Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts will bring over 125,000 people to downtown State College and the University Park campus of Penn State to celebrate the arts with its nationally recognized Sidewalk Sale and Exhibition, gallery exhibition, Sand Sculpture and music, dance and theatrical performances in a variety of traditional and non-traditional venues. Click here for more information on the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts.

The Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts was born in the summer 1967 and lasted nine days. Sponsored by Penn State’s College of Arts and Architecture and the State College Chamber of Commerce, the first Festival was opened by Governor Raymond Shafer. Entertainment was in the form of music, a sidewalk sale, and exhibition of work hanging along “The Wall” on the southern border of the Old Main lawn.

Programs for the 43rd annual Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts—July 8 through July 11, 2010—will be published and distributed by Town & Gown magazine. The issue will be available free at the information booths, welcome booths, and many downtown businesses. Information booths are at the center and farthest points on each loop of the route.

Those attending the event should take a bus, rather than drive, due to the overflow of both vehicle and foot traffic. Attendees should also remember to wear sunscreen and bring plenty of water. Water is also available at key locations at the festival. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. A brimmed hat may also provide much needed relief from the sun.

Penn State alumni should also be aware of Penn State’s Arts Festival Alumni Weekend, a trip back in time to college days. Alumni will stay on campus in West Halls, just a short walk away from works of art in the Sidewalk Sale and Exhibition and entertainment in Schwab Auditorium and at the Festival Shell on Old Main lawn. Special dorm floors are set aside for families with small children.

For more information on the 2010 Festival, visit the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts, or call 814-237-3682. For information on Penn State Alumni Weekend, visit the Alumni Events or call (800) 548 5466. Scheduling is subject to change.