The National Caves Association, representing 90 show caves across the United States, Bermuda, and Barbados, has designated the first Saturday in June as National Caves and Karst Day. This initiative raises awareness about the vital roles caves and karst landscapes play in our environment and daily lives. In 2021, marking the fifth annual event, it coincided with the United Nations International Year of Caves and Karst, uniting speleologists, explorers, and cave professionals worldwide. Public

Local hospitality leaders in Happy Valley consistently seek motivated, hardworking, personable, and creative professionals to build top-performing teams. After a tough pandemic, the industry is rebounding and eager to rebuild its workforce with these essential qualities. Hospitality Businesses Rebuilding Their Workforce At the pandemics peak, nearly 1,600 Centre County hospitality workers were unemployed. Now, with COVID restrictions lifted, restaurants, bars, and hotels face a

Happy Valleys 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 loca

Experience the stunning Pennsylvania Wilds firsthand by paddling the serene waterways of Happy Valley, all while enjoying the distinctive comforts of the Nature Inn at Bald Eagle. Join our exclusive two-day kayaking adventure on F.J. Sayers Lake and Bald Eagle Creek—a unforgettable weekend awaits! Limited rooms remain for this years Kayak Adventure Weekend at The Nature Inn at Bald Eagle, scheduled for August 13-15, 2021. Note that all participants must provide their own kayaks

This week, from June 21 to 27, Happy Valley Restaurant Week showcases over 20 top restaurants offering exclusive dishes. Discover bold new flavors like the Beef Heart Tostada at Pine Grove Hall, the latest addition to the scene. Chef Tory Glossner sources locally and infuses global tastes, creating this crunchy delight perfect for patio dining with a local beer. For dessert lovers, State Burger Co. presents the indulgent Coco Berry Breeze milkshake: a coconut strawberry blend topped with coco

As a local expert, here are my top must-visit spots for fresh, farm-to-table foods in Happy Valley, Pennsylvania. These family-run gems offer organic produce, artisan goods, and unique culinary experiences. Tait Farm Tait Farm, a diversified family operation just seven miles east of State College and Penn State University, delights locals and visitors year-round at its Harvest Shop. Stocked with over 60 specialty foods made locally in Boalsburg, plus regional artisan products, cra

Discover the captivating 2021 Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts (CPFA) online Images Exhibition Gallery. This curated collection showcases exceptional works by talented artists, spanning photography, mixed media collages, hand-etched prints, and more.While we eagerly await in-person browsing at future festivals—hopefully in 2022—this virtual gallery offers a perfect way to enjoy the art. Support local artists by purchasing pieces directly.The 2021 Juried Exhibition is expertly curated by

Since 1967, the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts has been a cherished summer highlight in State College. The inaugural nine-day event showcased music, theater, dance, puppet shows, educational TV programs, and even a ribbon-cutting by then-Governor Raymond Shafer—an unprecedented spectacle for Central Pennsylvania. The community responded with overwhelming enthusiasm, giving birth to Happy Valleys annual tradition. Today, this five-day celebration overflows with art, music, childrens ac

Friday in the Fonte is a free summertime event celebrating Bellefontes vibrant shopping, dining, craft beverages, and local culture. Held on the last Friday of May, June, July, and September, this July edition brings downtown to life with Chalk the Walk artwork on High, Allegheny, and Spring Streets. Residents, families, businesses, and organizations create colorful chalk squares in this fundraiser supporting Downtown Bellefonte Inc. Participants can buy one or more $25 squares to design f

Experience the timeless wonder of the Centre County Grange Fair each August. With a rich 147-year history, this iconic event serves as a home away from home for families in over 1,000 tents and 1,500 RVs. As the nations last remaining tenting fair, it captures pure magic, charm, and nostalgia—inviting you to join an extraordinary tradition. The Centre County Grange Encampment and Fair, affectionately known as The Grange Fair, runs from August 20–28, 2021. This 147th anniversary celebrates a u

Penn State alumni often recommend essential experiences for every student: climbing Mount Nittany, snapping a photo at the Nittany Lion Shrine, savoring ice cream at the iconic Berkey Creamery, relaxing at Whipple Dam on a sunny day, or wandering through the Penn State Arboretum. As Centre Countys official tourism promotion agency, the Happy Valley Adventure Bureau (HVAB) offers endless inspiration for discovering the regions stunning valleys and charming communities. Begin in downtown Sta

During the pandemic shutdown and mitigation efforts, local restaurants faced existential threats, but the community rallied with special initiatives, innovative B2B partnerships, and a strong support local ethos that provided crucial relief. As businesses reopened and travel resumed, a new crisis emerged: an unprecedented labor shortage in the hospitality sector. This issue extends nationwide—the industry lost 2.5 million jobs in 2020 and remained down by over 1.5 million as of June

Scholar Hotel State College has officially opened its doors in the heart of downtown. While its the newest addition to State Colleges hospitality scene, its distinctive charm lies in its century-old building, a longstanding fixture in the community. “Scholar Hotel State College pays homage to Penn State’s rich history,” says Michael Balchin, director of sales. “From the architecture to our extensive photography collection, it offers a memorable stay unlike any other.” Part of Hilton’s Tapestr

The launch of HappyValleyTalent.com—an initiative by the Happy Valley Adventure Bureau, Chamber of Business and Industry of Centre County, and partner organizations—positions businesses and organizations to connect meaningfully with university students.Thanks to Pennsylvanias new name, image, and likeness (NIL) regulations for student athletes, opportunities now extend to all students. HappyValleyTalent.com bridges brands and students effectively. Yet, capturing attention demands strate

Mark your calendars for First Night State College on December 31, 2021. This longstanding alcohol-free celebration of the arts and New Years possibilities has been a cherished fixture on the Centre County holiday calendar for over 20 years, drawing families to downtown State College. First Night features captivating music and theatrical performances in downtown churches and public buildings. Join the procession with our spectacular giant papier-mâché puppets and be part of the magic! Commi

Legendary tailgates in Happy Valley boast signature dishes, but if youre mixing it up this season, State College offers exceptional takeout and catering options. The food is outstanding, and choosing local spots saves time for pre-game fun. Discover five trusted local establishments to elevate your tailgate experience. Tait Farm Foods 179 Tait Rd., Centre Hallwww.taitfarmfoods.com/ Located seven miles east of State College and Penn State, Tait Farm has been family-owned since 1950, offer

Following an extensive renovation, Gamble Mill is delighted to welcome guests back to its historic yet refreshed location in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania! The space has been revitalized with the new Inn at Gamble Mill, featuring 16 elegantly designed guest rooms and suites that seamlessly blend modern comforts with the buildings timeless historic charm. Sophisticated and timeless yet family-friendly, with single rooms, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom suites, the Inn is perfect f

Visitors to Bellefonte and the surrounding Nittany Valley will discover exciting new dining and craft beverage options that enhance their stay. The highlight is the eagerly awaited reopening of the historic Gamble Mill, transformed through extensive renovations into a cocktail bar, upscale restaurant, and boutique hotel. Two additional venues in Milesburg are ideally positioned to welcome travelers. The Republic, 160 Dunlop Street, BellefonteTheRepublicGambleMill.com The Republic finaliz

Host Memorable STEM-Themed Birthday Parties! Discover our engaging STEM-themed birthday parties for kids, with exciting new themes coming soon. Ideal for childrens or adult gatherings, we offer hands-on activities for all ages and dedicated space for your caterer—we handle the cleanup! Enjoy PSU Football While We Watch the Kids! On September 11, drop off children ages 5-12 for our STEM Hangout starting at 12:30 PM (kickoff at 3:30 PM) and pick up by 8:30 PM. Check our website for future dates!

Ask Happy Valley locals about fine dining, and youll get diverse answers. As one resident noted in a social media poll, it depends on your definition. Is it just exceptional cuisine, or does it include ambience, service, and other elements? Perceptions have evolved, but locals prioritize outstanding food. One poll commenter raved about Pine Grove Hall in Pine Grove Mills: “Their food is akin to what Ive had at 3 Michelin starred restaurants in Manhattan.” Happy Valley offers abundant culinary