BOALSBURG — After years away from its historic home, the People’s Choice Festival is returning to Boalsburg this summer, bringing with it the artists, food, music and family-friendly traditions that have made it a Centre County favorite for decades.
Set for July 9-12 at the Pennsylvania Military Museum grounds, the festival marks a homecoming many residents have eagerly anticipated.
“We’re just thrilled to be back in Boalsburg,” vice president of corporate operations for the People’s Choice Festival Diana Stapleford said. “The community has really rallied around us. We haven’t had a negative comment. It’s just been really exciting to have it back.”
Stapleford said local businesses, community leaders and volunteers have all helped make the return possible as organizers continue rebuilding the event while maintaining the traditions festivalgoers have come to love.
Artisans take center stage
At its heart, People’s Choice remains an arts festival.
Visitors will once again find talented artisans surrounding the festival grounds, showcasing handcrafted works from across Pennsylvania. From pottery and jewelry to woodworking, painting, photography and specialty crafts, the festival offers an opportunity to meet artists face-to-face and learn about the creative process behind their work.
Stapleford said attendees can expect the same high-quality artists that have long defined the event.
One unique feature returning this year is the youth artisan area, where young entrepreneurs ages 8 to 17 can sell their own creations.
“They come up with the neatest things,” Stapleford said. “They’re really very creative, and it gives them great experience as well.”
Festival food and local flavors
No festival would be complete without food, and People’s Choice plans to deliver plenty of it.
The popular food court returns with festival favorites and specialty offerings, while wineries will once again offer tastings for visitors looking to sample local flavors.
Stapleford said the event’s specialty food tent continues to be a major attraction, adding even more variety to an already impressive menu of options.
“We have the best festival foods,” she said. “There’s really something for everyone.”
Whether visitors arrive looking for a quick snack, a full meal or something sweet to enjoy while listening to music, they are unlikely to leave hungry.
Red, White and Blue Day celebrates America
As communities across the country commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, People’s Choice will add its own patriotic touch with Red, White and Blue Day on Saturday.
The first 1,000 festivalgoers will receive an American flag while families can participate in patriotic crafts, photo opportunities and activities throughout the day.
A special ceremony will honor local residents and veterans while featuring a ceremonial flag presentation and folding.
The celebration will also include a mini parade for children and a cake-cutting ceremony featuring two six-foot cakes provided by Delectable Delights.
“It’s really a way to celebrate our community and our country together,” Stapleford said.
Christmas comes early
One of last year’s biggest surprises is also making a return.
Christmas in July proved so popular during its debut that organizers quickly decided it needed an encore.
Visitors can once again step inside a holiday-themed tent, visit with Santa Claus, enjoy falling snow and take part in coloring contests and seasonal activities.
The difference this year? Even more snow.
“Last year the kids loved it,” Stapleford said. “The smiles on their faces and seeing them run through the snow in the middle of summer was really neat.”
Organizers expect Santa to return and there is even hope for another appearance from Buddy the Elf.
For children, it is a chance to experience Christmas magic six months early. For adults, it is a chance to rediscover a little of that childhood wonder.
Entertainment from start to finish
Music and entertainment will once again provide the soundtrack for the festival.
Continuous performances are scheduled throughout the weekend, giving visitors plenty of reasons to grab a seat, relax and enjoy the atmosphere.
Combined with the artisans, food vendors, family activities and special events, Stapleford believes the entertainment helps create a festival experience that appeals to all ages.
For first-time visitors, Stapleford hopes the experience leaves a lasting impression.
“I think they’ll come out with a smile on their face,” she said. “Whether you’re looking for art, food or entertainment, there’s something for families and there’s something for everyone.”
And after years away, that may be exactly what makes this year’s People’s Choice Festival feel like coming home.
