Arts & Culture In Lehigh Valley

Lehigh Valley was forged from steel, and its natural resources were a gravitational force that lured immigrants to its industries.

But, what also rose from the Industrial Revolution was a period of enlightenment – an appreciation for arts and culture. Against the backdrop of its history– from the Lenni Lenape Indians to its Moravian and Revolutionary War forefathers, the Valley’s cultural landscape plays to the soundtrack of the Allentown Symphony, Bach Choir, Martin Guitar, and headlining acts at State Theatre Center For The Arts, and Steelstacks™.

On the Stage Galleries & Studios Hands-On Experiences

Have a penchant for the artistic or the dramatic? Be sure to pencil in a performance at some of PA's top performing arts theaters, or indulge in a local concert. Explore a blend of both urban and classic vibes. From breathtaking works in from local artisans in galleries and museums to opportunities for you to try your hand at glassblowing at the Banana Factory Arts Center. Click or scroll to a section below to learn more.

Lehigh Valley Galleries & Museums
Lehigh Valley Galleries & Museums
A gallery room at Allentown Art Museum in Lehigh Valley, Pa.

On the Stage

Featuring Broadway-quality performances onstage at DeSales University during the summer months, the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival is more than its name suggests. In addition to classic Shakespearean works, audiences will enjoy musicals, comedies, and even kid-friendly performances. Staging a variety of shows each season ranging from dramatic plays to upbeat musicals, the Civic Theatre of Allentown has been providing a performance outlet for community members for generations. The adjacent Theatre 514 shows new and classic films.

Galleries & Studios

Boasting a collection of more than 17,000 works spanning 2,000 years of cultural heritage, the Allentown Art Museum is a true gem within Lehigh Valley. In addition to the permanent collection, the museum showcases visiting exhibits which have included the works of Robert Indiana, Toulouse- Lautrec, and more. The museum also offers a variety of community programs and school visits throughout the year. With a focus on contemporary arts and crafts, the Connexions Gallery in downtown Easton hosts work of both local and regionally-based artists, musical performances, poetry readings, and workshops. Tucked along Main Street in Bethlehem, the Bethlehem House Contemporary Gallery provides a unique setting for both local and national artists to showcase work including photography, furniture, sculptures, and more. Located at the SILK property in Easton, Brick + Mortar is more than an art gallery. The space focuses on exhibiting and supporting mid-career and emerging artists working in all media and even offers studio spaces for artists at work.

Hands-On Experiences

The dynamic setting of the Banana Factory offers you the chance to explore new mediums including pottery, jewelry making, glassblowing, digital arts, and more with programming for children, teens, and adults. The facility is also home to nearly 30 resident artists that work and showcase pieces within studio spaces. The visual arts team also supports creative programming at festivals such as Musikfest® and Oktoberfest. Located in downtown Allentown, the Baum School Of Art has been a mainstay in the community for more than 90 years. The school serves nearly 5,000 students annually in art, design, and fashion, celebrating diversity within its community. The venue features two galleries that showcase rotating exhibits, both open to the public for viewing. Whether you’re looking to create your own piece of hot glass artwork or are looking to purchase a gift created by one of their professional glassblowers, the Warner Art Glass Center is a must-see. As one of the world’s leading art glass suppliers, the Warner Art Glass Center has been serving glass artisans for over 30 years.

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