What to Do and Learn at The Banana Factory
Along with an abundance of friendly faces and small town charm, Bethlehem, PA is full of fantastic culture and art. The Banana Factory in downtown Bethlehem has great visual arts exhibits as well as classes for residents and visitors to enjoy. And its location on the former Bethlehem Steel campus means that it is only minutes away from the Sayre Mansion and the rest of the attractions, dining options, and shopping the town offers. So whether you want to learn a new creative skill set or just want to browse some fine art, then you should head to the Banana Factory.
About the Banana Factory
As part of the ArtsQuest facility on the old Bethlehem Steel campus, the Banana Factory is a unique cultural arts experience. It combines displays of visual arts with classes and learning opportunities to create an immersive artistic experience. See artwork from local artists and learn about techniques used to create it. ArtsQuest and the Banana Factory have resident artists located on the second and third floors of the Banana Factory. Also, the hot glass studio at the Banana Factory is the only one in the Lehigh Valley.
Banana Factory Exhibits and Events
Each year the Banana Factory plays host to about 20 exhibitions. Currently there are four free exhibitions available for the public to enjoy. The current exhibitions are:
- Kristi Cochios: Resilience
- Todd Stone: Downtown Rising – Studies in Resilience
- ArtsQuest Annual Members’ Exhibitions
- ArtsQuest Annual Resident Artists’ Exhibition Part 2
In addition to these exhibitions, the Banana Factory has special events that celebrate the arts. First Friday is a recurring event that takes place on the first Friday of every month when local restaurants, merchants, and galleries join with the Banana Factory to celebrate the artistic community of Bethlehem. Activities at First Friday include displays at the ArtsQuest Glass Studio, henna tattoos, improv performances, and open studio mingles with artwork available for purchase.
Banana Factory Classes
Whether you want to improve your existing skills, or develop a new ability Banana Factory classes offer guests a variety of visual arts classes from experienced instructors. Students, no matter their starting skill level, can cultivate their creative sides in the following areas:
- Painting
- Drawing
- Multimedia
- Photography
- Glass
- Ceramics
- Jewelry Making
Whether you simply want to appreciate the works of local artists or learn how to make your own masterpiece, the Banana Factory is the ultimate destination for creative fun in the Lehigh Valley. And when you’re planning your visit to the Banana Factory, be sure to book a stay at a local Bethlehem boutique hotel. The Sayre Mansion is located in the heart of town in close proximity to the restaurants, shopping, and other attractions the area has to offer. Our elegant and comfortable guest rooms have timeless style combined with modern amenities. Our historic mansion is an integral part of Bethlehem’s history, so you’ll get more than top-notch accommodations when you stay with us…you’ll get the essential Bethlehem experience! We can’t wait to have you with us soon!
Photo credit: Lehigh Valley, PA