PEEPSFEST returns to the SteelStacks campus in Bethlehem for its 18th year on Wednesday, Dec. 30, and Thursday, Dec. 31. ArtsQuest and Just Born are presenting the family-friendly New Year’s celebration from 3 to 6 p.m. both days.

The highlight is the PEEPS Chick Drop at 5:35 p.m. each evening, when a 400-pound, 4-foot-9-inch PEEPS Chick descends to count down to the New Year. A fireworks display above SteelStacks follows, giving families and children a chance to celebrate before bedtime.

“PEEPSFEST has become one of the Lehigh Valley’s most beloved holiday traditions, bringing families together to celebrate the New Year in a way that’s fun, creative and uniquely Bethlehem,” said Shayna Super, programming director at ArtsQuest.

This year’s event includes live musical performances, PEEPS-themed games and activities, and hands-on crafts hosted by local nonprofit organizations. The Da Vinci Science Center will present interactive science shows, and guests ages 12 and under will receive special PEEPSFEST tote bags for collecting goodies. Activities are offered indoors and outdoors across the campus.

Lehigh Valley Public Media/PBS39 is returning with several activities. Young guests can make personalized bookmarks at the PBS39 x PEEPSFEST Bookmark Craft Creation Station, and Chef Julie of Levy Restaurants will share recipes featuring PEEPS marshmallow treats during PEEPS IN THE KITCHEN. A sensory-friendly space presented by Good Shepherd Rehabilitation will also be available for guests with sensory sensitivities.

Tickets are $5 per person, and children ages one and under are admitted free. Organizers encourage families to buy early because the event can sell out. Tickets are available at artsquest.org.

PEEPSFEST is presented by Just Born, the Bethlehem-based maker of PEEPS Brand Marshmallow Candies. Support comes from community partners and sponsors including Lehigh Valley Public Media/PBS39, ABARTA Coca-Cola, Good Shepherd Rehabilitation, L&L Construction, Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital, part of Jefferson Health, Lehigh Valley Press, Liberty Propane, Service Electric, Urban Air & The Little Gym and WFMZ.

“For 18 years, PEEPSFEST has given us the opportunity to share the joy of the PEEPS Brand with families right here in our hometown,” said Courtney Angle, corporate affairs specialist at Just Born.