Special Events

Every season brings an experience that will enhance any group tour – from festivals and special events to seasonal activities.  Have you ever wondered where you can find a multitude of “Wonderful Things to Do?” Explore the following pages to find what most interests your group.

Group Friendly Special Events, 2012:

Nemacolin Winterfest

January 27 – 28, 2012
Contact: Brenda Girod, Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, 1001 Lafayette Drive, Farmington, PA 15437
T: 724-329-6481    TF: 866-386-6957    F: 724-329-6633
www.nemacolin.com
Don’t miss the year’s biggest snow party!   The fun starts here with The Polar Bear Classic, the Snow Bar, Ice Carving Demos and more! You won’t want to miss this one-of-a-kind celebration!
No admission fee

 

 

65th Annual PA Maple Festival

March 24 – April 1, 2012
Contact : Shawn Buterbaugh, Pennsylvania Maple Festival, PO Box 222, Meyersdale, PA 15552
T: 814-634-0213    TF: 866-858-0213    F: 814-634-0147
Location: 120 Meyers Avenue, Meyersdale, PA
www.pamaplefestival.com
Visit festival park, historic manor, maple sugar demonstrations, crafts, quilt show, car shows, parade, educational fair exhibits, horse pull, entertainment, tractor show, Maple Race 8K Run/ 5K Walk, “Legend of the Magic Water.”
Hours: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Admission: Adults $5.00

 

 

Annual Spring Antique Show at Georgian Place

10th Annual May 19 – 20, 2012
Contact : Tonya Spangler, Georgian Place Shopping & Office Village, Suite 707 Georgian Place Somerset, PA 15501
T: 814-443-3818    F: 814-445-3047
Location: North Center Avenue, Somerset, PA
www.georgianplace.net
50 plus dealers, rain or shine, this indoor/outdoor show has ample parking and a nice environment to browse. Sponsored by Cottage Pine Antiques, Sugar Grove Shoppes, and Georgian Place.
No admission fee

 

 

Five Alarm Mountain Madness Chili Cook-Off & Festival

June 9, 2012
Contact: Brenda Girod, Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, 1001 Lafayette Drive, Farmington, PA 15437
T: 724-329-6481    TF: 866-386-6957    F: 724-329-6633
www.nemacolin.com
This fun-filled event includes a day of live music, adventure sports, craft fair, children’s activities and, of course, the chance to taste great chili!
No admission fee

 

 

 

National Road Chainsaw Carving Festival

June 14 – 16, 2012
Contact: Tom Briar, Confluence Lions Club, PO Box 21, Confluence, PA 15424
T: 814-395-3469
Location: Addison National Road Park, Addison, PA 15411
www.carvingfest.confluencelions.org
See 40 – 50 chainsaw carvers produce works of art. Carvers will display and sell their carvings. The carving auction is on Saturday at 3:00 pm. Auction benefits the Somerset County Blind Center.
Hours: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm | No admission fee

 

 

Miners' Memorial Day Celebration

June 15 – 17, 2012
Contact: Christopher O. Barkley, Eureka Coal Heritage Foundation / Windber Coal Heritage Center, PO Box 142, Windber, PA 15963
T: 814-467-6680    F: 814-467-8715
Location: Graham Avenue Between 14th – 19th Streets
www.windbercoal.org
The Miners’ Memorial Weekend commemorates Western PA Bituminous Mining. Featuring a parade, antique car show, motorcycle show, street dances, food/craft vendors, children’s activities/petting zoo, and live entertainment.
Hours: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm Friday, Saturday, Sunday | Admission: $1.00

 

 

Anniversary of the Quecreek Mine Rescue

10th Anniversary July 28, 2012
Contact: Lori Arnold, Quecreek Mine Rescue Foundation / Site, 151 Haupt Road, Somerset, PA 15501
T: 814-442-2006
www.9for9.org
“Today we’re here to celebrate life, the value of life and most importantly, the spirit of America...They came to work hour after hour, many of them volunteers. None asked where am I going to get my next paycheck from. All asked what can I do?  What can I do as an American to help a neighbor in need?” President Bush, August 2002

 

 

 

Fayette County Fair

July 26 – August 4, 2012
Contact: John Blaney, Fayette Country Agricultural Improvement Association, 132 Pechin Road, Dunbar, PA 15431
T: 724-628-3360    F: 724-628-3884
www.fayettefair.com
Every year people come to the affordable Fayette County Fair to enjoy good food, games, demo derbies, truck & tractor pulls, animals, thrilling rides, educational displays, and much more.
Hours: 10:00 am – 10:30 pm
Admission: $11.00, $9.00 weekday early bird special before 4 pm, $8.00 advance purchase

 

 

41st Annual Antique Show

August 11, 2012
Contact: Sandy Berkebile, Somerset County Chamber of Commerce and Somerset Trust Company, 601 North Center Avenue, Somerset, PA 15501
Location: Streets of Somerset, PA off Exit #110 of the PA Turnpike
T: 814-445-6431    F: 814-443-4313
www.somersetpa.net
Join us as we celebrate 41 years of antiquing! Over 100 dealers dealing in quality antiques and collectibles. Bring your antiques for appraising at our Road Show!
Hours: 8am – 4pm Show, 10am – 3pm Appraisals | No admission fee for show; Appraisal fee per item

 

 

Laurel Highlands Garlic Festival

August 18 – 19, 2012
Contact: Mary or Philip Faranda, Faranda Farm Inc., 1171 Penn Avenue, Hollsopple, PA 15935
T: 814-479-7109
www.farandafarm.net
Come and have a “Stinkin’” Good Time! Fresh garlic, restaurant specialties, garlicfoods, guest chefs and special speakers. Fresh herbs, books, gadgets, T-shirts, Aprons, Live Entertainment. Relax under the veranda!
Hours: Saturday & Sunday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Admission: Adults $5.00, Youth 3-12 $2.00, Under 2 Free

 

 

Mr. Fred Rogers Fine Arts Regional Juried Show

September 1 – 30, 2012
Contact: Gabi Nastuck, Latrobe Art Center and Neighborhood Café, 819 Ligonier Street, Latrobe, PA 15650
T: 724-537-7011    F: 724-537-7011
www.latrobeartcenter.org
Talented artists from the state and beyond exhibiting artwork for one month. Artists submit works for judging and consideration for acceptance into the Greater Latrobe Schools Special Art Collections.
Hours: Monday – Friday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm, Saturday 10:00 am – 3:00 pm | No admission fee

 

 

 

Pennsylvania Arts & Crafts Colonial Festival

August 31, September 1 – 3, 2012
Contact: Debbie or Dave Stoner, Family Festivals Association Inc., PO Box 166, Irwin, PA 15642
Location: Westmoreland County Fairgrounds, 123 Blue Ribbon Lane, Greensburg, PA 15601
T: 724-863-4577    F: 724-863-5427
www.familyfestivals.com
Shop over 250 booths! Enjoy fantastic food! Two string bands! Flute choir! Over 500 costumed participants! Petting Zoo! Wagon Rides! Rated 19th Best Craft Show in America! A must see!
Hours: Friday & Monday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm, Saturday & Sunday 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
Admission: Adult $6.00, Senior Citizen $5.50, Child (6-12) $1.00, Under 6 Free

 

11th Anniversary Patriot Day

September 9 – 11, 2012
Contact: Bishop Alphonse Mascherino, Flight 93 Memorial Chapel Complex, Inc., PO Box 142, Shanksville, PA 15560
Locat ion: Flight 93 Memorial Chapel, 1717 Coleman Station Road, Friedens, PA 15541
T: 814-444-8339     www.flight93memorialchapel.org
The annual observance of the 9/11 anniversary starts on September 2, 2012 at 2:00 pm with the Annual Bikers’ Day of Patriotism Convergence and Pageant of Flags. September 10th is the Vigil of Patriot Day and we will be holding evening ceremonies. On September 11th, Patriot Day, a day of remembrance, we will be holding ceremonies every hour from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

 

 

The Tour de StrongLand Bicycle Races

September 8 – 9, 2012
Contact: Allan Walzak, The StrongLand Chamber of Commerce, 1129 Industrial Park Road, Box 10, Vandergrift, PA 15690
Location: Roaring Run Trail - Allegheny Towne Center
T: 724-845-5426    F: 724-845-5428
www.strongland.org
Off-Road Bike Races at Roaring Run near Apollo, PA, Saturday, September 8th. On-Road Bike Races at Allegheny Town Center Giant Eagle, near Vandergrift, Sunday September 9th.
Admission: $35.00

 

 

Annual Scarecrow Festival

September 15, 2012
Contact: Tonya Spangler, Georgian Place Shopping & Office Village, Suite 707 Georgian Place, Somerset, PA 15501
Location: North Center Avenue, Somerset, PA
T: 814-443-3818    F: 814-445-3047
www.georgianplace.net
Everyone loves a scarecrow!! Bigger than life scarecrow creations are displayed throughout the village competing for cash prizes. Add live entertainment, seasonal foods, and family activities for amazing fall fun!
Hours:11:00 am-6:00 pm | No admission fee

 

 

Mt. Pleasant Glass & Ethnic Festival

September 28 – 30, 2012
Contact: Jeff Landy, Borough of Mt. Pleasant, 1 Etze Avenue, Mt. Pleasant, PA 15666
Location: South Diamond & Washington Streets
T: 724-547-6745    F: 724-547-0115
www.mtpleasantglassandethnicfestival.com
Celebrating 26 years! National Entertainment.  Large outdoor festival on neighborhood streets.  Visit Arts & Crafts, Ethnic Foods, Glass vendors and Old Town areas. See Sparkle Spectacular. Music & Dancing Light Show nightly at Gazebo.
Hours: Friday & Saturday 11:00 am – 11:00 pm, Sunday 11:00 am – 7:00 pm | No admission fee

 

 

Annual Faranda Farm Harvest Festival

September 22 – October 31, 2012
Contact: Mary or Philip Faranda, Faranda Farm Inc., 1171 Penn Avenue, Hollsopple, PA 15935
T: 814-479-7109
www.farandafarm.net
Family Farm Fun! 5-Acre Corn Maze, Hay Rides, Hay Fort, Feeding the Animals, Duck Races, Sling Shots, Pumpkins, Gourds, Fall Decorations, Gift Shop, Field Trips, available for groups, family or corporate events.
Hours: Saturday 11:00 am – Dusk, Sunday 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm, check website for other hours.
Admission: $6.00 – $10.00

 

 

Autumnfest at Seven Springs

October 6 – 28, 2012 (weekends only)
Contact : John Hess, Seven Springs Mountain Resort, 777 Waterwheel Drive, Seven Springs, PA 15622
T: 814-352-2027    TF: 800-452-2223 x7387
www.7springs.com
Celebrate the magic of fall. Live entertainment, scenic chairlift rides, pumpkin patch, wagon rides, hay maze, craft show and fabulous buffet. Stay overnight and enjoy the resort!
Hours: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

 

 

 

Hallowboo!

October Weekends
Contact: Kathy Sichula, Idlewild & SoakZone, PO Box C, Ligonier, PA 15658
Location: 2574 Route 30 East, Ligonier, PA 15658
T: 724-238-6784    F:724-238-6544
www.idlewild.com
It’s Idlewild FUN with a family-friendly, Happy Halloween twist! Enjoy trick-or-treating through Story Book Forest, rides, entertainment, themed attractions, plus many fall-favorite foods! Great for Scout and Church groups.
Hours: 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Admission: Discount pricing to groups of 15 or more with advance reservations.

 

 

Springs Folk Festival

October 5 – 6, 2012
Contact: Jean Papik, Springs Historical Society, PO Box 293, Springs, PA 15562
Location: 1711 Springs Road, Route 669
T: 814-662-9202
www.springspa.org
The annual festival is a celebration of the arts, crafts, and culture of the pioneers. Watch 130 artisans demonstrate their crafts, listen to Bluegrass/Gospel music, and enjoy Dutch food. Visit one of the oldest museums!

 

 

 

Nemacolin Fall Festival

October 13, 2012
Contact: Brenda Girod, Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, 1001 Lafayette Drive, Farmington, PA 15437
T: 724-329-6481    TF: 866-386-6957    F: 724-329-6633
www.nemacolin.com
There’s something for guests of all ages at Nemacolin’s annual Fall Festival! Take in some of the most beautiful fall foliage in the Laurel Highlands while you enjoy a day filled with fun activities.
No admission fee

 

 

 

Fort Ligonier Days

October 12 – 14, 2012
Contact: Carrie Blough, Fort Ligonier Days, Inc., 120 East Main Street, Ligonier, PA 15658
Location: 120 East Main Street (Diamond)
T: 724-238-4200    F: 724-238-4610
www.fortligonierdays.org
See battle reenactments, over 150 juried craftsmen, community food booths, merchant sidewalk sales, entertainment, and renowned
Saturday parade. Commemorates the French & Indian War. One of ABA’s “Top 100” Events in 2010.

 

 

"The Haunted Theatre" Halloween Tour & Show

October 19 – 21, 2012
Contact: Allan Walzak, Casino Theatre, Restoration & Management, PO Box 202, Vandergrift, PA 15690
Location: 128 Washington Avenue, Vandergrift, PA
T: 724-567-5049
www.casinotheatre.org
“Monsters Under My Bed,” an original Halloween Musical, preceded by a “ghouly” basement tour of Vandergrift’s historic Casino Theatre. Arrive early for a tour. For reservations call: 724-567-5049
Hours: Friday and Saturday Shows: 7:30 pm. Call for pricing

 

 

Latrobe Autumnfest featuring Art in the Park

Saturday, October 20, 2012
Contact: Gabi Nastuck, Latrobe Art Center and Neighborhood Café, 819 Ligonier Street, Latrobe, PA 15650
T: 724-537-7011    F: 724-537-7011
www.latrobeartcenter.org
Art, live music event. Free children’s activities, local artists demonstrating and selling art in the park, jewelry and more. Latrobe Farmer’s Market vendors and Neighborhood Café selling seasonal treats galore.
Hours: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm | No admission fee

 

 

Candlelight Tours at Compass Inn Museum

November 3 – December 9, 2012
Contact: James Koontz, Compass Inn Museum, PO Box 167, Laughlintown, PA 15655
Location: 1382 Route 30 East
T: 724-238-4983    F: 724-238-3968
www.compassinn.com
Experience the beauty of the Inn decorated for the holidays with natural accents, wood fires and candlelight. Hot mulled cider and cookies in the 1862 addition opened for holiday tours.
Hours: Weekends 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm (reservations required) Will open outside of regular hours for groups of 20 or more. | Call for pricing

 

 

Ornament Artist: Matt Litavsky

2012 Event Date TBD
Contact: Steve Neubauer, Neubauer’s Market House, 36 East Church Street, Uniontown, PA 15401
T: 724-437-5500    TF: 1-800-488-5096
www.neubauersflowers.com
On November 5, 2011 from 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm, Neubauer’s Market House will welcome Christmas ornament artist Matt Litavsky of Mattarusky Heirloom Ornaments. Be sure to stop by and start your collection of family heirloom ornaments.

 

 

 

Hometown Christmas

November 30 – December 2, 2012
Contact: Allan Walzak, Casino Theatre Restoration & Management, PO Box 202, Vandergrift, PA 15690
Location: 128 Washington Avenue, Vandergrift, PA
T: 724-567-5049
www.casinotheatre.org
Special Holiday Show packed with singing, dancing and the Holiday Spirit at Vandergrift’s Casino Theatre. For reservations call: 724-567-5049
Hours: Friday and Saturday 7:30 pm, Sunday 2:00 pm
Admission: $10.00 – $15.00

 

 

Latrobe Art Center Holly-Jolly Open House

Saturday, December 1, 2012
Contact: Gabi Nastuck, Latrobe Art Center and Neighborhood Café, 819 Ligonier Street, Latrobe, PA 15650
T: 724-537-7011    F: 724-537-7011
www.latrobeartcenter.org
Local artists demonstrating and selling their crafts. Free children’s activities. Perfect seasonal gifts include handmade ornaments, pottery, stained glass, unique assortment of hand crafted jewelry, cards, original framed art work.
Hours: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
No admission fee

 

 

Ligonier Festival of Lights

December 1 – 9, 2012
Contact: Tina Yandrick, Ligonier Valley Historical Society, PO Box 167, Laughlintown, PA 15655
Location: Ligonier Valley Town Hall Community
Room, 120 East Main Street, Ligonier, PA 15658
T: 724-238-6818    F: 724-238-3968
www.ligonierhistoricalsociety.org
A display of over 50 decorated trees and wreaths designed by local families and businesses. Raffle table, cookie café and a holiday boutique with unique and handcrafted items.
Hours: 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm  |  Admission: Adults $4.00, Children $1.00