There's no better time to explore Pennsylvania than 2026. As the nation celebrates America's 250th birthday, the Keystone State takes center stage, just like it did in 1776. Whether you're chasing thrills on the slopes, soaking up history at iconic landmarks, or cheering on your favorite teams at once-in-a-generation games, this is the year to check off those bucket list experiences.
Saddle up for an unforgettable day at the Pennsylvania Farm Show from January 10-17
Harrisburg
Kick off 2026 the Pennsylvania way with massive butter sculptures, livestock competitions, and more food-on-a-stick than you can count. The PA Farm Show is the largest indoor agricultural event in the nation, drawing half a million visitors each year for a week-long celebration that honors the farmers and producers who feed us all. With new activities to experience each year and hundreds of exhibits showcasing Pennsylvania's agricultural heritage, delicious food from every corner of the state, and fun for all ages, it's a must-see event for families, farmers, and curious visitors alike. Make sure to check out over 6,000 farm animals, watch tractor pulls, and even participate in maple syrup demonstrations. Where else can you sample award-winning cheese, watch a sheep-shearing contest, and grab a milkshake made from PA Dairymen’s Association all under one roof?
See Punxsutawney Phil predict the weather on Groundhog Day in February
Punxsutawney
Will he see his shadow? Will spring come early? There's only one way to find out on February 2, 2026. Join thousands of revelers from all over the world at Gobbler's Knob as Pennsylvania's most famous groundhog makes his annual prediction. This quirky Groundhog Day tradition has been going strong since 1887, and there's nothing quite like the energy of the crowd at dawn as Phil emerges from his burrow. It's weird, it's wonderful, and it's 100% Pennsylvania.
Hit the slopes at one of six ski resorts in the Pocono Mountains until March
Pocono Mountains
When winter blankets the Pocono Mountains in snow, it’s time to hit the slopes. With six top-notch ski resorts including Big Boulder, Blue Mountain, Camelback Mountain, Jack Frost, Shawnee Mountain, and Ski Big Bear, the Poconos offer more than 185 slopes and trails for every skill level. Skiers can tackle challenging moguls at Camelback, while families can enjoy snow tubing on 46 lanes stretching over 1,000 feet at Blue Mountain. After a day on the mountain, cozy up by the fire with hot cocoa and take in the snowy mountain views. The Poconos are a winter sports paradise, Pennsylvania-style.
Catch the action of the NCAA March Madness tournament
Philadelphia
NCAA March Madness tips off in Philadelphia on March 20th and 22nd, bringing top college basketball teams to the City of Brotherly Love. The city will host first and second-round games, drawing passionate fans from across the country to Xfinity Mobile Arena (previously Wells Fargo Center). Whether you’re cheering for your alma mater or chasing the thrill of an underdog upset, the arena will be electric. Off the court, Philly’s legendary food scene awaits, from the iconic Reading Terminal Market to South Philly’s Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand honoree, Angelo’s Pizza, making it the perfect way to combine basketball with a culinary adventure.
Tour Yuengling, America's oldest operating brewery
Pottsville
Raise a glass to nearly two centuries of brewing at Yuengling Brewery, America’s oldest operating brewery, founded in 1829. Still run by the sixth consecutive generation of the Yuengling family, the brewery has perfected its craft over nearly 200 years, surviving Prohibition, and becoming an American icon along the way. On a tour of the historic facility, visitors can explore hand-dug lagering caves, see traditional brewing methods in action, and learn the stories behind the family-owned operation. And yes, at the end, you can sample some of the legendary beer, fresh from the source.
Kick off the 2026 NFL draft in Pittsburgh, April 23-25
Pittsburgh
Steel City is rolling out the red carpet for the 2026 NFL Draft, and it’s set to be legendary. At the heart of Pittsburgh’s North Shore stands a nearly 20-foot-tall countdown clock with one side honoring the city’s 90 neighborhoods and the other celebrating the legacy of Western Pennsylvania football. Stop by the North Shore Great Lawn to see this striking work of art for yourself and don’t forget to snap a selfie with #2026NFLDraft leading up to the event.
When the clock hits zero, watch the next generation of football stars achieve their dreams and explore everything Pittsburgh has to offer, from riding the iconic Duquesne Incline for sweeping skyline views to shopping in the vibrant Strip District. It’s a can’t-miss event for football fans and a chance to see why Pittsburgh is one of America’s greatest sports cities. Go to VISIT PITTSBURGH's website for the ultimate guide to experience the NFL Draft here in PA.
Stargaze under some of the darkest skies at Cherry Springs State Park
Coudersport
When the sun goes down, Cherry Springs State Park lights up. As an International Dark Sky Park, it offers some of the East Coast’s best stargazing, with minimal light pollution and breathtaking views of the Milky Way. Named for the black cherry trees that once filled the area, the 82-acre park sits within the 262,000-acre Susquehannock State Forest. Anytime in 2026, night sky enthusiasts should flock to see planets, constellations, and rare astronomical phenomena, with up to 10,000 stars visible on a clear night. Bring a blanket, lie back, and watch the universe unfold above you all year round.
Cheer on world-class golfers this May at the PGA Championship
Newtown Square
This spring, golf's elite will descend on the Philadelphia suburbs to Aronimink Golf Club for the 2026 PGA Championship from May 11-17, one of the golf's four major tournaments. This historic course, designed by Donald Ross and ranked among the best in the country, will test the world's top golfers as they compete for the Wanamaker Trophy. Whether you're a die-hard golf fan or just love the atmosphere of a major sporting event, it's a week of world-class competition in a stunning setting that is expected to draw 200,000 spectators.
Celebrate America's 250th birthday in July at Gettysburg Fourth with freedom and history
Gettysburg
From July 1-4, 2026, the historic town of Gettysburg will host commemorative events leading up to Independence Day, including reenactments, guided tours, concerts, and living-history programs honoring both the nation’s founding and the sacrifices made to preserve it. The celebration culminates with A Gettysburg Fourth!, featuring live music, family activities, and fireworks over the iconic battlefield—an unforgettable way to experience this once-in-a-generation milestone.
Take a motorboat ride through Penn's Cave, America's only all-water cavern
Centre Hall
Forget hiking boots—you'll need a boat to explore central PA’s Penn's Cave. This natural limestone cavern is the only cave in the United States that you can tour entirely by water, gliding through underground chambers on a one-hour motorboat ride along an underground stream. Marvel at stunning stalactites in all shapes and sizes, including formations like "The Statue of Liberty" that'll have you doing a double-take. Above ground, the farm-nature-wildlife park tour takes you by bus through 1,600 acres where mountain lions, wolves, bison, and other North American wildlife roam. Add in gemstone panning, a challenging maze, and a gift shop packed with treasures, and you've got a day of adventure that's equal parts geology lesson and family fun.
Soak up the sun on Presque Isle's sandy shores this summer
Erie
Pennsylvania’s only “seashore” comes alive during summer at Presque Isle State Park. This 3,200-acre forested peninsula stretches into Lake Erie, delivering seven miles of sandy beaches, 25 miles of recreational trails, and wide-open lake views that rival an ocean getaway. Visitors can swim, kayak, sail, bike, or cast a line in Presque Isle Bay, where the park’s unique shape creates calm waters ideal for boating and fishing. With multiple boat launches, beach volleyball courts, and stunning weather, Presque Isle is a can’t-miss summer destination that proves you don’t need an ocean to experience a world-class beach.
Get swept up in the excitement of the FIFA World Cup from June 14 to July 4
Philadelphia
The world's biggest sporting event is coming to Philadelphia, and the city is ready to party. As one of the host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Philly will welcome fans from around the globe for six matches at Lincoln Financial Field, including a Round 16 final on July 4th that will be talked about for generations. Even if you're not inside the stadium, you’ll feel the energy at Fan Fest at Lemon Hill in nearby Fairmount Park. It's a once-in-a-lifetime chance to be part of soccer history.
Ride the natural water slides at Ohiopyle State Park
Ohiopyle
Mother Nature built Pennsylvania’s best water park and it’s called Ohiopyle. At Ohiopyle State Park, the rushing waters of Meadow Run have carved smooth sandstone into a series of twisting natural water slides, creating one of the state’s most iconic summer experiences. Beyond the slides, the park offers waterfalls, miles of hiking trails, and whitewater rafting on the Youghiogheny River. It’s a destination that showcases Pennsylvania’s outdoor adventure at its most exhilarating.
Experience MLB All-Star Game and Week at Citizens Bank Park this July
Philadelphia
Baseball’s biggest stars take center stage in Philadelphia as the 2026 MLB All-Star Game comes to Citizens Bank Park on July 14. For the first time, the city will host the Midsummer Classic at its modern home ballpark, marking a historic moment for fans and the sport alike. Beyond the marquee matchup between the American and National Leagues, All-Star Week, from July 11-14, will bring a full slate of fan events, celebrations, and citywide excitement. With nearly 43,000 fans filling the stands and the energy of summer in full swing, Philadelphia is set to deliver an unforgettable All-Star experience.
Honor the 25th anniversary of 9/11 at the Flight 93 National Memorial
Stoystown
In 2026, the Flight 93 National Memorial will mark the 25th anniversary of September 11 with special ceremonies honoring the 40 passengers and crew members on Flight 93 who made the ultimate sacrifice to save countless lives. Visitors can walk the memorial grounds, reflect at the Wall of Names, and experience the 93-foot-tall Tower of Voices, where wind chimes serve as a powerful tribute to each hero. The memorial and visitors center offer a place for remembrance, reflection, and education, honoring an act of extraordinary courage that changed the course of history.
With so many once-in-a-lifetime experiences packed into one year, 2026 is the your time to explore Pennsylvania. From celebrating America's 250th birthday in the places where independence was born to cheering on world-class athletes at historic sporting events, the Keystone State is ready to make this a year one you'll never forget.