FAQ

Welcome to Musikfest – The Nation’s Largest Free Music Festival!

This summer, we’re thrilled to celebrate our 42nd Musikfest – a beloved tradition brought to life by ArtsQuest, a nonprofit dedicated to making the arts accessible to all. Each year, our programs and events
generate more than $136 million in economic impact for the region, and nearly 40% of them are free to attend – including hundreds right here at the fest!

So, what makes Musikfest such a special part of summer?

• 10 jam-packed days (plus a special preview night!) of amazing live music.

• 15 free stages spread across Bethlehem’s charming Historic District and the vibrant SteelStacks campus – covering over 50 acres.

• More than 500 free performances in platzes, along the streets and in historic venues.

• 11 ticketed headliner shows at the iconic Wind Creek Steel Stage at PNC Plaza. 

But Musikfest isn’t just about the music – it’s a full sensory experience:

• Savor incredible flavors from over 60 food vendors. 

• Explore handcrafted works by top artisans and crafters from across the country. 

• Catch spectacles and lively street acts.

• Enjoy family-friendly fun and creative activities for kids of all ages.

• Cap off your visit with our spectacular fireworks show on Sunday, August 10. 

• New this year: Musikfest is going cashless! Use your credit card or pick up an ArtsQuest Cash Card.(Note: Some artisans/crafters may still accept cash.)

Whether it’s your first ‘fest or your 42nd, there’s something here for every kind of music lover. From Bach to bluegrass, rock to reggae – follow the sound that moves you and make memories that last a lifetime.

Welcome to Musikfest – let the celebration begin! 

The Basics

• Musikfest is August 1-10. 
• “How do I get across the river?” you may ask. Simple. There is a transfer site on each side. Hop on a bus at the transfer site and you’ll be taken to the other side.
• The easiest entrance strategy is to use our satellite parking lots and shuttle system.

The Performances

• Only the shows at Wind Creek Steel Stage require tickets.
• Almost every musical genre conceivable is represented.
• Stages are called “platzes,” an homage to the city’s Germanic heritage (platz being German for “place”).

The Food

• Food and drink is available pretty much everywhere.
• Musikfest has famous beverage mugs. They keep your beverages cold in the hot summer sun, plus you get a discount on beer refills. Also, you’re helping us to reduce waste by using them. You can purchase this year’s mug here, in the ArtsQuest Center Box Office, or at our merchandise tents throughout the festival.

ArtsQuest Member Benefits

Did you know ArtsQuest Members get special benefits at the ‘fest? Become a member today!

ArtsQuest Circle
ArtsQuest Circle donors champion ArtsQuest’s mission to use arts and culture as key elements of economic development for the Lehigh Valley and beyond. Circle memberships start at $2,500 annually.

CIRCLE BENEFITS

• Level 1 Pre-Sale Ticket Access
• Concierge Ticket Service for Purchases and Reservations
• “Day Of” Complimentary Tickets to Select Performances (subject to availability)
• Complimentary Admission to Yuengling Flight Deck Oasis at Wind Creek Steel Stage (concert ticket required)*
• Priority Parking, including the Moravian Lot on the Northside and Ruins East on the South Side
• Member Lounges at Service Electric Festplatz, Musikfest Café, and PNC Stadtplatz*
• Member Line at Wind Creek Steel Stage (concert ticket required)*
• Free Rides on the North-South Transfer*
• North Side Indoor Air-Conditioned Restrooms at Luckenbach Mill*
• VIP Circle Event
• Musikfest Boot Camp & Best of the Fest Event
• One Complimentary 2025 Musikfest Poster
• Two Exclusive Circle Musikfest Mugs (Mugs given once, the year the Donor joins ArtsQuest Circle or in the current year if the donor has not received the MF Circle mugs)
• 30-50% Discount on Facility Fees for ArtsQuest Rentals (rates vary by level)
• 20% Discount on Merchandise

*Circle Donor Card or Guest Card required for access. One person per valid card.

**Benefits are subject to change and are made available in accordance with current safety guidelines.

ArtsQuest Membership
As an ArtsQuest Member, you will not only enjoy access, discounts, and other exclusive benefits, you will also become a partner in providing access to exceptional artistic, cultural and educational experiences for our community. Memberships start at $125 annually.

MEMBER BENEFITS

• Pre-Sale Ticket Access Based on Membership Level
• Parking Pass (Silver and up)
• Member Lounges at Service Electric Festplatz, Musikfest Café, and PNC Stadtplatz*
• Member Line at Wind Creek Steel Stage (concert ticket required)*
• Free Rides on the North-South Transfer*
• North Side Indoor Air-Conditioned Restrooms at Luckenbach Mill*
• Musikfest Boot Camp & Best of the Fest Event
• One Complimentary 2024 Musikfest Poster (Gold and up)
• 10-20% Discount on Facility Fees for ArtsQuest Rentals (Platinum and Steel)
• 10% Discount on Merchandise

*Member Card or Guest Card required for access. One person per valid card.

**Benefits are subject to change and are made available in accordance with current safety guidelines.

Miscellaneous ‘fest Knowledge

• Facebook and Twitter are great ways to get the latest ‘fest news.
• You can also follow us on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube!
• The very first Musikfest was held in 1984. 182,000 people showed up.
• The festival is presented by the nonprofit arts organization ArtsQuest. Read more about ArtsQuest.
• All proceeds from the ‘fest support ArtsQuest™ which is a Bethlehem, PA-based nonprofit dedicated to presenting music, arts, festivals, cultural experiences and educational and outreach programs that aid in economic development, urban revitalization and community enrichment. Through festivals such as its flagship event, Musikfest®; the Banana Factory® Arts Center; and the ArtsQuest Center and SteelStacks™ arts and cultural campus, ArtsQuest’s programming reaches more than 1.9 million people annually.