Laini’s List of 9 Things To Do This Weekend in the Lehigh Valley – August 5, 6 & 7
By Laini Abraham and Katie Vogel
1. Musikfest 2011
Friday, August 5 to Sunday, August 14, North and Southsides of Bethlehem
It’s the time of summer that many people have been waiting for: Musikfest! This iconic event hardly needs a description as the August classic for the Lehigh Valley. There will be lots of food, lots of vendors, and of course, lots of music going on at this 10-day event. Go see you favorite bands perform live while enjoying funnel cake, corn on the cob, and probably even knock out your Christmas shopping early with all the great items from local merchants. Check out this little post to find out who some local musicians and music aficionados are looking forward to seeing at Musikfest this year. Go see a big band, or small band, or a new band. Just make sure you go!
2. First Friday Southside Bethlehem
Friday, 6 pm to 10 pm, Indie Mart, 3rd and New St., Bethlehem
It’s a music celebration within a music celebration at this month’s First Friday of Southside Bethlehem. Sponsored by Bethlehem Artwalk this month, people can come out to listen to music, try samples of food, fresh fruit, and wine at the “Midsummer Music,” themed event. Then walk down to SteelStacks and check out the first-ever Musikfest night on the Southside.
3. Katie’s Pick –
Das Awkscht Fescht
Friday and Saturday, 6 am to 10:30 pm, and Sunday, 6 am to 4:30 pm, Macungie Memorial Park, Macungie
Car shows are always a good time and there are few better than Das Awkscht Fescht. This is one of the country’s largest antique and classic car shows and it’s right here in our backyard. Gates will be open at 6 am and show cars will enter the fields after 7:30am. There is also a flea market that will run through dusk. Many arts & crafts vendors will be open until 9pm. All entertainment goes until 10:30pm on Friday and Saturday, and until 4:30pm on Sunday. Don’t forget to stick around for the fireworks on Saturday evening starting at 9:30 pm.
4. 34th Annual Lebanese Festival
Saturday, 5 pm to Midnight, and Sunday, 11 am to 10 pm, Our Lady of Lebanon Maronite Catholic Church, 4th and Ferry St., Easton
Food and fun is everywhere this summer and you will surely find it at the 34th Annual Lebanese Festival. Not only is it a classic for the summer, it’s delicious authentic Lebanese cuisine. There will also be great music to listen to, dancing, and lots of fun to be had. This is an event Laini is proud to say she’s closed more than once. What does that mean? Dancing til the band finally quits. This is not for the faint of heart. Wear good shoes.
5. Martin on Main 2011
Saturday, 12 pm to 8 pm, Main St., Nazareth
What better way to continue the most musical time of year than the Martin on Main festival sponsored by Martin Guitar. Musicians will be performing live acoustic music along Main Street and in the circle. Artisans and food vendors will also be there so you can pick up souvenirs as well. Bethlehem Brew Works is even out in support with a special beer they crafted just for the festival. While most will be performing with Martin Guitars, other instruments can also be found if you want to hear a different sound too!
6. Warren County Farmers’ Fair & 11th Annual Hot Air Balloon Festival
Friday and Saturday, Intersection of CR 519 & Stryker Road, Phillipsburg Get Directions
Embrace your inner farmer at the Warren Country Farmer’s Fair. This is the 74th year for the fair that originally started out as a just a gathering of farmers, mechanics, and manufacturers, and has grown into the festival it is today. Enjoy carnival rides, cotton candy, and fair food. There will even be a mud bog competition and a tractor pull. Let’s not forget about the hot air balloon festival too!
7. Grey Sky Turn “Live at Riverside”
Friday, 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm, Riverside Park Amphitheater, Riverside Dr., Easton
Check out this local group, Grey Sky Turn, at the Riverside Amphitheater. This event is set in a cozy atmosphere next to the river as the running water cools the warm summer air. This is a nice setting to enjoy some evening music. Close to downtown Easton, participants can really make a night out of it by going out for a show and perhaps catching a drink or dinner in the circle.
8. An International Exhibit of Art About Non-Violence Opening Reception
Saturday from 7 to 10 pm, J Lima Art Studios, 308 N. 10th St., Easton
This is an international exhibit of art on non-violence featuring 13 different artists – right here in Easton! The show is curated by Jackie Lima and the reception will also feature Rico on Tabla. If you’re anywhere near Easton, this is a real hidden gem worth checking out.
9. Post Musikfest Concert Series at Firehouse
Friday, August 5th, 10 pm, to Sunday, August 14th 1:30 am, The Firehouse, 217 Broadway, Bethlehem
Can’t get enough of Musikfest during the day? Then head over to The Firehouse as they turn their main floor into a concert setting. This is a great place for night-owls and the 21 and older crowd to enjoy music and fun into the late hours of the night. Lots of bands and groups will be performing a variety of music throughout the week. Some shows will have a small cover charge, but it is certainly worth it for some great late night entertainment.