'Truly one for the record books': Musikfest shatters attendance, other records

BETHLEHEM, Pa. — Ten days of blue skies and "a vibrant energy on the ground" made Musikfest a year of records, organizer said Tuesday.

The 42nd year of the Bethlehem event, the nation's largest non-gated music festival, set records for attendance, headliner tickets sold and more, organizers said.

The festival saw 1,449,000 people attend — up 429,000 or 42% over last year and almost 9% over the previous high of 1,330,000 in 2023, it reported.

Also, Musikfest sold 60,800 tickets to its 11 headline concerts — the most ever, and eclipsing by 6,000 tickets, or 10%, the previous best of 54,786 last year.

Musikfest had four sold-out headline shows at its main Steel Stage, and all were country music artists: Megan Moroney on Preview Night, July 31; Riley Green on opening night, Aug. 1; Darius Rucker on Aug. 3; and Jordan Davis on Aug. 9.

That tied a record set last year, when four headliners also sold out Steel Stage. They were rockers Greta Van Fleet and Shinedown, country chart-toppers Old Dominion and rapper Ludacris.

Also this year, eight headlines acts sold more than 5,000 tickets (also tied with 2024).

“This year’s Musikfest was truly one for the record books," said Kassie Hilbert, president of ArtsQuest, the non-profit organization that presents Musikfest.

"From the highest number of attendees to the most headliner tickets sold in 42 years, all fueled by amazing weather for 10 days and 11 nights and incredible community spirit.”

Hilgert said, "None of this would be possible without the tireless efforts of our staff and volunteers, the generosity of our members, sponsors and partners along with the dedication of our official food vendors, artisans and crafters, local businesses and lodging and, of course local, state and federal law enforcement agencies and emergency responders who kept the community safe throughout the entirety of the festival.

"Together, we’ve created an unforgettable experience that not only celebrates the arts but strengthens the bonds of our community and boosts the Lehigh Valley in countless ways.”

‘Shining example,' economic impact

Bethlehem Mayor J. William Reynolds said, “Musikfest continues to be a shining example of what makes Bethlehem so special, a vibrant celebration that brings people together with great music, great food and an incredible sense of community pride.

"This year’s perfect weather only added to the excitement, helping fuel a safe and fun festival experience.

"Beyond the joy it brings, Musikfest is a major economic driver for our city, attracting visitors from near and far who support local businesses and showcase the best of the Lehigh Valley.”

The festival saw perfect temperatures without precipitation, save for light sprinkles on Preview Night.

Last year, extreme heat and days of rain meant Musikfest's attendance for its 41st run was down more than 23% off 2023's record crowds.

Festival attendees came from 49 states and seven foreign countries (Canada, Columbia, Great Britain, Italy, Mexico, the Netherlands and South Africa) plus Puerto Rico and Washington, DC, ArtsQuest said.

In addition to the headline performers, Musikfest offered more than 400 artists performing 552 free musical performances across 16 stages.

“We’ve seen phenomenal headliners and incredible performances throughout the festival," ArtsQuest Board of Trustees member Joe Bergstein said.

"This year’s beautiful weather brought record crowds, creating an unforgettable atmosphere across Bethlehem.

"Beyond the music, Musikfest delivers a tremendous economic boost for the Lehigh Valley, bringing over 1 million visitors from near and far to enjoy our community, support local businesses and celebrate the arts in a way that’s truly unmatched.”

ArtsQuest said Musikfest generates more than $70 million in economic impact each year for Bethlehem and the Lehigh Valley.