Celebrating Bethlehem's Southside Culture
Looking back at summer 2024, Southsider is reflecting on the events that offered the Lehigh Valley community the best opportunities for connection and celebration. Lehigh Valley Pride provided locals with this chance. On Sunday August 18th, the Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Center hosted Lehigh Valley Pride at SteelStacks. The event brought together locals in an effort to…
In reflecting on the Lehigh Valley’s community events of summer 2024, Southsider wanted to highlight the Juneteenth celebration that took place in Easton. The Juneteenth parade was celebratory and educational. It also brought together the entire Lehigh Valley community for an unforgettable day. On the afternoon of Sunday June 16th, the Juneteenth Lehigh Valley organization hosted…
The Lehigh Valley LGBT Community Archive collects materials that document the contributions of LGBTQIA+ community members to the region. Since 2016, archivists have collected materials from regional LGBTQIA+ political organizations and leaders, publications, businesses like bars, and cultural events like Lehigh Valley Pride. In addition, archivists have begun to collect oral histories from LGBTQIA+ residents…
On June 6, Nashville-based rock group Sweet Lizzy Project (SLP) arrived at Levitt Pavilion to perform a medley of classic covers and original rock hits. The group, originally from Cuba, went on to show that rock ‘n’ roll is more than just a British and American pastime, but that Latinx folks can shred too. SLP…
On June 1, Levitt Pavilion welcomed singer-songwriter CLOVER to the stage. Originally another musician, Julia Pratt, was scheduled to perform, but due to a last-minute cancellation by Pratt, CLOVER was able to fulfill her dream of sharing her music with audiences at SteelStacks. CLOVER’s performance moved through a set of original compositions and covers of…
While Frank Banko Theater is primarily known for providing exceptional contemporary and classic screenings of film, the theater also offers live shows organized by the House Improv team. Throughout the year, Improv comedy shows are offered regularly and feature the comedic talents of Lehigh Valley locals who are both quick thinkers and engaging actors. On…
As many of us remain in quarantine, Southsider returns to the Banana Factory for a deeper dive into the beauty of one of their digital exhibits.
New Bethany Ministries is the organization in the Lehigh Valley that “keeps the lights on” for those who need it most. Their mission is to “provide opportunities for a secure future for the homeless, hungry, poor and mentally ill.” Headquartered at the corner of Wyandotte and 4th Street in South Bethlehem, the group annually serves…
Hit Folk Band Brings the Local Community Together Through Music Milky Chance, a German folk band, thrilled an excited crowd during its September 28th concert at ArtsQuest’s Musikfest Cafe venue. The concert was part of Yuengling’s Summer Concert Series. The opener of the concert, South African singer/songwriter Jeremy Loops, stunned the audience with “Down South,”…
Missy Hartney Brings Energy and Ideas to the South Side Arts District Colorful murals in South Bethlehem burst from what used to be blank walls. The addition of a mural on E. Third Street has brought vitality to the city’s streetscape. Created by Manhattan street artist Denton Burrows, this piece of artwork combines elements of…