Some places are known primarily for their art. In other places, unique landscapes are the heart of the region. Here, lying deep in the soul of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region, our cultural signature is music. Whatever beat or sound moves you, we’ve got it! Old timey German polkas and other traditional sounds from the old country, still power dancers in lederhosen, at the Kutztown Folk Festival and our very highly related Oktoberfest.
On the more contemporary front, you can chill out to cool jazz at one of the most successful Jazz Festivals on the East Coast that’s been held here for nearly 30 years running! Those great sounds have recently been joined by the Berks Country Fest, celebrating bluegrass, county twang and old fashioned guitar pickin’, complementing the Early Bird Fiddle Fest, and the Lyons Fiddle Fest, featuring incredible players of the traditional instrument. Kick up your heels at the Salsa Fest, and enjoy completely different authentic sounds at our Celtic fest.
For those who prefer their culture on a schedule year round, Santander Arena and Performing Arts Center, have a weekly schedule of musical events, including world class stars and singers performing her regularly. For classical music lovers, the Reading Symphony Orchestra offers an annual schedule of concerts. There’s more classical music to enjoy at the performances of Opus One Berks Chamber Choir, and the Berks Opera, a schedule of concerts at the Miller Center for the Arts and the Santander Performing Arts Center. Lighter fare in summer includes the Bethany Summer Concert Series, concerts at the Bandshell, free Downtown Alive Concerts, and the very popular Berks County Parks and Recreation free concerts held on Sundays through spring and summer.
Check out our Events Calendar to see what’s playing this weekend or next – or the next time you plan to visit us. You’ll be surprised at how many performances you’ll find.