State College dancer and choreographer Ann Van Kuren comes from the generation of dance instruction that revered a solid ballet technique. Modern dance styles weren’t even included in the lessons. It wasn’t until college that she fell under the spell of modern, expressive dance.

Looking for an adventure this summer? Explore the Central PA Tasting Trail and discover your new favorite ales, wine, cider, and beer!

In August 2022, Leah Mueller and Jared Yarnall-Schane purchased Singing Onstage, a long-time musical theater training program that offers classes to students ages 5 through 18.

Luke Cimbala has been hyping local bands all his life. “When I was in high school, we would rent out the Boalsburg Fire Hall to put on a concert, and I would stuff flyers in everyone’s lockers,” he said. “It was a long time before social media, but still, it wasn’t hard to get the word out.”

When most people hear IRONMAN, they probably think Robert Downey Jr. or maybe Black Sabbath or even Philadelphia Eagles’ Hall of Famer and the NFL’s last Iron Man, Chuck Bednarik. But for the next three years – and hopefully longer – IRONMAN will have a special meaning here in Happy Valley. Through 2025, nearly 3,000 ironmen and ironwomen will descend upon Happy Valley annually for the IRONMAN 70.3 Pennsylvania Happy Valley Triathlon.

For the more than 2,400 elite athletes that competed in the inaugural IRONMAN® 70.3® Pennsylvania Happy Valley triathlon, crossing the finish line at Beaver Stadium marked a moment of tremendous pride and personal accomplishment. Months and months of preparation and planning were followed by day-of determination and grit to achieve the goal of IRONMAN success. For first-time participants, it was a particularly noteworthy milestone.

The 57th Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts kicks off TODAY with our special Children and Youth Day from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. This day is devoted to young artists, young performers, and the young at heart. On this special day, young artists will be selling their wares at the Children and Youth Sidewalk Sale, with a record breaking 283 young artists ages 8 to 18.

Experience the excitement of Arts Fest at 3 Dots Downtown this Wednesday through Saturday. Enjoy captivating free puppetry performances, followed by paid puppetry workshops suitable for all ages. Explore the Artists' Market@ 3 Dots Downtown and discover the works of 15 talented local artists, makers, and musicians. Mark your calendars and join us for an unforgettable celebration of art, music, craftsmanship and more exciting events at 3 Dots Downtown this Wednesday - Saturday!

This summer, our community calendar is full of amazing outdoor events featuring local artists, dancers, musicians and food. Plan your summer vacations accordingly so you don’t miss out on the amazing festivals right here in Happy Valley!