SteelStacks — Bethlehem, PA

S	M	T	W	T	F	S
		1	2	3	4	5
6	7	8	9	10	11	12
13	14	15	16	17	18	19
20	21	22	23	24	25	26
27	28	29	30

S	M	T	W	T	F	S
				1	2	3
4	5	6	7	8	9	10
11	12	13	14	15	16	17
18	19	20	21	22	23	24
25	26	27	28	29	30	31

S	M	T	W	T	F	S
1	2	3	4	5	6	7
8	9	10	11	12	13	14
15	16	17	18	19	20	21
22	23	24	25	26	27	28
29	30

S	M	T	W	T	F	S
		1	2	3	4	5
6	7	8	9	10	11	12
13	14	15	16	17	18	19
20	21	22	23	24	25	26
27	28	29	30	31

S	M	T	W	T	F	S
					1	2
3	4	5	6	7	8	9
10	11	12	13	14	15	16
17	18	19	20	21	22	23
24	25	26	27	28	29	30
31

S	M	T	W	T	F	S
	1	2	3	4	5	6
7	8	9	10	11	12	13
14	15	16	17	18	19	20
21	22	23	24	25	26	27
28	29	30

ARTSQUEST CELEBRA EL DIA DE LOS REYES MAGOS CON LA EXPERIENCIA DE SERVICIO AL CARRO

10510

BETHLEHEM, PA – Una tradición querida por muchos en la comunidad Latina del Valle de Lehigh, adaptada para incorporar reglas de seguridad del CDC, va a continuar El Día de los Reyes – Three Kings Day – será celebrado en la tarde del 3 de enero. Los Reyes Magos seguirán repartiendo regalos a niños de 12 años y menor a través de una experiencia de servicio al carro. Esta será realizada en el estacionamiento de PNC ubicado en 711 E. 1st Street en Bethlehem. Los padres y guardianes deben registrarse con anticipación en el sitio de web de SteelStackes o llamando a la oficina de ArtsQuest al 610 332-1300. Los espacios de registro están disponibles entre la 1pm y 3pm el día 3 de enero y son gratuitos.

La novena celebración de los Reyes Magos en el campus de SteelStacks se vera diferente en el sentido de que no se puede incorporar la comida, música, arte debido a las reglas mas recientes con relación al COVID 19 por el estado de Pensilvania. Pero los Tres Reyes Magos – Gaspar, Melchor y Balthazar – todavía estarán en asistencia para repartir regalos e impartir el cuento de los Reyes Magos (en ingles y español) para asegurar que esta tradición nunca se olvide.

“El compartir esta tradición querida con nuestros hijos es la razón porque tantos de nosotros damos nuestro tiempo, talento y tesoros para asegurar esta tradición navideña se transmita y continúe, “ dice Myrna Rivera, una Puertorriqueña y miembro del Comité Comunitario Latino de ArtsQuest. “No puedo recordar una navidad en Bethlehem que no incluyo reuniones con familia y amigos cantando y bailando con música, parrandas, comiendo comida típica y aun mas importante dándole a nuestros hijos regalitos y dulces. Ya que este año no podemos hacer los primeros dos mencionados, vamos a asegurarnos que este día viva con nuestros niños en la manera mas segura posible.

La celebración de los Reyes Magos es un programa cultural del Comité Comunitario Latino de ArtsQuest, cual es compuesto de lideres de la comunidad Latina del Valle de Lehigh. Partidarios de la celebración de los Reyes magos incluye la Corporación PPL, Carlos y Carol Anne López, West Side Hammer Electric y MEGA Radio. Pamela Ptak, la diseñadora de Riegelsville que apareció en la séptima temporada del exitoso programa de televisión Project Runaway, esta creando y prestando los vestidos y el vestuario de los Tres Reyes.

ARTSQUEST TO CELEBRATE EL DIA DE LOS REYES WITH DRIVE-THROUGH EXPERIENCE

10510

Annual Three Kings celebration will be held Jan. 3

BETHLEHEM, PA – A cherished tradition in much of the Lehigh Valley’s Latin American community, adapted to incorporate CDC safety guidelines, will continue when El Dia de los Reyes – Three Kings Day – will be celebrated on the afternoon of Sunday, Jan. 3. The Three Kings themselves will still hand out presents to children ages 12 and under via a drive-through experience held at the PNC Parking Lot, located at 711 E 1st St in Bethlehem, that parents and guardians must register for in advance at THIS LINK or by calling the ArtsQuest Box Office at 610-332-1300. Registration slots are available from 1-3 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 3 and are free of charge.

The 9th annual celebration of Three Kings Day on the SteelStacks campus will look different in that it cannot incorporate the usual food, music, arts and crafts due to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s latest COVID-19 related mandates, but the Three Kings – Gaspar, Melchior and Balthazar – will still be in attendance to both hand out gifts and impart the story of the Three Kings (in English and Español) to ensure that this time-honored tradition will never be forgotten.

“Sharing these cherished memories with our children is the reason so many of us give of our time, talent and treasures to ensure this holiday tradition is passed on and continued,” said Myrna Rivera, a native of Puerto Rico and a member of ArtsQuest’s Latino Community Advisory Committee. “I can’t remember a Christmas holiday in Bethlehem that didn’t include congregating with family and friends to sing and dance to parranda music, eat food and, most importantly, give our children gifts and treats. While we can’t do those first two in quite the same way as before, we’re going to make sure this day lives on with our youth in the safest way possible.”

The Three Kings Celebration is a cultural program of ArtsQuest’s Latino Community Advisory Committee, which is comprised of leaders from the Lehigh Valley’s Latino community. Supporters of the Three Kings Celebration include PPL Corporation, Carlos & Carol Anne Lopez, West Side Hammer, and MEGA Radio. The Three Kings’ gowns and costumes are being created and lent to the event by Pamela Ptak, the Riegelsville-based designer who appeared on Season 7 of the hit TV show Project Runway.

Top Songs of 2020:
ArtsQuest Staff Picks

songs-of-2020_635x412

2020 sucked, but the year’s new songs didn’t!

To brighten your spirits and share our staff’s passion for music, we put together a list of top song choices from the-year-that-shall-not-be-named. We hope you’ll enjoy our eclectic mix of musical tastes and discover some great new tunes!

EDITOR’S NOTE: Since he’s in charge of booking our major acts, we let Patrick pick his Top 5 and gave him top billing. The rest of our staff picked their favorite song and they’re listed in order of when the pick was submitted (slackers are at the bottom).

CLICK HERE FOR OUR SPOTIFY PLAYLIST

Patrick Brogan – Chief Programming Officer & Manager of the ArtsQuest Center

In a very weird year for music inside a very difficult year for the entire world I still see a lot to be celebrated. My top five singles are below but I’d like to also give some honorable mentions. Big names had new music out and Lady Gaga’s “Rain On Me” reigns supreme though The Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights” and really the whole album is excellent. Ritt Momney breathed creative new life into what was already a phenomenal Corinne Bailey Rae song in his remix to “Put Your Records On.” I thoroughly enjoy French singer/songwriter Christine and the Queens’ “People, I’ve Been Sad” as well as new music earlier in the year from The 1975 (“If You’re Too Shy” is my favorite but I give a loving mention to “Me & You Together Song”). Also a fan of much of Grimes new album including the art mix of “My Name Is Dark” and “Delete Forever.”

Here are my top five singles of the year, this year I have not listed in any particular order:

Megan Thee Stallion ft. Beyonce – “Savage Remix”

My choice to win Best New Artist at the GRAMMY’s this spring combines with the Queen who I love to hear rap in songs like this when she offers.

Hinds – “Good Bad Times”

A fun rhythm with some relationship-heavy lyrics, the women of this power pop group even float seamlessly between English & Spanish language beautifully throughout the chorus.

Soccer Mommy – “yellow is the color of her eyes”

My haunting singer-songwriter / rock entry from Swiss-born and Nashville-based Sophia Regina Allen’s sophomore album.

Taylor Swift – “the last great american dynasty”

I find music I love on every Taylor Swift album and this one is no different telling the tale of Holiday House and a ruined relationship in catchy pop fashion.

Rina Sawayama – “XS”

I don’t know how this fun banger hasn’t broken on the US charts & pop radio but it’s a statement off a great debut studio album Sawayama from Japanese/British pop songwriter Rina Sawayama.

Ben Youngerman – Marketing Manager

Marilyn Manson – “WE ARE CHAOS”

As the resident metalhead at ArtsQuest, I typically choose a song that absolutely shreds. But this melancholy year was best summed up by the title track of Marilyn Manson’s latest album WE ARE CHAOS. Co-written with country artist Shooter Jennings, the whole album is a brilliant new direction for the shock rocker (and dare I say “Bowie-esque”?). \m/ (*>*) \m/

Cory Stevens – Volunteer & Internship Programs Manager

Glass Animals – “Space Ghost Coast to Coast”

I’ve loved the music of Glass Animals for years! Their sounds are all at once dreamy, dramatic, and primal, and when their new album Dreamland dropped truly in the midst of Virtual Musikfest it became the perfect soundtrack to keep me going through this awful year. “Space Ghost Coast to Coast” is my favorite song off this album because of its infectious beat and narrative lyrics.

Nicole Gencarelli – Visual Arts Specialist

Taylor Swift ft. Bon Iver – “exile”

I just really enjoyed the collab for this song, both musicians gave such great performances and it’s been playing in my Spotify a lot!

Gabriela Laracca – Public Relations Coordinator

System of a Down – “Protect the Land”

As the great granddaughter of Armenian Genocide survivor Virginia Sarkisian De Hamalian and an avid System Of A Down fan, this song, their first release in 15 years on Nov. 5, means the world to me. It discusses the corrupt, genocidal actions of Ilham Aliyev (President of Azerbaijan) and Recep Tayyip Erdogan (President of Turkey), leaving Armenians in a very similar situation to what my abuelita went through about 100 years ago. Both this song and their other new release, “Genocidal Humanoidz,” are available for purchase now with all proceeds going to the Armenia Fund and the Aid for Artsakh Campaign.

Michelle Veresink Richmond – Sr. Manager of Membership

Luke Combs – “Six Feet Apart”

What a year! This song just really speaks to how difficult this year has been, how much we have had to adapt, but that there is hope and that we will get past this pandemic. It’s all the feelings and story-telling wrapped up in a way that can only be done in a country song!

Jason Frisch – Director of Event Services

Phish – “Everything’s Right”

Phish released their first studio album, Junta, in 1989 and launched themselves to the top of the Jam Band scene where they have remained. 30 years later they are still doing it with the release of Sigma Oasis in 2020. Phish kills it with “Everything’s Right”. It is quintessential Phish with an epic dance groove into an epic jam. There’s not many bands who can still release great new music after 30 years.

Elena Ostock – Visual Arts Manager

Mac Miller – “Good News”

I really didn’t listen to Mac Miller before this year, when his final, post-humous album Circles was released in January. Somehow, some algorithm connected me with this song, and I am glad. For me this song encapsulates a lot of my mood for 2020: Sleepy, a little bit sad, and totally unsure of what day it is.

Anne Sturm – Sr. Talent Buyer

Phoebe Bridgers – “Garden Song”

Talk about a song to get lost in during a late night drive. This song is darkly beautiful as it transports me to a nostalgic world with my younger self.

Alexis Grant – Graphic Designer

HAIM – “The Steps”

Love this album! I’ve been listening to it on repeat since its release over the summer. It’s hard to pick just one song, but “The Steps” is at the top for me.

Brooke Novotnak – Partnership Activation Specialist

Taylor Swift – “the 1”

• This was the first track on a surprise album drop that came right as my pandemic depression was kicking in. Being a long-time Taylor Swift fan, hearing her sing, as the very first line on her album, “I’m doing good, I’m on some new sh*t”, made me devolve into tears. Maybe it was the emotions of 2020, maybe it was an amazing first track, all I know is that Folklore was exactly what I needed this year.

Teena Renfrow – Box Office Manager

Eric Church – “Stick That in Your Country Song”

A lot of country songs are about trucks, beer, God and country and it’s an easy formula to get to #1. 2020 has highlighted a lot of the underbelly of our country and Eric Church isn’t afraid to call it out and sing about weightier issues in this crazy, rockin’ powerful song. One of the few songs he sings but didn’t write, he still makes it his own.

Kimberly Koehler – Partnership Activation Specialist

BLACKPINK – “How You Like That”

There is something about “How You Like That” by BLACKPINK that has a special place in my heart. The pre-album single introduced me to the phenomenal superstar K-pop girl group. (Shout out to Made For You playlists!). “How You Like That” is the exact anthem everyone needs to hear in 2020: No matter the obstacle, you can always overcome them and come back stronger. Not to mention, this song’s beat can get you on your feet and dancing which would make anyone happy! Bonus Points, if you learn the moves from the music video ?. I highly recommend giving BLACKPINK a listen!

Ryan Hill – Programming Director

H.E.R. – “I Can’t Breathe”

THE song of 2020 from one of the most electrifying performers and writers out there (check her SNL performance from earlier this year out if you haven’t yet – BOTH songs).

Alli Poczak – Performing Arts Assistant

BTS – “Dynamite”

2020 was the year of disco-pop with many of this year’s chart topping favorites featuring funky synth and rhythm guitar you can’t help but dance to. “Dynamite” was no different. Featuring the seven-member, South Korean, K-Pop Boy Band, BTS, also known as the Bangtan Boys. The song is light and fun which matches the pastel dreamland they’ve created in their video as BTS dances and sings about a night out with your friends. This is the first all-English song released by BTS and it follows last year’s hit, “Boys with Luv” featuring Halsey, which is a mix of Korean and English. Overall, “Dynamite” always lifts my mood and puts a smile on my face. To sum up my general feelings about music in 2020, I’ll close with a quote from this song: “Disco overload, I’m into that, I’m good to go.”

Shayna Super – Performing Arts Specialist

Fleet Foxes – “Can I Believe You”

Fleet Foxes dropping a new album on the first day of Fall was the most autumnal thing that could have happened. “Can I Believe You” is my current favorite from this album, it sounds familiar to classic Fleet Foxes but without being tired or overdone – you can sense their evolution as musicians in this album. The songwriting in this song is poignant and reflective and the sound of the music just washes over you as you listen. The title of the album is “Shore” and I think that’s a pretty accurate name for the feelings evoked.

Amanda Celestina – Operations Specialist

Puscifer – “Apocalyptical”

Puscifer is my favorite band. They have a great way of dropping societal garbage into their music. With this year being the dumpster fire it was, this song alludes to some of the nonsense. And the video just makes me chuckle.

Juliann Masenheimer – Lead Creative

Kelsea Ballerini – “hole in the bottle”

Quirky, sarcastic and definitely not afraid to poke fun at itself, Ballerini’s song may be the perfect drinking song for 2020. From working from home with kids, social distancing and trying to stay sane during this pandemic I feel like we have all had that moment of thinking we were only going to have one drink to unwind.

Nick Michael – Business Development Manager

Spiders Dressed in Red – “Valentine’s Bought Your Lover”

Selfish selection, as this is my son’s band. This is my favorite song of a very ambitious 6 track album that the boys released earlier this year. Very smooth and melodic. Check them out on Spotify!!!!

Jacob Rivera – IT Computer Systems Analyst

The Weeknd – “In Your Eyes”

This song has so many great elements to it. Not only does it make me want to put on my dancing shoes, but it also makes me feel like I took a DeLorean back to the ’80s. The fact that The Weeknd took an upbeat instrumental and meshed it with sad and vulnerable lyrics was simply beautiful!!!

BONUS PLAYLIST!

Listen to all of these 2020 tunes in one awesome playlist…

Previous end-of-year staff picks:

2019
2018
2017
2016
2015

ARTSQUEST TO LAUNCH CHRISTMAS CITY CLUCKERY FOR CURBSIDE PICKUP

friedchicken_meal_1200x1200

Pop-up ‘chicken kitchen’ debuts Dec. 18

BETHLEHEM, PA – Offering savory sandwiches, biscuits, desserts, and more, the brand-new Christmas City Cluckery will open for curbside pickup ordering at the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks – 101 Founder’s Way in Bethlehem – on Friday, Dec. 18th. Developed by ArtsQuest and their culinary partner Levy Restaurants, this pop-up kitchen focusing on chicken dishes with a southern flair will operate on weekends through Jan. 3, with the potential for more dates to be announced.

With the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s latest COVID-19 related mandates in place, the Christmas City Cluckery will offer patrons a safe and tasty way to continue to support ArtsQuest through the pandemic. Orders are to be placed through the SteelStacks website – https://www.steelstacks.org/cluckery/ – where patrons are able to denote the day and time they’d like to pick up their order; all orders will be picked up at the front doors of the ArtsQuest Center.

The Cluckery will be open for the following dates/times:

• Friday, 12/18: 4-8pm
• Saturday, 12/19: 4-8pm
• Sunday, 12/20: 1-5pm
• Closed on Christmas Day
• Saturday, 12/26: 4-8pm
• Sunday, 12/27: 1-5pm
• Closed on New Year’s Day
• Saturday, 1/2: 4-8pm
• Sunday, 1/3: 1-5pm

The full Cluckery menu is included with this release. Highlights include the Southern Fried Chicken Tender Sandwich, served on a brioche bun with pickles and horseradish honey mustard; a Southern Fried Chicken Finger Basket that can come with a side of buttermilk biscuits and a choice from three dipping sauces (honey mustard, BBQ, mango habanero); and a Maple Brown Sugar Bread Pudding with caramel sauce.

“During this hectic holiday season let Levy and ArtsQuest cook for you,” said Martin Durbin, Director of Operations for Levy. “Featuring fan favorites like Chef Shawn’s Buttermilk Brined Chicken Tenders or Chef Julie’s Five Cheese Mac & Cheese, there’s something for the whole family.”

‘Palette & Pour’ Restaurant at SteelStacks to Host Dining and Performances through December on Williams Brew Stage

paletteandpour_webheader

Williams Brew Stage performances continue featuring new artists and limited time items

BETHLEHEM, PA – After a sensational sold-out opening, Palette & Pour, located on the first floor of the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks, will continue being a destination for tantalizing dishes accompanied by live music on the Williams Brew Stage. Guests can look forward to mouth-watering dinner specials and reserve their tables for this experience Wednesdays through Saturdays throughout December, excluding Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, with the of addition of Sunday, Dec. 27 and Sunday, Jan. 2.

Specially featured for Dec. 2-5 will be various delicious chili recipes including Chicken and Hominy Chili Verde, or for those looking to turn it up, our spicy Texas Heat, paired perfectly with a smooth and satisfying Yuengling Hershey’s Porter, now on tap.

The Williams Brew Stage, made possible by the generous donations of ArtsQuest Circle Donors Dr. Mary Ellen Williams and Mr. John Brew, will feature local favorite Craig Thatcher each Wednesday accompanied by Nyke Van Wyk and/or Cliff Starkey. Other can’t miss artists include the chill sounds of indie-folk duo Homestead Collective from Glenside, PA and Charles Emanuel, a soulful acoustic act who has performed alongside ‘Fest-favorite Danielle Ponder.

Free table reservations will become available on Monday, Nov. 23 to ArtsQuest Members and Wednesday, Nov. 25 to the public. There is a $10 food and beverage minimum per person in each party.

Following all CDC, state and city health and safety guidelines, campus attendance is being limited to ensure proper social distancing and masks – covering both the nose and mouth – are required at all times aside from when seated eating and drinking.

Below is the current list of confirmed shows:

Craig Thatcher, Nyke Van Wyk & Cliff Starkey
Wednesday, Dec. 2, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

The Jazz Improvisation Experience
Thursday, Dec. 3, 6-9 p.m.

The Groove Merchants
Friday, Dec. 4, 7-10 p.m.

Zaire Acoustic Trio
Saturday, Dec. 5, 7-10 p.m.

Craig Thatcher, Nyke Van Wyk & Cliff Starkey
Wednesday, Dec. 9, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

aGirl & aGuy
Thursday, Dec. 10, 6-9 p.m.

Gabe Stillman Duo
Friday, Dec. 11, 7-10 p.m.

Homestead Collective
Saturday, Dec. 12, 7-10 p.m.

Craig Thatcher, Nyke Van Wyk & Cliff Starkey
Wednesday, Dec. 16, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

The Jazz Improvisation Experience
Thursday, Dec. 17, 6-9 p.m.

Honey and Nutz
Friday, Dec. 18, 7-10 p.m.

Charles Emanuel
Saturday, Dec. 19, 7-10 p.m.

Craig Thatcher & Nyke Van Wyk
Wednesday, Dec. 23, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Donovan Roberts
Saturday, Dec. 26, 7-10 p.m.

Steve Brosky Duo with John Cannavo
Sunday, Dec. 27, 6-9 p.m.

Craig Thatcher & Cliff Starkey
Wednesday, Dec. 30, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

*TBD
Thursday, Dec. 31, 6-9 p.m.

GT3 Jazz
Saturday, Jan. 2, 7-10 p.m.

More shows will be announced in the coming weeks, *including a special New Year’s Eve performance – stay tuned on the SteelStacks and Palette & Pour Facebook pages for more details.

ArtsQuest Offers Bonus Weekend of Christkindlmarkt, Dec. 3-6

ckm-open-extra-week_3-6

Univest Allows Beloved Holiday Market to Open for Extra Weekend

BETHLEHEM, PA – After several wonderful weekends, Christkindlmarkt will continue to bring the holiday cheer now through December thanks to the generous sponsorship of Univest! Complete with creative vendors, delectable bites, cozy cocktails, invigorating performances and seasonal activities, the holiday market will now run for the extra weekend of Dec. 3-6.

“Supporting local small businesses and artists is imperative right now, and there is no better way to do so than feeling the holiday spirit in the Christmas City,” said Curt Mosel, Chief Operating Officer. “ArtsQuest is thrilled with the turnout we’ve seen these last few weekends and we are honored to offer this extra time for the community to connect through the arts at Christkindlmarkt, as well as at our on-going socially-distanced indoor dining, concerts, movies and other activities at SteelStacks.”

Thanks to NJM Insurance, new to Christkindlmarkt this month are family-friendly activities with St. Nick including story-times and socially-distanced photos, “Cooking with St. Nick” via Zoom and personalized “Zoom Calls with St. Nick.” To purchase tickets for activities with St. Nick, visit ChristmasCity.org.

Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem presented by Univest Financial®, takes place at SteelStacks, located at 645 E. First St., Bethlehem. Campus attendance is being limited to ensure proper safe social distancing and enable us to follow all CDC, state and city health & safety guidelines.

Event dates, hours and ticket prices are as follows:

Tickets:
Thursdays: $9
Fridays: $10
Saturdays: $10
Sundays: $10
Children ages 2 and under are free.

Dates and Hours:
Thurs.-Sun., Oct. 8-Dec. 6 (closed Thurs., Nov. 26 for Thanksgiving)
Thursdays: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Fridays: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Saturdays: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Sundays: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

PEEPSFEST® 2020 Celebration to Include Virtual and In-Person Activities

peepsfest_web

12th Annual Lehigh Valley PEEPS® Diorama Competition and PEEPS® Chick Drop Commence the New Year in the Sweetest Way

BETHLEHEM, PA — Year after year, Just Born Quality Confections, along with ArtsQuest and other generous local community partners, come together to provide a fun, safe, family-friendly New Year’s celebration. This year will be no different! To close out 2020 in the sweetest way possible, fans will experience the 12th annual PEEPSFEST® 2-day festival featuring The Lehigh Valley PEEPS® Diorama Competition and PEEPS® Chick Drop.

The PEEPS® Diorama Competition

Just Born Quality Confections and ArtsQuest are pleased to announce the 12th annual Lehigh Valley PEEPS® Diorama Competition is now open for families and businesses to participate for the first time ever–virtually! The Diorama Competition is a central part of PEEPSFEST® (December 30th and 31st), a two-day celebration of the PEEPS® brand and the iconic PEEPS® Chick, the #1 non-chocolate Easter candy, produced right here in the Lehigh Valley.

The task is simple; decide on an idea and create a diorama using PEEPS® Brand candies, MIKE AND IKE®, HOT TAMALES® or GOLDENBERG’S® PEANUT CHEWS®. Your diorama may depict any subject, from silly to serious! Candy kits filled with Just Born Quality Confections sweets are available for a small fee of $5 at the Banana Factory. Pickup dates are Monday, Nov. 16 to Saturday, Nov. 21 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with a special appearance from the PEEPSMOBILE® in the parking lot at the Banana Factory on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Once finished, upload one photo of your diorama online by Friday, Dec. 11 at www.steelstacks.org/festivals/peepsfest/. All the entries will be compiled into an online voting gallery. Voting will take place from Friday, Dec. 18th to Tuesday, Dec. 29th at 11:59 p.m. Fans may vote for their favorite diorama, which will receive the PEEPle’s Choice award. The PEEPle’s Choice winner will be announced during the virtually-streamed daily PEEPSFEST® show on Wednesday, Dec. 30th. The winner will receive a PEEPS® Brand Candy Package. The online gallery of dioramas will be on display through Thursday, Dec. 31st, even after voting has ended.

A panel of local judges will choose 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners in each category. Winners will be announced during the virtually streamed daily PEEPSFEST® show on Wednesday, Dec. 30th and receive a PEEPS® Brand Candy Package.

The Judge’s Choice winner will receive a PEEPS® Brand Candy Package and will get to “drop” the illuminated New Year’s Eve PEEPS® Chick at 5:15 p.m. on Dec. 31st.

For questions on The PEEPS® Diorama Competition, contact ArtsQuest Performing Arts Specialist, Shayna Super at ssuper@artsquest.org.

The PEEPS® Chick Drop

The fan-favorite annual PEEPS® Chick Drop will take place on Thursday, Dec. 31st from 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. Families can reserve a socially-distanced Levitt lawn square for $25 here, which accommodates up to 4 guests (not including children under the age of 2).

Guests will dance the night away to family-favorite hits spun by DJ Wesley Works. Enjoy socially-distanced dance competitions along with a festive party atmosphere including a special appearance by the PEEPS® Chick itself, all while watching the clock countdown to the PEEPS® Chick Drop! PEEPS® s’mores will be available for purchase at the Mack Truck Stop with fire pits across the back of the venue for roasting. The massive PEEPS® Chick, weighing in at 400 pounds and standing 4 feet and 9 inches tall, will descend for the countdown to the New Year at 5:15 p.m., followed by a stunning display of fireworks in the night sky. All guests 12 and under will receive a special Just Born Quality Confections gift bag! We hope you join us to celebrate the close of 2020 in the sweetest way possible. This event is likely to sell out, so we encourage families to purchase early.

Virtual PEEPSFEST® Daily Show

Join us for the sweetest end of year celebration on December 30th and 31st! Tune in from the comfort of your home online for the Virtual PEEPSFEST® Daily Show to enjoy your favorite music, crafts and entertainment from local Lehigh Valley organizations and nonprofits. More details to come, so check back at SteelStacks.org for updates very soon!

World War II Veterans Share Stories on Veterans Day via Live Stream

Albert “AI” Fraind, Mathias “Matt” Gutman and Harry Hebig discuss experiences

World War II veterans Albert “Al” Fraind, a Corporal with the U.S. Army, Mathias “Matt” Gutman, a Chief Petty Officer with the U.S. Navy and U.S. Navy Reserves, and Harry Hebig, a Petty Officer 2nd Class with the U.S. Navy Air Corps, will discuss their personal experiences of military service during World War II on Veteran’s Day, Wednesday, Nov. 11 at 10 a.m. live from the Terrace at Phoebe Allentown, and streamed for free via SteelStacks’ Facebook page and steelstacks.org, Phoebe Ministries’ Facebook page and phoebe.org, and Embassy Bank’s Facebook page.

“Coffee & Conversation: Reflections by World War II Veterans,” moderated by Retired U.S. Marine Corps Colonel and head of Lehigh University’s Veterans Association, Frank Gunter, will spotlight the featured veterans, neighbors, and friends – who meet daily for coffee – and will invite viewers into an intimate look into their conversations and reflections of their service during World War II.

The SteelStacks’ Veterans Day event is presented by Embassy Bank and Phoebe Ministries and made possible through a partnership between Lehigh University Veterans Association and ArtsQuest.

Veterans’ Bios
Albert “Al” Fraind, of Allentown, served in the U.S. Army for four years in the 9th Infantry under General Patton during World War II. His service included many major battles including the Invasion of Africa, Sicily, The Battle of the Bulge, and D-Day. Before entering the service, Al worked on the assembly line at Mack Truck, Inc. After the war, he worked as a fire fighter for the Allentown Fire Department for 30 years then as an admissions counselor for Cedarbrook Nursing Home. After leaving Cedarbrook he volunteered for Lehigh County as an Ombudsman where he advocated for seniors living in long-term care facilities until he was 84 years-old. Al, who lives at the Terrace at Phoebe Allentown, survives his wife Norma and has two children, five grandchildren and three great grandchildren. In February, Al celebrated his 100 birthday with fellow Allentown firefighters who surprised him with a fire truck drive-by.

Mathias “Matt” Gutman, of Allentown, served 22 years in the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Navy Reserves beginning with active duty during World War II where he served in six invasions. After World War II, Matt worked for Stehly Sign company as a journey sign painter and for Mutual and United of Omaha and Metropolitan Life Insurance Companies as an insurance representative. After that, he worked at Mack Trucks, Inc. for 12 years on the “Fire Line” producing fire trucks until he retired. Matt, who lives at the Terrace at Phoebe Allentown, survives his wife Arlene and has six children, three stepchildren, eight grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. At 95 years-old, Matt continues to visit schools and share his story of service.

Harry Hebig, of Allentown, served stateside for two years during World War II at the Naval Air Station Whiting Field near Milton, FL. After serving, Harry worked at Mack Trucks, Inc. followed by Lehigh Valley Dairy where he worked for 27 years as a sales manager. He then worked for the East Penn School District as a member of the maintenance staff until he retired. Harry, who lives at the Terrace at Phoebe Allentown, survives his wife Lorraine and has two children and five grandchildren.

Dining at New ‘Palette & Pour’ Restaurant at SteelStacks Complimented by Performances on New Williams Brew Stage

paletteandpour_webheader

ArtsQuest Circle Donors Dr. Mary Ellen Williams and Mr. John Brew fund new stage

BETHLEHEM, PA – Starting Wednesday, Nov. 4, diners of the all-new ‘Palette & Pour’ restaurant, on the first floor of the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks, will have the pleasure of enjoying delectable dishes from our new menu, featuring favorites like the popular chicken tinga tacos, complimented by beloved local artists’ invigorating performances on the all-new Williams Brew Stage. These special dining with a show experiences will take place Wednesdays through Saturdays, throughout November.

The Williams Brew Stage, as part of ArtsQuest’s Capital Campaign remodel of the first floor of the ArtsQuest Center, was made possible by the generous donations of ArtsQuest Circle Donors, Dr. Mary Ellen Williams and Mr. John Brew.

“Being part of ArtsQuest’s story and future was an easy decision for Jay and me,” said Dr. Williams. “We wanted to make an impact that the entire community can enjoy. The Williams Brew Stage is a place where ArtsQuest will be able to provide artistic experiences for generations to come.”

Free table reservations are available starting today for ArtsQuest Members and Friday, 10 a.m., to the public. There is a $10 food and beverage minimum per person in each party.

Following all CDC, state and city health and safety guidelines, campus attendance is being limited to ensure proper social distancing and masks, covering both the nose and mouth, are required at all times aside from when seated eating and drinking.

Below is the current list of confirmed shows:

Craig Thatcher, Nyke Van Wyk & Cliff Starkey
Wednesday, Nov. 4, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Seth Witcher
Thursday, Nov. 5, 6-9 p.m.

Swamp Guard Trio
Friday, Nov. 6, 7-10 p.m.

Ginger and The Schnappes
Saturday, Nov. 7, 7-10 p.m.

Craig Thatcher, Nyke Van Wyk & Cliff Starkey
Wednesday, Nov. 11, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Corinne Mammana Duo
Thursday, Nov. 12, 6-9 p.m.

Tim Harakal
Friday, Nov. 13, 7-10 p.m.

Acoustic Kitty Project Duo
Saturday, Nov. 14, 7-10 p.m.

Craig Thatcher, Nyke Van Wyk & Cliff Starkey
Wednesday, Nov. 18, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

The Flynn Brothers
Thursday, Nov. 19, 6-9 p.m.

Najwa Parkins Duo
Friday, Nov. 20, 7-10 p.m.

Billy Bauer & Chris Lorenzetti
Saturday, Nov. 21, 7-10 p.m.

Craig Thatcher, Nyke Van Wyk & Cliff Starkey
Wednesday, Nov. 25, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Pentley Holmes
Friday, Nov. 27, 7-10 p.m.

Scott Marshall & Marshall’s Highway
Saturday, Nov. 28, 7-10 p.m.

Stay tuned on the SteelStacks and Palette & Pour Facebook pages for updates.

Activities with St. Nick Bring the Holiday Cheer to Christkindlmarkt

stnick

Intimate Storytimes, Socially-Distanced Photos, Cooking Lessons, Zoom Calls, Free Craft Kits and Gifts

BETHLEHEM, PA – Starting the first weekend in November, St. Nick will be bringing the Christmas spirit to Christkindlmarkt, thanks to Just Born Quality Confections, through a variety of events and attractions, such as storytimes and socially distanced photos, cooking lessons, and personalized Zoom calls, all presented by NJM Insurance! All children under the age of 12 will also receive a free craft kit presented by Crayola and a special holiday present filled with goodies from St. Nick himself, presented by NJM Insurance, Crayola and Just Born.

On Saturday, Nov. 7, 11 a.m., and Saturday, Nov. 14, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., St Nick will take up residence on the Levitt Pavilion stage for Storytimes and Socially Distanced Photos. He will spend the first part of each session reading one of his holiday favorites. After storytime, every child in attendance is welcome to come up on stage, maintaining social distancing, to tell St. Nick what gifts he should pass onto Santa for his list! To stay on the nice list, everyone, including good old St. Nick, is required to wear masks while on stage.

Reservations must be made for a socially-distanced square, which can accommodate up to four people (not including children 2 and under) in the same party, for $20 a square and $18 for ArtsQuest Members. Patrons should bring any chairs or blankets they’d like for seating on the Levitt Lawn. Visit ChristmasCity.org for details.

Families can also have fun with St. Nick virtually! “Cooking with St. Nick” via Zoom will give children the opportunity to watch and learn as jolly old St. Nick cooks up some easy and delicious treats you can make at home! Families can also sign up for personal “Zoom Calls with St. Nick” where children can tell him what they want for Christmas this year. Stay tuned at ChristmasCity.org for dates, times and prices.

Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem presented by Univest Financial®, takes place at SteelStacks, located at 645 E. First St., Bethlehem. Campus attendance is being limited to ensure proper safe social distancing and to enable us follow all CDC, state and city health & safety guidelines.

Event dates, hours and advanced ticket prices are as follows: