Laini’s List of 9 Things to Do This Weekend in the Lehigh Valley
By Laini Abraham and Katie Vogel
1. InVision Photo Festival
Thursday through Sunday, Banana Factory, 25 W. Third St, and SteelStacks Campus, 101 Founders Way, Bethlehem
Bethlehem continues to strengthen its reputation for being a hub for artistic and creative talent this weekend with the InVision Photo Festival. Photograph collections from various artists will be on display at the Banana Factory and The SteelStacks Campus for public viewing. There will also be workshops and presentations for anyone interesting in bettering their photography skills. Think you already have a good portfolio? Why not enter your collection for review and see what some of the top people in the area think. This is a great chance to see, learn, and get inspired!
2. The Pairings: Fine Food, Wine, Beer
Sunday, 4pm to 7pm, Bank Street Annex, 316 Northampton Street, Easton
It’s a foodie’s heaven at The Pairings this Sunday in Easton. Enjoy food from 10 gourmet chefs while being strategically paired with various wines and beers. Reservations can be made online for this event. Ticket prices are $80 before November 5th, and $85 at the door. The Pairings is also sponsored by Equi-librium, a therapeutic riding and driving program for children, youth, and adult from Lehigh, Northampton, and Monroe counties.
3. Fancy First Friday
Friday, 6pm to 10pm, 3rd & New St., Bethlehem
This month’s First Friday will be a Fancy one! Visit the vendor indie mart on to enjoy fancy food, themed live music and wine samples from each of the businesses in the area. You can also find great discounts on some of the stores, and have fun while doing it!
4. First Day of “Boutique Easton”
Saturday, 5pm to 8pm, Participating Venues, Easton
This weekend marks the beginning of the Boutique Easton Events. This weekend features discounts on Halloween and pet items at Carrie Ann’s, and live music by Bill McConney at Salvage Goods. A special book signing by renowned photographer Larry Fink will also be held at Mercantile Home on from 6pm to 8pm.
5. Bellydance Bollywood Fun
Sunday, 6pm to 7:30pm, Touchstone Theatre, 321 E. 4th St., Bethlehem
These ladies sure know how to move at Bellydance Bollywood Fun. Belly dancing has been growing in popularity over the years and if you’re not familiar with it, then this is an excellent chance check some out. There are even classes and workshops available through the group if you’ve ever had an interest in learning this style. Everyone knows that dancing makes you feel better, even if you have the rhythm of Elaine from Seinfeld. This talented group will surely show you some fun and flirty moves that you will want to try on your own.
6. Zen for Primates
Friday, 8pm to 11pm, Pennsylvania Playhouse, 390 Illicks Mill Rd., Bethlehem
Last weekend may have been when most Halloween celebrations occurred, but with all the snow we had, many have extended their theatrical events to this weekend, including Zen for Primates. Come check out this musical group for their annual Halloween performance at the Pennsylvania Playhouse. It’s never too late to get in a good spooky evening.
7. Art, Music & Fun at “Our Garage Space”
Saturday, 6pm to 10pm, Our Garage Space, 43 North Sitgreaves St., Easton
It’s a creative trifecta with Art, Music, & Fun at Our Garage Space this weekend. This unique venue for anything artistic is set in a garage, giving it an industrial yet modern feel. This weekend features the art of Tom D’Angelo, Steven Leibensperger and Gabriel Franklin, with music by Jeff Tareila & Alex Bryant, and fun by you!
8. 3rd Annual Lehigh Valley Music Awards Acoustic Competition
Saturday, 6:30pm to 11:30pm, Upper Milford Municipal Center, 5671 Chestnut St., Zionsville
Entering it’s 3rd year this weekend is the Annual LVMA Acoustic Competition. Sponsored by the LVMA’s and the C.F. Martin Guitar Company, A panel of judges will rate competitors on a variety of criteria, and announce the winners that evening. Awards will be given out in two categories: Best Live Acoustic Performance and Best Original Acoustic Song. If you wish to participate in the event, a pre-registration is required! This will be a great event to watch, compete in, and support you fellow Lehigh Valley musicians.
9. Katie’s Pick – 26th Annual Holiday Marketplace Fine Craft Show
Saturday, 10am to 5pm, and Sunday, 11am to 4pm, Swain School of Allentown, 1100 South 24th St., Allentown
Although Halloween was this past Monday, and Thanksgiving hasn’t even gotten here yet, the gift giving season is right around the corner and will be here before you know it. Start your holiday shopping early at the Holiday Marketplace Craft Show. Give your friends and family unique gifts that can’t be found in any mall this year. This show is presented by the Lehigh Valley Chapter of the PA Guild of Craftsmen, where local artisans will be selling their fine creations. What a wonderful way to support local crafters and give a gift that no one will expect!
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