When we think of the Arts in the Lehigh Valley, our thoughts generally turn to the bounty of high-quality artistic venues, outstanding museums and symphonies, and the vibrant theater scene. Residents of the Lehigh Valley have access to the arts in a way that is not always available in similar-sized regions. Festivals, community celebrations, and concerts that lighten our spirits and add to the quality of life in our community are plentiful.
But it is important to think beyond the pleasures we receive as a result of this bounty. It’s important to also recognize the tremendous economic value of the Arts in the Lehigh Valley. Whether it’s the thousands of daily visitors from outside our region, or we as residents ourselves attending events, much-needed revenue is created and spent here in the Lehigh Valley region.
A recent Lehigh Valley Arts Council study pegs the nonprofit arts/culture sector as a $186.4 million industry in the Lehigh Valley—one that supports 6,908 full-time equivalent jobs and generates $18.8 million in local and state tax revenue.
“When the Community Foundation supports arts and cultural organizations, we know that we are not simply helping these organizations, but rather we are making an important investment in the economy of our region,” said Bernie Story, president and CEO of the Community Foundation.
So, whether you’re interested in attending a concert at Miller Symphony Hall in Allentown or at Levitt Pavilion in Bethlehem, or appreciating the wonderful collections at the Sigal Museum in Easton, by supporting the Arts of the Lehigh Valley you are adding significantly to the economic health of our community. We invite you to contact us to learn more about the vibrant Lehigh Valley arts and cultural organizations and how we can partner to maintain these high-quality programs and economic investments.
