ArtsQuest Announces First Ever Barbeque Competition: Steel City Smokeout

Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA., April 2, 2024 – ArtsQuest, in partnership with Nick’s BBQ, is proud to announce the Steel City Smokeout, a brand-new barbeque competition sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society and the Mid-Atlantic BBQ Association, to take place on Saturday, July 20, 2024, on PNC Plaza presented by St. Luke’s University Health Network on the ArtsQuest campus at SteelStacks.

Professional and amateur teams from throughout the Mid-Atlantic region will be competing at the 18+ event in a number of categories to win cash prizes from a purse of $10,000. You can see how these teams prepare delicious meats while getting some of your own from the many barbeque vendors that will be on hand. Barbeque made by the competing teams will not be available for sampling. Enjoy barbeque from 4 Raices Street Tacos, Grubnight Food Truck, The Taste Smokers and You got Pork’d and finish the day with a dessert from Kona Ice of Allentown and Mon and Mel’s Sweet Scoops Ice Cream Truck. More vendors, as well as the competing teams, will be announced later this spring.

Both professional and amateur barbeque teams interested in participating in the Steel City Smokeout should contact Eric Bauder, ArtsQuest Director of Event Operations, at ebauder@artsquest.org on or before June 20.

“I am thrilled for the Steel City Smokeout, a BBQ event unlike any other in the area,” commented Nick Binczak, owner and pitmaster of Nick’s BBQ. “I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to partner with the exceptional team at ArtsQuest. Together, we’re going to bring you an unforgettable barbeque experience, and continue it for years to come!”

Additionally, award-winning pitmasters Bob Trudnak and Moe Cason are teaching classes in ArtsQuest Center’s Blast Furnace Room as part of the Steel City Smokeout! Trudnak and Cason will give you the very best methods and procedures for cooking high end backyard BBQ with competition tips and tricks. They cover everything from meat selection and trimming to seasoning and cooking procedures on grills and smokers.

Barbeque classes being offered include:

BBQ Chicken
10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

We will discuss selecting chicken, the different cuts as well as seasoning and tendering the skin. In addition to when to sauce and how dry rub works on chicken, we will learn the best time and temperature for thighs, drums, wings and breast meat.

BBQ Pork Ribs
12 p.m. – 1 p.m.

We will discuss different brands of ribs and the difference between spareribs, St. Louis cut and baby backs. We will learn how to trim ribs for backyard and competition, as well as trimming and removing membranes for better tenderness. Finally, we will study wrapping techniques vs. not wrapping and how to apply layers of flavor as well as perfect tenderness.

Beef Brisket (the King of BBQ meats)
2 p.m. – 3 p.m.

We will discuss the anatomy of a brisket and how to buy them. We will talk about brand cuts and the different grades of beef, from select to wagyu. Injecting, seasoning and wrapping procedures will lead us to finish up the class with a conversation on how to tell when a brisket is done and ready to rest.

About the Pitmasters

Nick Binczak
Lehigh Valley native Nick Binczak started smoking meats in 2019 after working in the kitchen at the Edge Restaurant in Bethlehem under Chef Tim Widrick. He created Nick’s BBQ with his partner in life and in business, Hallie, in May of 2020. The business has grown with the acquisition of an event venue where they produce, plan, decorate and cater for events.

Moe Cason
Moe Cason is a Des Moines-based award-winning BBQ chef and TV personality who has garnered multiple Grand and Reserve Grand Championships while competing in 35 different states. He’s been seen as a contestant, judge and star on Destination America’s Pitmasters and BBQ Pit Wars. Self-taught as a pitmaster, he uses skills and authentic ingredients passed down from his grandmother, Margaret Cason.

Bob Trudnak
Bob Trudnak got his start in the outdoor cooking industry in 2002. He spent 20 plus years in the product design and manufacturing business while building his cooking career as a competition cook, judge and teacher. He has over 600 awards and has competed throughout the United States and Europe winning many state and national championships. He has taught thousands of students to perfect their craft in the backyard as well as on the competition circuit.

Bob has become a well-known BBQ personality and has an award-winning line of BBQ and pizza sauces and seasonings and is a certified Professional Pizzaiolo (North American Pizza and Culinary Academy).

Ernest Pile

Ernest Pile has been a resident of the Lehigh Valley since 2001. Prior to this, he spent 21 years as a resident in Nashville, TN where he was employed in the pharmaceutical industry as a biomedical research scientist. It was there that he developed his taste for BBQ and southern cuisine. When he relocated back to the Northeast, he realized how much he missed the foods that had been a part of his daily diet. After watching episodes of the “BBQ Pitmasters” on TV, and seeing Master chefs demonstrate their skills in competition, he found an outlet in Kansas City BBQ Society (KCBS) where he could learn more about the sport of BBQ and participate as a judge in sampling their cuisine. Ernest has been an active member and certified KCBS judge since 2019. He is participating in this event as the KCBS BBQ Cook Team and Judge Coordinator.

Ticket pricing varies depending on what type of ticket you choose, as well as if you attend the barbeque classes. Access to the amateur team area of the Steel City Smokeout will be free and no ticket will be needed for entrance.

Access to the professional team area of the Steel City Smokeout is as follows:

VIP ticket benefits include early access to the event at 11 a.m., access to an exclusive area with a private cash bar and a complimentary “BBQ Brunch.” This brunch will be prepared by Nick’s BBQ and will include brisket, pulled pork, pulled chicken, pinto beans, tangy slaw, gouda mac, cornbread, sauce, pickles, pickled red onions, bread and rolls.

When you’re finished eating BBQ, be sure to check out the 11^th Annual Blast Furnace Blues, featuring two days of live rhythm and blues music happening on Friday, July 19 and Saturday, July 20 at SteelStacks.

About ArtsQuest 

ArtsQuest’s mission is to provide access to exceptional artistic, cultural and educational experiences using arts and culture as key elements of economic development for our urban communities. ArtsQuest™ supports this mission via the presentation of performing and visual arts, film, arts education classes and outreach, youth programming and cultural events. 

Through festivals such as its flagship event, Musikfest; the Banana Factory Arts Center; and the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks arts and cultural campus, ArtsQuest’s programming reaches more than 1.9 million people annually. The organization’s programs and events, over 50% of which are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region. 

Lights, Camera, Action: ArtsQuest to host The Greater Lehigh Valley Filmmaker Festival and a Weekend of Film-Related Events 

Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA – March 26, 2024 – ArtsQuest is excited to host The Greater Lehigh Valley Filmmaker Festival taking place from Friday, April 26 to Sunday, April 28, at the Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas at the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks.  

On Friday, April 26, Lehigh Valley native Stephanie Gardner will unveil two episodes from her upcoming projector “33 and Me,” an international travel documentary television series, which follows American film director Gardner who upon turning 33, travels to over 33 countries around the world to meet and engage with other film directors in their thirties, to explore their lives, careers and cultures. 

Each episode of “33 and Me” features a specific country and introduces audiences to the current generation of cinematic storytellers who are dynamically challenging the status quo of the world today. “33 and Me” explores the past, present and future of cinema in each of the 33 featured countries Stephanie visits. This screening will offer two episodes of the upcoming series and will be followed by a live in-person Q&A/talkback with Gardner. 

“33 and Me” will be shown at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for the public are $11, ages 25 and under as well as seniors are $8.50 and ArtsQuest Members are $7.50.  

On Saturday, April 27 there will be a Student Showcase at 11 a.m., featuring various film projects from The Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts, as part of their Literary Arts curriculum. These films were shot using only smartphones with no budget/high concept. The price is free to view the showcase.  

Then, join us at 4 p.m. for the Free Curated Film Series: Selected Shorts Block. Four short films will be featured that were selected by the curators of ArtsQuest’s four-year round free film series, “Black Film: Then & Now,” “Cinema Significa,” “Fem in Film” and “LV LGBTQ+ Film Series”. Each of these films displays the uniqueness of its series. Afterward, there will be a Q&A and talkback session with the curators who will provide insight into their motivations behind their selections and why these films hold significance for them.

Throughout the weekend there will be multiple adjudicated blocks highlighting a variety of work from filmmakers throughout the Lehigh Valley. Each block is $10 and there are four blocks available, two on Saturday and two on Sunday. Blocks 1 and 2 will take place on Saturday, April 27 at 1:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. and Blocks 3 and 4 will take place on Sunday, April 28 at 2 p.m. and 4:15 p.m. All blocks contain mature themes not suitable for children, including language, violence and other adult content. Viewer discretion is advised. 

The Unknown Planet Mystery Screening will be shown on Saturday, April 27 at 8 p.m. in the Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas. The Unknown Planet series is a subscription-based film series to twelve different films throughout the year where the audience does not know the film title until the movie is playing. April’s screening is also open to the public and the film will be selected by guest curator Jesse Pires, Director & Curator of Lightbox Film Center at University of the Arts in Philadelphia. For more information and to sign up go to steelstacks.org  

The Greater Lehigh Valley Filmmaker Festival will also host its first 48-Hour Film Challenge where filmmakers are challenged to create a short, yet captivating 3–5-minute film in just 48 hours while being given specific stipulations that must be included in their film such as a specific character name, prop and line of dialogue. The Challenge itself will take place from April 19 at 8 p.m. through April 21 at 8 p.m. The finished films will then be screened at 2:15 p.m. on Sunday, April 28 at the festival.  

The awards ceremony will take place at 6:30 p.m. There is no charge to attend the ceremony. A festival pass offering access to all events listed above is also available at $25. For more information on this film-filled weekend, visit Steelstacks.org. 

About ArtsQuest  
ArtsQuest’s mission is to provide access to exceptional artistic, cultural and educational experiences using arts and culture as key elements of economic development for our urban communities. ArtsQuest™ supports this mission via the presentation of performing and visual arts, film, arts education classes and outreach, youth programming and cultural events. Through festivals such as its flagship event, Musikfest; the Banana Factory Arts Center; and the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks arts and cultural campus, ArtsQuest’s programming reaches more than 1.9 million people annually. The organization’s programs and events, over 50% of which are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region.   

SteelStacks High School Jazz Band Showcase Results

Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA, March 25, 2024 – ArtsQuest announces the results from the 12^th Annual SteelStacks High School Jazz Band Showcase presented by KingSpry Attorneys & Counselors, in partnership with Moravian University and official media partner Service Electric Cable TV. Outstanding soloists from any school won a scholarship to the Moravian University Summer Jazz Camp for 2024.

FINALS: RESULTS

Winner (1st place):  North Penn Navy Jazz Band

Section Awards:

Best Reed Section: Easton Area HS Jazz Band
Best Trumpet Section: North Penn HS Navy Jazz Band
Best Trombone Section: Quakertown Community HS Jazz Band
Best Rhythm Section: Upper Moreland HS Jazz Band

Solo Awards:

Best Jazz Saxophone/Woodwind:           Jesse Hasting (alto sax) Kutztown
Best Jazz Trumpet:                                  Logan Bigelow North Penn
Best Jazz Trombone:                               Richard Strader Quakertown
Best Jazz Rhythm Soloist:                       Akshay Krishnan (guitar) North Penn Navy
Best Overall Jazz Soloist:                        Carter Stein (tenor sax) Easton

About ArtsQuest  
ArtsQuest’s mission is to provide access to exceptional artistic, cultural and educational experiences using arts and culture as key elements of economic development for our urban communities. ArtsQuest™ supports this mission via the presentation of performing and visual arts, film, arts education classes and outreach, youth programming and cultural events. Through festivals such as its flagship event, Musikfest; the Banana Factory Arts Center; and the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks arts and cultural campus, ArtsQuest’s programming reaches more than 1.9 million people annually. The organization’s programs and events, over 50% of which are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region. 

The Ginvitational: A Celebration of Cocktails

Enjoy an afternoon of libations, educational seminars and delicious food samplings.

Bethlehem, PA, March 21, 2024 – ArtsQuest is excited to announce it is again partnering with Juniper and Grain to host the third annual Ginvitational: A Celebration of Cocktails, on Sunday, June 9 from 1 to 4 p.m. (11 a.m. for Premium access) in the Musikfest Café at the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks.

This spirited event will feature local, national and international distillers and distributors sampling and selling bourbon, vodka, gin and many other spirit categories. Premium Access Lounge sponsor Edrington will be featuring their Wyoming Whiskey and leading a Premium Access seminar on whiskey-forward classic cocktails. Educational seminars led by Jay Nee of Juniper and Grain and a team of the Lehigh Valley’s best mixologists will happen throughout the event and will cover topics like recipe fundamentals, syrups and tinctures, the proper use of garnishes, and more! The Ginvitational Education sponsor is the Campari Group.

“We can’t wait to bring back The Ginvitational,” said Ryan Hill, ArtsQuest’s Sr. Director of Programming. “Jay Nee brings such a wealth of cocktail culture knowledge and has assembled an impressive team to teach you how to take your parties to the next level!”

New to The Ginvitational this year is both a Negroni station and an Aperol Spritz bar. Several of the Lehigh Valley’s best restaurants will be in attendance sampling food, sponsored by YMI Insurance. The restaurants include Mr. Lee’s Noodles, Pennsylvania Rye Company, The Wilbur Mansion, The Bayou, Nick’s BBQ and Colonial Pizza & Spaghetti. And NiteLiters LLC will be spinning soul, funk and lounge classics throughout the event!

Ticket pricing runs from Mar 20 to June 2 and can be purchased at steelstacks.org. ArtsQuest Member pricing starts at $64 to $69 (week of event) for Premium Access and $29 to $34 (week of event) for General Admission. For the general public, ticket pricing ranges from $74 to $79 (week of event) for Premium Access and $34 to $39 (week of event) for General Admission.

Premium ticket holders will enjoy exclusive access to the event that will include a Whiskey Forward Classic Cocktails Seminar with Edrington from 11 a.m. to noon where you’ll learn more about the Outryder Old Fashioned, Single Barrel Old Fashioned, Small Batch Negroni and a special Whiskey Sour. You’ll all enjoy exclusive access to the Edrington Wyoming Whiskey Lounge and receive an Edrington branded flask. Lastly, you’ll gain early access to The Ginvitational event and exclusive spirits from 12 to 1 p.m.

Jay Nee of Juniper and Grain brings more than twenty years of beverage hospitality experience to the table and has presented more than 400 wine, beer and spirits events for thousands of guests. Seminar educators include Hillary Carrigan, Tyler Chambers, Lucas Heckenberger, Neil Heimsoth, Melissa Lozada, Maximilian Ur and Aindrea Williams.

“I’m thrilled to see this year’s event unfold as we have returning favorites and newcomers that will excite attendees,” commented Nee. This partnership showcases the Lehigh Valley as a destination for spirits and food forward events.”

Confirmed distillers and distributors include:

• 375 Park
• Allegheny Distilling LLC/Maggie’s Farm
• Black River Farms & Wardog Spirits
• Botl’d
• Campari
• Christmas City Spirits
• County Seat Spirits LLC
• Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits
• Doan Distillery
• Edrington
• Hotaling & Co
• Kilimanjaro Distillery LLC
• Magical Spirits
• Oasis Wine & Spirits LLC
• Palm Bay International/Drumshambo Gunpowder Irish Gin
• Social Still Distillery
• Stray Dog Spirits LLC

Please note this is a 21+ event.

About ArtsQuest
ArtsQuest’s mission is to provide access to exceptional artistic, cultural and educational experiences using arts and culture as key elements of economic development for our urban communities. ArtsQuest™ supports this mission via the presentation of performing and visual arts, film, arts education classes and outreach, youth programming and cultural events. Through festivals such as its flagship event, Musikfest; the Banana Factory Arts Center; and the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks arts and cultural campus, ArtsQuest’s programming reaches more than 1.9 million people annually. The organization’s programs and events, over 50% of which are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region. 

Feel the Vibes with One Earth ReggaeFest 2024 

Bethlehem, PA – March 20, 2024 – ArtsQuest is excited to announce the return of One Earth ReggaeFest for its third year. One Earth ReggaeFest, a free festival celebrating reggae music and good vibes, will take place on Saturday, July 6 at the Levitt Pavillion, Air Products Town Square, the Williams Brew Stage at Palette & Pour and along 1st Street from 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. This event is in partnership with Movement Moves Media, Space Kamp, Rebel Sounds Rising, and presented by Promise Neighborhoods of the Lehigh Valley.  

“One Earth ReggaeFest has quickly grown into a signature event, advancing SteelStacks’ mission of a gathering place for the whole community” said Patrick Brogan, Chief Programming Officer at ArtsQuest. “The consciousness of the music and culture speaks to equality, positivity and good vibes as the music moves people – literally and figuratively – all day and night here each year.”  

Notable headliners this year include: 

After making their triumphant return in 2020 with their self-titled album, Long Beach Dub Allstars take it all the way back-to-basics on their new album Echo Mountain High. The album takes listeners on a trip through a psychedelic mountain range of musical madness filled with reggae, rock, ska, hip hop, hard dub and soul. 

Long Beach Dub Allstars have always taken chances and have never been afraid to chart into unknown musical territory. This album sees Opie Ortiz (vocals), Miguel Happoldt (guitar), Tim Wu (horns) joined by Roger Rivas (keys), Ed Kampwuth (bass) and Gil Sharone(drums) experimenting with heavy psychedelics, playing some hard classic dub anthems along with wild experiments, showcasing the band’s free spirit and fearlessness to venture into the unknown. 

SunDub is a testament to the power of inclusion, diversity and unity; their music and community rallies around the concept that we are strongest when people of different backgrounds can work together to create positive change. These core values were first showcased on SunDub’s debut album, Burden of Love (2019), which has amassed millions of streams since coming out. Anchored by a core quintet – Finn Singer (guitar), Josh T Carter (bass), Eric “The General” Toussaint (vocals-keys) and the brother-sister team of Joanna Teters (lead vocals) and Ben Teters (vocals-drums) -the band is ready to breakthrough to even more fans worldwide with their sophomore album, showcasing the evolution of their sound over the past few years.  

With solitude comes clarity. With clarity comes peace of mind. With peace of mind comes the confidence to…Free Your Authentic Heart – F.Y.A.H., the latest project of Delroy “Pele” Hamilton, a co-founder, leader and bassist of the popular Jamaican reggae band Raging Fyah. With three albums, including the Grammy-nominated “Everlasting”, under his belt, Pele decided to dive deeper into music production when the pandemic hit and isolation became the new normal.  

Mighty Mystic is considered as one of the leaders in the U.S. Reggae scene and labeled by many as one of the more prolific artists to develop outside of Jamaica. Mighty Mystic came on the scene in 2006 after scoring his first international hit with the song “Riding on the Clouds”. It wasn’t until the release of his first album Wake up the World (2010) that he became a household name. “Wake up the World” boasted several standouts, such as “Revolution,” “Riding on the Clouds,” “Original Lov,” and “Slipped Away” with appearances from reggae icon Shaggy and roots rocker Lutan Fyah. Mystic continues to wake up the world with his high energy, message driven brand of reggae music which he emphatically calls “HARD ROOTS.”  

ReggaeFest goers will also enjoy performances from: 

• Cheezy And The Crackers 
• Cultivated Mind 
• Elephants Dancing  
• The Tabernacle 
• Space Kamp with Trouble City All-Stars 
• Sound Off 
• Ras Jem & Unity Vibration 
• DJ Menace  
• Marrissa Joy  
• Jincho El Rustico  
• Solid Ground Entertainment 

New this year will be a Drum Circle activity taking place on the Levitt lawn from 1:55 to 2:30 p.m. The public is encouraged to attend and participate so feel free to bring along a drum, shaker or fun instrument to get into the groove. The Drum Circle will be led by Ras Mykl of RootSetters.  

“One Earth Reggae festival was the highlight of festivals Mighty Mystic played last summer,” said Marc Deutsch, Agent of Mighty Mystic at Nice Shot Entertainment. “We look forward to having him play again at the festival this year!”  

There we be a variety of food and artisan/retail vendors at the festival, including (with more to come): Cubano X-Press, D&S Caribbean Kitchen, Island Noodles, Kona Ice of Allentown, Kou Kitchen, Movement Moves Media, Slabs and Crabs, The Taste Smokers, The Udder Bar and Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee of Lehigh Co.  

Artisan/Retail vendors include: Isasuma Art, Beauty by Monette, Taryn’s Treasures, The Homegrown Poconos CBD, Sage Advice Candle Co., LuvLee Creations & More, Evita Ink, Kitty Couture, 420 Survival Enterprises, 22 Peppers and Jewels by Nicol Marie.  

Want to be part of this new festival? Retail/artisan vendor spots are still available. Click here or contact vendors@artsquest.org to apply. This event is produced by ArtsQuest and Movement Moves Media as part of the Levitt Pavilion SteelStacks free concert series, presented by Lehigh Valley Health Network.  

Come out and enjoy this free day-long festival featuring eclectic vendors, authentic Jamaican food and grooving vibes for all ages. For more information visit SteelStacks.org.   

About ArtsQuest  
ArtsQuest’s mission is to provide access to exceptional artistic, cultural and educational experiences using arts and culture as key elements of economic development for our urban communities. ArtsQuest™ supports this mission via the presentation of performing and visual arts, film, arts education classes and outreach, youth programming and cultural events. Through festivals such as its flagship event, Musikfest; the Banana Factory Arts Center; and the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks arts and cultural campus, ArtsQuest’s programming reaches more than 1.9 million people annually. The organization’s programs and events, over 50% of which are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region.   

Drum Roll Please, ArtsQuest to host SteelStacks High School Jazz Band Showcase Finals  

Bethlehem, PA – March 18, 2024 – ArtsQuest is excited to host the SteelStacks High School Jazz Band Showcase Finals, presented by KingSpry Attorneys & Counselors, on March 24 at 2 p.m. in the Musikfest Cafe. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. Tickets are $7 (plus fees) and can be purchased at www.steelstacks.org, by calling 610-332-3378 or at the door. The final showcase will also be taped and broadcasted on Service Electric Cable TV. 

This past February scholastic jazz groups from Pennsylvania and New Jersey competed in front of an audience and judging panels.  After four preliminary rounds these five high schools have advanced to the finals of the 2024 SteelStacks High School Jazz Band Showcase: 

• Easton High School 
• Quakertown Community High School 
• Upper Moreland High School – Jazz One 
• North Penn High School Navy Jazz Band 
• Kutztown High School 

The finals will consist of each band performing a 20-minute set in front of a live audience and judges. There will also be a special performance by Moravian University Faculty Band and following will be the awards ceremony for the competition’s top soloists and sections. Students who receive soloist awards will be invited to perform during Musikfest as part of the SteelStacks All-Star Jazz Band. They will perform in the Musikfest Café on August 3 from 5:30-7 p.m. 

This project is supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts as well as the Jeff Hunter Charitable Trust. The competition is a music-in-education program of ArtsQuest and the Moravian University Music Department’s Jazz Studies Program.  

There will be snacks/finger food available during the competition.  

About ArtsQuest   
ArtsQuest’s mission is to provide access to exceptional artistic, cultural and educational experiences using arts and culture as key elements of economic development for our urban communities. ArtsQuest™ supports this mission via the presentation of performing and visual arts, film, arts education classes and outreach, youth programming and cultural events. Through festivals such as its flagship event, Musikfest; the Banana Factory Arts Center; and the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks arts and cultural campus, ArtsQuest’s programming reaches more than 1.9 million people annually. The organization’s programs and events, over 50% of which are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region.   

‘The Front Bottoms’ to Perform at the Levitt Pavilion this Summer  

Bethlehem, PA – March 13, 2024 – ArtsQuest is excited to announce The Front Bottoms will be rocking The Levitt Pavilion at SteelStacks on Saturday, May 18, 2024 at 8 p.m. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. Ticket access begins on Wednesday, March 13 at 1 p.m. for ArtsQuest members and General Public tickets are available beginning Thursday, March 14 at 12 p.m. at steelstacks.org. Tickets range from $35 (purchased in advance) to $42 (day of show). Please note, there is a ticket limit of six per customer. For more exclusive access and advance purchase opportunities, become an ArtsQuest circle donor today.  

New Jersey indie rock duo The Front Bottoms (vocalist/guitarist Brian Sella and drummer Mathew Uychich), emerged in the late 2000s with a wildly eclectic blend of pop, rock and punk influences accompanied by witty lyrics that offer a rapid-fire, slightly surreal perspective on the world around them. Early releases like 2011’s “The Front Bottoms” and 2013’s “Talon of the Hawk” relied on lean, angular melodies, wiry guitar work and propulsive drumming. After signing with Fueled by Ramen, the duo’s production aesthetic developed a more full-bodied sound though their thematic quirks were essentially unchanged. They enjoyed greater commercial success on albums like 2017’s Going Grey and 2020’s In Sickness & In Flames which allowed them to continue making smaller fan-favorite releases like 2022’s Theresa EP. You Are Who You Hang Out With, the band’s eighth long player, arrived the following year. 

About ArtsQuest 
ArtsQuest’s mission is to provide access to exceptional artistic, cultural and educational experiences using arts and culture as key elements of economic development for our urban communities. ArtsQuest™ supports this mission via the presentation of performing and visual arts, film, arts education classes and outreach, youth programming and cultural events. 

Through festivals such as its flagship event, Musikfest; the Banana Factory Arts Center; and the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks arts and cultural campus, ArtsQuest’s programming reaches more than 1.9 million people annually. The organization’s programs and events, over 50 percent of which are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region.  

It’s Brunch o’ clock at ArtsQuest: Celebrate Spring with Easter and Mother’s Day Brunches  

Bethlehem, PA – March 13, 2024 – ArtsQuest is excited to celebrate the season with Easter and Mother’s Day Brunches set to take place this spring in the Musikfest Cafe. Easter Brunch will be held on Sunday, March 31 at 10 a.m. and Mother’s Day Brunch will be on Sunday, May 12 at 10 a.m.  

Tickets for both events are $49 (additional $1 fee) for adults 13 and older, $25 (additional $1 fee) for children 5-12 years old and children 4 and under are free. Tickets for Easter Brunch can be purchased at steelstacks.org and tickets for Mother’s Day Brunch can be purchased at steelstacks.org.  

Both events are from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Approximately 50 people will be admitted into the venue at one time, every half hour from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tickets for both events include a delicious selection of brunch foods and a variety of juices and coffee bar, server gratuity and sales tax. 

Easter Brunch will offer a live performance by Dan Mies on the Keys. The Mother’s Day brunch will offer a live performance from professional pianist Joe Lazorik, who will perform from 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.  

Both brunches will have your breakfast and lunch favorites including a variety of egg selections, sauteed hash browns, cinnamon French toast, Applewood smoked bacon, Tofu scramble, fresh garden salads, herb grilled chicken breast, sweet mustard glazed ham, seasonal fruit, roasted vegetable medley and tons of sweet desserts. (See websites for additional menu options). 

If you have any special reservation requests or dietary questions, please contact Carrie Senior csenior@levyresturants.com or Shannon Vinci svinci@levyresturants.com via email.  

If there are any inquires to increase slots in a particular seating window or multiple parties under different names wanting to be seated together, reach out to Carrie Senior, csenior@levyresturants.com.  

Get your tickets today to celebrate with your loved ones! 

About ArtsQuest   
ArtsQuest’s mission is to provide access to exceptional artistic, cultural and educational experiences using arts and culture as key elements of economic development for our urban communities. ArtsQuest™ supports this mission via the presentation of performing and visual arts, film, arts education classes and outreach, youth programming and cultural events. Through festivals such as its flagship event, Musikfest; the Banana Factory Arts Center; and the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks arts and cultural campus, ArtsQuest’s programming reaches more than 1.9 million people annually. The organization’s programs and events, over 50% of which are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region.   

It’s Taco Tuesday. Let’s Taco’bout the Return of ArtsQuest’s Annual TacoFest at SteelStacks!  

Bethlehem, PA, March 12, 2024 – ArtsQuest is excited to announce the return of TacoFest taking place on Sunday, June 2, 2024, from 1 to 7 p.m., at the ArtsQuest campus at SteelStacks.  

Get your Premium Access tickets now at steelstacks.org for $15 (price increases to $20 starting May 28). Premium Access tickets allow early access to the event starting at noon (which means more tacos) and a 6-ounce bottle of TacoFest-branded Habanero hot sauce. It’s a day filled with tacos from throughout the Lehigh Valley, music, game shows, Margarita Madness, the Chihuahua Beauty Contest, fantastic food and drinks from a ton of vendors including our partner, Levy Restaurants at Mack Truck, Central Tap and Palette & Pour.     

“TacoFest is such a fantastic event,” said Ryan Hill, Sr. Director of Programming. “It’s a lot of fun to plan and even more so to see everyone enjoying delicious food from a fantastic selection of vendors along with the games and contests taking place throughout the afternoon. It’ll be a perfect way to kick off summer in the Lehigh Valley!” 

Additionally, you can participate in the annual Margarita Madness and find out which Lehigh Valley restaurant is voted ‘Best Margarita.’ Margarita Madness kicks off at 1 p.m. but you’ll enjoy early access to TacoFest at noon. Tickets for Margarita Madness start at $44 to $49 and the event takes place in the Musikfest Café. Each attendee will receive a 1oz. sample from each restaurant and get to vote for their favorite. Alcohol-free versions of margaritas will also be available from each participating restaurant. A complimentary tortilla chip bar with everything from guacamole, queso salsas to rice and beans will also be available.  

Ay Chihuahua! The Chihuahua Beauty Contest is back! Held next to the Levitt Pavilion Stage, this feisty event will begin at 2 p.m. Tickets are priced at $10 ($15 day of show). ArtsQuest Member tickets are $8.50 ($13.50 day of show). Strut your pup for the chance to have your dog win in one of the following categories: Gooddest Doggo, Most Huggable, Cutest Tail Wiggle and more. For each dog that wins, their owners will be awarded ArtsQuest tickets and merch! All Chihuahuas, mixes, Chihuahuas at heart and 25 lbs. or under are encouraged to participate! Please note, all dog owners must have a ticket to TacoFest in order for your furry friend to participate.   

For select discounted rates and presale opportunities become an ArtsQuest member or Circle donor today. 

 
About ArtsQuest  
ArtsQuest’s mission is to provide access to exceptional artistic, cultural and educational experiences using arts and culture as key elements of economic development for our urban communities. ArtsQuest™ supports this mission via the presentation of performing and visual arts, film, arts education classes and outreach, youth programming and cultural events. Through festivals such as its flagship event, Musikfest; the Banana Factory Arts Center; and the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks arts and cultural campus, ArtsQuest’s programming reaches more than 1.9 million people annually. The organization’s programs and events, over 50% of which are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region.   

Bruce Hornsby & The Noisemakers – Spirit Trail: 25th Anniversary Tour Comes to Musikfest Cafe 

Bethlehem, PA – March 5, 2024 – ArtsQuest is excited to announce Bruce Hornsby & The Noisemakers will celebrate 25 years of Spirit Trail, bringing the album’s anniversary tour to the Musikfest Cafe on Tuesday, July 2 at 7 p.m.

Ticket Presale will be on Wednesday, March 6 at 10 a.m. Tickets for the general public will be available starting on Friday, Mar 8 at 10 a.m. at SteelStacks.org. Ticket prices range from $59 to $85.  

Bruce Hornsby has built one of the most diverse, collaborative and adventurous careers in contemporary music. Based out of Williamsburg, VA, Hornsby first rose to national prominence with The Way It Is, his1986 Grammy-winning debut album with The Range. The title track became the most played song on American radio in 1987. In 1991 Hornsby collaborated with Bonnie Raitt, playing on her iconic hit “I Can’t Make You Love Me”.  

Hornsby was a part-time member of the Grateful Dead from September 1990 to March 1992, performing over 100 concerts in America and Europe. The 13-time Grammy nominee has also solidified his status as a highly sought-after collaborator. Hornsby’s own 23 albums have sold over 11 million copies worldwide, and he has appeared on over 100 records including releases with Bob Dylan, Don Henley, the Grateful Dead, Stevie Nicks, Ricky Skaggs, Bob Seger, Chaka Khan, Bon Iver, Brandon Flowers, Bonnie Raitt, Sting, Mavis Staples, Willie Nelson and more. His most recent studio album, ‘Flicted, was released in May ‘22. 

About ArtsQuest  
ArtsQuest’s mission is to provide access to exceptional artistic, cultural and educational experiences using arts and culture as key elements of economic development for our urban communities. ArtsQuest™ supports this mission via the presentation of performing and visual arts, film, arts education classes and outreach, youth programming and cultural events. Through festivals such as its flagship event, Musikfest; the Banana Factory Arts Center; and the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks arts and cultural campus, ArtsQuest’s programming reaches more than 1.9 million people annually. The organization’s programs and events, over 50% of which are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region.