An Un-brrrrr-lieveable Winter at ArtsQuest

Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA., November 26, 2024 – The Winter season at ArtsQuest is packed with holiday cheer and festive events, performances and activities you don’t want to miss. Click on the links for more information for each event and to purchase tickets.  

Raise a glass at our celebration of all things wine! The Winter Winefest & Market, happening on February 16is a wine lovers’ dream – an event that features sampling and the chance to purchase glasses and bottles of wine directly from some of Pennsylvania’s best wineries! But it’s not just wine – the event will also feature vendors and other retailers selling wine-adjacent goods…think cheese, chocolate and more!

There are two Winter Winefest sessions, one from 1 to 3 p.m. and a second session from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Get access to the event, unlimited wine samples*, participate in a raffle for Winefest winery swag and purchase glasses and bottles of wine from participating wineries with the purchase of a GA ticket ($39). VIP ticket holders ($59) will get all of the previously mentioned perks, in addition to exclusive access to the event from 12 – 1 p.m. and a bottle of wine from participating wineries.

*Participating wineries reserve the right to limit samples at their tables.  

“Old Fashioned” Christmas

ArtsQuest has partnered with Edrington and Levy Restaurants to bring back – and add new twists to – last year’s sold-out tastings built around the Old-Fashioned cocktail!

We’ll be crafting four different Old Fashioneds for you to sample – some with a holiday twist – using Edrington’s Wyoming Whiskey Small Batch Bourbon, Wyoming Whiskey Outryder, Highland Park 12 and The Famous Grouse!

Your ticket gets you admission into Christkindlmarkt presented by Univest Financial, a full old-fashioned cocktail from one of the Christkindlmarkt bars* and food from Levy Restaurant Executive Chef Julie Marble.

*The cocktail available at the Christkindlmarkt bar will be pre-determined by Edrington and ArtsQuest.

“Old Fashioned” Christmas tickets can be purchased for December 7 at 1 p.m., December 8 at 1 p.m. or December 14 at 1 p.m. or 3:30 p.m. Doors open 15 minutes before the event.

Get ready to deck the halls with laughter!

Improvised Hallmark* is the comedy show that takes everything you love (and love to mock) about Hallmark movies and turns it up to eleven! Join us on December 21 at 7:30 p.m. at the Visitor Center at SteelStacks presented by Lehigh Valley Health Network, Proudly Part of Jefferson Health, as our talented improv comedians bring you the classic, heartwarming Hallmark tale you never knew you needed…or didn’t. Will a big-city executive rediscover the true meaning of Christmas thanks to a handsome small-town baker? Will a holiday romance bloom at the quaint local tree farm? Probably!

With nothing but audience suggestions, we’ll create a one-of-a-kind, cozy-yet-hilarious holiday romance with all the tropes, twists and tinsel of your favorite Hallmark movies. Whether you’re a Hallmark fanatic or just along for the sleigh ride, Improvised Hallmark is here to deliver a night of festive fun and feel-good laughs.

*Your comedy show ticket to this event includes entrance into Christkindlmarkt at SteelStacks at 6 p.m. on the night of your event. Show your comedy ticket no earlier than 6 p.m. to the Christkindlmarkt staff for admittance.

Christkindlmarkt Hot Glass Experience

At Christkindlmarkt presented by Univest Financial, work one on one with a hot glass instructor to create your own piece of art from molten glass. Ages 6 and up, no experience necessary. Pieces need 48 hours to cool, participants must return to the festival to pick up their work or items can be shipped. Sign up for a timeslot here as the Hot Glass Experience almost always sells out!

‘Tis the season for another Golden Girls Drag Christmas!

A Golden Girls Drag Christmas is back by popular demand, starring some of the Lehigh Valley’s favorite drag queens as the legendary foursome in their two Christmas-themes episodes, season 2’s “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and season 5’s “’Twas the Night Before Christmas”. Presented and staged readings, these episodes feature much of what made the Girls great, including Dorothy’s schmuck ex-husband Stan, Blanche’s Santa kink and tales of how the holidays were celebrated in both St. Olaf and Sicily.

There are three shows available for ticket purchase: December 27 at 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., December 28 at 3 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. or December 29 at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Tickets are $20 each with discounts for ArtsQuest members. Anyone ages 13-17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

The Musikfest Café has MANY can’t miss shows this winter season including:

• 11/27 – The Groove Merchant’s and trouble City All-Stars present 4^th annual Turkey Jam
• 12/5 – Jimmy & the Parrots – A Parrot Holiday Party
• 12/8 – TOP OF THE WORLD – A Carpenters Christmas Show
• 12/13 and 12/14 – Magical Mystery Doors
• 12/15 – Scythian: The Ugly Christmas Sweater Show
• 12/19 – The Beautiful Distortion – A Holiday Rock Show
• 12/21 – Eaglemania
• 1/30 – Dry Humor: Standup for Recovery
  • A celebration of more than 14 years of continuous sobriety for comedian and Easton-based Dry Humor producer Liz Russo. A portion of the proceeds from this show will be donated to Sync Recovery Community, a non-profit organization that strives to end the stigma of addiction and demonstrate that long-term sobriety is not only possible, but also powerful and full of joy. Headliner Nick Griffin, a comic for more than 25 years, has appeared on Conan, The Late Late Show, in his own half-hour Comedy Central special and was featured on The Late Show with David Letterman eleven times.

Paint Like Bob Ross: Winter Sun – December 5 at 6 p.m.

Unlock your inner artist an learn to Paint like Bob Ross. Chris Severn is a certified Bob Ross instructor and will guide you through the wet-on-wet technique to create stunning landscape paintings.

Banana Factory Yard Sale

In preparation for breaking ground on the new ArtsQuest Cultural Center in 2025, the Banana Factory will host several yard sales between now and the end of the year. Join us during First Fridays and on the final weekend of 2024 for great deals on a large variety of art supplies, equipment, furniture, décor and everything else that we’ve accumulated over the last 25 years! All proceeds from the yard sales go toward the Re-Imagine That! Capital Campaign.

• Yard Sale Dates:
  • December 6 from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
  • December 27 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
  • December 28 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
  • December 29 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Needle Felting: Winter Tree – December 10 at 6:30 p.m.

Decorate your winter wonderland with this snow-covered fir! Katie Heebner will guide you through every step of the process, providing you with tips for perfecting your felting technique. This hands-on workshop is perfect for beginners and experienced crafters alike, and no prior experience is necessary. All materials will be provided. Ages 16+

Wool Beanie Workshop – December 8 at 12:30 p.m.

This beginner friendly class is a fun way to explore the process of wet felting. Learn in a hands on 3 for workshop where you will learn fiber layout and design for a completely finished wool beanie style hat. No experience is required and everyone at all levels are welcome.

Wine Charms and Napkin Rings – December 15 at 1 p.m.

Never get confused on wine glasses again! Get ready for holiday gatherings by creating your own set of 4 wine charms and matching napkin rings in this casual workshop.

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 nearly 50% are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region.     

Ring in the New Year at PEEPSFEST® 2024 in the Sweetest Way! 

Celebrate PEEPSFEST® with Live Music, Family-Friendly Activities,  
ALL-NEW EASTER PEEPS® Marshmallow Tasting and the PEEPS® Chick Drop. 

Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA., Nov. 20, 2024 – Celebrate the start of the New Year with this sweet celebration by joining ArtsQuest and Just Born Quality Confections for PEEPSFEST® Monday, Dec. 30 and Tuesday, Dec. 31, from 3 p.m-6 p.m., at the SteelStacks campus. This event is both indoors and outdoors, featuring family-friendly activities, fireworks and more following the annual PEEPS® Chick drop on both nights of the event. As per tradition, the massive PEEPS® Chick, weighing in at 400-pounds and standing at four feet, nine inches tall, will descend for the countdown to the New Year at 5:35 p.m., on both Dec. 30 and Dec. 31, followed by a stunning display of fireworks. You can purchase tickets for PEEPSFEST® here! 

“PEEPSFEST® has grown into such a beloved tradition, and it’s incredible to see families coming back year after year,” said Courtney Angle, Corporate Affairs Specialist at Just Born Quality Confections. “This year, we’ve added even more fun-filled experiences for families to create lasting memories. We’re especially thrilled to debut one of our newest Marshmallow flavors, and we’re confident it will be a favorite this Easter season!” 

This year’s festival will feature activities both indoors and outdoors, and tickets will be required to ensure a safe and quality experience for all in attendance. Tickets are limited and can be purchased for $5 per person. In addition, the Ice Rink at SteelStacks, presented by Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital, will also be open for its third year in a row. For $25, which includes the cost of ice skating and PEEPSFEST®, you can skate at the Ice Rink at SteelStacks presented by Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital. The skating sessions will take place at 3 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. on Dec. 30 and 31. You can book these tickets here. 

**Please note, all ages 17 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. 

Part of this standout experience includes another year of a “Sneak-PEEP” tasting, where festivalgoers can get an exclusive first taste of one brand-new PEEPS® Marshmallow flavor set to launch ahead of Easter 2025. The fun-packed event will also include an all-new PEEPS® Passport for kids under 12 to build their own goodie bag, which will allow them to unlock special memories as they explore interactive stations throughout the event. Each ticket also includes a free s’mores kit and live musical performances. 

“We are so excited to be partnering with Just Born Quality Confections on the 16th annual PEEPSFEST®!” said Shayna Super, Music Programming Director and Executive Director Levitt Pavilion. “What better way to end the year than with a sweet event that is so special and unique to Bethlehem, while also welcoming families from all over the country!”  

The whole family can also enjoy activities like PEEPS® themed games, interactive presentations by Wildlands Conservancy, activities and crafts by The Da Vinci Science Center, Eddy Ray Magic and more. Kids can craft their own keepsakes at the friendship bracelet station and watch a demo where they can learn how to whip up delicious Marshmallow creations with PEEPS® IN THE KITCHEN with PBS39. For those wanting to add a little fashion flair to their celebration, limited-edition PEEPSFEST® visors will be available with a suggested donation to ArtsQuest to support their tuition-based programming for youth all year long. To ensure an inclusive experience for everyone, the festival will also offer a sensory-friendly room where guests can relax and unwind in a quieter, comfortable space. Dedicated to providing inclusive family fun for all, the event will also feature live music and entertainment, and the opportunity to be photographed with the PEEPS® Chick Mascot and the PEEPSMOBILE®, games and more!  

Tickets and additional programming details can be found at steelstacks.org 

Don’t miss out on this beloved New Year’s tradition that’s fun for the whole family! Tickets are limited.  

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 nearly 50 percent are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region. 

About Just Born Quality Confections 
Just Born Quality Confections is a third-generation family-owned candy manufacturer with its purpose to bring sweetness to people’s lives.  Just Born is the maker of some of America’s most beloved and iconic brands – PEEPS®, MIKE AND IKE®, HOT TAMALES® and GOLDENBERG’S® PEANUT CHEWS®. Just Born has been a part of family traditions and memories for more than 100 years. In 1923, the founder, Sam Born, opened a small candy shop in Brooklyn, New York, where he marketed the freshness of his daily-made candy with a sign that declared, “Just Born.” Together with Born’s brothers-in-law, Irv and Jack Shaffer, the company thrived and, in 1932, moved its operations to Bethlehem, PA where it has grown to become one of the largest candy companies in the US by giving back to the community, being good environmental stewards and creating a culture where people want to work. For more information, please visit www.justborn.com. Follow @JustBornInc on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter). 

A New Christmas Classic Set in Christmas City!

See Our Community on the Big Screen this November and purchase tickets for Special Screening Event with Saint Nick of Bethlehem himself!

Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA., November 15, 2024 – ArtsQuest is excited to show Spencer Folmar and Daniel Roebuck’s Saint Nick of Bethlehem at our Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas!  The movie will be shown throughout the entire week of November 29.

And ArtsQuest, along with media partner 100.7 LEV, will be hosting a special screening event: Saint Nick of Bethlehem with Holiday Cookies and Cocoa on Sunday, Dec. 1 at 9:30 a.m. While enjoying your treats, have your photo taken with Santa’s official helper (Dan Roebuck as St. Nick), then head into the Frank Banko Alehouse Cinema for a brief talk back and watch the film. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. and the movie starts at 11 a.m. Get your tickets at steelstacks.org.

“I’m beyond excited to be able to welcome kids and families to this special screening of Saint Nick of Bethlehem and what better place than ArtsQuest,” said Daniel Roebuck, co-producer of the film. “Many years ago, I worked at Leh’s Department Store as the magician while the kids waited for Santa at their annual Breakfast with Santa Claus events. I was the warm-up act and now I get to be the big guy himself. I couldn’t be more excited to step into his boots, right here in the Christmas City!”

Saint Nick of Bethlehem filmed scenes at last years’ Christkindlmarkt and we can’t wait to see it on the big screen. The movie is an original story of a man who is distraught over losing his son and finds closure while discovering a new purpose when he takes on the role of Santa Claus.

What better place to shoot a Christmas movie than in the Christmas City itself! The movie will not only feature Christkindlmarkt, but also the Historic Hotel Bethlehem, The Kiffle Kitchen and many more Bethlehem staples.

Showtimes include:

Wednesday, November 27 @:

• 1:30 p.m.
• 4:45 p.m.
• 8 p.m.

Thursday, November 28 @:

• 4:45 p.m.
• 8 p.m.

Friday, November 29 @:

• 10:30 a.m.                                          
• 2 p.m.
• 5 p.m.
• 8 p.m.

Saturday, November 30 @:

• 2 p.m.
• 4:15 p.m.
• 6:30 p.m.
• 8:45 p.m.

Sunday, December 1 @:

• 1:30 p.m.
• 4 p.m.
• 8:45 p.m.

Monday, December 2 @:

• 11 a.m.
• 1:30 p.m.
• 4 p.m.

Tuesday, December 3 @:

• 4:30 p.m.
• 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, December 4 @:

• 1 p.m.

Thursday, December 5 @:

• 2:30 p.m.
• 4:45 p.m.

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 nearly 50% are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region.     

2024 s’MAC Down Award Winners

ArtsQuest and Lehigh Valley Vegan are excited to announce the winners of the LV Vegan s’MAC Down, a contest to determine who has the best vegan mac and cheese in the region!

People’s Choice: Dominque’s Dishes (2^nd year in a row winning)

People’s Choice – 1^st Runner-Up: Mama Nicca’s Homemade Things

Kids’ Choice: Mama Nicca’s Homemade Things

Judges’ Award – Judges’ Favorite: Mama Nicca’s Homemade Things

Judges’ Award – 1^st Runner-Up: Paranormal Pizza

Judges’ Award – Cheesiest: Palette and Pour
Judges’ Award – Most Unique: Paranormal Pizza

Two Mornings of FREE Skating Fun with Steel Ice Center at the Ice Rink at SteelStacks

Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA., November 13, 2024 – ArtsQuest is excited to team up with Steel Ice for two mornings of FREE skating fun! Steel Ice Center and ArtsQuest are thrilled to host two special events to mark the beginning of the 2024 holiday season at the Ice Rink at SteelStacks presented by Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital. Join us for a weekend of winter cheer and community celebration, featuring live hockey and a festive figure skating show. 

“We are thrilled to partner with our neighbors at ArtsQuest to provide a chance to showcase the passion and talent of Penguin Figure Skating Club and the Phantoms Youth U8 program in a unique outdoor setting,” said Keith Krem, owner of Steel Ice Center. “Seeing kids have fun and create memories should be at the core of any sport, and what could be more fun than celebrating the holiday season doing what they love on the ice beneath the SteelStacks. It is going to be something special, a lifelong memory.”  

On Saturday, November 23 at 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., the Lehigh Valley Phantoms Youth U8 Development Program will take to the outdoor ice for two fast-paced, 30-minute games. These young athletes are excited to display their skills and passion for hockey, making for an entertaining morning of friendly competition.  

The festivities continue on Sunday, November 24, when the Penguin Figure Skating Club presents a holiday-themed skating show from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. This enchanting performance will feature skaters of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced members, each bringing a unique touch to the spirit of the holiday season.  

“Partnering on events like these is so vital for our community,” commented Curt Mosel, Chief Operating Officer for ArtsQuest. “Bringing Steel Ice programs such as youth hockey and figure skating to The Ice Rink at SteelStacks is a perfect blend, providing kids and families throughout the Lehigh Valley with an opportunity to have fun, create memories and further interest in the sport. We are looking forward to a weekend filled with skating talent and are grateful to partner with our friends at Steel Ice.”     

Both events are free to attend. Concessions, which include hot beverages, chicken tenders, burger, hot dogs, fried and more, will be available from the Mack Truck Stop starting at 11 a.m. that day.  

Be sure to tune into WFMZ-69 News ‘Sunrise Broadcast’ on Thursday, November 21 starting at 6:15 a.m. to learn more about this event and catch some of the skaters live.  

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 nearly 50% are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region.   

The Perfect Holiday Ticket Combo for the Perfect Day of Holiday Fun

Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA., November 8, 2024 – ArtsQuest is delighted to bring you a holiday package in partnership with our friends at Illumination presented by Service Electric at Coca-Cola Park. It’s the most wonderful time of the year and what better way to get in the holiday spirit than to experience the best holiday shopping, food and entertainment?

We’re teaming up to help you create a fun day of joy with family and friends with our Merry and Bright Ticket Combo, available Fridays and Sundays in November. Come experience Christkindlmarkt presented by Univest Financial at SteelStacks during the day and, after dark, experience the magical lights of Illumination presented by Service Electric at Coca-Cola Park with a warm cup of hot cocoa. Combo purchasers can stop by the information desk at Christkindlmarkt where they will also receive a free movie ticket to use at the Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas whenever you choose!

“We’re delighted to partner with ArtsQuest to offer a unique opportunity to enjoy both of our unique holiday celebrations at two amazing community landmarks, all in the same day,” says Kurt Landes, President and General Manager at IronPigs. “Illumination and Christkindlmarkt highlight why our region is truly where holiday Hallmark movies come to life.”

Purchase your Merry and Bright tickets at this link. Start your day off at Christkindlmarkt where you can relax with holiday entertainment, take care of your holiday shopping and enjoy delicious food and beverages. Once the sun starts to set, head over to Coca-Cola Park to stroll through the magic of over one million lights of Illumination while sipping your hot cocoa.

Admission tickets for Christkindlmarkt will be emailed to you from tickets@artsquest.org after your order is processed; our friends at the Coca-Cola Park box office will email you the tickets for Illumination. Please reach out to 610-841-7447 if you do not receive your Illumination tickets prior to your arrival.

When you arrive at Christkindlmarkt, make sure to stop by the Information Desk and show your receipt to receive your Frank Banko Alehouse Cinema film pass!

When you arrive at Coca-Cola Park for Illumination, make sure to stop by the Ticket Office when you arrive to pick up your vouchers for your free hot chocolate!

*Merry and Bright combo tickets are good for admission to both events on the day the tickets were purchased for only. Advanced sales only; tickets cannot be purchased on the same day as your arrival. All sales are final – no refunds, transfers or exchanges. This offer is good for Fridays and Sundays in November only.  

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 nearly 50% are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region.     

Veterans Day 2024 – Reflecting and Remembering the Past,  presented by Embassy Bank and Phoebe Ministries 

Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA., Nov. 7, 2024 – ArtsQuest and partners Embassy Bank and Phoebe Ministries, will be hosting Veterans Day 2024 on Monday, November 11 at 6 p.m. in the Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas, located on the first floor of the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks. The event will feature a panel discussion in which veteran, Richard Mann, will reflect about his time in the military during the commemorative event’s annual question-and-answer panel, hosted by Frank Gunter of Lehigh University. The panel discussion will be followed by the screening of Rescue Dawn.  

“Embassy Bank is honored to present this special Veterans Day event,” said David M. Lobach, Jr. Chairman, President and CEO of Embassy Bank for the Lehigh Valley.  “These events provide opportunities to hear directly from our veterans about their personal experiences, as well as thank them for their courage and sacrifice. We can never thank our veterans enough.” 

Presented by Embassy Bank and Phoebe Ministries, this event is free to attend but you must register for a ticket here!

About the veteran panelist: 

Richard Mann 
Mann was drafted into the United States Army in January 1969, beginning a journey that would significantly shape his life. After completing basic training in Maryland, he was stationed in Hanau, Germany, where he held the rank of Specialist 5 (SP5). In this capacity, Mann served as a machinist, responsible for fabricating essential parts for the motor pool, thereby contributing to the operational readiness of his unit. His military service continued when he was deployed to Vietnam in July 1970, a crucial period during the Vietnam War, where he remained until his honorable discharge in September 1971. Throughout his service, Mann exemplified dedication and skill, reflecting the commitment of countless individuals who served during this tumultuous era in American history. 

This event will be streamed online on Facebook for those who cannot attend in person. 

Join us for this commemorative night and learn more about Veterans Day 2024 at ArtsQuest, here!

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 nearly 50% are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region. 

Lehigh Valley Health Network Named Official Health Care Partner of ArtsQuest SteelStacks Campus and Naming Partner of Turn & Grind Redevelopment Project 

Additional naming of the Bethlehem Visitor Center presented by LVHN, along with the current Levitt Pavilion presented by LVHN solidify an extended long-term commitment and partnership for the region. 

Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA., November 6, 2024 –Today, ArtsQuest celebrates a milestone in the Re-Imagine! That Capital Campaign. Lehigh Valley Health Network, now proudly part of Jefferson Health, has been designated as the Official Health Care Partner of the ArtsQuest SteelStacks Campus, naming partner of the Turn & Grind Redevelopment Project and Presenter of the Bethlehem Visitor Center. The LVHN Turn & Grind Shop, the Bethlehem Visitor Center presented by LVHN and the already named Levitt Pavilion presented by LVHN solidify a dedicated, long-term commitment and partnership between both organizations spanning over 23 years. 

“LVHN has played a pivotal role in ArtsQuest’s mission of providing access to the arts for all, nourishing our community through the arts,” says Kassie Hilgert, President and CEO. “LVHN has been visible in all aspects of programming that we present – as a healthcare partner at Musikfest since 2002; as a presenting sponsor of the Levitt Pavilion where free concerts and kids’ movies take place all summer long; supporting the Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas sensory friendly movies; helping to provide visual arts programming at the Banana Factory; as a sponsor of SoccerFest promoting sports and fitness; and so many more initiatives involving the health and wellness of our communities. This partnership represents a lasting commitment to not only ArtsQuest, but also to the communities we serve and the entire region here in Pennsylvania.” 

“This is particularly meaningful to me because it is the first new community partnership we announced since Jefferson and LVHN combined in August,” says Joseph Cacchione, MD, Jefferson’s CEO. “I’m very proud to be a part of this community, and I’m excited for the future of health care in this region and to furthering the artistic and cultural opportunities available. We’re establishing a personal connection and creating healthier communities, which is the lifeblood of what Jefferson and LVHN do.” 

The Turn & Grind Shop, a 150-year-old building that was once a key part of the steel-making process at the Bethlehem Steel Corporation, will undergo extensive renovations prior to its grand opening in 2027. It will expand the footprint for ArtsQuest programming such as Musikfest, Christkindlmarkt and Oktoberfest and provide unique and much-needed event space for private and corporate needs as well as an additional home for traveling exhibits. The new LVHN Turn & Grind renovation and partnership with LVHN is another exciting expansion of ArtsQuest’s mission and plays a pivotal role, making an economic and social impact for years to come. 

The heavily trafficked Bethlehem Visitor Center is the oldest building on the former Bethlehem Steel site, pre-dating the iconic blast furnaces. The new Bethlehem Visitor Center presented by LVHN will allow thoughtful and creative programming on the first floor and complement its retail presence and campus tours. 

“The combination of two top systems in the U.S. – one in health care and the other a robust arts and cultural landscape – will make a transformational impact that will be far reaching,” commented Gregg Feinberg, Co-Chair of the Re-Imagine That! Capital Campaign and Trustee Emeritus. 

“As the leading health care provider for our region, this expanded partnership is evidence of our increasing commitment to the Lehigh Valley and of our unwavering support for the efforts that take place in this culturally rich community,” says Rich Levy, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at LVHN. “We aim to continue to support the health-arts connection that benefits not just our patients, but the entire community.” 

The announcement was made during a media event held in the Musikfest Café at the ArtsQuest Center followed by a virtual tour of the completed Turn & Grind Shop and small group tours of both the Visitor Center and the Turn & Grind as it is today. 

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 nearly 50% are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region.