Lehigh Valley PA 2024-25

The Science of Laughter: Why We Love to Chuckle

The Science of Laughter: Why We Love to Chuckle

Laughter is often called the best medicine, and for good reason. It’s a universal language that transcends borders and cultures, bringing joy and connection to people worldwide. But have you ever wondered why we love to chuckle so much? In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating science of laughter, the benefits it brings, and why it’s such a fundamental part of the human experience.

neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This chemical rush is why we often feel so good after a hearty laugh.

The Social Glue: Connecting Through Chuckles

The Biology of Laughter: A Brainy Affair

When you laugh, your brain releases a cocktail of feel-good chemicals. Endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, flood your system, creating a sense of euphoria and reducing stress. Laughter also triggers the release of dopamine, a

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Laughter isn’t just about feeling good; it’s also a powerful social tool. Evolutionary scientists believe that laughter evolved as a way for early humans to bond and strengthen social bonds.

When we laugh with others, it signals trust and positive interaction, reinforcing social connections.

The Laughter Contagion: Yawns Are Out, Laughter Is In

You’ve probably experienced

Restaurants

Damascus

Humble, BYOB Middle Eastern spot fixing up kebabs, sandwiches, vegetarian dishes & other bites.

449 N 2nd St, Allentown, PA 18102

Phone: (610) 432-2036 | Web: damascusrestaurantpa.com

The People’s Kitchen

Cozy place with a neighborhood feel preparing traditional & inventive dishes for breakfast & brunch.

639 Linden St, Bethlehem, PA 18018

Phone: (610) 849-2080 | Web: pkonlinden.com

Bolete

Rustic-chic destination serving a seasonal farm-to-table menu of American cuisine, with a full bar.

1740 Seidersville Rd, Bethlehem, PA 18015

Phone: (610) 868-6505 | Web: boleterestaurant.com

Have a restaurant you’d like us to feature?

Send in a recommendation for your favorite restaurant to be added to our list. Be sure to mention why you think they are worthy of being featured and include a link to their website.

Griddle 145

Airy, green-walled diner serving hearty breakfast & lunch, including pancakes & burgers.

1146 MacArthur Road, Whitehall, PA

Youell’s Oyster House

Veteran eatery offering its seafood menu in a remodeled space that includes a rooftop garden.

2249 Walnut St, Allentown, PA

Cuchifrito

Latin American stews & other comfort foods feature at this no-nonsense counter serve.

1201 W Chew St, Allentown, PA

The Shelby

Elevated New American fare & cocktails featured in a stylish, artlined space with large windows.

707 N Krocks Rd, Allentown, PA

Randall’s Restaurant

Warm gathering place in a circa-1850 restored Victorian inn with steak & seafood & martinis.

2016 Applewood Drive, Orefield, PA

Henry’s Salt of the Sea

Quaint, French-inspired seafood restaurant with a full bar also offering steak & chicken entrees.

1926 W Allen St, Allentown, PA

Wert’s Cafe

This busy, longtime eatery known for its signature burgers and other classic American bites.

515 N 18th St, Allentown, PA

Apollo Grill

Cozy, refined bar & grill featuring an extensive appetizer menu, full bar & American entrees.

85 W Broad St, Bethlehem, PA

Edge Restaurant

Artfully presented modern fare with Asian & French influences in an upscale, contemporary space.

74 W Broad Street, Suite 220, Bethlehem, PA

Ringers Roost

Bar & grill offering a diverse American menu in a relaxed setting with sports-centric decor. 1801 Liberty St, Allentown, PA

EVENTS 2024

Feb 23

The Wicked World’s Fair

The Wicked World’s Fair is an unbounded festival, an Rennaissance Faire, a Steampunk spot, a gateway to a place where dreams build reality.Would you like to spend the weekend in a marvelous hotel in the company of likeminded souls (or lack-of-souls, as the case may be)--geeking out, Gothing up, getting your Steampunk on, vending, buying, cosplaying, relaxing, running around, and generally having the time of this or any other lifetime?

Grab your tickets at eventbrite.com.

Feb 24-25

Winter Fest

This is a FREE event with fun for the whole family. Featuring USA Luge Track, snowshoeing, vendors, kid’s corner activities, snow making tour and more. Visit skibluemt.com.

Mar 22

Lehigh Valley Book Festival

The Lehigh Valley Book Festival is a celebration of books and the strong connections they forge – bringing published authors, illustrators, and readers together, through thoughtful, approachable, and inclusive programming. Visit www.letsplaybooks.com.

Mar 23

Ragnarok Heathen Festival

Come out for a full day of authentic foods, dress and play. Enter the Berserker Games and show off your warrior self with axe throwing, wood cutting, shield handling and more. Support local agriculture and shieldmaiden crafters with their viking farmers market and artisan market. Visit discovernepa.com.

Apr 27

Allentown Veg Fest

Vendors, Food, Music by Mystic Fool, and adult beverages will all be

EVENTS 2024

present, all that is needed is YOU! There will also be various workouts and classes throughout the day, including goat yoga with Steinmetz Farm! The city is so excited to bring this event to Allentown to highlight vegan and vegetarian vendors and promote health and wellness in the Lehigh Valley. Details at lehighvalleychamber.org.

Apr 28

Lehigh Valley Wicked Plant Fest

Join us for our Spring edition of the Lehigh Valley Wicked Plant Fest! Music by Seth Witcher, Food Trucks, Entertainment, amazing vendors selling hand made creations plus plant sellers to meet all your planty desires! Houseplants, outdoor plants, arrangements and do not miss out on the plant cutting swap table! Admission is always FREE, Parking is always FREE! Visit www.artsquest.org.

May 4

Food, Wine & Craft Fair

Do you love food trucks? Do you love wine? Do you love crafts? Then this is the place to be and may the 4th be with you! Then find us on Facebook and join us.

May 18

Christmas City Wine Festival

This festival is a celebration of local and regional wines, and it’s open to anyone 21 years or older. You won’t want to miss out on the opportunity to sample some of the finest wines in the area. Visit www. starofbethlehemfestival.org.

Jun 1

Moravian Historical Society Annual Arts & Crafts Festival

The free festival features more than 100 local artists, live music, kids activities, great food & drinks from local vendors, and walking tours of historic Nazareth! Complete details at www.moravianhistory.org/artscrafts-festival.

the phenomenon of contagious laughter. When someone near you starts laughing, you can’t help but join in, even if you’re not sure what’s so funny.

cortisol, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

This contagious nature of laugh ter is thought to be linked to our mirror neuron system, which activates when we observe someone else’s actions or emotions. In essence, when we see or hear laughter, our brains mimic it, compelling us to laugh along.

The Health Benefits: A Chuckle a Day Keeps the Doctor Away

Laughter isn’t just about feeling good; it also offers numerous health benefits. Here are some of the ways laughter can boost your well-being:

Stress Reduction: Laugh ter reduces the production of stress hormones like

Pain Relief: Laughing triggers the release of endorphins, which can temporarily alleviate pain and discomfort.

Improved Immunity: Regular laughter has been linked to enhanced immune function, helping the body fight off illnesses.

Better Mood: Laughter can elevate mood and combat feelings of depression by increasing the release of dopamine.

Strengthened Relationships: Sharing laughs with friends and loved ones fosters stronger social

bonds and increases feelings of connectedness.

The Laughter Prescription: Make Time for Chuckles

Incorporating laughter into your daily life is a simple yet effective way to improve your well-being. Here are some tips to get your daily dose of giggles:

Watch Comedy: Enjoy a funny movie, stand-up comedy show, or your favorite sitcom to trigger laughter.

Spend Time with Funny Friends: Surround yourself with peo ple who have a good sense of humor and enjoy sharing laughter.

Laughter

Find Humor in Everyday Life: Seek out the humor in everyday situations and don’t take life too seriously.

Share Funny Stories: Share funny anecdotes and jokes with friends and family to create laughter-filled moments.

Embrace the Chuckles

Laughter is a powerful and joyful force in our lives. It connects us, reduces stress, and brings a myriad of health

Yoga: Join a laughter yoga class or practice laughter exercises at home to reap the benefits of intentional laughter.

So, the next time you find yourself in the midst of hearty laughter, remember that you’re not just having fun—you’re also giving your brain and body a much-needed boost. Embrace the chuckles, share a joke, and let laughter light up your life. After all, as the saying goes, laughter truly is the best medicine!

EVENTS 2024

Jun 11-15

SouthSide Film Festival

The longest running film festival in Bethlehem, is an annual fiveday event in June featuring international films, guest filmmakers, juried selections, locally produced films, seminars, and networking opportunities for filmmakers and fans of independent film. Details at www. discoverlehighvalley.com.

Jul 4

Independence Day Fireworks

Slide down thrilling water slides, relax on the lazy river, and cap off the festivities with live music, refreshing drinks, and delicious food. The grand finale? A mesmerizing firework display! Please be aware that only service animals are allowed, and chairs and blankets. Outside food and beverages is not permitted. The event is free, but parking fee goes to a local fire company. Visit poconomountains.com.

Jul 27

Pocono Canna Fest

Get ready for adventure and relaxation at Pocono Canna Fest 2023! With over 300 vendors, live music, and concession stands, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy the Canna Olympic Games, local craftsmen, and if you dare, a mechanical bull. Headlining the event is The Cody Templeton

Band. Medical cards are not required for admission. Get your tickets now for the ultimate festival experience. Visit www.poconomountains.com.

Aug 28 - Sep 2

The Great Allentown Fair

The Great Allentown Fair is an annual fair and agricultural show that is held at the Allentown Fairgrounds in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Dedicated to supporting the achievements of farmers, gardeners, and homemakers, the Pennsylvania State Fair invites guests to learn about agriculture while spending an exciting time riding rides, playing games, and musical performances. Details at www.allentownfair.com.

Sep 27-29

Celtic Classic Highland Games & Festival Celtic bands will perform over 100 hours of free Celtic music, ranging in styles from traditional to Celtic rock. Many of the Celtic tunes are the traditional Irish jigs, shanties, drinking songs, and ballads combined with lyrical story-telling. Visitors will be surrounded with the distinct Celtic sound of tin whistles, bag pipes, and fiddles wherever they are on the grounds. Learn more at www.discoverlehighvalley.com.

Oct 4-6 & 11-13

Oktoberfest

A free festival that features brews, food, live music, local artisans, as well as activities like the fan-favorite dachshund races and more! Features authentic German food and beer, live music, local artisans, as well as attractions like the popular (and very silly) dachshund parade, Dragtoberfest, a steinholding competition, and activities for kids. Visit www.steelstacks.org.

Oct 5

Easton Garlic Fest 2024

Easton Garlic Fest is back to celebrate 20 years of everyone’s favorite stinky food: GARLIC! Get ready for all things gloriously garlic. Featuring

Street food is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the sizzle of skewers on a grill, the aromatic spices wafting through the air, and the sizzling woks that create an irresistible symphony of flavors. Here are some of the world’s most beloved street food traditions:

1. Thailand: Mango Sticky Rice ~

In Thailand, street food is a way of life. You can’t visit without savoring pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish bursting with flavors. And don’t forget to indulge in mango sticky rice, a sweet and fragrant dessert that’s the perfect balance of creamy and chewy.

2. Mexico: Tacos and Elote ~

Taco stands are a staple in Mexican street food culture, offering an array of fillings like al pastor, carne asada, and carnitas. Pair your tacos with elote, grilled corn slathered with mayonnaise,

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cheese, and chili powder—a taste explosion in every bite.

3. India: Samosas ~

Indian street food is a flavorpacked paradise. Try chaat, a savory snack that combines crispy fried dough with chickpeas, yogurt, and tangy chutneys. For something heartier, try samosas - deep fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes are a must-try.

4. Vietnam: Banh Mi ~

Vietnamese street food offers a fresh and aromatic experience. Sample a steaming bowl of pho, a fragrant noodle soup infused with herbs and spices. Or grab a banh mi, a delectable sandwich filled with grilled meats, pickled veggies, and a burst of fresh herbs.

5. Greece: Gyros & Souvlaki ~ Greek street food is a Mediterranean delight. Indulge in a gyro, a pita wrap filled with tender slices of roasted meat and topped with tzatziki sauce and veggies. For a quick bite, grab a souvlaki skewer, often made with succulent marinated chicken or pork.

6. Japan: Takoyaki & Okonomiyaki ~ Japan’s street food scene offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Try takoyaki, octopus-filled dough balls drizzled with savory sauces. Or savor okonomiyaki, a savory pancake loaded with toppings like cabbage, pork, and mayo.

7. Morocco: Tagine & Harira Soup ~ Moroccan street food is a sensory explosion. Taste tagine, a slowcooked stew that combines tender meats, vegetables, and aromatic spices. And don’t miss harira soup, a hearty tomato and lentil soup that’s a Moroccan comfort food staple.

8. United States: Hot Dogs/Pretzels ~ Street food isn’t limited to international flavors. In the U.S., you can’t beat the classic charm of a hot dog cart or a soft pretzel stand. Add your favorite toppings and sauces for a taste of American street food tradition.

Exploring global street food culture is like taking a whirlwind tour of the world’s flavors and traditions. Each street vendor, food cart, or bustling market stall offers a unique opportunity to savor authentic dishes and connect with locals. Whether you’re strolling through the vibrant streets of Bangkok or sipping soup in a Moroccan medina, street food is an adventure waiting to be devoured. So, grab a plate, dig in, and let your taste buds take you on a journey you’ll never forget!

BRADBURY-SULLIVAN LGBT COMMUNITY CENTER

We produce world-class, life-enriching LGBTQ+ culture and community-building programs. We develop leading-edge LGBTQ+ health programs. We offer LGBTQ+ youth programs every day after school.

BRADBURYSULLIVANCENTER.ORG | 610.347.9988

LEHIGH VALLEY HEALTH NETWORK

Sometimes it helps to speak with someone who understands where you are coming from. For patients who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning (LGBTQ+), you can find supportive care at Lehigh Valley Health Network.

LVHN.ORG | 888-843-4564

LEHIGH VALLEY TRANSGENDER RENAISSANCE

We are a Non-Profit Support Group with a Mission to Improve the Lives of Transgender Individuals and Their Families by Providing Social Opportunities, Peer Support, Education, Resources, and Outreach Focused on the Needs of the Transgender Community.

RENAISSANCELV.ORG

GREATER LEHIGH VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The LGBTQ Business Council is a partnership of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce celebrating the diversity and inclusivity of regional businesses.

LEHIGHVALLEYCHAMBER.ORG

EVENTS 2024

cooking competitions will be happening on the Stinkin’ Culinary Stage, including an Iron Chef Cook-Off and the Mayors’ Cook-off. There will be live music on the Main Stage and in the Sizzlin’ Latin Quarter, 100+ vendors, food galore, the Wheel of Cheese Booth, and adult beverages. Plus Little Stinkers’ Row with activities for kids and the Culinary Kids Cooking Contest.Visit www.eastongarlicfest.com.

Nov 2-3

PA Bacon Fest

Two days of grease, love, and happiness! Bacon Fest has grown into one of the Mid-Atlantic region’s most popular events. Named one of the country’s ‘5 Can’t-Miss Bacon Festivals’ (Parade.com) this two-day festival serves up delicious food, live music, family-friendly activities, cooking demos and every sort of bacon treat you can imagine. Tickets and details at pabaconfest.com.

Nov 11

Veterans Day at National Museum of Industrial History

The National Museum of Industrial History will honor those who served on Friday, November 11. The day will begin at 10 a.m. with a commemoration ceremony hosted by the Steelworkers Veteran’s Memorial Committee on the Museum’s plaza. The commemoration ceremony will include a performance by the Broughal Middle School Band as well as remarks from distinguished guests. Special keynote speakers will be Commander Sandra D. Thomas and Chief Warrant Officer Andrew T. Boyer. Veterans and their families receive free admission to the museum from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Details at www.nmih.org.

Dec 14

Distillery Tour at Eight oaks

Behind The Barrels, Full Access, Guided Tour Of The Distillery. From The Farm, To Production, To The Bottle- You’ll Learn About It All! Includes A Tasting Glass To Take Home And A Coupon For A Free Cocktail Or Flight. Details at eightoaksdistillery.com.

EVENTS 2024-25

Jan 10 2025

Annual RV & Campgrounds Show

A long-standing tradition, this event continues to offer families a valuable experience at an affordable price. With reputable dealers, a wide range of vehicles, and campground information, it is a must-visit for RV and camping enthusiasts. Visit 10times.com.

Jan 17 2025

Auto Mania Allentown

The THRILL of the HUNT! For more than 30 years Auto Mania has been Pennsylvania’s largest indoor heated automotive Flea Market. With continued support from Carlisle Events, old school collectors are turning collections into cash. This can be you! The thrill of the hunt! Auto Mania is Pennsylvania’s largest heated indoor automotive Flea Market. Visit carlisleevents.com.

Jan TBD 2025

SteelStacks Improv Comedy Festival

Join ArtsQuest for their Annual SteelStacks Improv Comedy Festival featuring headliner The Improvised Shakespeare Company! In addition to the featured headliners, more than 20 teams hailing from New York, Washington D.C., Boston, Baltimore, and Lehigh Valley will perform for nine hours during this marathon-style event. Each team will have 20-minutes to produce live comedy on the spot. Details at steelstacks.org.

Feb TBD 2025

Winter Winefest & Market

The Winter Winefest & Market is a wine lovers dream – an event that features sampling and the chance to buy glasses and bottles of wine direct from some of Pennsylvania’s best wineries! But it’s not just wine – the event will also feature vendors and other retailers selling wine-adjacent goods… think cheese, chocolate, and more! Visit www.steelstacks.org.