Arts & Culture

As the third comedian to headline Musikfest, the Mexican-American jokester didn't disappoint.

Here are the Musikfest acts and more you should see today, Friday, Aug. 11. One of them is "probably the best free-stage show at Musikfest this year," says John J. Moser.

Musikfest is operating under a new code of conduct this year after an antisemitic incident at Christkindlmarkt in December. The nonprofit organization's CEO said it wants to create a welcoming environment but can't outright ban hate speech.

The ArtsQuest annual fête has an estimated 900 volunteers in 2023.

The Goo Goo Dolls played a concert of 25 songs in 107 minutes at Musikfest that included all of its hits, deep cuts and new songs.

Here are the Musikfest acts and more you should see today, Thursday, Aug. 10.

The Lower Macungie Township Historical Society is set to produce a historical docudrama film focused on the Fries Rebellion, a 1799 rebellion that resisted federal taxes. Dozens gathered at Rising River Brewing for the second of three events to premiere a teaser for the film and launch the fundraising campaign.

Goo Goo Dolls, the 1990s-2000s alternative rock group who produced the platinum hits “Name,” “Iris,” “Slide,” and “Black Balloon,” has sold out its concert for tonight, Aug. 9, on Musikfest’s Steel Stage.

From lack of parking and gridlock traffic to the increased prices for headliner tickets, as well as upticks in costs for food and beverages, there are plenty of reasons why some of the Lehigh Valley’s residents don’t like — with a contingent even going so far as to actively avoid — Musikfest.

The R&B artists thrilled the crowed with beloved favorites from throughout their careers.

A completely dry stretch of weather is almost unheard of this time of year, said meteorologist Bobby Martrich of EPAWA Weather Consulting, the official forecaster of Musikfest.

The first celebration featured an array of talent with an emphasis on local artists.

With around 1 million people expected to attend Musikfest this year, health and safety take top priority for organizers. Everything from cooling misters to medical tents will be on site.

The Lower Macungie Township Historical Society is set to raise money for and produce a historical docudrama film focused on the 1799 Fries Rebellion, which led to a federal crackdown in the Macungie area during the John Adams administration.

ArtsQuest announced Monday that the Old World Wine Dinner will be at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 20 in the Fowler Blast Furnace Room on the second floor of the ArtsQuest Center. And the two-session Fall Winefest & Market will be on Oct. 29 at the Banana Factory in Bethlehem.

As Musikfest kicks off next week, some notable figures in its history shared their perspectives on the humble beginnings and what it's become. Join in the action in Bethlehem from Aug. 3-13.

Local police departments are celebrating National Night Out Tuesday, a nationwide initiative to bring cops and community members together.

Four August events in Bethlehem focus on different aspects of Moravian and colonial culture.

The iconic Martin on Main festival returned to historic Nazareth at noon on July 29.

Dorney Park is hosting Grande Carnivale, a festival that celebrates international cultures. It will run every day until Aug. 6, excluding Tuesdays.

The Lehigh Valley native is debuting his one-man act in Bethlehem this fall.

LehighValleyNews.com's Jen Rehill talks with editor John J. Moser and reporter Tom Shortell.