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.”

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!

The Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts will be an absolute feast for the senses! With a record-breaking number of participants on-hand, there will be a lot to see, do, and EAT!

Happy Valley’s vibrant arts and culture scene is one of the biggest draws for residents and visitors alike. State-of-the-art facilities for the performing arts draw popular tours for large-scale productions, theatre and dance troupes, musical acts of all varieties, comedians and more. From the big stage at Eisenhower Auditorium to a more intimate setting at The State Theatre, every year brings an array of diverse opportunities for all ages. The following is a select highlight of performing arts happening in the area:

The 2023 Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts is a celebration of creativity and artistic expression! Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of vibrant colors, captivating performances, and inspiring exhibitions. This year the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts is thrilled to introduce its Festival App, designed to enhance visitors' experience by providing up-to-date schedules, delicious food options, and exclusive artist highlights right at their fingertips.

“The Nittany Valley Running Club’s Arts Festival Races are the oldest races in Central Pennsylvania, so we are pleased to announce that after a brief hiatus, the 10-mile, 5K, and Kids Fun Run events will be returning this summer on a new site as the 45th Sue Crowe Memorial Arts Festival Races,” according to Pamela Snyder Etters, Executive Director of the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts.

It is time to start making your plans for the 57th Annual Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts, and it is now easier than ever to plan your trip! While the Festival’s paper guide is available in many local markets and shops as usual, the Festival is proud to announce the launch of a NEW MOBILE APP that will allow you to truly customize your festival experience, and make the most of your time!

CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE will be dazzling audiences in State College during its 7-week, 70-city U.S. tour this holiday season. Audiences from coast-to-coast will be captivated by this brilliant and whimsical holiday spectacular December 13 at the Bryce Jordan Center.