Category: Events

Book Signing with Tory Talks Trails

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Discover Pennsylvania’s Natural Beauty with Tory Mather in Lewistown

Outdoor enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and lovers of Pennsylvania’s scenic landscapes won’t want to miss a special upcoming event in downtown Lewistown.

On Friday, June 5 from 5–7 p.m., join us at The Crooked Shelf Bookshop during Lewistown First Friday for a book signing with outdoor content creator Tory Mather.

Tory is the voice behind “Tory Talks Trails,” a growing social media platform dedicated to showcasing the beauty of the outdoors and inspiring others to explore. Now, she’s bringing that passion to the page with her first book, Scenic Natural Wonders of Pennsylvania: Caverns, Overlooks, Falls, and Vistas.

A Journey Across Pennsylvania’s Hidden Gems

In Scenic Natural Wonders of Pennsylvania, Tory invites readers to traverse high cliffs, descend into deep caves, trek to remote waterfalls, and even discover peaceful urban oases. The book highlights 84 carefully selected destinations that showcase the incredible diversity of Pennsylvania’s landscape—proving there’s so much more to explore beyond Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.

From the thundering beauty of Ohiopyle Falls to the quiet charm of Salt Springs State Park, each location offers something unique. Whether it’s climbing to the top of Mount Nittany, spotting wildflowers at Raccoon Creek State Park Wildflower Reserve, or taking in sweeping river views from Hawk Rock, the book is packed with inspiration for every level of explorer.

The Juniata River Valley Highlighted

We’re especially excited that the Juniata River Valley is featured among these natural wonders. Local highlights in the book include the breathtaking views from Stone Mountain Hawk Watch and the scenic beauty of Big Valley Vista—two spots that perfectly capture the spirit of outdoor adventure in our region.

Meet the Author

Stop by during First Friday to meet Tory in person, hear about her adventures across the Commonwealth, and pick up a signed copy of her new book. Whether you’re planning your next hike or simply looking for inspiration to get outside, this is a great opportunity to connect with a creator who is passionate about helping others discover the natural beauty of Pennsylvania.

Make it an evening—explore downtown Lewistown, support local businesses, and celebrate the outdoors with us.

We’ll see you there!

Soaring into Spectacle: The Mifflin County Glider Competition

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Every spring, the skies above the Juniata River Valley come alive with a quiet kind of thrill—one powered not by engines, but by wind, skill, and the art of flight.

Soaring into Spectacle: The Mifflin County Glider Competition

Aircraft enthusiasts and glider gurus from across the United States and Canada flock to Mifflin County Airport for the annual Soaring Contest—an event that transforms this local airfield into one of the most exciting aviation showcases in the country.

In 2026, the stakes soar even higher as the airport hosts the 15m and Sports Class Nationals from May 15 through May 23. These elite competitions draw top pilots flying sleek, engine-less sailplanes capable of traveling up to 500 miles per flight and reaching speeds of 150 mph—all by harnessing the natural energy of the sky.

The Art of Engine-Free Flight

Unlike traditional aircraft, gliders rely entirely on the forces of nature. Each flight begins with a tow plane pulling the glider into the air via a long rope. Once the pilot reaches the right altitude, the rope is released—and the real challenge begins.

With no engine to provide thrust, pilots must skillfully read the landscape and sky to stay aloft. They search for:

  • Ridge lift: wind flowing upward along mountain slopes
  • Wave lift: powerful air currents created by winds crossing mountain ranges
  • Thermal lift: rising columns of warm air

It’s a delicate balance of lift, drag, and gravity—and a true test of both strategy and instinct.

Interestingly, glider pilots aren’t the only ones who master this technique. Look closely and you might spot hawks or vultures circling nearby, riding the same thermals to gain altitude without flapping a wing.

A Front-Row Seat to Flight

One of the best parts? You’re invited to watch.

Spectators are welcome to come out and experience the magic of takeoff. Each day—typically between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., weather permitting—gliders line up on the runway, ready to launch into the sky.

Pack a picnic, grab a seat at the airport pavilion, and enjoy a front-row view as these graceful aircraft are lifted one by one into the air. It’s a peaceful yet awe-inspiring scene you won’t forget.

Why Here?

Pilots consider this region one of the best in the United States for soaring. The surrounding ridges create ideal updraft conditions, making it a prime destination for competitive gliding and record-setting flights.

Don’t Miss It

Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or just looking for a unique outdoor experience, the Soaring Contest offers something truly special. It’s where science meets sport—and where the sky is anything but the limit.

Come watch, relax, and witness the beauty of flight in its purest form.

Festival of Ice 2025- Christmas Candyland

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The Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau invites everyone to step into a sweet winter wonderland at the 28th annual Festival of Ice. This year’s theme, “Christmas Candyland,” promises a dazzling display of handcrafted ice sculptures inspired by candy canes, gumdrops, and classic holiday confections, plus colorful decorations, and a themed scavenger hunt for all ages. Don’t miss Santa’s Workshop, where kids can shop for gifts, meet Santa, and even visit live reindeer! Celebrate the season and capture the charm of central Pennsylvania’s sweetest holiday festival!

 

New this year

Community tree lighting                                                                                                                               

 Following the Crazy Parade, join friends and neighbors as we kick off the Festival of Ice with the official lighting of the community Christmas tree in Monument Square. Led by emcee Rhonda Kelley, the ceremony will feature Ashlie Crosson, the 2025 National Teacher of the Year, as she lights the tree and Sacred Heart School’s choir leads us in a rendition of “O Christmas Tree.”

Sweets Stations

Satisfy your sweet tooth while soaking up the holiday fun by building your own gooey s’mores both nights at the festival at Kickin’ Kater’s booth. Proceeds to benefit Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard. Join the Mifflin County and Juniata County Dairy Princesses and their dairy court as they build a giant ice cream sundae inside a bowl-shaped large ice sculpture in front of Embassy Theater on Thursday night only. The dairy princesses will be serving the ice cream treat to festival goers. Lizz Barger will also have her cotton candy machine running and Icing on the Cake will offer a decorate your own cupcake activity.

Live Music at St. John’s Lutheran and St. Mark’s Episcopal Church

Enjoy the sounds of the season inside the beautiful St. John’s Lutheran Church and  St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, both home to this year’s live music performances. Due to renovations at the Historic Courthouse, musical entertainment has been moved to the church this year. The Lewistown Community Band will perform two shows on Thursday evening at St. John’s, and JP Jazz Band will kick off Friday night followed by a Christmas sing-along with the Unusual Suspects at St. Mark’s. Live music can also be found on the steps of the Historic Courthouse on Friday night with The Boyz followed by the Logan Guard’s horn section.

Live Reindeer and Santa’s Village

Step into Santa’s Village for a magical meet-and-greet with Santa himself—and his live reindeer! Families can snap photos, drop off wish lists, and experience a little North Pole wonder right here in downtown Lewistown. Children may also shop for their family inside Santa’s Workshop; all located in the Juniata Valley Bank parking lot.

Life-Size Candyland Game

Enter a world of sugary adventure with Mifflin County Library’s life-size Candyland game! Kids and adults alike can play their way through a colorful, candy-filled wonderland inspired by the classic board game at Square One Clubhouse.