Musikfest 2025 brought unprecedented crowds, unforgettable performances and an outpouring of community spirit and camaraderie that turned Bethlehem into the heart of a summer celebration! As the final notes fade, numbers show this year’s festival broke multiple records, including 1,449,000 in attendance, from 49 states and seven countries including Canada, Colombia, Great Britain, Italy, Mexico, the Netherlands and South Africa, plus Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C.

Additionally, 60,800 headliner tickets were sold, a record by 10% spanning the festival history dating back to 1984. Four headliner acts sold out, including Megan Moroney, Riley Green, Darius Rucker and Jordan Davis, and eight headliner acts sold more than 5,000 tickets. These numbers tied with the 2024 festival.

“This year’s Musikfest was truly one for the record books! From the highest number of attendees to the most headliner tickets sold in 42 years, all fueled by amazing weather for 10 days and 11 nights and incredible community spirit,” commented Kassie Hilgert, ArtsQuest president and CEO.

“None of this would be possible without the tireless efforts of our staff and volunteers, the generosity of our members, sponsors and partners along with the dedication of our official food vendors, artisans and crafters, local businesses and lodging and, of course, local, state and federal law enforcement agencies and emergency responders who kept the community safe throughout the entirety of the festival. Together, we’ve created an unforgettable experience that not only celebrates the arts but strengthens the bonds of our community and boosts the Lehigh Valley in countless ways.”

Regarded as one of the best-weathered Musikfests in recent memory, attendees enjoyed sunny days and comfortable nights that created the perfect atmosphere for exploring the festival’s 50-plus acres across Bethlehem’s Historic Moravian District and SouthSide Arts District.

With 15 free stages and one ticketed stage, there was a wide variety of music in every genre, food choices to entice any palette, shopping with local and regional artisans and crafters, family activities to participate in and endless fun for all! A few drops of liquid sunshine on preview night were actually a welcome respite and soon disappeared from view.

“Musikfest continues to be a shining example of what makes Bethlehem so special, a vibrant celebration that brings people together with great music, great food and an incredible sense of community pride,” Bethlehem Mayor J. William Reynolds said. “This year’s perfect weather only added to the excitement, helping fuel a safe and fun festival experience. Beyond the joy it brings, Musikfest is a major economic driver for our city, attracting visitors from near and far who support local businesses and showcase the best of the Lehigh Valley.”