Category: Family Friendly

Goose Day – Eat Goose, Get Luck!

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Centuries of Goose, Generations of Luck

Celebrate from September 25–29 in the Juniata River Valley

LEWISTOWN – For more than two centuries, Goose Day has brought luck, laughter, and plenty of goose to the Juniata River Valley—and this year’s celebration promises to be bigger, quirkier, and goosier than ever. From September 25–29, the region will be bursting with traditions old and new, proving once again why this one-of-a-kind holiday is worth flocking to. In honor of America’s 250th birthday, this year’s festivities will take on a patriotic flair, blending red, white, and blue pride with the area’s beloved Goose Day traditions for a celebration that’s as spirited as it is uniquely local.

“We love celebrating the traditions that have made Goose Day special for generations, but we also can’t resist celebrating new ways for people to join the fun,” said Jenny Landis, executive director of the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau. “This year’s mix of classic and goosier events promises to make this year’s celebration the goosiest one yet.”

In recognition of America’s 250th birthday, a festive new highlight – a Goose Day Parade, is being introduced to this year’s lineup of activities. This year’s parade theme, “Red, White & Goose,” brings an additional patriotic event to the year-long celebration.

“Goose Day is a tradition that is special to our community, and the ‘Red, White and Goose Day Parade’ gives us a chance to celebrate our Nation’s 250th anniversary while also honoring a tradition that has been part of Mifflin County for generations,” said Kevin Kodish, Mifflin County Commissioner and JRVVB Board President.

The parade will step off on the official holiday, September 29, at 6:30 p.m. in downtown Lewistown, bringing the streets to life with festive floats, community spirits, and plenty of goose-themed fun. For a parade application, visit gooseday.fun.

In addition to the parade, two other America250-themed activities will be added to the celebration. This year’s featured goose, Goose Washington, will be making special appearances, offering photo opportunities during Lewistown First Friday on September 4 and Lucky Friday on September 25. A Flat Goose Washington activity has also been introduced, inviting participants to take the free download of Flat Goose Washington to their favorite locations, snap a photo, and share it on social media by tagging the Goose Day Facebook page—spreading Goose Day spirit near and far.

 

Here’s also what’s new this year:

  • The biggest goose ever seen in the Juniata River Valley will be on display at One-Stop Communications on East Market Street in downtown Lewistown. Selfies with the goose are a must!
  • Two penny presses that include Goose Day-themed embossed designs. Machines are located at the JRVVB office and The Square Café & Bakery, both on Market Street in Lewistown.
  • On Goose Day, Shy Bear is bringing the Stable Shakers “Do the Dead” harmony laden interpretation of a Grateful Dead tribute. At this ticketed event, guests can also eat your lucky goose.
  • Goose Day is getting its own book series by Jennifer Bright. “The Goose Day Adventure” is a coloring and activity book and “The Goose Day Adventure Rewards: is a pocket-sized rewards book filled with special offers. Books will be available at local stores and on Bookshop.org and Amazon.com.
  • Craft seasonal outfits or personalize your own porch goose with Painting Parties by Judy.
  • Joining the celebration with new events includes 4th & Market, Brookline Retirement Village, The Scope & Binocular Shoppe, and Grace United Methodist Church.

Of course, Goose Day wouldn’t be complete without returning favorites:

And don’t forget the food! This year, 12 locations will serve roast goose dinners (reserve early!), along with creative twists like goose pizza, goose soup, goose poutine, BBQ goose parfaits, and goose confit.

Shoppers can flock to GetGoosed.Store for fresh finds, including customized squishy goose toys, penny bandz, magnets, and enamel pins. Many local retailers are also offering Goose Day merchandise including shirts, earrings, ornaments and more.

The 2026 Goose Day postcards will be available at the visitors bureau office and the commemorative Goose Day pictorial postcard will be at the Lewistown Post Office on Sept. 29. And as always, the first baby born on Goose Day at Geisinger Lewistown Hospital will be wrapped in good fortune—along with a handmade afghan blanket and goose toy by local artisan Betsy Cox

With centuries of history, a dash of quirk, and a whole lot of community spirit, Goose Day continues to bring generations together in the Juniata River Valley. Still wondering what Goose Day is. Read the Goose Day Legend flyer here, https://jrvvisitors.com/goose-day/

Mark your calendars, grab your flock, and get ready to celebrate Goose Day, September 25–29. Luck—and goose—is waiting for you!

For more details and a full schedule of events, visit gooseday.fun.

RV There Yet?

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Camp Your Way Through the Juniata River Valley

Whether you’re rolling in with a camper, pitching a tent under the stars, or settling in for a full week of relaxation, the Juniata River Valley is the perfect place to unplug and unwind. From riverfront views to quiet mountain escapes, our local campgrounds offer something for every kind of camper.

Riverfront Camping & Water Adventures

If your ideal getaway includes the sound of water and easy access to outdoor fun, you’ll find several campgrounds nestled along the Juniata River.

These spots are ideal for campers who want to spend their days on the water and their evenings around the campfire.

Mountain & Valley Retreats

Prefer a more secluded escape? Head into the ridges and valleys where you’ll find peaceful surroundings and plenty of room to breathe.

These locations are perfect for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.

Unique Stays & Hidden Gems

Many of these campgrounds offer seasonal sites for long-term stays as well as transient sites for weekend adventurers, giving you flexibility no matter how long you plan to stay.

Don’t Forget the State Parks

Looking for a more rustic experience? Local state parks also offer excellent tent camping options, often surrounded by forests, lakes, and scenic trails—perfect for a back-to-basics getaway. Nearby parks include Reeds Gap State Park, Greenwood Furnace State Park, Poe Valley State Park, Poe Paddy State Park, and Penn Roosevelt State Park.

Make the Most of Camping Season

Summer is the perfect time to step back, slow down, and enjoy the simple things—crackling campfires, star-filled skies, and of course, toasted s’mores. Whether you’re parking your RV for a week or pitching a tent for a night or two, the Juniata River Valley is ready to welcome you.

So, pack up your gear, gather your crew, and find your perfect campsite—riverfront, mountainside, or somewhere in between.

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.

Holiday Break Fun: Kid-Friendly Activites in the JRV

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Holiday Break Fun: Kid-Friendly Activities in the Juniata River Valley

When school is out and the excitement of the holidays is in full swing, parents everywhere are looking for ways to keep the kids active, happy, and off their screens (at least for a little while!). Fortunately, the Juniata River Valley offers plenty of family-friendly adventures perfect for making memories throughout the holiday break or on a rainy day. Here are some great ideas to fill those long winter days:

  1. Visit LoveTwo Farm

Bundle up and take the kids to LoveTwo Farm to meet the animals. From fuzzy farm friends to hands-on moments that spark curiosity, it’s a wholesome outing the whole family can enjoy.

  1. Hit the Ice at Carousel Skating Rink

Whether your child is steady on roller skates or just learning, the Carousel Skating Rink is a festive, high-energy place to burn off some holiday excitement.

  1. Catch a Movie at Miller Cinema 6

Slow down with a cozy afternoon at Miller Cinema 6. With kid-friendly blockbusters and popcorn, it’s the perfect way to unwind between holiday gatherings.

  1. Get Creative at The Busy Brush

Let imaginations run wild at The Busy Brush in downtown Lewistown. Kids can paint, craft, and create something completely their own—ideal for a snowy day or when you need an indoor activity.

  1. Bowl a Strike at Lewistown Lanes

Challenge the kids to a friendly bowling match! Lewistown Lanes offers a fun, active outing that works for all ages—and it’s a great way to spend an afternoon or evening together.

  1. Explore Reeds Gap State Park

If the weather is mild, head outdoors for a winter walk at Reeds Gap State Park. Kids will love playing in the crisp air, exploring trails, and searching for wildlife footprints in the snow.

  1. Visit The Crooked Shelf Bookshop or Local Libraries

Warm up with a good book! Stop in at The Crooked Shelf Bookshop for a cozy browsing experience or check out story times and holiday activities at the Juniata River Valley’s local libraries.

  1. Treat the Kids to Ice Cream

Yes—ice cream in winter is absolutely a thing! Surprise the kids with a sweet treat from your favorite local ice cream shop. It’s the perfect reward after a day of fun.

  1. Pony Play Day at Promise Ranch Ministries

For animal-loving kids, Pony Play Day is a magical experience. Let them get up close with gentle ponies and enjoy hands-on activities. Be sure to check Promise Ranch Ministries’ Facebook page for upcoming dates.

  1. Have an Adventure with the Feathered Frolic Scavenger Hunt

Grab the kids and join the Feathered Frolic Scavenger Hunt! This fun, interactive activity gets families exploring the area to find 12 of the 51 Wild Geese statues You may even discover hidden gems along the way.

With so many things to see and do, holiday break in the Juniata River Valley is full of opportunities for family fun. Whether you’re looking to get creative, burn some energy, or simply enjoy time together, these activities will help make the season joyful, memorable, and stress-free.