciting set from 9-11pm and experience the beginning of something big! Don’t miss their dynamic stage presence and infectious energy.
Open Mic Night | Thursday, July 11 from 9:00-11:00pm
Join host Billy Bauer for our weekly acoustic open mic night! Bring your talent and perform in a cozy atmosphere. We welcome acoustic acts, with the option to accompany yourself using a djembe or box drum (no full bands). Signups start at 8:30 p.m., performances from 9:00-11:00 p.m.
Flirtin with the Mob | Friday, July 12 from 9:00-11:00pm
Discover Flirtin With The Mob—a dynamic blend of funk, rock, and soul featuring a vibrant 3-piece horn section, powerful vocals, and a high-energy rhythm section. From the 60s to today, their diverse repertoire promises an electrifying night of music you won’t want to miss!
Jazz Jam | Thursday, July 18 from 9:00-11:00pm
Join The Jazz Jam Experience hosted by The Artisan Trio—Joe Mixon (guitar), Brian Bortz (bass), and Vern Mobley (drums). All instrumentalists and vocalists are welcome to jam with us, whether you play jazz, blues, funk, or any genre. We provide a full backline, PA, keys, lighting, and sound tech for a great recording opportunity. Sign up via this link to secure your spot!
Bedlam Blues | Friday, July 19 from 6:30-7:30pm
Part of Blast Furnace Blues
Bedlams Blues is a Lehigh Valley blues rock band with experienced band members rooted in the blues. Seasoned players bring you driving guitar sounds, smooth bass lines, and bluesy rhythms to set the groove. Bedlam Blues is in their 9th year of bringing music to the LV and surrounding areas.
Tony Holiday | Friday, July 19 from 9-11pm
Part of Blast Furnace Blues
Tony Holiday, a pivotal figure in the Memphis soul blues revival, draws people together with his community-centric approach and rich musical heritage. His second solo album, Motel Mississippi, recorded at Zebra Ranch, blends North Mississippi Hill Country, Delta Blues, and Memphis soul into a captivating and modern yet retro sound.
Nate Myers and the Aces | Saturday, July 20 from 2pm-3pm
Part of Blast Furnace Blues
Nate Myers and the Aces, a staple in Central PA for over 20 years, brings a relaxed vibe to every performance. Led by vocalist and harmonica player Nate Myers, the band effortlessly blends blues, funk, rockabilly, and more into a captivating musical experience that caters to diverse audience preferences.
The SlideWinder Blues | Saturday, July 20 from 4:30-5:30pm
Part of Blast Furnace Blues
The SlideWinder Blues Band hits hard with its own brand of Texas and Chicago driven contemporary blues. For those times when the 1,4,5 just isn’t enough, the bands red blooded live shows are full of vigor and offer a sonic pallet indicative of the Mississippi Delta and New Orleans. Hailing from Doylestown, PA, SlideWinder is comprised of members Paul Boddy, Glenn Hale, Chuck Hearne and Dave Hollingsworth.
Eddie Davis & Blues Anatomy, featuring Sister Blue | Saturday, July 20 from 6:30-7:30pm
Part of Blast Furnace Blues
Eddie Davis & Blues Anatomy, comprised of five talented musicians, all Philadelphia area natives, bring superb musicianship & a genuine love of the Blues to every performance. Playing at festivals, night clubs, private parties, corporate & special events, Eddie Davis & Blues Anatomy perform exciting, classic Blues that always pleases the audience and stirs a feeling in their soul.
Jump, Jive, and Wail | Saturday, July 2 from 9-11pm
Part of Blast Furnace Blues
Formed in 2012, this band blends swing, jump blues, R&B, rock ‘n’ roll, Dixieland, and jazz. They’ve performed at major venues like Wawa 4th of July Welcome America and 1st Energy Stadium, as well as casinos, parks, colleges, and private events. Led by vocalist Demetria Joyce Bailey and backed by the Molten Brass horns, their debut album “Let The Good Times Roll” captures their vibrant energy and diverse musical style.
Open Mic Night Hosted by Billy Bauer | Thursday, July 25 from 9-11pm
Come show us what you’ve got and sing your heart out. This weekly open mic features acoustic performances only, feel free to bring a djembe or box drum, but no full bands please. Signups begin at 8:30 p.m.
Ian Patrick Band | Saturday, July 27 from 9-11pm
Formed in 2024, featuring members of The Stray Seeds and Start Making Sense, this supergroup bring an eclectic blend of indie and folk to the stage, combining elements of The Grateful Dead, John Prine, and Paul Simon.
Can’t get enough outdoor concerts? Take a look at our FREE Levitt Concert series HERE!
Steel City Smokeout Now Offering Free Admission!
Get mouthwatering BBQ, watch the competition heat up and learn from the best!
PLUS, listen to some great music at the annual Blast Furnace Blues.
Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA, June 20, 2024 – In April, ArtsQuest announced the Steel City Smokeout in partnership with Nick’s BBQ presented by Cigars International, Jack Daniels and The Restaurant Store. This brand-new barbeque competition – sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society and the Mid-Atlantic BBQ Association – will take place on Saturday, July 20, 2024, on PNC Plazapresented by St. Luke’s University Health Network on the ArtsQuest campus at SteelStacks. Pitmasters Moe Cason and Bob Trudnak are so excited about all the barbeque happening here on campus for the first time, they’re waiving general admission into the event! Everyone is welcome to come and check out the (literal) competition for the best barbeque and all the vendors cooking up mouthwatering meats. Check out steelstacks.org for all the info on this event you won’t want to miss!
Interested in a complementary “BBQ Brunch” prepared by Nick’s BBQ, an extra hour at the event and an exclusive area with a private cash bar? VIP tickets are $69 (or $79 week of the event) and include all of this PLUS an exclusive seminar with Cigars International. Rich Monts and Mike Piparato will be covering the history of Cigars International and Smokeable Tobaccos, from the discovery of tobacco to the Cuban Revolution to modern cigars. Everyone who attends this session will be automatically entered into a drawing for a Cigars International Smiley’s Specials, a special branded humidor that comes with a Smiley cutter and lighter.
Professional and amateur teams from throughout the Mid-Atlantic region will be competing at the 18+ event in a number of categories to win cash prizes from a purse of $10,000. You can see how these teams prepare delicious meats while getting some of your own from the many barbeque vendors that will be on hand.
There’s still time to register for the Master and Backyard Series Competitions! Registration deadline is July 7. To register to be a professional BBQ team click here. We are also looking for two more teams for our Backyard competition; click here to register.
Additionally, award-winning pitmasters Bob Trudnak and Moe Cason are teaching classes in ArtsQuest Center’s Blast Furnace Room as part of the Steel City Smokeout! Trudnak and Cason will give you the very best methods and procedures for cooking high end backyard BBQ with competition tips and tricks. They cover everything from meat selection and trimming to seasoning and cooking procedures on grills and smokers. Visit steelstacks.org for more information on classes.
When you’re finished eating BBQ, be sure to check out the 11th Annual Blast Furnace Blues, featuring two days of live rhythm and blues music happening on Friday, July 19 and Saturday, July 20 at SteelStacks.
About ArtsQuest
ArtsQuest’s mission is to provide access to exceptional artistic, cultural and educational experiences using arts and culture as key elements of economic development for our urban communities. ArtsQuest™ supports this mission via the presentation of performing and visual arts, film, arts education classes and outreach, youth programming and cultural events.
Through festivals such as its flagship event, Musikfest; the Banana Factory Arts Center; and the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks arts and cultural campus, ArtsQuest’s programming reaches more than 1.9 million people annually. The organization’s programs and events, over 50% of which are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region.
ArtsQuest to Offer Independence Day Festivities
Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA, June 19, 2024- ArtsQuest is excited to announce its Independence Day activities presented by Embassy Bank, including a full day of musical events, crafts, delicious food vendors and more. Festivities will begin Thursday, July 4 at 3 p.m. and take place at the ArtsQuest campus at SteelStacks, offering a perfect spot to view the City of Bethlehem’s fireworks display at 9 p.m. Guests can also view (for one of the last times this season) the Hometown Heroes 2024 banners that debuted over 1,700 photos of local military veterans on Memorial Day.
Food vendors Heaven on a Bun and MMG Concessions will be open 5-10 p.m. Additionally, visitors can shop various retail vendors, including Loco Lights and Bubbles, Losco Glass, Scents by Sen and Nurse Wellness CBD.
For a more exclusive experience, visitors 21+ can purchase tickets for ArtsQuest’s Fourth of July Fireworks Watch Party. Tickets include special viewing access at the Musikfest Café and the Wind Creek Deck, a summer buffet and more. To learn more and purchase tickets, visit SteelStacks.org.
Independence Day Free Music Schedule
Highmark Blue Shield Community Stage on the Air Products Town Square
Air Products Town Square | 3-9 p.m. | Paid Activity
Bounce houses, slides and a bungee trampoline
Creativity Tent Presented by the Banana Factory Arts Center
Air Products Town Square | 3-9 p.m. | Free Activity
Patriotic themed art project
This event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit SteelStacks.org.
About ArtsQuest ArtsQuest’s mission is to provide access to exceptional artistic, cultural and educational experiences using arts and culture as key elements of economic development for our urban communities. ArtsQuest™ supports this mission via the presentation of performing and visual arts, film, arts education classes and outreach, youth programming and cultural events. Through festivals such as its flagship event, Musikfest; the Banana Factory Arts Center; and the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks arts and cultural campus, ArtsQuest’s programming reaches more than 1.9 million people annually. The organization’s programs and events, of which over 50% are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region.
Get Ready to Laugh with ArtsQuest’s Summer Comedy Classes
Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA, June 17, 2024- ArtsQuest is excited to present its summer comedy classes, featuring Improv 101 with Stu Shaw, Improv 201 with Matt Candio and Intro to Standup with Glen Tickle. Taught by experienced comedians, each class will provide attendees with useful tips and a supportive environment to help beginners and those looking to strengthen their comedic skills. Classes are offered June through Sept. and will conclude with a graduation ceremony for participants to perform their material and demonstrate what they learned.
Additionally, ArtsQuest offers team building improv workshops. These workshops are great for businesses and corporations looking to improve their team’s communication skills, encourage creative thinking and provide an environment for team bonding and fun. Teams will be guided by professional improvisers to learn lively exercises that teach the fundamentals of improv comedy, bolstering confidence while sparking your team’s sense of humor. Group pre-registration is required. Please contact Addyson Young, ArtsQuest Programming Specialist, at ayoung@artsquest.org to learn more.
For more information and to sign up for comedy classes, visit www.steelstacks.org.
Comedy Classes Offered Include:
Improv 101 with Stu Shaw Tuesdays, July 9–Sept. 3 (no class on Aug. 6) at the Banana Factory | 7-9 p.m. Grad Show: Tuesday, Sept. 10 6:30 p.m., Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas Price: $179 | $160 ArtsQuest Member
Improv 101 focuses on the three core principles of comedic improvisation: agreement, being active and justification. We designed our classes to create an energetic and supportive environment for play. Whether you’ve never taken the stage before, you’re a seasoned improviser or you’re simply looking to help yourself in your career and/or life, you’ll benefit from this class. Students must be 18 or older by the first day of class.
Improv 201 with Matt Candio Wednesdays, July 17 – Sept.11 (no class on Aug.7) at the Crayola Gallery | 7-9 p.m. Grad Show: Wednesday, Sept.18, 6:30 p.m., Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas Price: $179 | $160 ArtsQuest Member
Improv 201 builds on the basic principles of improv and helps develop your improv skills to make strong comedic choices. By finding and exploring Game you will expand your ‘Yes, and’ abilities while also discovering all avenues that Game can play in scenes. Students must graduate from Improv 101 to register for this class.
Intro to Standup with Glen Tickle Mondays, June 17–July 22 at the Banana Factory | 6–9 p.m. Grad Show: Monday, July 29, 6:30 p.m. Visitor Center at SteelStacks presented by St. Luke’s University Health Network Price: $134 | $120 ArtsQuest Member
This class is an introduction to standup comedy from both a creative and practical approach. Attendees will learn and apply the basics of joke construction, acquire useful tips for beginners and receive individualized feedback with the goal of producing 5 minutes of material. Students must be 18 years of age or older.
About the Comedians
Stu Shaw Stu received most of his improv training at ArtsQuest and has taken each class several times. He also attended workshops with Second City. Stu has been on six SteelStacks Improv House Teams, and currently performs with Tim For Short, Model Citizen and Portal. In his spare time, Stu enjoys playing bad golf as well as going to the gym and pretending to exercise.
Matt Candio Matt is a comedian, performer and improv instructor. He began his comedy career in 2009 and has since studied at Upright Citizens Brigade (NYC), Magnet Theater (NYC) and The Second City (Chicago). In addition to teaching for the ArtsQuest Improv Comedy Program, he leads team building workshops for inquiring businesses and organizations. You can see Matt perform regularly at SteelStacks in various comedy shows, including “We’re Good, You’re Great!”
Glen Tickle Glen Tickle is a professional comedian who regularly tours the country. He has appeared on Dry Bar Comedy, PBS and SiriusXM. Tickle recorded his first album (Yes, really) and most recent special “Glen Tickle Against the World Crime League” at SteelStacks.
About ArtsQuest ArtsQuest’s mission is to provide access to exceptional artistic, cultural and educational experiences using arts and culture as key elements of economic development for our urban communities. ArtsQuest™ supports this mission via the presentation of performing and visual arts, film, arts education classes and outreach, youth programming and cultural events. Through festivals such as its flagship event, Musikfest; the Banana Factory Arts Center; and the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks arts and cultural campus, ArtsQuest’s programming reaches more than 1.9 million people annually. The organization’s programs and events, of which over 50% are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region.
Celebrate the Fourth of July at ArtsQuest
Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA., June 10, 2024 – Come get exclusive access to the Musikfest Café and the Wind Creek Deck for Bethlehem’s Fourth of July fireworks celebration at 7 p.m. (21+ only)!
Tickets are $69 and it guarantees you’ll eat fantastically from a summer buffet stocked with Fourth of July favorites while enjoying the fireworks from two of the best spots on the ArtsQuest at SteelStacks campus. You also get a drink ticket good for beer or wine, and non-alcoholic drinks are complimentary throughout the night. You’ll also have access to the Musikfest Café’s stocked cash bar.
“The Wind Creek Deck is among the best – if not THE best – places to watch Bethlehem’s fireworks,” says Ryan Hill, ArtsQuest Senior Director of Programming. “We’re looking forward to hosting this fun exclusive party so that people can enjoy the 4th in style!”
The buffet will include:
Mexican Street Corn Salad | roasted corn, fresh squeezed lime, queso fresco, cilantro, scallion, red pepper, chipotle aioli (vegetarian/AVG)
About ArtsQuest ArtsQuest’s mission is to provide access to exceptional artistic, cultural and educational experiences using arts and culture as key elements of economic development for our urban communities. ArtsQuest™ supports this mission via the presentation of performing and visual arts, film, arts education classes and outreach, youth programming and cultural events.
Through festivals such as its flagship event, Musikfest; the Banana Factory Arts Center; and the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks arts and cultural campus, ArtsQuest’s programming reaches more than 1.9 million people annually. The organization’s programs and events, over 50% of which are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region.
ArtsQuest’s First-Ever Cold Brew Hullabaloo to be held at Musikfest Cafe
Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA, June 5, 2024- Come on out to ArtsQuest’s first-ever Cold Brew Hullabaloo at the SteelStacks campus on Sunday, September 15, 2024! Local coffee shops and roasteries will be bringing their finest (cold) brews for guests to sample and purchase. In addition to cold brew, there will be live music, retail vendors and free coffee-themed activities. The event will take place from noon to 3 p.m. with VIP Early Access Hour beginning at 11 a.m. Cold Brew Hullabaloo is for all ages so make sure to bring your friends and family to join the fun!
General Admission ticket holders will have access to the cash bar with themed drink specials along with a specialty branded tote bag for shopping at the event, with tickets priced at $10 or $13 week of the event for Non-Members and $9 or $12 the week of for Members. VIP ticket holders will get everything listed above as well as their Early Access Hour from 11 a.m., one Duck Donuts Quack Card, which can be turned in for one complimentary Duck Donut, and a handy-dandy coffee scoop that doubles as a bag clip. VIP tickets for Non-members will be $22 or $26 the week of the event while VIP Tickets for Members will be $19 or $23 the week of.
“I love cold brew and I know I’m not alone,” comments Alexis Kuczek, Programming Coordinator at ArtsQuest. “It’s been exciting to build this event with our vendors and sponsors and I can’t wait to debut it at the ArtsQuest Center.”
About ArtsQuest ArtsQuest’s mission is to provide access to exceptional artistic, cultural and educational experiences using arts and culture as key elements of economic development for our urban communities. ArtsQuest™ supports this mission via the presentation of performing and visual arts, film, arts education classes and outreach, youth programming and cultural events. Through festivals such as its flagship event, Musikfest; the Banana Factory Arts Center; and the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks arts and cultural campus, ArtsQuest’s programming reaches more than 1.9 million people annually. The organization’s programs and events, over 50% of which are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually i the region.
ArtsQuest Announces First Ever Pizzafest!
Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA., June 4, 2024 – It’s a celebration of all thing’s pizza at ArtsQuest at the SteelStacks campus on Sunday, September 29! Come out for the Greater Lehigh Valley’s best pizza vendors, along with pizza-themed entertainment and games for Pizzafest presented by Surfside Vodka.
The festival starts at 1 p.m. for general admission. General admission tickets are $5 ($10 week of the event) and attendees are given access to entertainment throughout Pizzafest including music, game shows and more. And, of course, attendees will get to enjoy delicious pizza from all vendors and drinks from the Mack Truck Stop, Central Tap and the Pour Bar. For a special pizza-themed gift and an extra hour at Pizzafest (12 p.m. – 1 p.m.), early access tickets are available for $15 ($20 week of the event).
“Pizzafest is an idea long in the making being realized through SteelStacks celebration of all thing’s pizza! A gathering of some of the greatest compliers of dough, sauce and cheese in our region – from food trucks to brick-and-mortar restaurant favorites – we could not be more excited to present this inaugural addition,” says Patrick Brogan, Chief Programming Officer. “Get you tickets now for your piece of the pies!”
Current pizza vendors include:
Charred
Il Forno a Legna
J Rad’s Woodfired
JerseyRollz Pizza
Lehigh Pizza
Pat’s Pizza and Bistro
PFG Pizza
Scarlet Fire Authentic Neapolitan Pizza
And more to be announced!
“We have room for just a few more vendors,” explains Brogan. “So, if your place has a favorite slice of the Valley – we want you!”
Interested in being a pizza vendor at Pizzafest? Contact Operations Specialist, Kyle Ring at kring@artsquest.org or Senior Director of Programming, Ryan Hill at rhill@artsquest.org to join the list already confirmed above.
Additional food vendors include Charlie’s Italian Sausage, Grubnight Food Truck, Kona Ice, Mon and Mel’s Sweet Scoops, Pies to Die For and Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee.
Two special VIP experiences will take place during the Pizzafest: Charcuterie and Wine Pairing and Italian Cocktail Tasting.
Pat’s Pizza and Bistro and Domaine Pterion Vineyard & Winery are teaming up to bring you a tasty charcuterie and wine pairing! Take your Pizzafest experience to the next level with this matching of four different wines from Domain Pterion, which specializes in dry European-style wines, with charcuterie hand-picked by Yiannis of Pat’s Pizza and Bistro.
Yiannis and a Domaine Pterion’s winemaker will be on hand to talk through each of the pairings and what makes them go so well together.
ArtsQuest has partnered with Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits and Levy Restaurants to put together a fantastic array of Italian-themed cocktails and light bites, perfect for a little Pizzafest break!
Award-winning mixologist Neil Heimsoth (Mobile Bar H) will be on hand to talk through the histories of the four aperitif-forward cocktails, which include the Aperol Spritz, the Americano, the Garibaldi and the Negroni, and why they’re so good at preparing your pallet for pizza.
Antipasto Pizza Skewers | Ciliegene, Salami, Lemon Oregano Heirloom Tomato, drizzled with house made Herb Oil
Italian Da Vinci Ciabatta | Smokey Tomato Jam, Garlic Aioli, Calabrese Pepperoni, Fresh Sliced Mozzarella, Arugula
Both experiences are 21+ only. Tickets for both experiences also include early access to Pizzafest, a special pizza-themed gift, and access to entertainment and food throughout Pizzafest. Tickets are $64 for ArtsQuest members ($74 week of the event) and $69 for non-members ($79 week of the event).
About ArtsQuest ArtsQuest’s mission is to provide access to exceptional artistic, cultural and educational experiences using arts and culture as key elements of economic development for our urban communities. ArtsQuest™ supports this mission via the presentation of performing and visual arts, film, arts education classes and outreach, youth programming and cultural events.
Through festivals such as its flagship event, Musikfest; the Banana Factory Arts Center; and the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks arts and cultural campus, ArtsQuest’s programming reaches more than 1.9 million people annually. The organization’s programs and events, over 50% of which are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region.
Jazz Jam | Thursday, June 6 from 9-11pm
The community stage is about to come alive with the smooth and soulful sounds of a jazz jam session. Bring your instruments and join in the fun—everyone is welcome to perform and share their musical talents under the stars!
Danny’s Caribbean Jam | Friday, June 7 from 9-11pm
Danny’s Caribbean Jam will be lighting up the outdoor stage at SteelStacks campus Friday, June 6 with their vibrant island rhythms. Don’t miss the chance to experience an evening filled with energetic beats and tropical vibes!
Ginger Coyle | Saturday, June 8 from 9-11pm
GINGER, a veteran singer-songwriter and spiritual activist, introduces “Soul music for conscious souls” with her new record, “Higher Frequency.” This album explores chakras and collective vibrations, blending vintage pianos and soulful 1970s melodies.
Open Mic | Thursday, June 13 from 9-11pm
Join us for our open mics and share your talents with a supportive and enthusiastic community! Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just starting out, come and experience the joy of live performance.
The BC Combo | Friday, June 14 from 9-11pm
The BC Combo has been bringing their signature style to Blues, Jazz, Swing, Folk, R&B, and Soul for over 30 years. Recognized by the Lehigh Valley Music Awards and as Blues Foundation finalists, the band includes Bev Conklin, Wayne Smith, Joe Mac, Glenn Spadone, and Nick Roberti, and their motto is all about having fun.
DJ Romeog | Saturday, June 15 | 9-11pm
On June 15, DJ Romeog will electrify the outdoor stage at the SteelStacks campus with his dynamic beats and infectious energy. Don’t miss out on an unforgettable night of music and dancing under the stars!
Jazz Jam – Thursday, June 20 from 9-11pm
Join us for another exhilarating jazz jam session this Thursday, and let your musical talents shine! Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, come be a part of the magic and share your passion for jazz with a vibrant community of fellow musicians.
The Beautiful Distortion and Hot4Robot | Friday, June 21, 2024 from 9-11pm
The Beautiful Distortion is a hook-driven, harmony-heavy melodic rock band with harmonies reminiscent of Alice In Chains and Fleetwood Mac. With their polished live sound, stellar vocals, and top-notch musicianship, The Beautiful Distortion is a standout in the original rock scene in the tri-state area.
Stefanie Johnson Band | Saturday, June 22 from 9-11pm
With her “Kelly Clarkson meets Taylor Swift” sound, Stefanie Johnson adds the taste of country and rock to her love torn lyrics and catchy hooks. Her songs have been featured in several films and she performs all around the Lehigh Valley, including Musikfest and local television stations.
Can’t get enough outdoor concerts? Take a look at our FREE Levitt Concert series HERE!
Open Mic | Thursday, May 23, 9-11pm
Feel the vibrant energy as the Highmark Community Stage welcomes all to an open mic night filled with acceptance and celebration. Let your voice be heard in this supportive environment!
Rock Steady | Friday, May 24, 9-11pm
Ted Donatelli (The Aardvarks), Steve Placotaris (Truth & Soul), and Lee LaBar (Hattrick) make up the trio Rock Steady. Covering rock and soft rock from the 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s. America, Little River Band, Boston, Bee Gees… plus a good diet of AM Gold.
Good Times Rock n’ Roll and Legendary Country with Chuck Rissmiller | Saturday, May 25, 3-4:30 p.m.
Chuck, a seasoned guitarist/vocalist, dedicates himself entirely to live music, averaging over 100 performances annually. His passion lies in evoking the raw emotion of classic country heartbreak and the fiery energy of early rock ‘n’ roll, drawing inspiration from legendary artists like Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, and Hank Williams, among others.
Friar’s Point Band | Saturday, May 25, 5:30-7:30pm
Original, high energy, contemporary blues-rock, recording artists, 3 time International Blues Challenge Semifinalists, and Staple of the NE festival Circuit.
Friar’s Point Band offers a wide array of “Original” contemporary Rockin’ Blues Music as well as covering the classics with their high-energy, yet dynamic approach to the blues genre.
Lonely Parrots | Saturday, May 25, 9-11pm
Lonely Parrots, a Bay Area duo formed by Michael Martinez and Max Embers, blend harmonies reminiscent of Simon & Garfunkel with a modern Coldplay twist. As founders of the MORF initiative, they advocate for sustainability through music, hosting concerts on regenerative farms.
Acoustic Kitty Project | Sunday, May 26, 3-5pm
Carter Lansing, born in Houston, Tx and raised in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley, found solace in 1970’s FM radio amidst decaying industrial landscapes. Influenced by the classic singer-songwriter tradition and steeped in rock and country, his music explores themes of love, loss, sorrow, and sweetness, resonating with real people through sensitive and literary storytelling.
Band of Brothers | Sunday, May 26, 5:30-7:30pm
Band of Brothers, a seasoned group of musicians, delivers a diverse repertoire, appealing to audiences of all ages. Their engaging performances and tight-knit harmonies ensure an energetic atmosphere that keeps the crowd dancing, showcasing their years of experience and enthusiasm for delivering top-notch entertainment.
Tavern Tan | Sunday, May 26, 9-11pm
Tavern Tan, named after the glow from neon beer lights, epitomizes “Live American Music,” blending eclectic blues, roots, and rock n’ roll with originality and soul. A longstanding fixture in the Lehigh Valley music scene, their sound, reminiscent of classic tavern performances across America, remains vibrant and diverse after over 15 years of dedicated musical exploration and five acclaimed albums.
The SwingTime Dolls | Monday, May 27, 3:30-5pm
The SwingTime Dolls, featuring three accomplished vocalists, breathe new life into American classics from the 1940s Hit Parade and the 1960s Vietnam era, channeling The Andrews Sisters with tight harmonies and dynamic performances. With backgrounds in musical theatre, they deliver an engaging show, blending pin-up style costumes with energetic choreography.
Zaire | Thursday, May 30, 9-11pm
Zaire has been playing the Lehigh Valley area since 2009. They specialize in classic rock with strong 3-part harmonies. Zaire’s vast catalog of songs ranges from The Killers, Radiohead, and Tom Petty back to The Beatles, The Eagles and Lynyrd Skynyrd.
¡Sabor! Festival Latino regresa a SteelStacks del 27 al 29 de junio de2024
Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA., 22 de mayo de 2024 – ArtsQuest, en asociación con el socio de medios La Mega Radio, se enorgullece de anunciar la 13ava entrada gratuita anual de ¡Sabor! Festival Latino (¡Sabor! Latin Festival) que tiene lugar desde jueves,27de junio hasta elsábado, 29 de juniode2024 en el campus de SteelStacks. El festival es una celebración de la herencia latina que incluye música, comida y diversión familiar.
“Estamos muy emocionados por la 13ava versión anual de ¡Sabor! Festival Latino (¡Sabor! Latin Festival). Cada año, el festival rinde homenaje a la herencia, la cultura y la comunidad latina”, dice Shayna Super, Gerente de Programación. “Habrá comida y música que todos conocemos y amamos, pero este año disfrutaremos de nuevas ofertas de comida nueva, nuevos artistas musicales, una sección de vendedores ampliada y la proyección del partido de fútbol Panamá vs. Estados Unidos ¡el jueves 27 de junio! La asistencia al festival es gratuita y habrá algo para que disfrute toda la familia, ¡así que esperamos verle allí!
Como mencionó Super, hay muchos aspectos destacados del festival de este año, incluyendo la proyección del partido de fútbol de la Copa América 2024, Panamá vs. EE. UU. a las 6p. m.el jueves,27 de junio como parte del Soccerfest de este año presentado por Wind Creek Bethlehem, el nuevo camión de comida puertorriqueña, La Frikitona, ofrecerá cocina auténtica durante la noche y se unirá a ¡Sabor! Durante todo el fin de semana y concluyendo la primera noche habrá actuaciones de los favoritos Herencia Jibara y DJ Breezzy.
No se pierda la reunión salsera definitiva, juntos por primera vez: un escenario, un show, un ¡Sabor! Miguel Pérez, miembro de la junta directiva de ArtsQuest Performing Arts, trabajó duro para unir a tres grandes artistas de salsa latina del área de Lehigh Valley para encabezar el sábado por la noche en Levitt Pavilion. Los líderes de la banda Pablo Batista (percusionista), Hector Rosado (percusionista) y Luisito Rosario (cantante) interpretarán varios temas juntos el sábado,29 dejunio. Batista y Rosado, viejos amigos que crecieron en Lehigh Valley, se unirán a uno de los prodigios de Rosado, Rosario, para una actuación emocionante en la que podremos verlos a los tres juntos por primera vez.
El Brugal Lounge volverá este año el viernes 28 de junio (06:00 p. m. – 8 p. m.) y el sábado 29 de junio (5 p. m. – 8 p. m.) presentando muestras de Ron Brugal y mesas de dominó para el disfrute de nuestros invitados mayores de 21 años de edad.
Finalmente, regresarán los platos favoritos del festival de Hogar CREA y Holy Infancy, junto con La Frikitona, además de una selección ampliada de artesanos y vendedores.
Horario del fin de semana:
Jueves 27 de junio
Levitt Pavilion de 6 a 8 p. m. – Partido Panamá vs. Estados Unidos
Levitt Pavilion de 8 a 9:30 p. m. – Herencia Jibara
Air Products Town Square de 9:30 a 11 p. m. – DJ Breezzy
Viernes 28 de junio
Air Products Town Square de 6:30 a 8 p. m. – East Coast Salsa Scene
Levitt Pavilion de 8 a 10 p. m. – Combo Melaza
Air Products Town Square de 10 p. m. a 12 a. m. – Pancho Bongo y su Orquesta
Sábado 29 de junio
Air Products Town Square de 4 a 5 p. m. – Viva Vallenato
Levitt Pavilion de 5 a 6:30 p. m. – Fabricio Orihuela
Air Products Town Square de 6:30 a 8 p. m. – Jimmy Bosch Salsa Masters
Levitt Pavilion de 8 a 10 p. m. – Hector Rosado, maestro percusionista Pablo Batista y vocalista invitado Luisito Rosario
Air Products Town Square de 10 p. m. – 12 a. m. – Mambo Caliente
El viernes 28 de junio se llevará a cabo una ceremonia anual de izamiento de la bandera puertorriqueña (Puerto Rican Flag Raising Ceremony) para dar inicio al festival, justo antes de que comience la música ese día, con los himnos nacionales de Estados Unidos y Puerto Rico y oradores de la comunidad.
“Lo que están haciendo este año, reunir a tres íconos de la música salsa en nuestra región (Rosado, Batista y Rosario), es verdaderamente un momento especial”, dice Miguel Pérez, miembro de la junta directiva de ArtsQuest Performing Arts. “Lehigh Valley nunca ha visto algo así y estoy orgulloso de desempeñar un papel para lograrlo. ¡Sabor! Se trata de preservar la cultura latina en nuestra área y la dedicación de ArtsQuest a esa misión es notable”.
Acerca de ArtsQuest La misión de ArtsQuest’s es brindar acceso a experiencias artísticas, culturales y educativas excepcionales utilizando las artes y la cultura como elementos clave del desarrollo económico de nuestras comunidades urbanas. ArtsQuest™ apoya esta misión a través de la presentación de artes escénicas y visuales, cine, clases de educación artística y extensión, programación juvenil y eventos culturales.
A través de festivales como su evento emblemático, Musikfest; el Banana Factory Arts Center; y el ArtsQuest Center en el campus artístico y cultural de SteelStacks, la programación de ArtsQuest llega a más de 1.9 millones de personas anualmente. Los programas y eventos de la organización, más del 50% de los cuales son gratuitos, tienen un impacto económico combinado de más de $136 millones al año en la región.