2021 has been declared the International Year of Caves and Karst by the United Nations, and local cave enthusiasts say it’s none too soon. After all, about 20% of the earth’s land surface is affected by karst—slowly dissolving rocks that create landforms such as sinkholes, ridges, fissures, and most famously, caves. This year, theInternational Union of Speleology, along with caves all over the world, will be celebrating these unique landforms and spreading knowledge about how we can all enjoy and help preserve them for the next generation.

Pennsylvania's Ultimate Haunted Experience

Experience triple terror and triple fun during Fridays and Saturdays in October with Lincoln Caverns Ghosts and Goblins tour. Get the scare of your life with haunted caves, trails and hayride.

Every tailgate in Happy Valley has their specialties and go-to dishes, but if you are looking to change it up this year there are dozens of options for takeout and catering across State College. Not only is the food great — but by picking up delicious dishes locally or having your tailgate catered, you’re already winning by giving yourself more free time to enjoy the tailgate party.

Several members of the Pennsylvania Caves Association (PCA), the statewide organization that represents show caves located throughout the state, have announced their plan to offer a special discount program to school students and their immediate family members once these attractions are permitted to reopen in 2020.

If you’re looking for the classic Happy Valley vibe that you remember from your college or otherwise younger days, you can still find it at one of the area’s many local bed and breakfasts, inns and other locally-owned and run accommodations options.

There is no shortage of cozy, local coffee shops for Happy Valley to enjoy. Whether you’re strolling the streets of downtown, dropping in on your way to work or sharing a leisurely Saturday morning with a friend, you’ll have plenty of cafes to choose from!