Some traditions simply belong in a certain place.
For thousands of residents across Centre County and visitors from around Pennsylvania, the People's Choice Festival has always been more than an arts and crafts festival—it's a summer tradition, a family reunion, and a celebration of the creativity and community spirit that make Boalsburg so special.
This summer, that tradition comes full circle as the People's Choice Festival returns home to Boalsburg, bringing artists, musicians, delicious food, and family fun back to the grounds of the Pennsylvania Military Museum, where the festival built its reputation for nearly three decades. (StateCollege.com)
A Festival Built by Pennsylvania Artists
Founded in 1993, the People's Choice Festival was created with a simple mission: to showcase the incredible talent of Pennsylvania artists and craftsmen while creating an event that families could enjoy together. Over the years, it grew into one of Central Pennsylvania's most anticipated summer traditions, attracting thousands of visitors each July. (ZAPPlication)
For its first 28 years, Boalsburg was home. The festival became part of the community's identity before relocating to the Grange Fairgrounds in Centre Hall in 2022. While the event continued, many longtime attendees felt something was missing. Organizers noticed attendance decline and believed the festival had lost some of the unique atmosphere that made it special. (StateCollege.com)
Coming Home to Boalsburg
After several years away, organizers made the decision to bring the festival back to where so many memories were made.
As festival co-director John Madison shared, Boalsburg wasn't simply a venue—it was a place where people gathered, reunited with friends, and experienced a welcoming community atmosphere. The return is about reconnecting with those roots and restoring the festival's unique character. (StateCollege.com)
For many local residents, the announcement felt less like a move and more like a homecoming.
What You Can Expect This Year
From July 9–12, the Pennsylvania Military Museum grounds will once again come alive with creativity and entertainment. Festival-goers can enjoy:
- More than 200 artists and craft vendors
- Live music and entertainment throughout the weekend
- Specialty food vendors and food courts
- Winery offerings
- Children's activities
- Interactive educational exhibits
- Family-friendly entertainment
- Shopping featuring handcrafted Pennsylvania art and gifts (PA Bucket List)
Special features this year include:
- Christmas in July, complete with Santa returning for festive family fun.
- Red, White & Blue Day on Saturday, celebrating America's 250th anniversary with patriotic activities for all ages. (People's Choice Festival)
Whether you're searching for handcrafted pottery, fine artwork, jewelry, woodworking, photography, specialty foods, or simply looking to spend a summer afternoon with family, there's something for everyone.
More Than a Festival
Events like the People's Choice Festival remind us why so many people love living in Boalsburg.
This isn't just a beautiful historic village located minutes from State College and Penn State University—it's a community where traditions are preserved, neighbors come together, and local businesses thrive.
Throughout the year, Boalsburg hosts beloved events such as:
- A Day in Towne
- Memorial Day commemorations
- Hometown Christmas
- Farmers markets
- Community celebrations
- Local historical events
These gatherings create the small-town atmosphere that makes Boalsburg one of Centre County's most desirable places to call home.
Why This Matters to Our Community
The return of the People's Choice Festival is also an economic boost for the region. The festival attracts visitors who stay in local hotels, dine at area restaurants, shop at local businesses, and explore everything that Happy Valley has to offer, benefiting the entire community. (StateCollege.com)
It's another reminder that Boalsburg continues to be a destination where history, culture, and community come together.
Join the Celebration
If you've never attended the People's Choice Festival, this is the perfect year to experience it. And if you've been attending for years, you'll understand why so many people are excited to see it return to its historic home.
Mark your calendar for July 9–12 and spend a day exploring local art, enjoying live entertainment, tasting great food, and celebrating one of Boalsburg's most cherished traditions. Festival details, schedules, and updates are available through the official People's Choice Festival website. (People's Choice Festival)
