County fairs, craft shows and Centre County’s biggest event. Here’s what’s coming in August

Before the weather shifts and school starts up again, take the time to spend some weekends at upcoming county fairs, craft shows and local events. Centre County’s biggest event is the Centre County Grange Encampment and Fair, one of America’s last tenting fairs that brings thousands of campers and RVs into the area for the festivities.

Here’s a look at what else is happening in August:

Clearfield County fair

July 31- Aug. 6, Clearfield County Fair and Park

This weeklong county fair kicks off July 31 with the fair queen pageant competition, and horse races, a firework show and a parade in the following days. Admission is $8, or free for children under 3 feet tall, and includes access to all carnival rides and select activities inside the fair. Live music will be held throughout the week at the Grove Stage, including a performance from Foreigner on Aug. 3. Admission and schedule information can be found on the Clearfield County Fair website.

Bellefonte Arts & Crafts Fair

Aug. 5-6, Downtown Bellefonte

This year marks the 39th year of Bellefonte’s annual craft fair, featuring both adult and youth-run booths of handmade arts and crafts. The two-day event starts at 10 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 5, with live music performances and children’s activities running all day. Activities take place all around downtown, including at the Centre County Library and the Bellefonte Art Museum. A full list of events and vendors can be found on the fair’s website.

Ag Progress days

Aug. 9-11, Penn State’s Agricultural Research Center

Pennsylvania’s largest agricultural exposition is hosted by Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences and features what’s latest and greatest in farming technology and practices. The three-day expo is set to include a presentation from U.S. Rep. Glenn Thompson, R-Howard, an antique tractor display, free health screenings, garden walks, a butterfly house and more. The event also offers several tours with Penn State experts and faculty. Information on the expo can be found at Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences website.

Summer Fest On the Lake

Aug. 12-14, Lakemont Park in Altoona

This three-day festival is held at Lakemont Park, which is home to roller coasters, a waterpark and more. The event will feature food and craft vendors, lumberjack shows and a full day of music on Saturday, Aug. 13. More information on the event schedule can be found at Lakemont Park’s website.

Grange Fair

Aug. 19-27 at Grange fairgrounds

Grange Fair has been a staple in Centre County for 148 years. The eight-day event draws people from all over the country to Centre County and features hundreds of activities. Live music performances by Tracey Byrd, Jake Tolliver, Diamond Rio and more will be held each night at the grandstand stage. Aug. 22 is Kids Day with admission free for children under 18 until 4 p.m. and several kids activities. For information on camping, admission and events, check the Grange Fair’s website.

This story was originally published July 28, 2022 at 11:15 AM.