Three Kings Celebration at the ArtsQuest Campus at SteelStacks

Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA., January 3, 2025 – ArtsQuest is excited to host the Three Kings Celebration presented by PPL and sponsored by B. Braun Medical Inc.  For the 13^th year, this all-ages event, which is free to attend and is packed with fun-filled activities including live music, starting at 2 p.m. on Sunday, January 5, 2025.

“We are entering our 13th year celebrating Three Kings Day at ArtsQuest.  Over the years, the celebration has grown but hasn’t lost the traditions of live “parranda” style music, sharing traditional Puerto Rican dishes, a visit from Einstein the Snow Camel, the reading of the Three Kings story and, of course, the Three Kings handing gifts to all the children,” says Myrna Rivera, Chair of ArtsQuest’s Latin Programming Committee. “It is truly a wonderful way to close out the holiday season.”

Follow the star to Bethlehem this January as SteelStacks celebrates El Dia de los Reyes (Three Kings Day), the cherished religious and cultural tradition of many Latin American countries. During the Three Kings Celebration, children are encouraged to come hear a reading of the Story of the Three Kings followed by gift giving. Kids can also take part in a variety of fun-filled activities including arts and crafts and delicious food for purchase from Holy Infancy Church while enjoying live music.

“The Three Kings Celebration is a special event each year to honor diverse traditions and cultures during the holiday season,” says Shayna Super, ArtsQuest Music Programming Director and Executive Director of Levitt Pavilion SteelStacks. “We look forward to sharing this day with the community!”

Thank you to Allentown’s Marine Toy for Tots division and the Carlos Lopez Family for their generous contributions to this 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, of which nearly 50% are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region.     

The 32^nd Annual Christkindlmarkt Breaks Attendance Records with 128,384 Holiday Shoppers

Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA., December 23, 2024 – ArtsQuest’s 32^nd annual Christkindlmarkt presented by Univest Financial, saw a record number of holiday shoppers walk through the entrance doors during the six-weekend long holiday market, held from November 15 to December 22, 2024.

With an extra weekend to shop, crowds packed the campus to find the perfect gifts from nearly 180 vendors, crafters and artisans representing 12 states and one country, Scotland. And, Free Fridays, which remained from 5 to 8 p.m., saw a total of 17,501 visitors.

“We are thrilled that this year’s Christkindlmarkt presented by Univest, brought in record-setting 128,384 visitors from 40 states, Canada, Puerto Rico and Washington D.C. to our campus,” commented Kassie Hilgert, ArtsQuest President and CEO. “This unique holiday shopping experience, now in its 32^nd year, supports so many small businesses, area restaurants and hotels throughout Christmas City and the entire Lehigh Valley. Christkindlmarkt is an annual fundraising event that is vital to this non-profit organization’s mission of engaging and revitalizing communities through the arts and plays an important role in allowing us to offer nearly 50% of programming free to the public. We look forward to this festive event each year and welcoming families to all of the holiday programming and events taking place throughout the campus.”

Artisans and crafters offered many different gift-giving options, including everything from holiday-themed and handmade ornaments to clothing and outerwear, beautiful jewelry, candles, unique artwork, woodwork, pet products, fine foods and more. Christkindlmarkt welcomed 15 new vendors this year and a dozen food vendors offered food options from traditional German fare to soups, burgers, sandwiches and more. Several food trucks remained outside the tents to help alleviate longer food lines and give additional menu options. Bars were located throughout the market, including one with Levy Restaurant, ArtsQuest’s food and beverage partner who offered festive holiday drinks to kick off the shopping experience. New this year, 147 people participated in the first-ever Christkindlmarkt Sip n’ Shop, where they could indulge in festive holiday shopping with six seasonal cocktail samples: Gingerbread Cookie, Deck the Halls, Cranberry Bramble, Snowstorm, Hot Apple Totty and Peanut Butter Cup.

The ArtsQuest Glass Studio sold out its Glass Blowing Experience for the entirety of the weekends early on with 396 tickets sold. Breakfast with St. Nick was also a hit with 445 children and adults enjoying their time with the big guy. Live music returned at the Christmas tree on PNC Plaza with 18 performance groups from local school choirs, instrument ensembles and carolers who entertained visitors for a total of 23 performances. Personal igloos and fire pits were also added to the festive atmosphere, keeping folks warm. Lastly, new ADA-compliant ramps helped welcome shoppers into the outdoor huts with ease.

“We want to thank all of our visitors, vendors, sponsors and volunteers for making this year’s Christkindlmarkt truly unforgettable,” says Eric Bauder, Director of Event Operations at ArtsQuest. “We hope the spirit of the season continues to inspire joy, kindness and togetherness in days ahead. We hope to see everyone next year!”

While another Christkindlmarkt has come to a close, there’s plenty of holiday and winter fun to enjoy! The Ice Rink at SteelStacks presented by Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital will be open DAILY (including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day) until January 5, 2025. With fun themes and discounted tickets, it’s a great way to spend the days off from school and create lasting memories. Then, catch a holiday movie at The Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas like the much-loved St. Nick of Bethlehem film, produced right here in the Christmas City.

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.     

Replicating Magic at the Musikfest Café with These Can’t-Miss Tribute Bands

Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA., December 23, 2024 – ArtsQuest is bringing back the classics with a plethora of tribute bands and performers set to come to the Musikfest Café in 2025. Music lovers can mark their calendars and get tickets now at steelstacks.org.

Kick 2025 off right with one of the following Musikfest Café shows:

haZy Cosmic Jive – Bethlehem Bowie Birthday Bash

January 3, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.

haZy Cosmic Jive performs a unique and high-energy David Bowie tribute, including 70’s-Ziggy-era classics, deep cuts and more. Based in Philadelphia, where Bowie forged a career-long bond, haZy Cosmic Jive is led by Zeek Mitchell (Z) and a cast of premier Philly-area musicians. Whether you are a casual fan or even if you are just curious about the musical and cultural icon David Bowie, haZy Cosmic Jive will blow you away!

Yacht Lobsters

January 10, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.

Established in New York City, the Yacht Lobsters sail the waves of the butteriest Soft Rock of the 70’s and early 80’s. Their big sound recreates – and at times reimagines – the studio mastery of retro-rock icons like Steely Dan, the Doobie Brothers, Hall & Oates, Toto, etc.

It’s the breezy Yacht Rock cool vibe you know and love, fused with stellar vocals, a full horn section and unique elements of NOLA funk, classic rock and jazz improvisation to keep things bouncy, set your mood to festive and ensure your boat’s a-rockin’. There’s even a tasteful smattering of original music that sounds like it stepped right out of 1978.

BROKEN ARROW – The Music of Neil Young

January 11, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.

Broken Arrow performs the music of Neil Young, featuring both the rockin’ electric Crazy Horse tunes and the more acoustic, pedal steel-driven country rock material. The band delivers these classic songs faithfully while taking them out on some jamming excursions and tastefully tweaking some of the arrangements. Joe Mass nails the Neil vocals perfectly and the harmonies are spot on. They have audiences on their feet singing along and demanding encores at every show.

Damn the Torpedoes – Tom Petty Concert Experience

January 17, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.

Damn the Torpedoes has a deep understanding of the Tom Petty catalogue and demonstrates the unspoken, authentic chemistry that makes a great band. The signature riffs of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, harmonies and underlying parts of the music are all there, along with some fresh twists that are often inspired in the moment. The resulting performances have audiences smiling, singing, dancing and mourning the loss of this truly great artist.

The Brit Pack

January 18, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.

The most authentic British Invasion experience this side of the Atlantic!

Formed in 2011 by British session musicians based in New York City, The Brit Pack take their audience on a journey through a dynamic blend of British classics known and loved by all – including The Beatles, Rolling Stones, Queen, David Bowie, Elton John, The Who, Oasis, The Police and many more.

Go Go Gadjet

January 24, 2025, at 8 p.m.

Blending rhythms of dance music with familiar melodies from the past and present, Go Go Gadjet straddles the line between band and DJ like few others. Their innovative combination of traditional instruments with modern synths and controllers has allowed them to craft a sound and presentation that is uniquely their own. Go Go Gadjet works to create captivating visuals that complement and enhance the live experience. They aim to provide audiences with an audio/visual escape.

Home Again – A Tribute to the Music of Carole King

January 25, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.

Home Again is a tribute to the multi-winning singer-songwriter Carole King. Deb De Lucca, joined by her band of seasoned musicians, takes the audience on a journey through Carole’s impressive and expansive repertoire. Carole King made her mark with “Tapestry” in 1971 but was already a well-established songwriter for over a decade. She wrote more than two dozen chart hits, many of which have become standards, for numerous artists such as The Shirelles, The Chiffons, The Drifters, The Carpenters, The Monkees, Herman’s Hermits, Bobby Vee and more!

The Amish Outlaws

January 31, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.

Covering all genres in their own unique way, The Amish Outlaws constantly surprise the audience and keep them guessing as to what they could possibly play next. From Johnny Cash to Jay Z, Lady Gaga to Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre, Pitbull to Elvis Presley, Luke Bryan to Dropkick Murphys, to theme songs from the TV shows they have come to know, The Amish Outlaws are sure to keep you on your toes.

Four out of the six members of The Amish Outlaws were born and raised in Lancaster, PA and had a strict Amish upbringing. No electricity from landlines, no alcohol, no musical instruments, but their spirits were too wild for the Amish lifestyle. Once they trampled in the Devil’s Playground, there was no turning back. In the years since Rumspringa, the members of The Amish Outlaws have become very well acclimated to the pleasures and vices of the modern world…music, most of all.

Thus, with a bold lust for life and a fire for music and performance that can only come from 16 years of repression, The Amish Outlaws were unleashed upon the world.

The Nerds

February 1, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.

Often imitated but never duplicated, The Nerds have been redefining what it means to be a cover band since 1985. With the onslaught of cover bands playing alternative-grunge song lists, The Nerds stuck to their guns playing a little bit of everything that they like (R&B, blues, funk, dance, classic rock, hair band, punk, new wave, pop and Englebert Humperdinck). In the fall of 2000, they were asked to host MTV’s Ultimate Cover Band Contest as the house band. Besides MTV, the Nerds have also performed multiple times on “The View”, Carson Daly, and several other TV shows long since gone. They’ve shared a stage with Sheryl Crow, Hootie and the Blowfish, Earth Wind and Fire, Train, The Go-Gos, Maroon 5, Southside Johnny and more. Over the years, Spaz, Biff, Stretch and Mongo have graced stages from the Jersey Shore to Las Vegas, earning their reputation as “America’s Party Band Fun-omenon” every step of the way.

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.     

Skate into Savings in Style!

Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA., December 13, 2024 – Skating at the Ice Rink at SteelStacks presented by Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital, just got even cooler! With discounted skating tickets and exclusive igloo rentals, the Ice Rink at SteelStacks is the perfect place to make unforgettable holiday memories.

For a limited time, enjoy 20% off skating tickets on select days and make your weekend unforgettable. Whether you’re gliding under the open sky with friends, planning a fun family outing or creating a romantic date night, the rink offers the perfect winter activity.

Join us at the rink Monday through Friday from December 16 through December 20 and Monday, December 23. Use the code: SKATESAVE20 for 20% off your skating tickets.

Want to enjoy the rink in style and comfort? Rent one of our two exclusive igloos on the observation deck alongside the ice! Each igloo comfortably seats up to 6 people and is ideal for family outings, date nights or a fun time with friends. Your rental comes with a complimentary fleece-lined Bethlehem blanket valued at $35. Book now at 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 nearly 50% are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region.     

Walking in a Winter Pun-derland

Improve Your Comedic Skills with Comedy Classes at ArtsQuest this Winter Season

Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA., December 6, 2024 – ArtsQuest is excited to present its winter comedy class schedule. 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 January through March and will conclude with a graduation show for participants to perform their material and demonstrate what they have learned.

Comedy classes will be in different locations due to the upcoming construction of the Banana Factory. Thanks to community partners like Bethlehem Area School District and the Bethlehem Area Public Library, classes can continue throughout the construction of the new Cultural Center. Within the new Cultural Center will be a 125-seat black box theater! With this designated space, ArtsQuest’s comedy programming can continue to grow and strengthen the comedic skills of Lehigh Valley comedians, both beginner and seasoned comics.

See if you are eligible for one of ArtsQuest’s scholarship opportunities! ArtsQuest scholarships are designed for individuals and families that demonstrate a financial need and interest in the visual and/or comedy performance arts. Learn more about eligibility, the application process and more when you visit https://fest.formstack.com/forms/scholarship_application.

Are you a business looking to incorporate a fun team building event for your employees? 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. Please note that all classes require the participant to be aged 18 or older on or before the day of the first class in the session.

Comedy Classes Offered Include:

Intro to Standup with Glen Tickle

Sundays, February 2 – March 9 | Iron Conference Room – Second Floor of Visitor Center presented by Lehigh Valley Health Network from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Grad Show: Monday, March 10 at 6:30 p.m. in the Frank Banko Alehouse Blue Cinema

Price: $154 | $140 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. The class will culminate with a graduation show where participants will perform their material.

Sketch Comedy Writing 101 with Jeremiah Peck

Mondays, January 27 – March 17 (Skip February 17) | Iron Conference Room – Second Floor of the Visitor Center presented by Lehigh Valley Health Network from 7 – 9 p.m.

Grad Show: Monday, March 24 at 6:30 p.m. in the Frank Banko Alehouse Blue Cinema

Price: $179 | $160 ArtsQuest Member

This class is a weekly writer’s room designed around producing sketch comedy scripts for the stage and/or video; each week you’ll be writing new material, participating in table reads and engaging in feedback sessions with fellow students.

Highly recommended to bring a laptop computer to class each week.

• Week 1 – Sketch Comedy Basics & Script Formatting
• Week 2 – Commercial Parodies
• Week 3 – Character Spotlights
• Week 4 – Genre Parodies & Pastiches
• Week 5 – Topical Sketches
• Week 6 – Blackout Gags
• Week 7 – Rewrites Round 1
• Week 8 – Rewrites Round 2 & Grad Show Prep

Improv 101 with Laurie Wagner Storlie

Tuesdays, January 21 – March 11 | Lincoln Elementary School* from 7 – 9 p.m.

Grad Show: Monday, March 17 at 6:30 p.m. in the Frank Banko Alehouse Blue Cinema

Price: $179 | $160 ArtsQuest Member

Improv 101 focuses on the 3 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 get a lot from this class.

Improv 201 with Matt Candio

Tuesdays, January 21 – March 11 | Lincoln Elementary School* from 7 – 9 p.m.

Grad Show: Tuesday, March 18 at 6:30 p.m. in the Frank Banko Alehouse Blue Cinema

Price: $179 | $160 ArtsQuest Member

Improv 201 builds on the basic principles of improv and helps develop you improv skills to make strong comedic choices. By finding and exploring Game you will expand you ‘Yes, and’ abilities while also discovering all avenues that Game can play in scenes.

Must have completed Improv 101 at ArtsQuest or have equivalent experience.

Improv 301 with Justin Passino

Wednesdays, January 22 – March 12 | Bethlehem Area Public Library Recording Studio** from 7 – 9 p.m.

Grad Show: Monday, March 17 at 6:30 in the Frank Banko Alehouse Blue Cinema

Price: $179 | $160 ArtsQuest Member

Now that you’ve mastered the basic improv principles of “yes, and” and Game, Improv 301 shows you how to put these skills into action in an Improv form of your instructors choosing. Each 301 showcases a different improv form.

Students must have graduated from Improv 101 and 201 at ArtsQuest or have equivalent experience.

*Lincoln Elementary School is located at 1260 Gresham St. Bethlehem, PA 18018.

**The Bethlehem Area Public Library is located at 11 W. Church St. Bethlehem, PA 18018. The Recording Studio is in the basement.

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 Ultimate Holiday Fun Bundle! 

Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA., December 5, 2024 – ArtsQuest is offering a special holiday bundle – see the movie St. Nick of Bethlehem and have an opportunity to meet the star of the movie, St. Nick, while enjoying an afternoon of ice skating! This one-day event will take place on Sunday, Dec. 8, only.  

St. Nick of Bethlehem will be making a special appearance to spread some holiday cheer during the 12:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. skating sessions at the Ice Rink at SteelStacks presented by Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital. Skaters will have the opportunity to meet and have their photos taken with St. Nick. In addition, your ticket includes admission to any of the three screenings on that same date (11:30 a.m., 1:45 p.m., and 4:00 p.m.) of St. Nick of Bethlehem. 

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

This ticket bundle offers a full day of unforgettable holiday fun! Get your tickets now!  

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.      

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.