Banana Factory Arts Center
Overview
The Banana Factory Arts Center is CLOSED to the public starting January 1, 2025 for construction of the new ArtsQuest Creative Factory powered by PPL.
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ArtsQuest’s Banana Factory in Bethlehem is a dynamic cultural arts and education center located on Bethlehem’s historic South Side. Formerly a banana distribution warehouse, the arts center features 63,000-square feet of space that is home to 30 resident artists’ studios, three galleries, the Hot Glass Studio, multiple classrooms, and the Olympus Digital Imaging Center. The building also houses the Pennsylvania Youth Theatre, the Pediatric Cancer Foundation, and Santa Bannon Fine Art.
At the Banana Factory, you’ll discover a wide range of visual arts classes for children, teens, and adults. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or a seasoned veteran, there’s a program that you’re sure to love.
What To Experience
- Explore glassblowing, clay, jewelry, or one of the many other mediums that are available, or enroll your child in one of six fun, enriching summer camps for ages ranging from 4 - 18 years.
- The Crayola Gallery features artwork exhibitions throughout the year. This space can also be utilized by the public for events. The Hallway to the Arts showcases beautiful photography between the Crayola Gallery and the Banko Gallery.
- The Banana Factory is also the home of the Olympus InVision Photo Festival showcasing the art of photography. InVision welcomes some of the nation’s most esteemed photographers for special presentations and workshops, showcases dynamic photography exhibits, and offers the region’s only professional photography portfolio review.
First Friday Celebrations
On the First Friday of every month from 6 - 9 p.m., the Banana Factory celebrates with glassblowing demonstrations, open studios, and more. This is the perfect time to see art come to life or even create your own to take home!
Hours
- Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.
- Saturday - Sunday: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- This facility is closed for major holidays
General Information
Parking at the Banana Factory is free, but space is limited. There is also on-street metered parking and at the Riverport Garage located nearby.
Visit their website for further details on safety practices.
Amenities
- Accessible Parking
- Automatic Doors
- Elevators
- Group Friendly (10+)
- Parking On-site
- Ramps
- Sensory Friendly
- Service Animals Allowed
- Wheelchair Accessible