City of Allentown 2012 Annual Events
Back by popular demand - Blues, Brew & Barbecue features live music by the hottest Blues musicians, local brews and the best BBQ anywhere. This Blues event which kicked off in 2008 grows bigger and better each year and is becoming a Lehigh Valley favorite within the Blues circuit! It’s the epitome of summer in one incredibly tasty, soulful and fun event and includes a great barbecue competition with the promise of finger-lickin’ good recipes, refreshing brews and fun for the entire family!
Party on the Deck, presented for the first time in 2010, transforms the top level of the parking deck at 8th and Linden streets into a destination featuring live music, local artists and delicious food from Allentown restaurants. Guests experience an incredible view – as the backdrop is the breathtaking skyline including prominent Lehigh Valley landmarks like Coca-Cola Park and Martin Tower. The combination of the unique venue, excellent entertainment and great crowd made this event one that everyone was talking about and asking for more like it. This request is precisely why we hope to be able to host three in 2011.
The Plaza Growers Market is not only a great way to eat fresh and support local farmers but also meet other downtowners during the lunch hour. The PGM brings locally grown produce and fresh goods to the heart of Downtown Allentown each week. Each week the market features live music in a variety of music genres this adds to the ambiance of the market. Crowds of people bring their lunch, congregate and make the PPL Plaza a hub of activity.
Lights in the Parkway is an annual Allentown holiday tradition celebrating its 16th season. This event transforms the beautiful Lehigh Parkway into a winter wonderland with hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights and accompanying music. Animated displays delight visitors from all over the Lehigh Valley and many surrounding areas. Tens of thousands of cars filled with families, couples and friends visit Lights in the Parkway each year. After a journey through the spectacular displays, visitors can stop by the Gift Barn which hosts vendors selling everything from candies to handmade treasures. Because admission is per vehicle rather than per person, Lights remains an inexpensive and brilliant attraction.
Fourth of July Celebration – July 4
This annual tradition takes place in J. Birney Crum Stadium in Allentown’s beautiful West End. Festivities include live music, food and children’s activities. The evening’s presentation features sky-diving along with other entertaining demonstrations. The celebration culminates with a magnificent fireworks display commemorating our nation’s independence.
Citywide Restaurant Month – March
This event will entice diners from the Lehigh Valley and beyond to explore the delicious and vast array of restaurants that call Allentown home. All districts of the city will be highlighted. Restaurants will offer special pricing, unique dishes and on select evenings live entertainment. There will be other incentives like contests to keep it exciting.
Downtown Tree Lighting Ceremony – November 29
Celebrating one of the most magical times of year, this Tree Lighting Ceremony incorporates street performers, holiday carols, live musicians, and of course, Santa Claus. This event serves as an opportunity for co-workers, neighbors, friends and families alike to gather and enjoy the spirit of the season. Children of all ages are welcome and are sure to be delighted.