Musikfest, the 35-year-old, 10-day open-air music festival in Bethlehem that starts Friday (8/3) and runs through Aug. 12, is all about the sounds. But don’t miss out on the flavor of great beer.
Each year, the fest sells about 30,000 mugs that can be filled at local bars and beer stands.
[Here’s a look at the mug designs over the years.]
Like the rest of Philly Beer World, the Lehigh Valley is seeing a surge of new breweries. So, keep an eye out for the likes of HiJinx, Yergey, Böser Geist, Sole, Cave, and of course the region’s longtime stalwarts, Fegley’s and Weyerbacher.
Meanwhile, here’s where to look for that great beer in Bethehem.
Bonn Place Brewing, 310 Taylor St. This two-year-old brewery took home two medals at last year’s Great American Beer Festival. It’s only a 10 minute-walk from Steelstacks
Fegley’s Bethlehem Brew Works, 559 Main St. On tap: Squishy Kitty NE IPA, Summer Cherry Gose, Valley Golden, Fegley’s ESB, Space Monkey, Hefeweizen, Steelgarden Wit.
Hotel Bethlehem, 437 Main St. The hotel’s taproom selection is a pleasant surprise, but don’t miss its outdoor terrace and beer tent.
Molly’s Irish Grille, 4 E. 4th St. Big tap selection near Lehigh University.
Seven Sirens Brewing Co. The brewery doors aren’t open yet, but get an early taste at Dave & Wayne’s Auto Center, 318 W. Union Blvd.
Tavern at the Sun Inn, 564 W. Main St. George Washington slept here, so naturally they’re pouring Yards Washington’s Porter among others.
The Brick, 1 W. Broad St. Excellent pizza… and Pizza Boy on tap.
The Mint Gastropub, 1223 W. Broad St. They’re having a special Musik Feast Brunch on Saturday (8/4).
The Wooden Match, 61 W. Lehigh St. Look for $7 mug refills of local favorite Weyerbacher Last Chance IPA, among other taps at Matchplatz.
Yuengling Lagerplatz, Main and Spring streets. Martin Guitar Jam Stage. Try the new Yuengling Golden Pilsner and Oktoberfest Marzenbier.
More nearby destinations (no mug refills).
Hop Hill Brewing, 1988 Blair Ave. A 10-minute drive from Steelstacks.
Lost Tavern Brewing, 782 Main St., Hellertown. A 10-minute drive Steelstacks.
Peculiar Wine & Beer Shop, 520 Main St. Small bottle shop in downtown Bethlehem.
Shangy’s The Beer Authority, 40 E. Main St., Emmaus. The mega-distributor is just one town over, and totally worth the visit.
Social Still, 530 E. Third St. This distillery also offers craft beer. Just off the Arts Quest parking lot.
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Sole Artisan Ales is now Separatist and don’t forget Two Rivers Brewing & Pub also located in Easton. https://www.tworiversbrewing.com