Head to Happy Valley, PA: Mid-Summer Weekend of Family Fun (July 9-11)
Happy Valley's charming historic communities are hosting an unforgettable July 9-11 weekend filled with family-friendly festivities. Discover festivals, fireworks, innovative art and music experiences, and more—perfect for gathering loved ones in this idyllic summer destination.
Art in the Orchard
Experience the inaugural Art in the Orchard at Way Fruit Farm in Port Matilda, July 8-11, where lush apple orchards transform into an open-air gallery featuring over 50 local and regional artists. Across the street at the farm store and café, enjoy live bands, food trucks, and vendors. This free event offers affordable family entertainment with stunning artwork, lively music, and delicious bites from popular Happy Valley food trucks.
Art in the Orchard runs from noon to 7 p.m. Thursday, July 8; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, July 9-10.
Millheim Walkfest of Art and Music
Celebrate the debut Millheim Walkfest of Art and Music in the picturesque historic town of Millheim, Penns Valley. Explore local artists, musicians, food, beverages (including beer, wine, and kombucha), and antique/vintage vendors across this walkable community. Enjoy performances on five stages. Convenient parking and shuttles are available. Nestled in Happy Valley's Amish country, it's near premier fly-fishing streams and Poe Paddy and Poe Valley State Parks.
Millheim Walkfest runs 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, July 9; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, July 10; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, July 11.
Philipsburg Festival
Just "over the mountain" in Philipsburg, enjoy a full day of family fun on Saturday, July 10. Kick off with the inaugural Wilderness City 5K Trail Run at 9 a.m., winding through the scenic Cold Stream Dam recreation area. Expect entertainment, prizes, and all proceeds benefiting the Philipsburg Revitalization Corporation, a nonprofit revitalizing this historic town.
Besides its beauty, the dam is steps from We Are Inn/Lobby Grille, famous for Berkey Creamery ice cream, 16 flavors of Philly-style Italian water ice, Italian-inspired dishes, and cheesesteaks—try the "Pat’s Way."
Next, join the Philipsburg Cruise on Front Street from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Show off your street-legal ride or browse unique shops.
Cap the day with fireworks at Cold Stream Dam, hosted by We Are Inn. Rock out to Zero Tolerance from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., then grab a lawn chair for the show!
Stay for the afterparty: Grammy winner Coolio performs with his all-star band at The Lobby Grille. Tickets $55; VIP $100. More info and tickets here.
Boal Mansion Annual Antique, Art & Craft Fair
The historic 200-year-old Columbus Chapel & Boal Mansion Museum hosts its annual Antique, Art & Craft Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 10. Browse vendors on the grounds and savor fresh berries, including blueberry milkshakes. That evening, the Acoustic Brew Concert Series features Dede Wyland & The Big Howdy Band at 7 p.m., with a jam session at 5 p.m.
Central PA Festival of the Arts Poster Walk
While enjoying the virtual Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts, stroll downtown State College for the poster walk featuring over 34 posters from past festivals at local businesses. Spot vibrant public art on downtown buildings, including the newest at Alexander Court on Beaver Ave.
This July 9-11 weekend in Happy Valley, PA, offers an affordable, fun mini-vacation brimming with entertainment for families and friends across the region.
