Happy Valley has been rooted in agriculture for generations, and Centre County’s small farms keep some traditions growing. But you don’t need your own plot of land to embrace the region’s agrarian history. Happy Valley Agventures has picked a few spring and early summer events that will appeal to everyone from hardy homesteaders to DIY late bloomers.

Ask a local about outdoor fun in Happy Valley, and it won’t take very long before they tell you to head out to Tussey Mountain Ski and Recreation. There’s a good reason. There’s something to do all year round.

Tussey, Nittany, Bald Eagle – Six mountains and the Allegheny Front traverse Happy Valley. All provide excellent opportunities to view picturesque valleys from constructed or happenstance vistas. Vistas can be hard-earned at the end of a rugged hike or a beautiful view that you discover while driving around the county.

The Outdoor Adventure Expo, a free-admission event organized and hosted by Downtown Bellefonte, Inc., highlights the easily accessible natural assets and resources of Bellefonte and the surrounding area by bringing together a dynamic showcase of more than 60 vendors and organizations. This year’s expo is scheduled from noon-5 PM on May 21 at Talleyrand Park.

The new building for the Palmer Museum of Art at Penn State, which is currently under construction, will feature a site-specific art installation by internationally acclaimed artist Dale Chihuly. Commissioned in honor of Penn State President Emeritus Eric Barron and his wife Molly Barron, and funded through the generosity of donors, Lupine Blue Persian Wall will anchor the feature staircase in the Museum’s new 71,254-square-foot facility, slated to open to the public in spring 2024. The large-scale installation spans over 13 feet tall and 35 feet wide and comprises 22 glass forms in Penn State’s classic blue and white, accented with golden yellows and vibrant reds. This stunning work will be a notable addition to the Palmer Museum’s growing permanent collection.

For the last several years, Happy Valley Restaurant Week (the revamped take on the prior Happy Valley Culinary Week) has delighted Centre County residents and visitors alike with can’t-miss culinary offerings from the region’s best restaurants. This year’s event is slated for June 16-25. Mark your calendars — you don’t want to miss what’s in store.

After Sarah Anne Wharton graduated from Juniata College, she launched to Maine, New Mexico and Brooklyn, New York, never expecting to land back in Central Pennsylvania. Today, she proudly calls herself a Happy Valley local. She’s a champion for the area’s unique mix of outdoor adventure, vibrant research and — as communications specialist for the Palmer Museum of Art — art for everyone.

Happy Valley Agventures invites you to visit our fields, farms, farm stands and farm stores to experience first-hand what we grow, create and craft. Whether you are looking for a weekend stay on a farm, goat yoga, locally made ciders and wines, or just some great shopping, check out these awesome places in Happy Valley:

Whether it's your first time at Penn State or you are a regular, Penn State and the Happy Valley community provide an experience unlike any other. Our bucket list covers some of the spots that make up the quintessential Penn State Experience.