Musikfest

Where can you go to see Irish step dancing, dueling pianos, pan pipes from the Andes, and a mobile carillon all in the same day? Musikfest!

From August 6-15, 2010, Musikfest will take over downtown Bethlehem. Musikfest is probably the largest music festival held in Lehigh Valley. Performers come from many parts of the world and range from local bands and amateur acts to big name performers, such as Norah Jones and Lynyrd Skynyrd. There is plenty of variety and something for everyone. In addition to musical performances, there are dance groups, puppet shows, and street performers.

General Info

There are 14 different venues to see live performances. Most of these venues have German names ending in 'platz', which is German for 'place', reflecting Bethlehem's German heritage. 11 of the 14 stages do not require tickets. The festival is held from noon to 11 PM each day. Getting a schedule of performances and a map is highly recommended. These are available online or at the festival.

What do I bring?

Musikfest is held outside in several venues, most in walking distance of each other. Make sure to dress for the weather, since the festival is held rain or shine. Expect to do a lot of walking. Comfortable shoes are a must!

Some items you should leave behind are coolers, alcohol, weapons, and pets other than service animals. You won't want to carry these extra items anyway.

Children's Activities

Yes, there are children's activities. From concerts to puppet shows and art activities, there is something for all of the young ones. Most family-oriented performances take place during the day at Banana Island.

Food

There is food galore at Musikfest. Many different types of ethnic food are available at the different venues throughout the festival. Alcoholic beverages are available at the festival as well. Tickets are required for food purchases at official Musikfest vendors, and ticket booths are conveniently located throughout the festival area.

If you'd rather go to a restaurant, there are several in the downtown area where the festival is located.

Tickets

Most performances are free of charge. Only the Candlelight and performing Arts series concerts are ticketed events. These events are held at Foy hall (Moravian College), the Zoellner Center (Lehigh University), and Riverplace. Tickets and information for these venues are available online.

Parking

There is limited on street parking near the festival. People with private lots offer parking close to the festival. Parking decks cost $10 for the day. There are several options for parking away from Musikfest and using a shuttle service. For more information, visit http://www.musikfest.org/info/parking.asp

Be sure to check the Musikfest website for details about tickets, parking, and most importantly, the schedule.

http://www.musikfest.org/