July is festival season. Here are 5 Centre County events to put on your calendar

Keely Doll
·2 min read

July is festival season for central Pennsylvania with celebrations across Centre County, including the long-awaited return of the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts.

Here are five can’t-miss festivals featuring live music, food and local artists to keep you busy in July.

Central PA 4th Fest

July 4, starting at 4 p.m. at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park

Central PA 4th Fest is returning to Medlar Field this year with fireworks, food and live music. Unlike previous years, a parade and 5k run won’t be part of the event this year. Tickets start at $15 but packages for large groups and VIP suites are available on the State College Spikes Website.

Philipsburg Heritage Days

July 12-17 in downtown Philipsburg

This celebration dates back to 1988, focusing on the community’s origins and its future, with activities and events planned throughout the week. This year’s theme is “Rich History, Prosperous Future” and will feature live music, fireworks, a parade and a watermelon eating contest. A full schedule can be found at the Heritage Days website, along with information about past years’ events.

Arts Fest

July 13-17 in downtown State College

Back after a two-year hiatus, the annual festival includes live music and entertainment shows, streets filled with vendors and artisans, and a children’s sidewalk sale. Arts Fest receives around 125,000 visitors each year, according to the website. Wristbands are required for some indoor performances and can be bought for $15 either online or at the festival store at the corner of College Avenue and Allen Street.

Way Fruit Farm’s Art in the Orchard

July 14-16 at 2355 Halfmoon Valley Road, Port Matilda

Showcasing the work of local artists and craftspeople, visitors can also enjoy live music and food trucks. Kids can play in a bounce house or visit a bunny petting zoo. It’s the second year of the event, hosted by the sixth-generation family-run farm. Information for vendors and visitors can be found on the farm’s website or on its Facebook page.

The second annual Art in the Orchard at Way Fruit Farm will be held July 14-16.
The second annual Art in the Orchard at Way Fruit Farm will be held July 14-16.

People’s Choice Festival

July 14-17 at Grange Park

This is the first year the event is back after a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19, and it returns with some big changes. After years at the Pennsylvania Military Museum, the festival has moved to Grange Park off state Route 45. The four-day event will include two stages of local musicians, local artists, food and wine. Information on event schedules and vendors can be found online at the festival’s website.