Central PA Festivals

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CENTRAL PA 4TH FEST

Celebrate the Fourth of July by attending one of the largest fireworks shows in the country! The Central Pennsylvania 4th Fest is a spectacular event with live bands, unlimited dancing, tethered hot air balloon rides, patriotic reenactments, a smorgasbord of food vendors, and a mind-blowing display of fireworks. Approximately 70,000 people from all over the country flock to central Pennsylvania to attend this celebration of independence. “Whenever my phone rings it’s not from State College,” laughs Bernie Keisling, executive director of the festival.

The Fourth of July gala in Centre County was not always grandiose. Indeed it began as a small carnival created by the Alpha firefighters in 1927. The State College Sunrise Kiwanis Club took over the celebration in 1978, subsequently giving the responsibility to Dan Barker and his family after a decade of ownership. By 2001, the celebration became too large for one family to handle. As a result, Central Pennsylvania July 4th, Inc., a non-profit organization, was formed to take over the reigns of one of the greatest shows in the country. Today over 10,000 volunteers manage the celebration.

The festivities kick off with the Firecracker 4K race beginning at 9 a.m. on Monday, July 4th. Both runners and walkers are welcome to join. The route is flat and winds through Penn State campus. Prizes will be awarded in seven different age groups. Prizes will also be awarded to the participants with the most patriotic costumes. Registration for the race will begin at 7:30 a.m. on the fourth.

The entertainment at the festival is limitless. “There are a number of new attractions,” claims Keisling. “We have a new tethered hot air balloon, tons of new musical acts on stage, a patriotic element before the fireworks which includes a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence, and singers and actors dressed in patriotic costumes from their time periods.” Other activities include storytelling, pyrotechnics demonstrations, apple pie contests, kids’ crafts, electric car races, presentations by a group of Special Olympians, and much more. The Bryce Jordan Center also hosts the Family Playground and the Tiki Rock Climb for kids of all ages.

The fireworks display begins at 9:20 p.m. on the Fourth. “Over 10,000 fireworks go off in 40 minutes. It’s one of the largest shows in the country,” Keisling fondly boasts of the show that he helps make a success each year. Visitors are expected to bring their own chairs and blankets to watch the spectacle. They are also advised to bring a radio to tune into 93.7 The Bus to hear music choreographed for the show. There is also a special viewing area for VIP members who wish to purchase tickets in advance. After the fireworks, visitors will be able to avoid the cumbersome traffic by dancing on the Left Stage where music and food will be provided.

Note: Visitors are expected to maintain flexibility and patience due to the construction of the new baseball stadium adjacent to the Bryce Jordan Center.

For more information visit their website at www.4thfest.org.