BETHLEHEM, Pa. – Thousands of music fans are expected to return to the streets of Bethlehem as Musikfest kicks off its 43rd annual festival this week, bringing live entertainment, food vendors and a major economic boost to the city.
Final preparations were underway Wednesday ahead of Musikfest Preview Night on Thursday, with the festival officially opening Friday.
ArtsQuest Chief Programming Officer Patrick Brogan said organizers are eager to welcome visitors from across the region and beyond.
“We need that now as much as ever,” Brogan said. “Meeting old friends, meeting new friends on the dance floor. What a way to bring community together.”
The 11-day festival will feature performances on 15 stages spread throughout Bethlehem, offering music from a variety of genres throughout the day and night.
The influx of festivalgoers is also expected to benefit local businesses.
Jim Flynn, managing partner of F&A Grog House, said Musikfest consistently brings customers through the restaurant’s doors.
“Last year we had a really good week,” Flynn said.
He said festival attendees often stop in before or after concerts for food and drinks.
“The people are really good. They’re all looking to have a good time,” Flynn said.
In addition to musical performances, Brogan says more than 50 food and beverage vendors will offer a wide variety of options throughout the event.
“Just like there’s something for your musical palate, there’s also something to fill your stomach along the way,” Brogan said. “Great food, drink from all over the country, as well as a lot of vendors from right here in the Lehigh Valley.”
According to Brogan, last year’s Musikfest attracted a record-breaking 1.4 million attendees.
Brogan hopes to surpass last year’s record attendance as Musikfest, one of the nation’s largest free music festivals, returns to Bethlehem.