Don't let the pride in Penn State sports fool you--Happy Valley also boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, thanks to university-based resources and a local culture that promotes creativity and appreciates and fosters talent in arts. The area is a regular stopping point for major acts, including musicians, comedians and production tours thanks to local venues on campus and in the community.

Come out to Tempest Studios this December and January! There are many events beginning in December, Winter Classes start in January, and we hope to see you in the studio over the holiday season.

The Columbus Chapel and Boal Mansion Museum in Boalsburg will kick off the Christmas season this weekend December 2 – 4 with three must-experience family friendly events!

Central Pennsylvania Institute of Science and Technology (CPI) culinary arts student Lucas Hackney has big plans for his future. The 17-year-old, who also attends Bellefonte Area High School, will follow his dream of owning his own field-to-fork restaurant one day by studying the culinary arts at Pennsylvania College of Technology.

In early 2023, the Palmer Museum of Art at Penn State will begin a phased transition as it prepares to move from its existing building into its new facility currently under construction at the Arboretum. The changeover will start in January with the closing of the museum’s second floor and a major reinstallation of the first-floor galleries before the final closure of the current building on May 14, 2023. The new museum will open to the public in spring 2024.

Looking for your next adventure?

Explore Centre County with the 2022-2023 Central PA Tasting Trail! Get your passport and travel through Centre County experiencing the wine, beer and spirits that our local businesses have to offer.

Maris operates Local Historia along with partner (and fellow school teacher ) Dustin Elder. Local Historia is an educational platform that focuses on “engaging content, walking tours, and other unique experiences,” including “History Pub” — an evening of cocktails and historical conversation at Big Springs Spirits, and an annual “Spooky Speakeasy,” with ghost stories at the Gamble Mill

Black Friday marks the official start to holiday shopping, and Small Business Saturday, held each year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, reminds us to support local businesses by shopping small. On Saturday, November 26, find special promotions and discounts at many businesses in downtown Bellefonte.

Come experience a 1940’s Pennsylvania Christmas at the Pennsylvania Military Museum! Swing into the holiday season with music and learn about how soldiers and their families found holiday cheer. Kids of all ages can get their photos taken with Santa and enjoy crafts and music.