From extraterrestrial mysteries to festive parades to agricultural marvels, Pennsylvania has some unique and fun events in store for family travelers this year. Here are nine especially quirky happenings coming up in the state:
Pennsylvania Farm Show (Jan. 4–11)
This farm show, in Harrisburg, is the largest indoor agricultural exposition in the country. This year’s theme is Powering Pennsylvania, highlighting the state’s role as a family-run agritourism destination and green-energy producer. Attractions include mini highland cows and an expanded So You Want to Be a Farmer exhibit. Admission is free.
© Groundhog Club / Brittany Madera
Groundhog Day Celebration (Feb. 1–3)
Witness Punxsutawney Phil’s annual weather prediction over this three-day festival, complete with activities like Lunch with Phil and the Groundhog Ball. The main event is free to attend.
100 Nights of Taps (May 26–Sept. 1)
This service takes place at Gettysburg National Cemetery, honoring servicemembers and serving as a great place to educate kids about history.
Living Dead Weekend (June 6–8)
Celebrate George A. Romero’s legacy at the filming location of Dawn of the Dead. This weekend in Monroeville features zombie-themed film screenings, celebrity meet-and-greets and exclusive location tours.
Forest County Bigfoot Festival (June 6–8)
Hunt for Sasquatch in Allegheny National Forest and peruse Bigfoot-themed vendors, enjoy live music and take part in family-friendly activities. This free festival in Marienville also includes Bigfoot hunts and educational sessions on the legendary creature.
© Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau
Kecksburg UFO Festival (July 2025, exact dates TBA)
Take the kids to this out-of-this-world event, complete with UFO-themed activities and contests. The event is free to attend.
In Benezette, witness this majestic species up close and take part in educational exhibits, seminars and wildlife-viewing opportunities.
Juniata Goose Day (Sept. 26–29)
Unique to Central Pennsylvania, this tradition traces its origins to a centuries-old European custom symbolizing good fortune and abundance. Kids will love a mix of activities, markets and family-friendly events, as well as farm-to-table feasts featuring locally sourced goose dishes.
From pickled treats to pickle cocktails to the iconic pickle juice-drinking contest, pickle lovers won’t want to miss this quirky, Pittsburgh-based festival. Voted the country’s Best Specialty Food Festival, this event is free to attend.
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