Pennsylvania offers a plethora of family-friendly festivals that go beyond the famous Hershey’s Chocolate World.
From cultural celebrations to historic fairs, these festivals promise unique experiences for families looking to explore the state’s diverse traditions and scenic landscapes.
Whether you’re interested in the arts, agriculture, or just good old-fashioned fun, Pennsylvania has something special for everyone.
Here are thirteen must-visit festivals that will delight kids and adults alike.
Kutztown Folk Festival
Step into a world of Pennsylvania Dutch culture at the Kutztown Folk Festival, a nine-day summer extravaganza celebrating tradition and community.
With quilt displays that dazzle in artistry, folk melodies that echo history, and horse-drawn rides that allure the young and old, this festival is a family favorite. Marvel at crafts and savor farm-fresh food in a setting that’s as educational as it is entertaining. Each corner of the festival captures the essence of Pennsylvania’s rich heritage.
Did you know? This festival is home to one of the largest gatherings of authentic Pennsylvania Dutch heritage activities.
Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival
Immerse yourself in the magical glow of the Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival held annually in Franklin Square. This spring or early summer event transforms the park into a wonderland of dazzling light sculptures and vibrant cultural performances.
Children and adults alike are captivated by the giant lanterns and enthralled by the skill of Chinese acrobats. Interactive art installations invite family participation, creating unforgettable memories. The festival is not just a visual feast but a cultural journey, highlighting traditions that span centuries.
Fun fact: These lanterns are meticulously handcrafted by artisans.
Clarion Autumn Leaf Festival
Held each October in the heart of Pennsylvania’s scenic forest region, the Clarion Autumn Leaf Festival blends colorful fall foliage with nine days of family festivities.
Highlights include a classic car show, carnival rides, craft vendors, a massive parade, and kid-friendly activities throughout town.
With crisp autumn air and a welcoming community vibe, it’s the perfect seasonal festival for families looking to enjoy Pennsylvania’s fall beauty beyond the big cities.
Bloomsburg Fair
Discover one of the East Coast’s largest fairs at the Bloomsburg Fair, where community spirit shines. Held each fall, this tradition offers carnival rides and farm animal exhibits alongside craft vendors and family-friendly food options.
From funnel cakes to homemade apple dumplings, the culinary delights are endless. Strolling the fairgrounds, visitors are treated to a vibrant mix of sights and sounds, celebrating both heritage and innovation.
Did you know? The Bloomsburg Fair dates back to 1855, making it a historic staple in Pennsylvania’s event calendar.
Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival
Travel back in time at the Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival, where history and fantasy blend seamlessly. Just outside Pittsburgh, this enchanting event invites families to meet knights and fairies, witness live combat shows, and explore a medieval-style village filled with archery and artisans.
A feast for the imagination, the festival offers turkey legs to savor and stories to inspire. With each visit, guests find new adventures awaiting.
Curious fact: This festival features one of the most authentic medieval reenactments in the region, captivating audiences year after year.
Groundhog Day Festival
Experience the whimsy of Pennsylvania’s Groundhog Day Festival in Punxsutawney, where Phil the groundhog predicts the weather.
Every February 2nd, families gather in Gobbler’s Knob to partake in this quirky winter celebration. Parades, crafts, and family-friendly festivities fill the day with laughter and traditions. The event is as charming as it is unique, offering a delightful escape in the heart of winter.
Fun fact: Groundhog Day has its roots in an ancient European celebration marking the halfway point between the winter solstice and spring equinox.
Kennett Square Mushroom Festival
Explore the world of fungi at the Kennett Square Mushroom Festival, held every September in the Mushroom Capital of the World.
This fall event invites families to enjoy kids’ cooking classes, mushroom-themed games, and a lively parade. Educational exhibits shed light on sustainable farming practices, offering a blend of fun and learning. Visitors can indulge in mushroom-inspired dishes, discovering new flavors and fascinating facts.
Did you know? Kennett Square produces over a million pounds of mushrooms annually, making it a significant contributor to the industry.
Maple Festival – Meyersdale
Celebrate the sweetness of spring at the Meyersdale Maple Festival. Held each March, this event features sap-boiling demonstrations, log-sawing contests, and wagon rides through picturesque landscapes.
Families can savor hearty Pennsylvania mountain food while learning about the art of syrup-making. The festival is a delightful blend of tradition and adventure, marking the end of winter with warmth and flavor.
Fun fact: Meyersdale is known as the “Maple Syrup Capital of Pennsylvania,” drawing visitors from near and far.
National Apple Harvest Festival
Indulge in the flavors of fall at the National Apple Harvest Festival in Biglerville, just outside Gettysburg.
Perfect for family trips, this two-weekend October event offers orchards, hayrides, pony rides, and blacksmithing demonstrations. Fresh apple cider and fragrant apple pies are just the beginning of the culinary delights. The festival captures the essence of autumn, blending tradition with entertainment.
Here’s a fun bit: The festival began in 1965 and has grown into one of the most cherished apple festivals in the nation.
Johnny Appleseed Festival
Held every fall in the small town of Sheffield in the Allegheny National Forest, this festival celebrates early American heritage with historical reenactments, chainsaw carving demos, lumberjack competitions, and — of course — plenty of apple-themed treats.
Kids can enjoy games, crafts, and old-fashioned activities, while parents soak up the rustic charm and scenic autumn surroundings.
It’s a perfect mix of education, entertainment, and outdoor adventure for the whole family.
Christmas Village
Tucked into the countryside of Bernville, Koziar’s Christmas Village is a beloved holiday tradition that has been lighting up the season since 1948.
What began as a private family display has grown into a spectacular walk-through attraction featuring over a million lights, themed displays, and festive scenes set around a scenic lake.
Families can explore Santa’s workshop, visit with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, walk through glowing tunnels, and enjoy hot cocoa as holiday music fills the air. It’s a nostalgic, heartwarming experience that captures the magic of Christmas for kids and adults alike.
Cherry Blossom Festival
The Cherry Blossom Festival in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park is a vibrant celebration of springtime beauty and Japanese culture. Visitors can enjoy thrilling taiko drumming performances, participate in intricate origami workshops, and witness elegant tea ceremonies. This event transforms one of the city’s most scenic parks into a hub of family-friendly activities.
Set against the backdrop of blooming cherry blossoms, the festival provides a unique opportunity to immerse in the tranquility and artistry of Japanese traditions. It’s an ideal event for families looking to explore cultural diversity while enjoying the natural beauty of Philadelphia.
Odunde Festival
Held each June in South Philadelphia, the Odunde Festival is one of the largest and longest-running African-American street festivals in the U.S.
It kicks off with a traditional Yoruba river blessing and spans several city blocks filled with music, dance, vendors, and food from across the African diaspora.
Families can enjoy live performances, cultural exhibits, and a welcoming community atmosphere that celebrates heritage, unity, and joy.