ArtsQuest announces debut of CountryFest at SteelStacks

ArtsQuest has introduced CountryFest, a new two-day celebration of country music and culture scheduled for Friday, Aug. 21, and Saturday, Aug. 22, at the SteelStacks campus.

The free festival will feature a mix of national touring artists, emerging stars, and tribute acts. Headliners include Clayton Mullen, Luke Borchelt, and Peytan Porter. The lineup also features “Kevin Kenny – The Chesney Show” and “Lainey Nation – a Tribute to Lainey Wilson.”

“Country music is everywhere, attracting fans of all ages and delivering some of the most engaging shows on tour today,” said Patrick Brogan, ArtsQuest’s chief programming officer. “The team here has put together a mix of emerging national country headliners of tomorrow alongside some truly talented acts covering country’s biggest names.”

The festival schedule includes:

• Friday, Aug. 21: Performances by Erin Kelly (6 p.m.) and the Kenny Chesney tribute (7:30 p.m.). The evening concludes with line dancing lessons from Stomp & Shine and a performance by Whiskey and Roses at 9 p.m.
• Saturday, Aug. 22: Music begins at 4 p.m. with Luke Borchelt, followed by Clayton Mullen (5 p.m.), Peytan Porter (6:30 p.m.), and the Lainey Wilson tribute (7:30 p.m.). Adam and the Armadillos will perform at 9 p.m.

Aleah, the instructor behind Stomp & Shine, will lead the line dancing sessions. With six years of dancing and three years of teaching experience, her instruction is designed to be beginner-friendly and accessible to all attendees.

In addition to live music, the event will feature food from vendors including Red Cedar Grill, Bacon on a Stick, and Batch Micro-Creamery. Interactive activities such as axe throwing will be available, alongside a market featuring local artisans and crafters.

CountryFest is held at the ArtsQuest Campus at SteelStacks in the Lehigh Valley. Additional information regarding the festival and performers can be found through ArtsQuest.