At Musikfest it's common knowledge that the Festplatz is "the Polka tent," most days anyway. So what's the low-down on the other platz places? Here's my take...

LIEDERPLATZ
Sort of hidden behind the Sun Inn in that little courtyard area, this platz is sort of a free-for-all. A mix of music gets featured there from Blues to acoustic to experimental stuff. All in all it's pretty mello though.

VOLKSPLATZ
This is by far the best stage area at the Fest, in my opinion. This is where you'll find a lot of the Celtic-Rock bands and other loud and super fun acts. It's also where you'll find a lot of repeat acts from years past. It's in a good spot across from a lot of food to one side and a lot of toilets fairly close.

MAIN STREET
Totally random acts but it's mostly food and a walkway.

HANDWERKPLATZ
Art and food is what you'll get in this area. Otherwise, it's just more of a platz to walk through on the way between Festplatz and Volksplatz.

FESTPLATZ
I think I covered that above but there are some noteworthy acts there, so look it up.

PLAZA TROPICAL
Although it's got a nice seating area (and I hear this year it is partially covered), it's right next to the madness that is that strip of food vendors between Festplatz and Banana Island. This year it's local bands, hip-hop acts and a little bit of funk and reggae.

BANANA ISLAND
In general this is the "kiddie platz" so you'll want to make sure there is something very specific to see before you venture inside.

AMERICAPLATZ
It's right up there by the library and other Bethlehem city buildings. It's probably the nicest setup and it features a variety of good music, plus food and beer, of course. It's where you'll find the opening ceremonies and other official events, too.

RIVERPLACE / DANKEPLATZ
RiverPlace is ticketed access only for the major concerts, but if you bought some it's fairly nice. If you scored VIP tickets, it's even nicer. There's a beer tent inside and a couple of eats, so there's no need to pound before going to the concert.

Dankeplatz is all about special events, including some theme days that have to do with food, including the Chef Competition that's new this year.

Use our interactive map to see what's going on at each platz each day of the Fest. Check back every morning for the day's updates.

- Judianne