Good morning, Allentown.

The Jewish Community Center held a Hanukkah celebration on Friday that brought neighbors together to share in traditional light displays and community warmth.

The event highlighted culture and connection for local attendees.

Economic development grew moderately in 2025 with B.

Braun’s $20 million expansion adding 200 jobs and foreign investors like Kerry Group and a Turkish candy company investing in local manufacturing (Filter King LLC also opened a new facility), according to the LVEDC.

The district approved $53 million plans to upgrade Bridgeview Academy with new labs, a gym, and a community resource center at 265 Lehigh St.—Construction starts January 2027 and finishes by 2029, while modular classrooms will ease space needs at Sonia Sotomayor Academy.

The Allentown Police Department & Salisbury Township Police Department will launch a collaborative traffic safety initiative in January to reduce risks and improve traffic flow locally.

Shift4 founder Jared Isaacman has been named NASA’s 15th administrator & resigned as executive chairman, with CEO Taylor Lauber named as his replacement.

The leadership change marks a significant career milestone for Isaacman.

Gogol Bordello Concert

7-9 p.m. — Archer Music Hall — All ages welcome — Experience the energetic Gypsy punk music of Gogol Bordello live in concert.

Hershey Bears vs. Lehigh Valley Phantoms

3:05 – 4:35 p.m. — PPL Center — Check website for ticket pricing — Celebrate New Year's Eve with an exciting hockey match between the Phantoms and Bears.

I Puritani

12:55-5:00 p.m. — Miller Symphony Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience the beauty of Bellini’s final masterpiece with a stellar cast and stunning new production.

Frank DiBussolo Trio: Bucky Pizzarelli Legacy

7:30-10 p.m. — Miller Symphony Hall — Tickets required — Experience masterful jazz guitar in tribute to the legendary Pizzarelli.

Neko Case Concert

7-10 p.m. — Archer Music Hall — $1 from each ticket benefits Peer Solutions — Experience an evening of enchanting music by Neko Case in a welcoming venue.