Musikfest has once again been named the best music festival by USA Today.
The festival was among 20 music festivals in the country nominated by the publication as part of its “10Best” series. Readers could vote for the festivals beginning last month, and the winner was announced Thursday.
“Being named the best music festival in the country by USA Today readers for the fourth time is an incredible honor and a testament to the energy, creativity and community spirit that define Musikfest,” Kassie Hilgert, president and CEO of ArtsQuest, the festival’s organizer, said in a news release. “Each year, Musikfest brings together artists, volunteers, partners and visitors from across the region and around the world to celebrate the power of live music and shared experiences. This recognition belongs to our entire community — from the musicians on our stages to the local businesses, sponsors and volunteers who help make the festival possible.”
The 10-day festival, now in its 43rd year, takes place on the north and south sides of Bethlehem. Last year, a record 1.45 million people attended Musikfest, which features over 500 performances, the majority of which are free. Genres include rock, pop, country, indie, Latin, folk and jazz.
ArtsQuest added that the festival is a “powerful economic driver” that generated $121.4 million in economic impact, including money spent with local businesses, restaurants, hotels and vendors.
This year’s festival runs from July 31 to Aug. 9, with a preview night on July 30. Headliners announced so far this year are salsa group Grupo Niche, comedian John Mulaney, Train, “Weird Al” Yankovic, T.I. with DaBaby, Bailey Zimmerman, Parker McCollum, Yellowcard and Taking Back Sunday, and AJR .
Musikfest was named best music festival by the publication in 2020 and 2019, and was ranked 10th in 2023.