July is heating up in Pennsylvania! From high-energy festivals to family fun and outdoor thrills, can’t-miss events are popping off across the state. Make the most of every weekend—PA’s summer lineup won’t wait!
COUNTDOWN TO AMERICA 250
Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration spending our nations 250th birthday where it all began – here in Pennsylvania. July 4, 2026 marks the nationally recognized celebration America250. From the cobblestone streets where our founding fathers roamed in Philadelphia to charming historic towns across the state that played a part in the creation of our nation, explore a yearlong lineup of special events, immersive exhibits, and unforgettable festivals — all leading up to the big day on Independence Day 2026.
When: Now – July 4, 2026
Where: Statewide
PA SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
Calling all theatre lovers – experience world-class theater at the PA Shakespeare Festival, hosted on the scenic campus of DeSales University in the Lehigh Valley. Featuring acclaimed Broadway, TV, and film actors, the festival offers a professional equity theater with compelling productions like “Much Ado About Nothing” and “A Raisin in the Sun.” Secure your tickets today!
When: Now – Aug. 3
Where: Center Valley
DARKSIDE BLACKLIGHT ADVENTURES
Take your summer getaway underground when you attend Darkside Blacklight Adventures at Lincoln Caverns & Whisper Rocks! Step into a glowing subterranean world as speleothems and calcite crystals come alive in vivid, fluorescent color during this one-of-a-kind blacklight tour. Perfect for families and curious explorers alike, it’s an unforgettable way to experience the natural magic beneath the surface.
When: Every Wednesday now – Aug. 27
Where: Huntingdon
ONE HUNDRED NIGHTS OF TAPS
Spend a Summer Evening in Gettysburg with 100 Nights of Taps. Each summer night in historic Gettysburg, the solemn, familiar notes of “Taps” echo through the Gettysburg National Cemetery during 100 Nights of Taps. This moving tradition features the iconic 24-note call played live by local musicians, veterans, and active-duty servicemembers — a powerful tribute that resonates deeply in this sacred setting.
When: Now – Sept. 1
Where: Gettysburg
FESTIVAL OF FOUNTAINS
The magic of summer comes to life at Longwood Gardens’ iconic Festival of Fountains. This annual seasonal spectacle will have you strolling through breathtaking landscapes as the sun sets and then unwind to the sights and sounds of Illuminated Fountain Performances, making for an unforgettable evening under the stars. Each show features a different theme with the fountains dancing to classic tunes to pop hits.
When: Now – Sept. 28
Where: Kennett Square
SUMMER FEST
Bite into summer bliss at Summer Fest at the scenic Lakeland Orchard & Winery just outside of Pittsburgh. Spend the day picking fresh blueberries, cooling off with a frosty Blueberry King Slush, and indulging in warm cobbler. Take in high-energy lumberjack shows, live music, and tastings from local breweries and wineries at this ticketed event. Purchase online prior to the event to save!
When: Now - July 27
Where: Scott Township
NORTH EAST FIREMEN'S CHERRY FESTIVAL
Classic summer fun awaits at the 78th Annual North East Firemen’s Cherry Festival. From delicious food like sausage subs, ox roast sandwiches, crispy fries, and homemade pies to carnival rides, games, vendors, and bingo — there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss the highlight of the week: the grand parade on Saturday happening along Main Street where you can see for yourself the “Largest Volunteer Firemen's Parade in Pennsylvania.”
When: July 9-12
Where: North East
CENTRAL PA FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS
This summer, don’t miss the 59th annual Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts—one of the nation’s top-ranked juried art fairs. Held in State College, the festival features the popular Sidewalk Sale and Exhibition with unique works from independent artists across the country, ranging from ceramics to woodwork. Enjoy live entertainment on indoor and outdoor stages, explore the Images 2025 juried gallery show, check out the Children and Youth Sidewalk Sale, and look up to see the colorful entries in the iconic Banner Competition.
When: July 9-13
Where: State College
ARTS AND HERITAGE FESTIVAL
Celebrate small-town charm at the Arts & Heritage Festival in historic downtown Johnsonburg! This two-day celebration features food trucks, exclusive offerings at local businesses, and activities for all ages. Step back in time as you explore the town’s rich history, including the Commercial Historic District and the iconic 1890s Armstrong Brick Block. Come for the festivities — stay for the heritage.
When: July 11-12
Where: Johnsonburg
WHISKEY REBELLION FESTIVAL
Watch as the Whiskey Rebellion Festival brings America’s early days to life at this summer celebration. Through immersive historic reenactments, heritage displays, street theater, live music, family-friendly activities, and a variety of food and libations, the festival commemorates a pivotal moment in U.S. history. Watch as hundreds of living historians march in Saturday’s parade, and don’t miss the chance to take a guided tour of the historic Bradford House where the story of the Whiskey Rebellion began.
When: July 11-12
Where: Washington
PICKLESBURGH
This summer festival is a big dill when you attend the 10th annual Picklesburgh. Named the “Best Specialty Food Festival” by USA Today’s 10Best Readers Choice Awards four times, Picklesburgh is the ultimate festival for pickle lovers. This free festival features the iconic 35-foot Heinz pickle balloon and a lively lineup of events, including pickle juice drinking, bobbing for pickles, and pickle-eating contests. Savor unique pickle-inspired dishes, sing along to live music, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere that makes Picklesburgh a beloved culinary and cultural experience for all.
When: July 11-13
Where: Pittsburgh
CARLISLE CHRYSLER NATIONALS
Cruise through automotive history at the Carlisle Chrysler Nationals. This two-day event is the largest Mopar gathering in the world, featuring nearly 3,000 vehicles from every era of the Chrysler brand. From timeless classics and roaring muscle cars to sleek high-performance models, fans from everywhere converge on Carlisle for a one-of-a-kind weekend celebration.
When: July 11-13
Where: Carlisle
SLOVENEFEST
Experience the vibrant spirit of Slovenia at Slovenefest, a lively three-day celebration filled with authentic food, live music, and rich cultural traditions. Drawing thousands of visitors each year, this festival offers a unique taste of Slovenian heritage. Recognized by Pittsburgh Magazine as “One of the Top 10 Things to do in July,” Slovenefest promises unforgettable entertainment and delicious cuisine.
When: July 11-13
Where: Enon Valley
PITTSBURGH VINTAGE GRAND PRIX
Experience the thrill of America’s only vintage street race at the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix. Spanning 10 action-packed days with two exciting race weekends, this iconic event features classic car shows, lively parties, festive parades, and a full lineup of motorsport action. Whether you’re a racing enthusiast or simply love timeless cars and vibrant community vibes, the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix is an unforgettable summer tradition.
When: July 11-20
Where: Pittsburgh
ZELIENOPLE HORSE TRADING DAYS
Gallop into summer fun at the 61st Annual Zelienople Horse Trading Days. This lively three-day event in the charming town of Zelienople features a hot dog eating contest, live music, inflatable rides, food trucks, pony rides, a petting zoo, plus free wagon rides for all ages to enjoy. Don’t miss the 6th Annual ShuBrew Hot Dog Eating Contest on Saturday, an exciting highlight that’s sure to entertain.
When: July 17-19
Where: Zelienople
ANNUAL 100 MILE YARD SALE
Discover treasure hunting at its best at the 28th Annual 100 Mile Yard Sale. Explore miles of sales featuring hundreds of families across the scenic Quehanna Wild Area, stretching from Pine Glen to Medix, with charming small towns to explore along the route. Grab your ticket and start planning your shopping adventure today.
When: July 18-19
Where: Various locations in Clearfield, Centre, Elk, and Cameron Counties
KECKSBURG UFO FESTIVAL
Get ready for out-of-this-world fun at the Kecksburg UFO Festival near Pittsburgh! This quirky celebration commemorates the 1965 UFO incident that put this small town on the map. Enjoy a weekend of alien-themed fun—from the vendor fair and local food to the cornhole tournament and all the sci-fi vibes. Whether you're a true believer or just in it for the fun, this fest is a blast for all ages!
When: July 18-20
Where: Kecksburg
SUMMER THROWDOWN
Strap in for some ultimate outdoor summer fun at the Summer Throwdown, held at the scenic and rustic Mines and Meadows ATV/RV Resort. Nestled just an hour outside of Pittsburgh among rolling hills and lush forested trails, this action-packed weekend features adrenaline-pumping mud bog races, live music, guided tours of historic mines, and a spectacular fireworks show to light up the night.
When: July 18-20
Where: Wampum
YORK STATE FAIR
Step right up to America’s first fair at the York State Fair, where 260 years of rich tradition blend with nonstop family fun! Enjoy world-famous musical performances including T-Pain and Riley Green, alongside hands-on experiences at the Ag Education Center and livestock judging. With thrilling rides and special attractions throughout, it’s not summer without fair fun. Discover more county and local fairs throughout PA this summer.
When: July 18-27
Where: York
BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL
Spend a weekend packed with sweet traditions and fresh-picked fun at the 38th Annual Blueberry Festival. Enjoy homemade blueberry treats, browse unique artisan vendors, and groove to live music, all set against the backdrop of Bethlehem’s Burnside Plantation.
When: July 19-20
Where: Bethlehem
FREEDOM FARM’S WILDFLOWER FESTIVAL
Celebrate the beauty of summer with flowery fun at Freedom Farm’s Wildflower Festival. Take a leisurely ride to stunning fields with sunflowers, zinnias, snapdragons, and gomphrena. Wander through vibrant blooms, pick your favorites to create a gorgeous bouquet, meet friendly farm animals, and delight the little ones with pony rides around the farm. Sunflower season in PA kicks off in July and you can uncover more sunflower-filled adventures around the state.
When: July 19-20, 26-27
Where: Valencia
HONEY & BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL
Indulge in sweet summer flavors at the Honey & Blueberry Festival in the Pocono Mountains. The festival is packed with unlimited pick-your-own wild blueberries, and dive into the fascinating world of beekeeping with an educational tour showing how local honey is made. Discover the richness of Pennsylvania agriculture while savoring fresh berries — all with free admission.
When: July 19-20, 26-27
Where: Pleasant Mount
DISCOVER PRESQUE ISLE
Explore Pennsylvania’s most-visited state park during Discover Presque Isle, a beloved annual event on the shores of Lake Erie. This week-long celebration showcases the park’s natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and diverse ecosystems. Enjoy free, family-friendly fun like guided hikes, archery, lighthouse tours, live music, pancake breakfasts, sand sculpture competitions, and a giant beach bonfire. It’s the perfect way to connect with nature and celebrate the importance of preserving our environment.
When: July 21-27
Where: Erie
SMOKE ON THE RAIL BBQ FESTIVAL
Follow the mouthwatering aroma to the Smoke on the Rail BBQ Festival. While top-tier Kansas City Barbecue Society teams battle it out, festivalgoers can take advantage of free offerings throughout the event, indulge in delicious eats from food trucks, sip on local beer and adult slushies, play yard games, browse unique vendors, and catch live music across multiple stages. Don’t miss the People’s Choice Wing Competition on Friday and the Pork Competition on Saturday — your taste buds will thank you.
When: July 25-27
Where: New Freedom
2025 ELK EXPO
Celebrate all things elk at the 2025 Elk Expo in beautiful Benezette—Pennsylvania’s elk country! This beloved outdoor event brings together more than 120 vendors, expert-led seminars, interactive demonstrations, and fun for the whole family. It’s the perfect opportunity to learn about and experience the state’s majestic elk herd up close in the heart of the PA Wilds.
When: July 26-27
Where: Benezette
GREENBERG’S TRAIN AND TOY SHOW
All aboard for Greenberg’s Train and Toy Show, the largest and longest-running show in the Northeast, delighting fans since 1976. This free family-friendly event offers a journey into the fascinating world of miniature railroading, featuring interactive exhibits and displays for kids, collectors, modelers, and curious visitors alike. Whether you're a devoted hobbyist or simply looking for timeless family fun, there’s something for everyone.
When: July 26-27
Where: Oaks
RAIN DAY FESTIVAL
Celebrate one of Pennsylvania’s most delightfully quirky traditions at the Rain Day Festival in Waynesburg, where locals actually hope for showers! What began in the 1800s with a farmer noticing it always rained on his birthday has grown into a one-of-a-kind celebration of community, weather, and whimsy. This free festival features live music, kids’ activities, artisan vendors, a celebrity hat bet, and the beloved umbrella decorating contest. Attend this July event rain or shine!
When: July 29
Where: Waynesburg
For more events to attend this summer in Pennsylvania, check out the VISIT PA website. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, Threads, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to stay up-to-date on even more great trip ideas and places to visit around the state. Don’t forget to never miss an update and sign up for our monthly PA travel e-newsletter.