Musikfest 2025 is here: What to know before you go

More than 1 million people attended Musikfest in Bethlehem last year. Now in its 42nd year, the festival runs Thursday through Aug. 10, with more than 400 free performances, along with ticketed headline shows, comedy, kids activities, and more.

Long before there were brand name music festivals like Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo, Coachella, and Philadelphia’s own Made in America (R.I.P.?), there was Musikfest, the annual summer music festival in Bethlehem that brings performers and music fans from across the globe to the Lehigh Valley for over a week’s worth of shows.

Last year, more than 1 million people attended Musikfest, travelling to Bethlehem from 48 states and 10 countries. Now in its 42nd year, Musikfest 2025 opens Thursday (July 31) and runs through Sunday, Aug. 10, offering its usual array of free performances, ticketed headline shows, vendors, food, kids activities, games, public art exhibitions, and more, right in the heart of Bethlehem.

Let’s take a look at what’s in store this year.

Who’s playing?

Musikfest 2025 will feature 15 free stages on Bethlehem’s north and south sides showcasing over 400 artists across multiple genres, plus a 16th ticketed headliner stage at the Wind Creek Steel Stage at PNC Plaza.

Headliners this year include Megan Moroney on Thursday, July 31; Riley Green on Friday, Aug. 1; the Avett Brothers on Saturday, Aug. 2; Darius Rucker on Sunday, Aug. 3; The Black Crowes on Monday, Aug. 4; Chicago on Tuesday, Aug. 5; Nelly on Wednesday, Aug. 6; Gilberto Santa Rosa on Thursday, Aug. 7; Third Eye Blind on Friday, Aug. 8; Jordan Davis on Saturday, Aug. 9; and The Black Keys on Sunday, Aug. 10.

You can find the complete lineup of Wind Creek Steel Stage performers here, and a full schedule of free and ticketed shows here.

What’s to eat?

You name it, you can find it at Musikfest. Pizza, Greek, Caribbean, burgers, Mexican, cajun, ice cream, German specialties, dumplings, and more. 

Those craving an adult beverage will have a new place to quench their thirst this year, Central Tap, outside the ArtsQuest Center. In addition, there will be an expanded Yuengling Flight Deck at the Oasis near the Steel Stage with a cash bar.

Also new at Musikfest this year is SoberPlatz, a welcoming space on the SteelStacks campus for sober concertgoers to meet, relax, and enjoy the music without alcohol.

You can find a full list of food and beverage options here.

Note that credit/debit cards and ArtsQuest CashCards are the only two forms of payment accepted for food and beverages at Musikfest. Get info on the ArtsQuest CashCard system here.

What else is happening besides music?

Musikfest will feature stand-up and improv comedy shows on Friday, Aug. 1 and Saturday, Aug. 2, and again on Friday, Aug. 9 and Saturday, Aug. 10 at the Ice House.

Musikfest’s interactive displays will include an exhibition from Nazareth-based Martin Guitars, along with a Yuengling Experience and a chance to win prizes from Wind Creek Bethlehem casino.

Along with the usual array of street performers, art exhibitions, and art activities for children, Musikfest 2025 will also feature Artie’s Hoot and Seek, a festival-wide scavenger hunt where guests search for the elusive Artie the Owl each day. Winners will score front row seats to a 2026 headliner show.

Can I take public transportation to Musikfest?

Yes. Fans can travel to Musikfest on the EBS LANTA Blue & Green Lines from points west (Fogelsville) and east (Easton). Once in Bethlehem, the LANTA Gold Line offers fans a ride with multiple stops between festival stages and other spots in the city.

For those who are driving, Musikfest recommends parking at one of the two satellite parking lots in operation for the festival: Valley Center Parkway, 1525 Valley Center Pkwy., Bethlehem; or Penn State Lehigh Valley, 2809 Saucon Valley Rd., Center Valley.

Find more information on transportation and parking here.

Can I bring my dog?

Only ADA-compliant service dogs are permitted at Musikfest.