Good morning, Bethlehem.

Bethlehem raised its disability pride flag earlier Friday to honor disability history and boost local inclusion—highlighting ongoing efforts to celebrate diversity.

Bethlehem Press was named Sweepstakes Winner for the ninth time in the 2026 Professional Keystone Media Awards, announced July 16 by the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association—the Press newspapers won a total of 17 awards, with Bethlehem Press earning 13 in Division VI.

Podcast host Phillip Reese breaks down top picks for Musikfest, highlighting selections from 412 bands and over 500 performances for local festival-goers in Bethlehem.

The Verve Pipe will perform a free concert at 9:30 p.m. on July 31 at the Air Products Americaplatz Stage at Levitt Pavilion SteelStacks as part of the 43rd annual Musikfest running from July 30 to Aug.

9. More than 500 free concerts will take place on 15 stages across Bethlehem.

Nationwide, grocery prices have risen sharply after the pandemic and continue to affect shoppers including those in Bethlehem — USDA reports expect food prices to rise 2.7% this year.

Major stores like Walmart and Target have begun lowering prices, though many still face high grocery bills.

Local naturalists report that the federally endangered rusty-patched bumble bee (with a small T-shaped black spot) is rarely seen in Bethlehem, so residents may catch a glimpse of the rare insect among blooming wildflowers along local roads today.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health received $242,000 to help county teams review child deaths—a modest figure compared to the $2.5 million proposed by Governor Shapiro.

Advocates warn the limited funds may slow improvements in data collection + staff capacity.

Grupo Niche Concert

7-10 p.m. — Wind Creek Steel Stage at PNC Plaza — Tickets available — Celebrate the rhythms of salsa and cumbia with the legendary Colombian group Grupo Niche.

AJR Concert at Musikfest

7 p.m. — Musikfest — Tickets from $94.60 — Experience the energetic performance of AJR in the beautiful setting of Bethlehem Musikfest.