For the last four years, Millheim has been organizing events that highlight the arts and music. This year, the organizing folks of the Valley Community Business Alliance (VCBA) are kicking off the Route 45 Getaways event that runs from July 26th to August 4th with events focused on the first weekend on July 27th and 28th in Millheim during their SummerFest.

“Every year we are evolving the processes and working to build upon what we did last year in Millheim. We’re highlighting the venues of the Elk Creek Cafe + Aleworks and their Creekside stage, the Millheim Hotel, and Pisano’s Winery. As usual, we’ll have some artist vendors, but this year we have some nonprofits to provide information and some activities,” Robert Zeigler, current VCBA President, stated. He continued, “With this event, it’s our kickoff of the Route 45 Getaways, which is a wonderful event that goes from Aaronsburg to Pine Grove Mills. This year, we added a few more businesses to the route, while a few are on hiatus this year and will be coming back next year due to travel and wedding plans that various owners have planned this year.”

“Doing something above and beyond our normal routine is great for business. We love getting local support, but any time we can get more people in, it helps show what the town has to offer. Working together to help strengthen that sense of community is a great feeling." Andy Pisano, owner of Pisano’s Winery stated.

The SummerFest will have its event on July 27th from 11AM to 8PM and on July 28th from 11AM to 5PM, although some businesses may keep the show going on.

The East Penns Valley Library will be selling books out of the Millheim Fire Hall to raise some funds and the Millheim Pool will be open as well if people need to beat the heat.

Regarding Route 45 Getaways, a multitude of businesses will be doing a lot of different things, whether it’s tours, workshops, music, or different menus, there is something for everyone from July 26th to August 4th.

“We want to continue to grow the work that we do as a group so it’s great to get more businesses involved. If we continue to build on the Route 45 Getaways event, we’ll be able to help support these local businesses, which are the backbone of our local economy,” said Lew Bryson, local author and VCBA member. “Highlighting a few places with good food and drink is a nice perk,” Lew added.

For More Information

If you are interested in participating or want more details, email welovethevalley@gmail.com or follow Millheim Area Events on Facebook. They are already taking inquiries for next year!