Musikfest has come and gone. This year, since I now live in Bethlehem’s South Side, I decided that I would write pre- and post-Musikfest blogs with my thoughts on festing in my backyard.

Many of my family members and friends have asked me how many times I went to Musikfest. The answer: Three. I hung out on the lawn for the Lynyrd Skynyrd concert, I spent a Wednesday evening at my friend Amanda and Eric’s apartment (who actually live on Main Street) and joined the crowd for an hour or two that night, and I entertained a long-time friend in town from Brooklyn at ‘fest on Friday night. Not too shabby, right?

Here are the things I noticed, and some friendly advice for next year:

• Musikfest is not an excuse for a club in AC. Sequin shirts and mini skirts should not apply.
• Heels? Get real! Unless you enjoy throbbing blisters, wear flats.
• It is not okay to walk around with your stomach completely exposed or your butt falling out of your shorts or skirts.
• Guys, do not ask for another girl’s phone number if you have a girlfriend who is also at Musikfest at the very same time.
• Giving out free high fives is totally cool!
• Filling your mug or grabbing a beer at the convenient corner spot located next to Hotel Bethlehem will save time and money.
• Theo’s gyros are THE BEST!
• Lawn seats are just as good–if not better–as sitting in the crowd.
• If you visit ‘fest, you should also make it a point to patronize our wonderful local businesses that line Main, Broad, and the surrounding streets, as well as the South Side.
• Traffic was not nearly as terrible as I expected. Sweet!
• I always manage to catch the Los Straitjackets show. They’re awesome! Add them to your list for next year.
• Exposing yourself is just not cool.

There ‘ya have it! I survived Musikfest in my backyard and I’m happy to admit that living downtown has not ruined this annual event for me. Until next year…

To check out ‘fest photos by ArtsQuest, click this link.