Happy Friday, Northampton! 🎉
It’s September 19th and the weekend is here at last.
Whether you’re heading to a fall festival, catching a
local game, or just enjoying some
downtime with family, we’ve
rounded up the best local picks to make it easy.
Mark & The Local Rundown Northampton Crew
In This Issue
🎶 Friday Night Live at Easton Public Market – Music, Food, and Family Fun
📚 Reading Under the Lights at Cottingham Stadium
🎉 Live Well Be Well Block Party at Paxinosa Elementary
"At the heart of every family is a little bit of crazy and a whole lot of love."
— Unknown
🎶 Friday Night Live at Easton Public Market – Music, Food, and Family Fun
Looking for an easy way to slide into the weekend? On Friday, September 19th from 6 to 8 p.m., Easton Public Market is the spot. Their Friday Night Live: Acoustic Kitchen series brings together the best of what parents love—great food you don’t have to cook, a fun atmosphere for the kids, and live music to set the tone for the weekend.
This week’s performer is Arianne Rox, a talented singer-songwriter who blends soulful vocals with acoustic flair. Think upbeat, cozy, and perfect for kicking back with dinner while the kids enjoy the buzz of the market. It’s the kind of music that makes you tap your foot without even realizing it.
The market itself is always a hit with families, from wood-fired pizza to ramen bowls, craft beverages, and plenty of dessert options. During Friday Night Live, the whole place feels extra lively, with neighbors gathering and kids soaking up the energy of a mini-concert in the middle of downtown.
Parent tips:
Get there a little early to snag a good seat—especially if you want to sit close to the stage area inside the market.
Bring a little cash as a backup, though most vendors take cards.
Parking is simple: The Pine Street Garage is just around the corner and makes for an easy walk with kids in tow.
No tickets, no stress—just a cozy Friday night where dinner, music, and family time all come together in one place.
📚 Reading Under the Lights at Cottingham Stadium
Here’s a bedtime story twist your kids will remember: Cottingham Stadium is turning into an outdoor reading nook on Monday, September 22nd from 6 to 8 p.m. Families with preschool through 5th grade students are invited to spread out blankets or set up lawn chairs right on the field for Reading Under the Lights, hosted by Family Connection of Easton.
The stadium lights will be on, but the vibe will stay cozy—think storytime under the stars. Local readers and volunteers will be sharing books, and kids can explore different stories in a fun, community-centered setting. It’s free, open to all, and a beautiful way to spark a love of reading while also enjoying one of Easton’s most iconic gathering spots.
Rain date: Tuesday, September 23rd.
Parent tips:
Pack a blanket or stadium chairs so everyone is comfortable on the field.
Bring a favorite book from home if your little one wants to join in with something familiar.
Make it a treat night by grabbing ice cream or hot cocoa afterward—it’ll turn reading into a family tradition kids look forward to.
🎉 Live Well Be Well Block Party at Paxinosa Elementary
On Saturday, September 20th from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Paxinosa Elementary is the place to be for the Live Well Be Well Block Party, hosted by the Northampton County Drug & Alcohol Department. This free event is all about health, wellness, and community—but don’t worry, it’s packaged in a way kids will love.
Expect a lively scene: food trucks parked outside, a DJ keeping the energy up, and plenty of activities like photo booths, henna art, and caricatures. There will also be wellness speakers and information tables for parents looking to connect with local resources. Raffles add a bit of extra fun, and the event is designed to be welcoming for all ages.
It’s one of those events where you can walk away with both happy kids (faces painted, bellies full) and useful info about community programs that support families.
Parent tips:
Bring sunscreen and water bottles—you’ll be outdoors most of the time.
Stop by the resource tables—sometimes they offer freebies like magnets, pens, or kid-friendly activity kits.
Plan lunch here: let the kids pick from food trucks while you relax and listen to the DJ.
Which country invented French fries?
The Local Rundown
🕓 4:00 PM–7:00 PM · Burnside Plantation, Bethlehem · Admission varies (under 3 free) 📍 Google Maps · 🌟 All Ages
Fun apple-themed preview night with vendors, treats, and early Apple Days excitement.
Sat, Sept 20
🕓 10:00 AM–5:00 PM · Burnside Plantation, Bethlehem · Adults ~$10, Kids ~$5 (under 3 free) 📍 Google Maps · 🌟 All Ages
Apples, pony rides, live music, hay maze, and family fun at Burnside Plantation.
🕓 9:00 AM–2:00 PM · Shankweiler’s Drive-In Theatre, Orefield · Free 📍 Google Maps · 🌟 All Ages
Celebrate local farms with food trucks, fresh produce, and family-friendly fun.
🕓 9:00 AM–1:00 PM · Scott Park, Easton · Free entry (vendor prices vary) 📍 Google Maps · 🌟 All Ages
Browse farm-fresh produce, baked goods, and local artisan products.
🕓 11:00 AM–3:00 PM · Paxinosa Elementary School, Easton · Free 📍 Google Maps · 🌟 All Ages
Community celebration with games, activities, and family wellness resources.
Sun, Sept 21
🕓 10:00 AM–5:00 PM · Burnside Plantation, Bethlehem · Adults ~$10, Kids ~$5 (under 3 free) 📍 Google Maps · 🌟 All Ages
Final day of the apple festival with family activities, music, and farm fun.
Mon, Sept 22
🕓 6:00 PM–8:00 PM · Cottingham Stadium, Easton · Free 📍 Google Maps · 🧒 Kids & Families
Bring the kids for an evening of reading fun under the stadium lights.
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See you soon,
Mark