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Bethlehem’s ArtsQuest has announced that Musikfest, the nation’s largest free music festival, has been named the Best Music Festival in the United States in the USA Today 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards. PHOTO/ARTSQUEST
Musikfest named best music festival in USA Today 10 Best awards 2025
Stacy Wescoe//March 12, 2026//
Listen to this articleBethlehem just keeps winning.
On the heels of city merchants announcing that Bethlehem’s Main Street has once again been nominated to USA Today’s America’s Best Main Streets list, Bethlehem’s ArtsQuest has announced that Musikfest, the nation’s largest free music festival, has been named the Best Music Festival in the United States in the USA Today 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards.
The national recognition marks the fourth USA Today 10 Best award for Musikfest.
“Being named the best music festival in the country by USA Today readers for the fourth time is an incredible honor and a testament to the energy, creativity and community spirit that define Musikfest,” said Kassie Hilgert, president and CEO of ArtsQuest. “Each year, Musikfest brings together artists, volunteers, partners and visitors from across the region and around the world to celebrate the power of live music and shared experiences. This recognition belongs to our entire community — from the musicians on our stages to the local businesses, sponsors and volunteers who help make the festival possible.”
ArtsQuest noted that in 2025, Musikfest welcomed record attendance of nearly 1.45 million visitors, drawing a global audience to experience more than 500 performances across multiple stages.
It also describes the festival as a powerful economic driver for the region. In 2025, Musikfest generated $121.4 million in economic impact, supporting hundreds of local businesses, restaurants, hotels and vendors throughout the Lehigh Valley.
Overall, ArtsQuest programs and festivals contributed a record $192.7 million in regional economic impact last year and supported 1,533 full-time equivalent jobs across the region.
The USA Today 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards recognize standout travel destinations and experiences across the country. Nominees are selected by a panel of travel experts and journalists, with winners determined by public vote.
