The State College 4th Fest is a vibrant, full-day celebration of Independence Day that blends small-town charm with large-scale entertainment, drawing thousands to Centre County. The festivities kick off bright and early with the Firecracker 4K run/walk through the Penn State campus, followed by a car show near Medlar Field, where classic and muscle cars gleam under the summer sun. A patriotic parade then winds through the streets, honoring first responders, veterans, and community groups, filling the air with flag-waving enthusiasm and applause. Throughout the day, live music reverberates from multiple stages, while food trucks and vendors offer a tempting array of treats, from funnel cakes to BBQ. Families can explore engaging activity zones, games, and interactive displays, ensuring smiles for all ages. As dusk descends, the main event takes center stage: a spectacular fireworks display, consistently rated among the best in the nation, that lights up the night sky in a breathtaking, synchronized show set to a patriotic soundtrack, creating an unforgettable capstone to a day brimming with community pride and celebration.
The official 4thFest website can be found here.
4th of July Events
