Make memories that will last a lifetime this summer with your family!
Clarion County is stepping onto the national stage for the United States Semiquincentennial. As we prepare for the 250th anniversary of our nation, our local communities are coming together to create a summer of lasting legacies, historic reenactments, and patriotic celebration.
Clarion Selected for National “Paint the Nation” Mural
We are thrilled to announce that Clarion has been officially selected as a Paint the Nation mural town! This prestigious national initiative, sponsored by Coca-Cola and America 250, marks America’s 250th by selecting specific communities to host massive, commemorative murals. This project will serve as a vibrant landmark, celebrating our local heritage while connecting us to the broader story of the American spirit. Keep an eye on Clarion’s Main Street as this masterpiece comes to life! You can also enjoy other existing murals as you wonder along the little alleys, too.
Freedom Bell in New Bethlehem
The spirit of 1776 is finding a permanent home in the Redbank Valley. Be sure to visit Veterans Memorial Park in New Bethlehem this summer to see the new America 250 Freedom Bell. This monument stands as a tribute to the generations of service members from our area and serves as a focal point for our local Semiquincentennial reflections.
Living History Weekend
May 22-24, 2026 – Cook Forest
Celebrate America’s 250th birthday with a weekend of living history featuring the Colonial era, Revolutionary War, and Civil War. Enjoy historical reenactments, storytelling, music, hands-on demonstrations, and special appearances by Abraham Lincoln and Benjamin Franklin.
Check out full program details
An Evening with Benjamin Franklin
June 12, 8-9pm – Cook Forest
As one of the founding fathers of the United States, travel back in time for an evening with Ben Franklin as he looks back on his life’s experiences. Bring your chairs and blankets to get cozy during this evening of living history at the Ridge Camp Park Amphitheater.
Check out full program details
The French & Indian War Encampment
June 13-14, 2026 – Cook Forest
Before there was a United States, there was the rugged frontier of the PA Wilds. On June 13-14th, step back in time at Cook Forest State Park for the French & Indian War Encampment. Witness living history at its most visceral, with authentic camps, tactical demonstrations, and artisans showcasing the skills required to survive on the 18th-century frontier.
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44th Annual I Heart Clarion Celebration
July 3rd, 2026 – Clarion
Kickoff the 4th of July celebrations with the “I Love Clarion” celebration, hosted by the Clarion Area Chamber of Commerce. Doors will open at 5pm with food, games, live entertainment followed by fireworks. This event will be held at PennWest University Memorial Stadium.
Check out full program details
Celebrate 250 years at Riverstone Center for the Arts
July 25, 2026 – Foxburg
Celebrating America’s Anniversary & 250 Years of Music, from 1776 The Mountaineers Fifes & Drums plus a VFW Color Guard patriotic salute and 100 Years of popular American music & dancing– to Erich Cawalla’s The Uptown Band.
Check Out Full Program Details
Other fireworks & festivities that will be taking place throughout the region:
Freedom Fireworks Festivities
July 3rd, 2026 – New Bethlehem, PA
St. Joseph’s 87th Annual Fourth of July Celebration
July 4th, 2026 – Lucinda, PA
America 250 Red, White, & Wurlitzer Concert @ Lincoln Hall
July 26, 2026 – Foxburg, PA
Cook Forest Cast Iron Cooking Demonstrations
September 19th, 2026 – Cooksburg, PA
Stay updated with more events added weekly by checking our events calendar!
Extend Your Stay!
No matter when you visit, these attractions are here for our history buffs all year long.
- American Golf Hall of Fame & Museum
- Helen Furnace Park
- Buchanan Furnace
- Sutton Ditz House
- DCNR history tours
- History pontoon ride with Foxburg Tours
Historical Home Away from Home for History Enthusiasts
Sleep beneath the ancients (and we don’t mean the Forest Cathedral)! Let basecamp become part of your tour as you explore Clarion County’s historic landmarks.
Clarion Highlands
Chrome Home
Redbank Valley
Magical Renovated Clarion County Church
Allegheny Riverlands
Tarry Moore Cottage
Clarion Riverlands
White Pillars Mansion
Plan Your Dream Getaway Today
Dream, plan, and do it all before closing our 66-page guide. While you might stumble across our guide in the wild, you can check out the new edition in more ways than one.
Need a physical copy? Submit your request at this link.
On the road? Read our digital issue at this link and start planning now.