Upcoming events.
Grange Fair
Join us for the annual Grange Fair, a beloved tradition in Centre Hall that brings together community, culture, and creativity! Experience a week of fun-filled activities, including thrilling rides, delicious food, and engaging exhibits that showcase local crafts and agriculture. Enjoy live entertainment featuring talented performers, as well as family-friendly games and competitions. Don’t miss this chance to be part of a vibrant community event that captures the spirit of our region!
Chris Canterbury
Chris Canterbury
“When I sat down to write this project, I tried to present each topic as a straight-forward Saturday morning kitchen conversation. That’s how I approach songwriting and it’s worked for me for a long time” says Chris Canterbury, a Louisiana native singer-songwriter, now based in Nashville.
The project Canterbury is talking about is Quaalude Lullabies, a nine track collection of mostly sad songs that offers on-the-nose lyrical phrasing, subtlety loose production, and an honest insight into razor-edge topics like addiction, depression, and loneliness.
In what started as a thought experiment, Quaalude Lullabies was self-produced by Canterbury, his first opportunity to be on both sides of the control room window. “I wanted to woodshop a record together that felt like Nebraska,” says Canterbury. “I wanted it to be loose like a box of bedroom demo tapes, but cohesive enough to stand on its own. I feel like we ended up with a solid album.”
Who: Chris Canterbury
What: Concert
Where: The State Theatre
When: August 25, 2026
Chris Canterbury
“When I sat down to write this project, I tried to present each topic as a straight-forward Saturday morning kitchen conversation. That’s how I approach songwriting and it’s worked for me for a long time” says Chris Canterbury, a Louisiana native singer-songwriter, now based in Nashville.
The project Canterbury is talking about is Quaalude Lullabies, a nine track collection of mostly sad songs that offers on-the-nose lyrical phrasing, subtlety loose production, and an honest insight into razor-edge topics like addiction, depression, and loneliness.
In what started as a thought experiment, Quaalude Lullabies was self-produced by Canterbury, his first opportunity to be on both sides of the control room window. “I wanted to woodshop a record together that felt like Nebraska,” says Canterbury. “I wanted it to be loose like a box of bedroom demo tapes, but cohesive enough to stand on its own. I feel like we ended up with a solid album.”
Who: Chris Canterbury
What: Concert
When: August 25, 2026
Where: The State Theater
Tim Easton
Tim Easton
Consummate troubadour and songwriter Tim Easton wrote much of his new album beneath a painting of a red horse. The artwork—created by his sister, visual artist Susan Easton Burns—was executed in an abstract-realist style using gardening tools instead of paintbrushes, forming a vivid image out of fragmented strokes. It now serves as the cover art for fIREHORSE, Easton’s 14th commercially released record. Made with zero artificial intelligence, the album also arrives just as the Chinese calendar enters the Year of the (Fire) Horse—an apt coincidence given that Easton himself, born in 1966, is a Fire Horse.
“Whether the painting influenced the songs or the album was shaped to fit the painting makes no difference anymore,” Easton says. “The theme was decided on, and actions were taken to finish the project. If anything, I’m influenced more by my sister’s commitment to art than anything else.
The result is a personal collection of songs rooted in travel, love, accidents, perseverance, and the ongoing survival of a working songwriter. “One thing for sure is that this was conceived as an album,” he adds. “I like a collection with a theme, and if push comes to shove, the theme here is perseverance.”
Who: Tim Easton
What: Concert
Where: The State Theatre
When: September 4, 2026
Penn State Football vs. Marshall Herd
Penn State Football vs. Marshall Herd
Who: Penn State Football
What: Football
Where: Beaver Stadium
When: September 5, 2026
A Great Big World
A Great Big World
True to the meaning of its name, A Great Big World embodies the GRAMMY® Award-winning artistry of Ian Axel and Chad King. Over nearly 20 years of collaboration, the duo has garnered widespread recognition for their exceptional songwriting and creative partnerships, which have spanned across film, television, animation, and numerous critically acclaimed music releases. Their shared passion for musicals and the art of songcraft led to a deep creative connection when they first met at New York University in 2005.
In 2025, A Great Big World released their first collection of new music in years, beginning with the emotionally charged single “then there were sparks,” available across all streaming platforms. The track beautifully showcases the duo’s signature, melody-driven style, exploring themes of rediscovery and new beginnings. With its anthemic chorus—“then there were sparks, all around me, right where the end meets the start”—the song takes listeners on a reflective journey, igniting a sense of hope and renewal that only A Great Big World can evoke. Following this release, a five-track EP of the same name dropped on February 21st, 2025, featuring another powerful new song, “Go On.” To support the new project, the group embarked on a four-date mini-tour, performing at City Winery venues across the Northeast. The tour made stops in Boston, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., and New York.Who: A Great Big World
What: Concert
Where: The State Theatre
When: September 14, 2026
Lil Wayne 20+ Years of Carter Classics
Due to incredible demand, five-time GRAMMY award–winning rap icon Lil Wayne extends his North American tour celebrating more than 20 years of his groundbreaking Carter album series into 2026.
Smilo & the Ghost
Smilo & the Ghost
Dan Tyminski was six years old when his parents began taking him to fiddle contests, square dances, and bluegrass festivals across New England. For a young musician who would later become one of the biggest names in modern-day bluegrass, those early experiences were life changing.
“Watching live music always spoke to me much louder than sitting in front of my record player,” he remembers. “I loved it. Wherever music was being played, I wanted to go watch. Years later, I still feel that way.”
Throughout his 30+ year career, Tyminski has left his mark in every corner of modern music. His voice famously accompanies George Clooney’s performance of the Stanley Brothers’ classic song, “I Am A Man of Constant Sorrow,” in the film, Oh Brother, Where Art Thou? and his vocal collaboration with Swedish DJ Avicii on the song “Hey Brother” was a global smash, having been streamed more than a billion times to date. His diverse solo projects and years of work with Alison Krauss and Union Station have yielded troves of award-winning music.
Who: Smilo & the Ghost
What: Concert
When: September 18, 2026
Where: The State Theater
Come Back To Earth: Mac Miller Live Band Tribute
Come Back To Earth: Mac Miller Live Band Tribute
Dan Tyminski was six years old when his parents began taking him to fiddle contests, square dances, and bluegrass festivals across New England. For a young musician who would later become one of the biggest names in modern-day bluegrass, those early experiences were life changing.
“Watching live music always spoke to me much louder than sitting in front of my record player,” he remembers. “I loved it. Wherever music was being played, I wanted to go watch. Years later, I still feel that way.”
Throughout his 30+ year career, Tyminski has left his mark in every corner of modern music. His voice famously accompanies George Clooney’s performance of the Stanley Brothers’ classic song, “I Am A Man of Constant Sorrow,” in the film, Oh Brother, Where Art Thou? and his vocal collaboration with Swedish DJ Avicii on the song “Hey Brother” was a global smash, having been streamed more than a billion times to date. His diverse solo projects and years of work with Alison Krauss and Union Station have yielded troves of award-winning music.
Who: Come Back To Earth: Mac Miller Live Band Tribute
What: Concert
When: September 18, 2026
Where: The State Theater
Penn State Football vs. Buffalo Bulls
Penn State Football vs. Buffalo Bulls
Who: Penn State Football
What: Football
Where: Beaver Stadium
When: September 19, 2026
Kieran Kane & Rayna Gellert
Kieran Kane & Rayna Gellert
Kieran Kane’s seminal work in The O’Kanes and Kane Welch Kaplin, as well as co-founding the independent label Dead Reckoning Records, laid the foundation for the contemporary world of Americana music. A successful solo artist, collaborator, and songwriter (with songs recorded by Alan Jackson, John Prine, Emmylou Harris, and many more), Kieran is a musician’s musician: his playing is always understated, always groove-oriented, and always serving the song.
If Rayna Gellert seems a preternaturally gifted songwriter, it’s because she’s seen farther into the old songs than most. Growing up in a musical family, she turned to Appalachian old-time music at a young age, becoming a prodigious fiddler and leading a new revival of American stringband music through her work with the acclaimed roots band Uncle Earl. An in-demand collaborator, she has toured and recorded with artists such as Scott Miller, Abigail Washburn, Joachim Cooder, and Robyn Hitchcock.
Who: Kieran Kane & Rayna Gellert
What: Concert
When: September 20, 2026
Where: The State Theater
St. Paul & The Broken Bones
St. Paul & The Broken Bones
St. Paul & The Broken Bones are a powerhouse soul ensemble from Alabama known for their electrifying live shows and impassioned vocals. Formed in Birmingham in 2011, the band features Paul Janeway (vocals), Jesse Phillips (bass), Browan Lollar (guitar), Kevin Leon (drums), Al Gamble (keyboards), Allen Branstetter (trumpet), Chad Fisher (trombone), and Amari Ansari (saxophone).
Their new self-titled sixth album marks a creative renewal—melding the band’s adventurous spirit with a return to soulful, song-focused roots. Recorded at the legendary FAME Studios and produced by Eg White (Adele, Celine Dion), the record blends psych-funk grooves, gospel-tinged ballads, and cinematic rock flourishes. Tracks like “Sushi and Coca-Cola” and “Going Back” reflect both personal introspection and the band’s deepened identity after a decade of evolution.
Who: St. Paul & The Broken Bones
What: Concert
When: September 22, 2026
Where: The State Theater
TUSK The Classic Fleetwood Mac Tribute
TUSK The Classic Fleetwood Mac Tribute
No fancy tricks, no gimmicks, just five musicians recreating the music of Fleetwood Mac to perfection with note for note renditions that no other Fleetwood Mac tribute on the touring scene today can come close to duplicating. Authentic-sounding and always respectful, TUSK leaves no stone unturned in replicating the sounds of one of the world’s best loved, top-selling bands.
Playing hits and deep cuts spanning the careers of Rock N’ Roll Hall of Fame inductees Fleetwood Mac, TUSK has been crisscrossing the country since 2008 as The Classic Fleetwood Mac Tribute. Five pro musicians turned into masters of their trade through decades of individual music study, live performance, creative risk, and devotion to the art.
Who: TUSK The Classic Fleetwood Mac Tribute
What: Concert
Where: The State Theatre
When: September 25, 2026
Penn State Football vs. Wisconsin Badgers
Penn State Football vs. Wisconsin Badgers
Who: Penn State Football
What: Football
Where: Beaver Stadium
When: September 26, 2026
Splintered Sunlight
Splintered SUnlight
Formed in 1992, Splintered Sunlight has been captivating audiences with their authentic tribute to The Grateful Dead for decades. The band’s faithful following reflects their deep understanding of the improvisational traditions of The Grateful Dead.
Who: Splintered Sunlight
What: Concert
When: October 2, 2026
Where: The State Theater
The Second City
The Second City
Celebrating its 65th anniversary year, the world’s most influential name in comedy, The Second City, is thrilled to return to The State Theatre, in State College, PA with The Best of The Second City!
From the stages that launched icons like Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert, Steve Carell, Keegan-Michael Key, and so many more comes The Best of The Second City! This high-energy show blends our signature improv comedy with hilarious songs, classic characters, and timeless sketches - handpicked from our rich comedy archive, written by the world’s funniest minds, and reimagined by today’s boldest comedic voices. Step into the legacy that’s been redefining comedy for 65 years.
Who: The Second City
What: Comedy Show
When: October 8, 2026
Where: The State Theater
Penn State Football vs. USC Trojans
Penn State Football vs. USC Trojans
Who: Penn State Football
What: Football
Where: Beaver Stadium
When: October 10, 2026
"Weird Al" Yankovic Bigger & Weirder 2026 Tour
Weird Al brings his legendary full-production multimedia comedy rock show back to the concert stage with the BIGGER & WEIRDER 2026 Tour, playing his iconic hits as well as some never- performed-live-before fan favorites. Al’s long-time band is joined by four additional players to create a super-sized concert experience.
2026 PIAA State Golf Championships
Happy Valley welcomes the PIAA Golf Championships to Penn State Golf Courses for the fifth year! Watch Pennsylvania’s top high school golfers compete October 18–20, 2026.
John Mulaney Mister Whatever
Emmy Award-winning comedian John Mulaney announced he is adding new dates to his highly anticipated new stand-up comedy tour, John Mulaney: Mister Whatever. Mulaney brings his new tour to the Bryce Jordan Center in State College, PA on October 22, 2026.
MercyMe with Jeremy Camp and Tim Timmons + Sam Wesley
MercyMe with Jeremy Camp and Tim Timmons + Sam Wesley
MercyMe brings a night of music built for big stages and even bigger moments - the kind of show that feels different when thousands of voices join together. With an incredible lineup, you won’t want to miss MercyMe, Jeremy Camp, Tim Timmons, and Sam Wesley!
Who: MercyMe with Jeremy Camp and Tim Timmons + Sam Wesley
What: Concert
When: October 24, 2026
Where: Bryce Jordan Center
John Summit
John Summit-CTRL ESCAPE Arena Tour
Dance music powerhouse John Summit announced his North American CTRL ESCAPE arena tour is coming to the Bryce Jordan Center Friday, October 30! The tour will feature a new production concept that reflects Summit’s forward thinking approach, creating a larger than life atmosphere and immersive experience for this next era.
Who: John Summit
What: Concert
When: October 30, 2026
Where: Bryce Jordan Center
Penn State Football vs. Purdue Boilermakers
Penn State Football vs. Purdue Boilermakers
Who: Penn State Football
What: Football
Where: Beaver Stadium
When: October 31, 2026
Penn State Football vs. Minnesota Gophers
Penn State Football vs. Minnesota Gophers
Who: Penn State Football
What: Football
Where: Beaver Stadium
When: November 14, 2026
Penn State Football vs. Rutgers Scarlet Knights
Penn State Football vs. Rutgers Scarlet Knights
Who: Penn State Football
What: Football
Where: Beaver Stadium
When: November 21, 2026
Rothrock by UTMB
Rothrock by UTMB™
Rothrock by UTMB™ is the newest stop on the UTMB World Series and the second event on the Eastern side of the United States, joining Grindstone Running Festival by UTMB®. The inaugural edition will take place May 14-16, 2027 in Rothrock State Forest, just outside State College, Pennsylvania (Happy Valley).
The event features 50km and 25km distances that build on the legacy of the Rothrock Trail Challenge, established in 2009. That race became known for its rugged, community-driven atmosphere and its iconic tagline: “For those about to Rothrock, we salute you!” The 25km course continues along the classic Rothrock Trail Challenge route, while the new 50km course expands the adventure across even more of the forest’s wild terrain.
Working closely with the original race management team, UTMB World Series is committed to honoring Rothrock’s heritage while bringing a world-class trail running experience to the heart of Pennsylvania.
Who: UTMB
What: Trail Race
When: May 14-16, 2027
Where: Rothrock State Forest
The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys
The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys
In 10 years as a band, The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys have covered a lot of miles. Their love of bluegrass — playing it, sharing it, growing it — has been the fuel for their remarkable journey through every corner of America and into the hearts of fans drawn to their hard-charging, true-blue sound.
“We live what we play and sing about,” says bandleader C.J. Lewandowski. Indeed, the band has weathered their fair share of the highs and lows that bluegrass songs are known for (except for the murders, of course). They’ve been road-weary, longing for home. They’ve felt the heartbreak of band members leaving and embraced the joy of welcoming new ones. They’ve worked hard to see their dreams come true, playing on some of music’s most celebrated stages. And they’ve been nominated for a Grammy for Best Bluegrass Album (2019’s Toil, Tears & Trouble) and for the International Bluegrass Music Association’s Entertainer of the Year award.
Who: The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys
What: Concert
Where: The State Theatre
When: August 20, 2026
Dan Tyminski Band
Dan Tyminski was six years old when his parents began taking him to fiddle contests, square dances, and bluegrass festivals across New England. For a young musician who would later become one of the biggest names in modern-day bluegrass, those early experiences were life changing.
“Watching live music always spoke to me much louder than sitting in front of my record player,” he remembers. “I loved it. Wherever music was being played, I wanted to go watch. Years later, I still feel that way.”
Throughout his 30+ year career, Tyminski has left his mark in every corner of modern music. His voice famously accompanies George Clooney’s performance of the Stanley Brothers’ classic song, “I Am A Man of Constant Sorrow,” in the film, Oh Brother, Where Art Thou? and his vocal collaboration with Swedish DJ Avicii on the song “Hey Brother” was a global smash, having been streamed more than a billion times to date. His diverse solo projects and years of work with Alison Krauss and Union Station have yielded troves of award-winning music.
Who: Dan Tyminski Band
What: Concert
When: August 13, 2026
Where: The State Theater
MEN'S SLOW PITCH 35 & OVER USA SOFTBALL OF PA STATE TOURNAMENT
USA Softball wraps up summer with the Men’s Slow Pitch 35 & Over State Tournament on August 8 & 9, 2026, in Happy Valley!
For registration details, visit the official USA Softball of Pennsylvania tournament page.
First Friday
First Friday
Experience the cool vibe of downtown State College during our monthly First Friday events. A casual atmosphere features art, people-watching, mingling with friends, shopping, and dining at the diverse and delectable State College restaurants. First Friday goers will experience after-hours access to galleries and shops, free bites and beverages, live music, retail and restaurant specials, and more. And there's free parking in the Pugh, Fraser and Beaver garages with validations from participating merchants.
What: Live Music
Where: Downtown Improvement District
When: August 7, 2026
Market Jam
FIRST FRIDAY
In coordination with the Downtown Farmers Market, the DID will be sponsoring live, local music at the market on Locust Lane in conjunction with First Friday programming for the months of May through September. Stop by the Downtown Farmers Market between noon and 2pm and enjoy live music as you peruse the locally produced items!
What: Live Music
Where: Market on Locust Lane
When: August 7, 2026
MAD DOGS & ENGLISHMEN
Celebrate Joe Cocker’s groundbreaking live album and tour, MAD DOGS & ENGLISHMEN! Serving as a dedication to Joe Cocker and Leon Russell, the show will be recreated with a 20-piece band in similar style of the original tour including, for your delight, Cosmic Kiddies, English Roadies, Children with the Answers, Cooking Italians, Presidents of Recording Companies, Acrobatics and Displays, The Odd Sane Dog, The Space Choir, Assorted Sound Freaks, and All Elements of the Truth.
This event will feature guests and full choir, including all songs from the entire tour beyond those on the original album release, with large interpretations of songs by rock and soul greats including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Ray Charles, Otis Redding, Leonard Cohen, Traffic, Leon Russell, and more. Songs from the original tour include: “With a Little Help from My Friends,” “She Came in Through the Bathroom Window,” “Let It Be,” “Feelin’ Alright,” “Honky Tonk Women,” “Cry Me a River,” “Darling Be Home Soon,” “Delta Lady”, “The Letter”, and many other favorites.
MEN'S SLOW PITCH 45 & OVER USA SOFTBALL OF PA STATE TOURNAMENT
USA Softball returns to Happy Valley this summer with the Men’s Slow Pitch 45 & Over Tournament, happening August 3–4, 2025!
For registration details, visit the official USA Softball of Pennsylvania tournament page.
The Lone Bellow
With their upcoming sixth studio album, “What A Time To Be Alive” , The Lone Bellow embarks on a bold new chapter while honoring the deep bonds that have defined their journey. Written collaboratively for the first time with their full touring band—founding members Zach Williams,Brian Elmquist, and Kanene Pipkin joined by drummer Julian Dorio and multi-instrumentalist Tyler Geertsma—the album channels the raw, ecstatic energy of the band’s live show into a dynamic collection of songs that pulse with warmth, honesty, and human connection.Recorded live in Muscle Shoals, AL, after a writing retreat in a converted Kentucky firehouse,the album is both a celebration and a reckoning: of friendship, loss, love, and resilience. From the gritty, Stones-tinged opener “After The Rain” to the soul-stirring closer “What A Time To Be Alive,” the record captures the joy and vulnerability that have long defined The Lone Bellow’s sound—lush harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and genre-blurring arrangements steeped in folk, rock,and gospel.The album’s creation was marked by setbacks, including the theft of early recordings, but the outpouring of support from their fan base reaffirmed what the band has always known: their music is a shared experience.
Who: The Lone Bellow
What: Concert
Where: The State Theatre
When: July 26, 2026
Wilderness 101 Mountain Bike Race
A 101 mile & marathon distance backcounty mountain bike race in the Bald Eagle and Rothrock State Forests of PA. The course consists of singletrack, doubletrack, and fire roads with a bit of pavement. The Marathon course is slightly long at 70+ but without 3 very very large mountains that the Ultra loop has included, so with that in mind — it is a FAST 70+.
State Games of America
The State Games of America is the nation’s premier amateur multi-sport event, bringing together thousands of athletes from across the country to compete and celebrate the spirit of sport. Held every two years, the Games feature a wide range of sports and welcome participants of all ages and skill levels. Athletes represent their home states while experiencing high-level competition and a strong sense of community among participants, families, and fans.
In 2026, the State Games of America will be hosted in State College, Pennsylvania, highlighting the region’s top-tier facilities and vibrant sports culture. The Opening Ceremony will take place at the Bryce Jordan Center on July 31 at 7:30 PM, serving as a centerpiece moment during an already action-packed week of competition.
EagleMania
EagleMania has been dazzling audiences for over a decade by spectacularly reproducing the music of The Eagles. EagleMania thrills internationally sold-out audiences with their stunning five part harmony, virtuoso guitar work and uncanny ability to emulate the distinct sound of The Eagles. The EagleMania show consists of the Eagles’ greatest hits, as well as select Don Henley, Glenn Frey, and Joe Walsh solo efforts.
If you like The Eagles you simply must experience the world’s greatest Eagles Tribute, EagleMania!
Craig Finn & Patterson Hood
Craig Finn is a Minnesota-bred singer/songwriter based in New York City, best known as the singer of The Hold Steady. Finn spent the ’90’s leading Minneapolis indie band Lifter Puller, which released 3 albums and an EP. After relocating to New York, he joined with Lifter Puller member Tad Kubler to form The Hold Steady in 2003. The Hold Steady quickly achieved critical acclaim and a worldwide fanbase with their unique pairing of dense lyrical narratives with big rock guitars. The Hold Steady’s ninth album, The Price Of Progress, was released in March 2023, commemorating the band’s 20th Anniversary.
Craig Finn released his 6th solo album Always Been on April 4. Produced by Adam Granduciel (The War On Drugs), the album features musical performances by Granduciel and members of The War on Drugs, Kathleen Edwards, Sam Fender, and more.
Who: Craig Finn & Patterson Hood
What: Concert
Where: The State Theatre
When: July 11, 2026
Firecracker Frenzy
14U and 16/18U tournament in State College on July 11-12, 2026 at the Oak Hall Softball Complex! Rings for 1st! Medals for 2nd! USA Sanctioned Umpires. Concessions and indoor bathroom facilities. Eight teams per division. Spots fill quick!
People’s Choice Festival 2026
Join us for the People's Choice Festival in Centre Hall, a delightful celebration of local art, crafts, and community spirit! This annual festival features a vibrant marketplace filled with handcrafted goods from talented artisans, live music performances, and delicious food from local vendors. Attendees can enjoy interactive workshops, family-friendly activities, and the chance to vote for their favorite artists and crafters, making this festival a true celebration of creativity and community engagement.
The Travelin’ McCourys
From a source deep, abundant, and pure the river flows. It’s there on the map, marking place and time. Yet, the river changes as it remains a constant, carving away at the edges, making new pathways, gaining strength as it progresses forward. The Travelin’ McCourys are that river.
The McCoury brothers—Ronnie (mandolin) and Rob (banjo)—were born into the bluegrass tradition. Talk about a source abundant and pure: their father, Del, is among the most influential and successful musicians in the history of the genre. Years on the road with Dad in the Del McCoury Band honed their knife-edge chops and encouraged the duo to imagine how traditional bluegrass could cut innovative pathways into 21st century music.
Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts
Experience the vibrant creativity of the community at the State College Arts Fest, a celebration of visual and performing arts that brings together artists, musicians, and art lovers from all over. This annual event features a diverse array of art displays, live performances, interactive workshops, and local food vendors, making it a perfect outing for families and friends. Stroll through the festival streets lined with unique artworks, enjoy captivating performances, and participate in hands-on activities that spark your own creativity.
The Fretliners
The Fretliners are a band defined by their songwriting—stories carried by powerful harmonies, dynamic arrangements, and a sound that feels both timeless and new. Their music leans into the tradition of acoustic string instruments but reaches well beyond genre, resonating with listeners through honesty and craft.
In 2023, they swept both the Telluride Bluegrass and RockyGrass band competitions—an achievement matched only once before. That fall, their debut self-titled album earned widespread acclaim, praised for its originality and heartfelt lyricism.
Who: The Fretliners
What: Concert
Where: The State Theatre
When: July 7, 2026
Central PA 4th Fest
The 22nd annual Firecracker 4K run/walk kicks off the Central Pa 4thFest's day long celebration of our nation's birthday. Last year 776 runners/walkers kicked off the day long celebration of America's birthday. This year's race will once again be run on the beautiful Penn State main campus starting near Beaver Stadium located on the east side of campus. Don your most patriotic apparel and join in the fun. Following the race return later in the day with your friends and family to enjoy other 4th Fest activities capped off with one of the fireworks show.
52nd Annual Miller High Life Softball Tournament
52nd Annual Miller High Life Softball Tournament
The Miller High life Softball Tournament is back in Centre County for it’s 52nd year! The tournament will feature 32 teams participating in slow pitch softball at Oak Hall. Prizes will be awarded to winning teams of each bracket! For details on registration, please visit the Centre Region Parks & Recreation tournament page below.
Who: 52nd Annual Miller High Life Softball Tournament
What: Men’s Softball
When: July 4-5, 2026
Where: Oak Hall & John Hess Complex
Booking links for hotel blocks will be available soon!
Scholar State college by hilton
Dates Available: July 3-4, 2026
Phone Number: 814-778-0300
The penn stater hotel & conference center
Dates Available: July 3-4, 2026
Phone Number: 814-863-5000
Graduate by hilton state college
Dates Available: July 3-4, 2026
Phone Number: 814-231-2100
2026 AJGA Boys Junior All-Star at Toftrees
Get ready for an exciting week of elite junior golf competition at Toftrees Golf Resort! The 2026 AJGA Boys Junior All-Star at Toftrees will take place June 30 – July 3, 2026, featuring some of the nation’s top young golfers.
This four-day tournament showcases highly talented golfers ages 12–15 competing at a high level as they continue developing their skills and pursuing future collegiate golf opportunities. The American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) is dedicated to helping young athletes grow both on and off the course through competitive junior golf.
Big Time Hoops PENN STATE “LIVE” TUNE-UP
Get ready for the “LIVE” period with the Penn State LIVE Tune-Up tournament. This event is open to all teams and is the perfect opportunity to sharpen your skills and prepare for the upcoming recruiting showcase season. All games under one roof at the Nittany Valley Sports Centre. Teams are encouraged to register and book hotels early as this event will attract teams from 7+ states.
Béla Fleck, Edmar Castañeda, Antonio Sánchez Trio
To be sure, the new all-star trio of Béla Fleck, harpist Edmar Castañeda and drummer Antonio Sánchez features instrumentation that might safely be called uncommon. Unless, of course, you’re already familiar with 19-time Grammy-winner Fleck — the genre-blurring virtuoso who has done more to expand the possibilities of the banjo than any other player in the instrument’s history. From his bluegrass beginnings through his otherworldly Flecktones, his duo with Chick Corea and his reimagining of Rhapsody in Blue, Fleck’s work never fails to surprise. What doesn’t surprise is the impeccable caliber of his collaborators — and this new trio includes two of the most gifted musicians of their generation. The harpist, Castañeda, hails from Bogotá, Colombia, and has led his own bands in addition to sharing projects with such masters as Hiromi, Paquito D’Rivera and Grégoire Maret. 5-time Grammy-winner Sánchez grew up in Mexico City and built a reputation as one of the great jazz drummers through his work with guitarist Pat Metheny. He’s also been a visionary bandleader, helming progressive groups like Bad Hombre, and collaborated with Chick Corea, Gary Burton, Charlie Haden, Michael Brecker and other giants. His Golden Globe-nominated drum-set score for Alejandro González Iñárritu’s 2014 film Birdman earned him renown far outside the jazz world.
16&U, 18&U USA SOFTBALL OF PA GIRL'S FAST PITCH INVITATIONAL TOURNAMENT
16&U, 18&U USA SOFTBALL OF PA GIRL'S FAST PITCH INVITATIONAL TOURNAMENT
USA Softball is returning to Happy Valley with their 16&U and 18&U PA Girl’s Fast Pitch Invitational Tournament from June 26-28, 2026! For information on registration, please see the official USA Softball of Pennsylvania tournament page. Hotel blocks for this event will be available soon!
Who: 16&U, 18&U USA Softball of PA Girl’s Fast Pitch Invitational Tournament
What: Softball
Where: Oak Hall & John Hess Complex
When: June 26-28, 2026
Booking links for hotel blocks will be available soon!
See below for hotel options to stay close to the fields:
The Penn Stater hotel & Conference Center
Dates Available: June 25-27, 2026
Phone Number: 814-863-5000
Country inn & suites state college
Dates Available: June 25-27, 2026
Phone Number: 814-234-6000
Springhill suites by mariott state college
Dates Available: June 25-27, 2026
Phone Number: 814-867-1807
COmfort Suites State college
Graduate by Hilton state college
Dates Available: June 25-27, 2026
Phone Number: 814-231-2100
Fairfield by mariott inn & suites state college
Dates Available: June 25-27, 2026
Phone Number: 814-238-3871
Group Code: USSP
Jim Lauderdale & The Game Changers
Jim Lauderdale embodies the sound of American roots music for listeners around the world. A 2025 inductee into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, Lauderdale will release his 38th and 39th albums in 2026: Country Super Hits Volume 2 and a bluegrass collection, The Birds Know. His major label debut, 1991’s Planet of Love, opened the door to international touring and established him as an A-list songwriter on Music Row
Who: Jim Lauderdale & The Game Changers
What: Concert
Where: The State Theatre
When: June 20, 2026
TOBYMAC with Zach Williams, Seph Schlueter & Jamie MacDonald
8 cities. 1 summer. When TOBYMAC rolls in, it’ll feel like the hottest event of the season.
USSSA Happy Valley Father’s Day Hitfest
The USSSA Happy Valley Father’s Day Hitfest is an annual fastpitch softball tournament around Father’s Day Weekend. It features youth teams in the 16U-18U age divisions competing at Hess Fields and Oak Hall Regional Park.
The Wood Brothers
Dubbed “masters of soulful folk” by Paste, The Wood Brothers formed after brothers Chris and Oliver Wood pursued separate musical careers for 15 years. Chris already had legions of devoted fans for his incomparable work as one-third of Medeski Martin & Wood, while Oliver’s band King Johnson built a loyal following in the South. With drummer Jano Rix added as a permanent third member, The Wood Brothers have evolved into one of roots music’s most revered acts, playing sold out shows across North America, garnering a Grammy Award nomination and releasing nine studio albums, including their forthcoming release, Puff of Smoke, out August 1.
Alicia Blue
Alicia Blue’s path to music didn’t follow a straight line. Born along the San Bernardino line in California and raised between Southern California and South Texas, she grew up between cultures, rhythms, and stories—mariachi on her dad’s stereo, West Coast soul in her headphones, and notebooks full of poetry in her backpack. Music wasn’t the plan, but life had other ideas. A chance run-in with an aging soul singer changed everything—he saw something in her, and she leaned in. The poems turned into songs, and the guitar—barely more than a few chords at the time—became her tool for survival and connection.
She played her first open mic in 2016, armed with heart and raw talent. Just a few years later, “Magma,” one of her earliest songs, landed on Starbucks’ flagship Spotify playlist and played in stores around the world. Word started to spread: there was something different about this voice. Honest. Haunting. Unafraid.
Who: Alicia Blue
What: Concert
Where: The State Theatre
When: June 15, 2026
Outdoor Adventure On Tap
Get ready for Outdoor Adventure On Tap, where the best of Bellefonte’s outdoor adventure scene meets the region’s craft beverage and food culture!
This free-admission event blends the excitement of the Outdoor Adventure Expo with the flavors of the Central PA Tasting Trail, creating the ultimate summer gathering. Explore Bellefonte’s natural beauty and learn from expert-led outdoor workshops on kayaking, fly fishing, trail running, hiking and more. Stroll through a diverse selection of regional vendors, makers, and nonprofits showcasing outdoor gear, crafts, and adventure experiences.