Downtown State College came alive on Saturday, July 26, as more than 250 cyclists competed in the inaugural State College Criterium, hosted by the Happy Valley Sports & Entertainment Alliance. The event, sanctioned by USA Cycling, also served as the Pennsylvania State Championship for Elite and Masters categories.

Pennsylvania Sportsmhas announced new additions to its Executive Committee, bringing fresh leadership and experience to the statewide sports tourism organization. Danielle Vincenti, Director of Business Development at the Hershey Harrisburg Sports & Events Authority was elected the new Chair of PA Sports. Alongside her, HVSEA’s Executive Director, Eric Engelbarts will serve as the treasurer.

The 2024–25 fiscal year was a major win for sports tourism in Happy Valley. Over the 12-month span, the region hosted events that brought in 24,000+ athletes and 58,000+ spectators, resulting in an estimated 37,000 hotel room nights and over $20 million in direct visitor spending. Altogether, the total estimated economic impact surpassed $29 million.

The Hoppy Valley Brewers Fest returns to State College on Saturday, July 19, 2025, and this year’s entertainment lineup is bringing the perfect mix of nationally recognized talent and local favorites. Headlining the festival is acclaimed singer-songwriter Channing Wilson, known for his raw, soulful sound and songwriting credits with artists like Luke Combs and Travis Tritt. His powerful storytelling and Southern roots promise a set you won’t forget.

This exciting new event will bring high-level cycling to the heart of town, with the fast-paced format of a criterium race providing non-stop action for both participants and spectators. Unlike traditional long-distance cycling events, criteriums take place on short, closed-loop courses—perfect for urban centers like State College. Riders will complete numerous laps of a 0.7-mile circuit that winds through downtown streets, including East Beaver Avenue, South Pugh Street, East Foster Avenue, and South Garner Street.

The Hoppy Valley Brewers Fest returns on Saturday, July 19, 2025. This year, the festival will be held at the Porter North Lot on Penn State’s campus, just steps from Beaver Stadium, creating a relaxed, tailgate-style atmosphere.

Happy Valley is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts — the hardest part is deciding what to do. Whether it’s hiking, biking, paddling, rock climbing, or birdwatching, Centre County offers it all, often just minutes from downtown State College.

The Happy Valley Sports & Entertainment Alliance (HVSEA) is now hiring interns for Fall 2025, and this is your chance to be part of something exciting happening right here in Centre County. Are you passionate about sports, live events, or bringing people together through unforgettable experiences? We’re looking for motivated, creative, and community-minded students who are ready to gain real-world experience in the sports and entertainment world.

The excitement of race day isn't just for the pros! As part of the high-speed action of the State College Criterium on Saturday, July 26, young cyclists will get their chance to shine in the Kids’ Race — a FREE and fun event that puts little riders on the big stage.

Summer in Happy Valley is packed with exciting events. From fast-paced bike races and lively beer festivals to top-level junior golf tournaments. Behind each of these memorable experiences is a dedicated team of volunteers who make it all possible. None of these events would be possible without the incredible support of our volunteers. Your time, energy, and enthusiasm help bring these experiences to life—whether you're guiding athletes, assisting guests, or working behind the scenes.

Despite a rainy Father’s Day, more than 1,000 athletes and hundreds of cheering fans filled Penn State’s campus for the third annual IIRONMAN 70.3 Happy Valley on June 15, 2025. The event challenged participants with a 70.3-mile course, starting with a 1.2-mile swim at Foster Sayers Reservoir, followed by a 56-mile bike ride and a 13.1-mile run through campus.

On May 18, the Rothrock Trail Challenge returned to the rugged trails of Rothrock State Forest for the 13th consecutive year. Drawing runners from 11 states, including as far west as Colorado, participants tackled one of Pennsylvania’s toughest races.

Happy Valley’s IRONMAN 70.3 race has earned national recognition, ranking third in Overall Satisfaction among all North American races in the 2024 Ironman Athletes’ Choice Awards.

A new project, 814 Originals, is celebrating Centre County’s vibrant music scene by pairing original local acts with unique downtown venues. The project kicked off with a concert and music video premiere at The State Theatre. 814 Originals is a collaboration between the Happy Valley Sports & Entertainment Alliance and Spaces in Between Productions.

Downtown State College came alive on May 14 as the 814 Originals took over The State Theatre for a night of homegrown music, original stories, and powerful performances. The event, organized by the Happy Valley Sports & Entertainment Alliance, wasn’t just a concert, it was a celebration of Centre County’s lively music scene.