July Events & Festivals

Pineknotter Days

Celebrate summer traditions at Pineknotter Days, a beloved week-long festival held in King Street Park. Enjoy the art show and savor delicious offerings from the Pineknotter concessions. With family-friendly activities and entertainment for all ages throughout the week, Pineknotter Days is the perfect way to experience small-town charm and community spirit in central Pennsylvania.

When: June 27 – July 3, 2026
Where: Northumberland

FIFA Fan Zones

Soccer fans, enjoy World Cup festivities as Pennsylvania welcomes visitors from around the globe. Pennsylvania’s Fan Zones will serve as vibrant gathering areas for fans to watch matches, participate in interactive activities, and enjoy shade. Whether you’re cheering for your favorite national team or enjoying time with your community, take part in this unique opportunity to be a part of history.

When: Select dates through July 2026
Where: Pittsburgh, Reading, Scranton

163rd Anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg

The 163rd Anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg takes place Wednesday, July 1, through Friday, July 3, 2026, in Gettysburg. Commemorating one of the most significant turning points in American history, this three-day observance features free family programs, battlefield walks, campfire presentations, guided talks led by National Park Service Rangers and Licensed Battlefield Guides, and a reenactment.

When: July 1-3, 2026
Where: Gettysburg

Eastern PA Homestead Festival

Join the Berks County community for four days of craftsmen, vendors, speakers, live music, food, and fun at the Eastern PA Homestead Festival. This event pays homage to the long-running Kutztown Folk Festival.

When: July 2-5, 2026
Where: Kutztown

Blueberries, Live Bluegrass, and BBQ

Bite into summer bliss at Lakeland Orchard & Winery's Blueberries, Live Bluegrass, and BBQ event, located 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 every weekend, and tastings from local breweries and wineries at this ticketed event. Purchase tickets online prior to the event for a discounted price.

When: July 2-5, 9-12, 16-19, and 23-26, 2026
Where: Scott Township

Celebrate America's 250th Birthday

Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, spending our nation's 250th birthday where it all began – here in Pennsylvania. July 4, 2026 marks the nationally recognized celebration of America's 250th anniversary. 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, PA celebrates this momentous anniversary statewide. Check out the full roundup of events happening around the state with the ultimate July 4th guide.

When: July 4, 2026  
Where: Statewide

Central PA Festival of the Arts

This summer, don’t miss the 60th 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, showcasing unique works by independent artists from across the country, ranging from ceramics to woodwork. Enjoy live entertainment on indoor and outdoor stages, explore the juried gallery show, check out the Children and Youth Sidewalk Sale on Wednesday, July 8, and look up to see the colorful entries in the iconic Banner Competition throughout the festival.

When: July 8-12, 2026
Where: State College

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 10-11, 2026  
Where: Washington

Carlisle Chrysler Nationals

Cruise through automotive history at the Carlisle Chrysler Nationals. This three-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 10-12, 2026  
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 10-12, 2026  
Where: Enon Valley

MLB All-Star Week

Make your July calendar a home run by attending MLB All-Star Week in Philadelphia. From exploring the daily Capital One All-Star Village to witnessing unforgettable moments at the T-Mobile Home Run Derby, the lineup of events leading up to the MLB All-Star Game on July 14 is enough to keep you in the city all week long. Read our guide to plan your trip and make the most of this unforgettable sporting event.

When: July 10-14, 2026
Where: Philadelphia

Easton Heritage Day

Step back in time at Easton Heritage Day, a free, family-friendly celebration of the city’s rich role in American history. Enjoy colonial reenactments, live music, hands-on activities, local food, and the annual reading of the Declaration of Independence in Centre Square—one of the first places it was publicly read in 1776.

When: July 11, 2026
Where: Easton

Woodcarvers Show and Competition

Observe the art of woodworking at the Woodcarvers Show and Competition. Watch as talented artisans showcase their craftsmanship through intricate hand-carved creations, all judged by professional woodcarvers and displayed throughout the weekend for visitors to admire. Enjoy live demonstrations, browse unique handcrafted works, and even try your hand at carving during special carving classes. 

When: July 11-12, 2026 
Where: Cooksburg

Washington Boro Tomato Festival

The annual Washington Boro Tomato Festival is held every year on the second and third Saturday of July at Washington Boro Community Park. It benefits Blue Rock Fire Rescue and celebrates the area’s tomato-growing heritage. The festival features food, games, music, and plenty of fun for the whole family.

When: July 11 and 18, 2026
Where: Washington Boro

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 11-19, 2026    
Where: Pittsburgh

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 the “Largest Volunteer Firemen's Parade in Pennsylvania.”

When: July 15-18, 2026  
Where: North East

Zelienople Horse Trading Days

Gallop into summer fun at the 62nd Annual Zelienople Horse Trading Days. This lively three-day event in the charming town of Zelienople features live music, inflatable rides, food trucks, pony rides, a petting zoo, and free wagon rides for all ages. Don’t miss the 7th Annual ShuBrew Hot Dog Eating Contest on Saturday, an exciting highlight that’s sure to entertain.

When: July 16-18, 2026     
Where: Zelienople

Picklesburgh

This summer festival is a big dill when you attend the annual Picklesburgh festival. 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 food 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 16-19, 2026  
Where: Pittsburgh

Annual 100 Mile Yard Sale

Discover treasure hunting at its best at the 29th 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 17-18, 2026     
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 17-19, 2026   
Where: Kecksburg

Honey & Blueberry Festival

Indulge in sweet summer flavors at the Honey & Blueberry Festival at Equestrian House 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. Agri Tours and the Blueberry Picking experience do come at a cost: $15 per person (adult), $10 per person (children) and children 3 and under free.

When: July 17-19, 2026    
Where: Pleasant Mount

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 17-19, 2026     
Where: Wampum

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. 

When: July 17-19 and 24-26, 2026     
Where: Valencia

Endless Mountains Music Festival

The annual Endless Mountain Music Festival brings the thrill of live music to audiences at venues across the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon region. The 2026 America the Beautiful series offers a broad spectrum of musical performances - classical, jazz, contemporary - at diverse venues like Cherry Springs State Park, Commonwealth University, Mansfield's Steadman Theater, Deane Center for the Performing Arts, and other locations over the two-week schedule.

When: July 17 – August 2, 2026
Where: Endless Mountains Region

Gettysburg National 19th Century Base Ball Festival

The Gettysburg National 19th Century Base Ball Festival returns for its 16th annual event at Schroeder Family Farm. More than two dozen teams from across the United States will take the field using the rules, uniforms, and equipment of 1864, giving spectators a rare chance to experience the game as it was originally played—without gloves, modern gear, or distractions. The result is a fast-paced, authentic look at America’s pastime in its earliest days.

When: July 18-19, 2026
Where: Gettysburg

Blueberry Festival

Spend a weekend packed with sweet traditions and fresh-picked fun at the 39th 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 18-19, 2026     
Where: Bethlehem

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 18-19, 2026     
Where: Oaks

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 20-26, 2026     
Where: Erie

Allegheny Mountain Championship Rodeo

Held annually in July, the “Toughest Show on Dirt” PRCA/WRPA-sanctioned event returns to Tionesta. Professional cowboys and cowgirls compete for points towards the National Finals Rodeo. Events include bareback bronc, saddle bronc, steer wrestling, barrel racing, tie-down roping, and bull riding. Guests enjoy live music each evening, concessions, vendors, a restaurant & saloon, horseback riding, and more.

When: July 23-25, 2026
Where: Tionesta

Lake Erie Cyclefest

Experience breathtaking landscapes and Erie County’s abundant natural resources on safe and spectacular routes during Lake Erie Cyclefest. Cyclists of all ages and abilities will participate in self-supported rides on routes that feature Erie’s vast terrain – along sandy beaches and through old-growth forests, across our vibrant downtown and our expansive grape-growing region.

When: July 23-26, 2026
Where: Various locations in Erie County

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 24-26, 2026     
Where: New Freedom

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 24 – August 2, 2026     
Where: York

Pride Festival of Central PA

The Pride Festival of Central Pennsylvania brings thousands together for one of the Commonwealth’s largest and longest-running LGBTQ+ celebrations. From the Pride Parade (stepping off at 10 a.m.) to a full day of festivities in Soldiers Grove (running 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.), it’s a time to honor love, identity, and community in the heart of the capital city.

When: July 25, 2026
Where: Harrisburg

2026 Elk Expo

Celebrate all things elk at the 2026 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 25-26, 2026     
Where: Benezette

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, 2026     
Where: Waynesburg

The Appalachian Fiddle & Bluegrass Association Annual Bluegrass Festival

Enjoy four days of live performances from more than 20 regional and national bluegrass bands, along with instrument workshops, jam sessions, and plenty of tie-dying and the 37th Annual AFBA Bluegrass Festival. The family-friendly music festival also features camping, food vendors, and a free Youth Academy where young musicians can learn from experienced players.

When: July 30 – August 2, 2026
Where: Wind Gap

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, then unwinding 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 and pop hits.

When: May 8 – September 27, 2026  
Where: Kennett Square

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 such as “Much Ado About Nothing” and “A Raisin in the Sun.” Secure your tickets today!

When: May – August 2026; Dates vary by show
Where: Center Valley

Sesame Summer Splash

Make a splash this summer at Sesame Place Philadelphia. Join your favorite furry friends for a season filled with family-friendly fun, including character stage shows, special seasonal celebrations, and unforgettable entertainment. Don’t miss the July 4th Fest and fireworks, Tango’s Gotcha Day Celebration, and plenty of sunny adventures throughout the park. From water attractions to live entertainment, Sesame Place is the perfect family destination to make lasting summer memories.

When: June 15 – September 7, 2026
Where: Philadelphia

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: June 26 – September 7, 2026 
Where: Gettysburg

Looking for even more fun? Check out our full calendar of events for things happening across PA, or explore more things to do during the summer season.