BELLEFONTE — Downtown Bellefonte came alive with creativity, community spirit, and small business pride during First in the Fonte, a free community event that was held on Saturday, April 4, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The event featured local vendor pop-ups both inside participating businesses and along Spring Street and Bishop Street, transforming downtown Bellefonte into a vibrant marketplace. Attendees explored a wide variety of local goods, baked treats, and participated in hands-on make-and-take activities.
Food trucks were stationed in the church parking lot on South Penn Street, offering a range of options for visitors throughout the day. Live music was also part of the experience, with Walkney performing a special acoustic set on the Belle Mercantile patio.
Participating businesses included Monarch Salon, Belle Mercantile, Shaky Hands, Elisabeth Joseph Jewelers, The Great Mish Mosh, Print Factory, Smith and Front, Helen Foxx, The Governor’s Pub, Elizabeth Henry / Lizzy’s Toy Box, Every Season Home and Living, Jabebo Studio, Plaza Bellefonte and Bellefonte Brick Studio.
First in the Fonte is sponsored by Downtown Bellefonte Inc., the Bellefonte Intervalley Area Chamber of Commerce, the Happy Valley Adventure Bureau, and Historic Bellefonte Inc., all working together to highlight the importance of supporting local businesses and fostering a strong, connected community.
“Small businesses are the backbone of Bellefonte — they keep our streets alive, our neighbors employed, and our sense of community strong,” said Staci Egan, owner of Smith and Front and one of the event’s organizers. “When you choose to support a local shop, you’re not just making a purchase; you’re investing in the people, the history, and the future of the town itself. First in the Fonte is a celebration of that.”
