The streets were once again filled with sounds of music from Bethlehem’s Historic Moravian District and the Southside Arts District. The official Musikfest opening ceremony was held Aug. 6 on the Air Products Americaplatz at Levitt Pavilion SteelStacks.

After being forced to ‘fest’ virtually online in 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions, there was an extra celebratory feeling as the public was invited to congregate and enjoy everything Musikfest offers the region and the thousands of visitors to the area attending.

Musikfest enjoyed its 38th year, with over 320 performers, 17 stages, 30 food and drink vendors, crafters and several fun activities.

Opening the ceremony with a prayer and goodwill message, Senior Pastor Hopeton Clennon of Central Moravian Church recognized the many city and state officials and leaders for their presence and support, helping to bring this year’s festival together on a shortened timeline.

President and ArtsQuest CEO Kassie Hilgert went on to make mention of the City of Bethlehem departments, including, police, fire, EMS, health department and Northampton County Emergency management.

“We have sought their advice and council regularly for the last 18 months as we have navigated difficult business decisions with public health as our top priority,” she said. “Their support allowed us to press on with confidence on this impactful community festival that we are starting today.”

Hilgert mentioned the 2021 Musikfest Poppies poster created by Mandy Martin. The original was to be auctioned off at Musikfest.org at the end of the festival, with auction proceeds supporting the fund for racial justice and equity with the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley.

Hilgert talked about the partnership with New Bethany Ministries’ “Poppies of Remembrance, Lanterns of Hope.” This effort supports those who were touched by COVID-19 as a frontline worker, or persons who lost someone to the pandemic or knows someone struggling with recovery.

Paper bag lanterns could be purchased for a set of six. The intention was to place them lit at homes on the last weekend of Musikfest. ULINE provided the bags for this effort.

Buildings throughout the Lehigh Valley will be lit in red to commemorate the event and pay tribute to those in mourning or recovering. Proceeds will support the ongoing efforts of both ArtsQuest and New Bethany Ministries.

Bethlehem Mayor Bob Donchez spoke of the long history of Musikfest and gave examples of its growth and importance by numbers. He said Musikfest will attract over one million visitors and pump a great deal of money into the local economy. He gave a warm thanks to everyone involved, from the management, officials, volunteers and attendees.

Hilgert said it was Donchez’s last year as mayor during Musikfest, which led to a standing ovation.

State Sen. Lisa Boscola, D-18th, enthusiastically wished everyone a great ‘fest’ and said she has been a huge fan of the event over the years.

“The Lehigh Valley is a vibrant community of arts organizations, dynamic festivals and treasured theaters,” Hilgert said. “Our arts industry was hit particularly hard by the pandemic. We thank you for being here.”

She thanked all involved.