Micaela Hood
Arts & Culture ReporterI’m LehighValleyNews.com’s arts and cultures reporter covering the best in music, theater, food and lifestyles. I have covered entertainment and features for the Miami Herald, South Florida Sun-Sentinel, New York Daily News, the Pocono Record and USA Today Network. As a proud Latina, I look forward to showcasing the diverse and vibrant communities in the Lehigh Valley. A fashionista and foodie, when I’m not working you can find me shopping or dining at my favorite Colombian and Italian restaurants and local coffee shops. Contact me at micaelah@lehighvalleynews.com or 610-984-8217.
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Artsquest's annual autumn festival will run through Sunday, Oct. 12, on the SteelStacks campus in Bethlehem. -
Chelsea Southard's "Down the Line" was chosen as the Sculpture at SteelStacks 2025 exhibition, now in its fourth year and part of Steel Weekend and the steelworkers' reunion happening this Saturday and Sunday.
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In the new Amazon Prime documentary "Saquon," NFL star Saquon Barkley opens up about his Lehigh Valley roots. The film offers an intimate look at his family life, his decision to join the Philadelphia Eagles, and the moments that shaped his journey from Whitehall to the NFL.
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"Iron Chef" winner Jose Garces has opened Okatshe, a Japanese-inspired izakaya on Hamilton Street, with an eight-foot sushi roll instead of a ribbon-cutting. Located across from Rosa Blanca, Okatshe offers small plates, sushi, sake,and whiskey in a modern take on Japan’s traditional neighborhood bar.
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The festival spans two weekends of authentic German traditions, including stein holding competitions, bratwurst eating contests, live polka bands, schuhplattler dancers, dachshund races and new contests.
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After three years of low attendance because of inclement weather, the 2025 Celtic Classic & U.S. Highland Games returned with crowds and a packed celebration of the Celtic regions: Ireland, Cornwall, the Isle of Man, Brittany, Scotland, and Wales.
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Gwynn spoke at Moravian University on Sept.30 about his 30-year wrongful imprisonment and death row exoneration, sharing his journey of faith, art and justice.
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The PA Latino Convention in Pittsburgh drew leaders to discuss housing, education, and immigrant advocacy. Easton will host the 2026 convention, highlighting the Lehigh Valley’s growing Latino community.
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Bagpipes, kilts and Highland Games traditions returned Friday as Celtic Classic returned to Bethlehem's Historic District. The festival will run through Sunday.
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The Wilbur Mansion transforms with Swift, a rebranded dining experience in the Fountain Hill District of Bethlehem, offering seasonal menus, handmade cocktails, outside dining, and historical flair.
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The celebration of the Isla del Encanto in Allentown was organized by the Puertorrican Culture Preservation and held on Sunday, July 28.
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Musikfest 2024 begins with a preview night on Thursday. The 11-day festival will feature more than 422 artists and more than 500 concerts. Headliners include Greta Van Fleet, ZZ Top, Ludacris and Jowell & Randy.
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The Puerto Rican Day Parade and Festival will return to Allentown on Sunday, July 28. It kicks off at noon at North Fifth and Hamilton streets.
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Erica Silver, a music teacher with the Allentown School District, is the youth chorale's newest conductor and Alaina Swartz is the new director of education and community engagement.
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Eleven11 Nail Studio opened in late June in Easton. The owners say their goal is to provide clients with an experience focused on self care and pampering.
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For the first time, the two-day festival will feature a barbecue competition, along with 11 blues performers. It will take place Friday, July 19 and Saturday, July 20 at SteelStacks.
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The short film, 'Love Letters to Bethlehem,' made its debut on Tuesday at the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks. It is now available to stream on YouTube.
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The Lehigh Valley's newest entertainment complex will open its doors at 11 a.m. on Monday, July 15.
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Need transportation around Bethlehem's beloved multi-day music festival this year? Well now there's a new free way to get around during Musikfest, which is now in its 41st year.
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The horror-themed circus will be in town from Thursday, July 4 to Sunday, July 7.
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Enjoy an array of musical and theater performances, plus children's activities starting at 8 a.m. on Saturday, July 6 at DeSales University.
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The Thunderhawk, one of 10 wooden roller coasters still operating, was built in 1924.
