Musikfest Welcomes SoberPlatz
A new safe space at Musikfest celebrating music, community and mindful enjoyment.
Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA. July 8, 2025 – New for this year, ArtsQuest is proud to welcome SoberPlatz hosted by Sync Recovery to Musikfest. Thanks to spearheading efforts led by Northampton County Council President Lori Vargo Heffner who originally proposed a resolution to help defray the costs of set up and staffing the space – the Northampton County Council approved the resolution.
“At ArtsQuest, we believe Musikfest should be a celebration where everyone feels they belong,” said Curt Mosel, Chief Operating Officer at ArtsQuest. “SoberPlatz adds an important dimension to the festival experience, creating a safe, inclusive space that supports connection, well-being and the joy of music in an alcohol-free environment.”
“I’m thrilled to see SoberPlatz becoming a reality at Musikfest,” said Northampton County Council President Lori Vargo Heffner. “This truly opens up opportunities for individuals in the recovery community to enjoy the festival without hesitation, creating a welcoming, safe space where the focus stays where it belongs—on the joy of live music and community.”
This supportive environment is an alcohol-free zone open to anyone seeking a break from the crowds, looking to connect with others in recovery, or simply wanting to enjoy the festival in a substance-free setting. The space will feature meetups, wellness activities and opportunities to learn more about recovery resources and community support. Whether you’re in recovery, sober-curious or an ally, all are welcome to stop by and be part of the experience.
“Recovery isn’t about missing out—it’s about showing up fully, and having a great time while you do it,” said Laura Waits, Executive Director of Sync Recovery Community. “The SoberPlatz at Musikfest is a place to connect, recharge, and celebrate—no alcohol needed. We’re thrilled to partner with Musikfest to make sure everyone has a place to feel welcome, included and part of the fun.”
“SoberPlatz is another great way ArtsQuest is creating inclusive spaces,” said Richard Liu, ArtsQuest Performing Arts Board member. “Having a supportive spot for persons in recovery from substance use disorders goes a long way in making Musikfest more accessible.”
SoberPlatz will be located on the SteelStacks Campus next to Air Products Americaplatz and open daily during the festival.
About ArtsQuest
ArtsQuest’s mission is to provide access to exceptional artistic, cultural and educational experiences using arts and culture as key elements of economic development for our urban communities. ArtsQuest™ supports this mission via the presentation of performing and visual arts, film, arts education classes and outreach, youth programming and cultural events. Through festivals such as its flagship event, Musikfest; the ArtsQuest Creative Factory powered by PPL; and the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks arts and cultural campus, ArtsQuest’s programming reaches more than 1.9 million people annually. The organization’s programs and events, of which nearly 40 percent are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region.
