Culture

Formerly know as Mauch Chunk (mock-CHUNK), Jim Thorpe has a rich and historic past. Once a vital industrial coal transportation town during the 19th century, it is now a year-round destination that takes on its own life and magic in each season. Located at the base of a steep valley carved by the Lehigh River, you can enjoy the beauty of the mountains while you experience the town’s shopping, dining, entertainment and outdoor recreation.

The first signal of “Spring” is when we set our clocks ahead. The early weeks of Spring bring increasing daylight, warming temperatures and the rebirth of flora and fauna. New flower bushes and trees are blooming at Pennsylvania’s arboretums and botanical gardens.The best way to see what’s blooming in Pennsylvania is to plan a trip to one of the many arboretums and botanical gardens in Pennsylvania. Take a breathtaking stroll  through a beautiful and vibrant garden. 

To get you started, check out these blooming gardens that offer special exhibits and events throughout the year.

Looking to do something different this Valentine's Day? Rejuvenate your spirit with a stay at one of PA's unique Bed and Breakfasts. From historic inns to classic mansions to contemporary lodging, our innkeepers will meet your every travel need. Comfy, warm and welcoming serving home cooked specialty breakfast dishes. Discover authentic hospitality this Valentine's Day in Lancaster County. To find the perfect inn in other regions of Pennsylvania, please visit PAInns.com. 

The Bloomsburg Fair began in 1855 and is the largest agricultural fair in Pennsylvania and one of the largest on the East Coast. Over 415,000 people attend the Fair in 2013.

The 160th Bloomsburg Fair begins September 26 through October 3, 2015.  Preview day is September 25 with free parking and admission is only $3.00 with the gates opening at 2:00pm.

Follow the skirl of bagpipes for the annual gathering of the Clans. Come and celebrate all things Scottish at the Ligonier Highland Games.  The Ligonier Highland Games takes place on September 26, 2015 at Idlewild Park located on U.S. Route 30 just three miles west of the town of Ligonier. 

America’s first fair, the York Fair, was held in the historic old town of York in 1765, 11 years before the nation was founded. At that time the York Fair was a two-day agricultural market on the town commons, now known as Penn Park. In 1856, the fair was a three-day event and held at the new fairground that was east of the City of York near what is now Queen and King Street.

Join the festivities in Kennett Square, PA as "The Mushroom Capital of the World" hosts its spectacular celebration of mushrooms celebrating its 30th year!  The first commercial mushroom production started in Kennett Square over 100 years ago and 65% of mushrooms grown in America happens right here in this small town.  

Always the weekend after Labor Day, this year's festival will be held on Saturday, September 12 and Sunday, September 13. Events include:

Erie County’s oldest and largest fair, the Erie County Fair will be held August 31 to September 5, 2015 at the Wattsburg Fairgrounds. Amusement midway rides and games, truck and tractor pulls and lots of family fun. For more information, call 814-739-2232. One price for admission includes everything except the Friday night truck pulls. Chris Higbee will be on stage on Thursday, September 3. 

Book your stay at a nearby Bed and Breakfast.www

Timeless classical masterpieces blended with contemporary compositions set the stage for the 10th year Anniversary Celebration of the Endless Mountain Music Festival, scheduled for July 24 through August 8, 2015 in Wellsboro, Mansfield, Blossburg, Troy, and Canton. Full orchestra concerts on Friday and Saturday nights all three weekends.