Plan Your Visit: Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts at Penn State in 2025

By Robert JohnsonLast Updated April 17, 2025

Introduction: What Is the Penn State Arts Fest?

The Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts -commonly called
Arts Fest
-is a major annual event held in State College and on the Penn State University Park campus. In 2025, the festival will take place from Wednesday, July 9, through Sunday, July 13 . This event attracts over 125,000 visitors, including students, alumni, families, artists, and community members, making it one of the region’s largest and most anticipated summer celebrations [1] [2] .

Key Dates and Schedule for Arts Fest 2025

The festival spans five days, featuring a variety of events and exhibitions:

Wednesday, July 9: Opening with
Children and Youth Day
Thursday, July 10 – Saturday, July 12: Main festival activities, Sidewalk Sale, performances, and exhibitions
Sunday, July 13: Final day, with closing performances and exhibitions

The Sidewalk Sale and Exhibition operates from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday. Performances begin as early as 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, with late-night shows and the last band taking the stage Sunday at 2:30 p.m. [5] .

What to Expect at Arts Fest

Arts Fest offers a rich array of attractions, including:

Hundreds of artist booths in the Sidewalk Sale and Exhibition, featuring painting, sculpture, jewelry, and more
Outdoor and indoor live performances: music, theater, dance, and spoken word
Interactive activities for children and families, such as street painting and crafts
Special exhibitions like the juried Images 2025 Gallery Show
Food vendors and pop-up cafes throughout downtown State College and the Penn State campus

Events take place across multiple venues: Old Main Lawn, Allen Street Stage, Sidney Friedman Park Stage, the State Theatre, and new campus stages near Willard. Allen Street is the festival’s vibrant hub, with artists, entertainers, and family-friendly activities [1] [4] .

How to Attend: Entry, Costs, and Accessibility

The festival is open to all, and entry to most events and performances is free for everyone. Some special performances or activities may have an optional fee, but the majority of programming is accessible without cost. Most events operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so early arrival is recommended for popular performances [1] .

For the street painting activity, children can participate for a modest fee (recently $10 per child), allowing them to create their own artwork alongside professional local artists. The festival is held outdoors and across several city blocks, so comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and water are advised. Many venues are accessible to visitors with disabilities, but it is best to check specific locations for detailed accessibility information.

Getting There: Transportation and Parking

State College and the University Park campus can become crowded during Arts Fest. Here are steps to navigate travel and parking:

Arrive Early: Parking is limited and fills up quickly, especially downtown. Consider arriving early in the day for best options.
Public Transit: The Centre Area Transportation Authority (CATA) operates local buses throughout the festival. Check the official CATA website for updated routes and schedules during Arts Fest.
Parking Garages: Several municipal garages (e.g., Fraser Street, Beaver Avenue) are available but may have special pricing or restrictions during the event. Signs and attendants provide guidance.
Remote Parking: Some visitors choose to park farther from downtown and walk or use shuttle services, when available. Confirm shuttle operations in advance.
Accessible Parking: Designated spots are available for those with disabilities, but these are also limited and require a valid placard.

Detailed, updated travel information is found through the Borough of State College or Penn State’s official event pages.

Insider Tips for Enjoying Arts Fest

To make the most of your Arts Fest experience, consider the following:

Plan Your Schedule: Review the festival program ahead of time to prioritize must-see artists, performances, and activities. The official Arts Fest website typically posts schedules and maps.
Stay Hydrated and Prepared: July weather in State College can be hot and humid. Bring a refillable water bottle, hat, and sunscreen. Many venues offer indoor cooling areas (e.g., the State Theatre).
Bring Cash and Cards: Most vendors accept credit/debit cards, but some food stands or craft booths may prefer cash. ATM access is available downtown.
Engage the Community: Arts Fest is a chance to meet artists and fellow enthusiasts. Don’t hesitate to strike up conversations or ask about the creative process.
Be Mindful of Crowds: Weekends, especially Saturday, are busiest. For a quieter experience, visit on Thursday or early morning hours.

How to Get the Most Out of Arts Fest: Step-by-Step

1. Check the Official Schedule: Visit the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts official website for the latest program, maps, and updates. If you cannot find this online, use search terms like “Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts 2025 schedule” in your preferred search engine.

2. Book Lodging Early: Hotels, motels, and Airbnb listings in State College fill up quickly. Consider booking several months in advance for best rates and locations.

3. Plan Your Transportation: Review parking options and public transit routes. Consider carpooling or using CATA buses to avoid traffic congestion.

4. Identify Key Events: Decide which performances, exhibitions, or workshops are priorities. Note times and locations, and allow time to move between venues.

5. Prepare for the Weather: Monitor the forecast, and dress accordingly. State College weather in July can change rapidly.

6. Budget for Purchases: Many unique items are available at the Sidewalk Sale. Set aside funds if you plan to purchase art, crafts, or festival souvenirs.

7. Explore Alternatives: If you prefer a quieter festival experience, attend on Thursday or Sunday when crowds may be lighter. Family groups often enjoy Children and Youth Day on Wednesday.

Alternatives and Additional Resources

While Arts Fest is the main summer event, State College and Penn State offer various cultural festivals and art exhibitions throughout the year. If you are unable to attend in July, consider visiting for other events such as the Winter Craft Market or Penn State’s on-campus gallery exhibitions. Check Penn State’s official arts and events calendar for current listings.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

Due to the event’s popularity, visitors may experience:

Heavy Traffic and Limited Parking: Plan alternative routes, use public transit, or consider biking or walking from outlying areas.
Weather Disruptions: Most performances are rain or shine, but severe weather may affect outdoor events. Check official updates for cancellations or venue changes.
Large Crowds: Arrive early, and consider less crowded venues or off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience.

Summary and Key Takeaways

The Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts at Penn State is a celebrated event that combines art, music, community, and family fun. By planning ahead, checking official resources, and preparing for crowds and weather, visitors can fully enjoy all the festival has to offer. For up-to-date information, schedules, and artist details, consult the official Arts Fest website [5] . If you have questions about accessibility, transportation, or lodging, contact the State College Borough, Penn State’s event services, or local visitor bureaus for assistance.