Summer is right around the corner, which means many people are day dreaming about warmer weather and summertime favorite pastimes, like attending BBQs, hanging out with friends, and catching a summer concert or two.
If you're someone whose summer plans include attending more than just a few concerts, you may be interested in attending one of the country's many music festivals, like Bethlehem, Pennsylvania's Musikfest. This 10-day festival was recently named the best in the country by USA Today, and as someone who attends every year, I can totally understand why. From free shows, to big name bands, the annual event has absolutely everything you could want in a music fest...including kid-friendly options.
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View this post on InstagramThe festival, which typically runs between the end of July and early August, won top honors in USA Today's Reader's Choice Awards, when it was named the Best Music Festival (2026). The summer celebration kicks off at the Steel Stacks, the now defunct industrial plant that was once used to supply the nation with the steel and iron needed to produce building materials for many of the country's biggest landmarks.
These days, it's the homebase of Musikfest, which uses the retired stacks as a backdrop for performers. According to Lehigh Valley Live, some of the more famous performers to grace the stage include:
Meat LoafCounting CrowsThe Beach BoysThe Doobie BrothersHeartREO SpeedwagonBoys II MenBut, attendees don't have to pay big money to attend the festival despite the big names. Instead, free performances outnumber the paid ones, and music fans can often hop between 16 different stages to see a stagger 500-ish bands a year.
Related: Dave Matthews Band to Headline Major 2026 Music Festival
Muskifest is More Than Just Music
While one can argue that there is something for everyone at Musikfest—music stylings range from metal mariachi to polka—the festival has plenty of other draws as well. You'll find different tents and stands selling souvenirs, mouth-watering foods, and even handmade goods.
Plus, there are plenty of activities available as you wander between the stages, and festival organizers have tented areas where you can sit down and take a load off between shows.
As for family-friendly fun, it doesn't get much better than Musikfest. I live about 10 minutes from where the event is held, and each year my children and I head out to catch some live music at one of the open air venues outside the Steel Stacks, where they have plenty of space to run around while the band plays. There are also designated children's sections, where you can find tables hosted by the Crayola Factory so that your little ones can explore their creativity with free crafts.
Related: '80s Punk Rocker Slams Former Band For Playing Controversial Music Festival
The festival also typically features an area that has a collection of bounce houses and other physical activities, for when your kids are looking for a little more entertainment.
Interested in checking it out this year? Get ready to grab your commemorative Musikfest cup, fill it with your favorite beverage, and head to the nearest stage when the festival kicks off on July 31, 2026. I know I'll be there!
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