ArtsQuest announces that Musikfest, the nation’s largest free music festival, has been named the Best Music Festival in the United States in the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.

The national recognition marks the fourth USA Today 10Best award for Musikfest, and highlights the continued growth and cultural impact of the 10-day festival, which transforms Bethlehem’s historic SteelStacks campus and SouthSide Arts District into a vibrant destination for live music, food, art and community celebration every summer.

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, including nationally recognized headliners, emerging artists and local performers.

The festival is also 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.

“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.”

First launched in 1984, Musikfest has grown into one of the nation’s most celebrated music festivals while remaining largely free to attend. The event showcases a diverse lineup spanning rock, pop, country, indie, Latin, folk, jazz and global music traditions, reinforcing Bethlehem’s reputation as a thriving arts and cultural destination.

Held annually each August, Musikfest activates venues across the SteelStacks campus and historic SouthSide Bethlehem. The 42nd annual festival in 2025 drew visitors from more than 49 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and seven countries: Canada, Colombia, Great Britain, Italy, Mexico, the Netherlands and South Africa.

The USA Today 10Best 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.