Category: Food/Drink

Centuries of Goose, Generations of Luck – Goose Day 2025

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Centuries of Goose, Generations of Luck

Celebrate from September 26–29 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 goose-ier than ever. From September 26–29, the region will be bursting with traditions old and new, proving once again why this one-of-a-kind holiday is worth flocking to.

“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.”

Here’s what’s new this year:

  • Stars & Stripes Cornhole Goose Day Tournament – Bags, boards, bragging rights, and cash prizes.
  • Two Liberty Bell Unveilings – Adding history and heritage to the mix.
  • American250PA’s Countdown to 250: Mobile Experiential Unit – An interactive stop that brings America’s story to life.
  • Make & Take Classes – Create your own Goose Day keepsakes: a stained-glass goose at Moon Dragon, a flower crown with Asters at Juniata River Commons, or goose-themed paint kits at The Busy Brush.
  • Lucky Friday Street Festival Goes Late – Grab a spot in Monument Square, listen to live music, and watch the Drone Light Show light up the night sky. A few food trucks are sticking around late too, so you can snack while you watch the show.
  • Porch Goose Costume Contest at Zion Hair Salon – Dress up your decorative porch goose, enter the contest, and let the public vote for their favorite.
  • New Photo Op: A Goosemas Story – A holiday spoof you won’t want to miss! Pose with the goose in a pink bunny suit alongside whimsical props like a goose-leg lamp, a Red Ryder BB gun, and the infamous “Fra-gee-lay” box.

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

  • Goose Day Road Rally and Goose Day 5K keep the tradition moving.
  • Drone Light Show – Watch 300 drones light up the sky with goosey images.
  • The Feathered Frolic Mobile Passport – Find all 12 Wild Geese statues, check in, and earn points towards a prize.

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 tacos, goose poutine, goose crepes, and goose confit.

Shoppers can flock to the GetGoosed.Store for fresh finds, including customized M&Ms and squishy goose toys. The Deck the Downtown group will be selling Goose Day postcards as a fundraiser during Lewistown First Friday and Lucky Friday, and collectors can snag the commemorative Goose Day pictorial postcard 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 by local artisan Kim Rickert.

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.

Mark your calendars, grab your flock, and get ready to celebrate Goose Day, September 26–29. Luck—and goose—is waiting for you!

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

Your Juniata River Valley Summer Bucket List: 10 Must-Do Adventures

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Your Juniata River Valley Summer Bucket List: 10 Must-Do Adventures

Summer is in full swing in the Juniata River Valley, and there’s no better time to unplug, slow down, and soak in everything our beautiful region has to offer. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, small-town charm, or simply a relaxing afternoon in the sun, we’ve rounded up the Top 10 things you’ve got to do before summer fades away.

From floating down the river to catching movies under the stars, here’s how to make the most of summer in Mifflin and Juniata Counties:

  1. Float Down the Juniata River

One of the best ways to cool off and take in the natural beauty of the region is by floating the Juniata River. Whether you’re in a kayak, canoe, or inner tube, the peaceful flow and scenic surroundings make for an unforgettable summer day. Need to rent a kayak? Contact Appalachian Kayak for rentals and livery service. Bonus points if you pack a cooler and make a day of it!

  1. Catch a Movie at the Midway Drive-In Theater

Nothing says summer nostalgia like the drive-in. The Midway Drive-In Theater brings families, couples, and movie lovers together for double features, classic popcorn, and that magical twilight atmosphere. It’s a summer staple you can’t skip. Follow their Facebook page for the weekly movie announcements.

  1. Enjoy Outdoor Music at Local Wineries & Breweries & Distilleries

Live music, locally crafted wine or beer, and views of the countryside? Yes, please! Many of our wineries and breweries host regular outdoor concerts throughout the summer—so bring a lawn chair, grab a drink, and dance the night away under the stars.

  1. Experience “Sale Day” in Big Valley

Every Wednesday, the Big Valley comes alive with vendors, farmers, and bargain hunters. Known as “Sale Day,” this weekly tradition includes sprawling flea markets, the Belleville Livestock Auction, and Amish-made goodies you won’t find anywhere else. It’s a slice of rural Pennsylvania you have to experience. Check out our “Wednesdays in Big Valley” tour for ideas.

  1. Pack a Picnic and Head to the Park

There’s nothing like a picnic in the park on a sunny day. Visit local favorites like Malta Park in Granville, Kish Park in Lewistown, or Reeds Gap State Park in New Lancaster Valley, for shade, playgrounds, and wide-open spaces to spread out and relax.

  1. Swim at Our Community Pools

When the heat hits, take the plunge at one of our three community pools—located in Burnham, Lewistown, and Mifflin. They’re perfect for cooling off, enjoying family time, or squeezing in a little poolside relaxation.

  1. Explore the Farmer’s Markets and Greenhouses

From fresh-picked produce to homemade baked goods and vibrant flowers, our area’s farmers’ markets and greenhouses offer a taste of summer’s best. Stock up for your next picnic or just enjoy the colorful atmosphere and friendly faces. Check out our Farmer’s Market list and our Bountiful Blooms list.

  1. Go Fishing in the River or Mountain Streams

Whether you’re after a peaceful morning with a fly rod or casting a line for bass in the Juniata River, fishing in our region is second to none. You’ll find plenty of great spots to set up and let nature do the rest. Learn more about our area fisheries in our Waterways guide.

  1. Participate in Flight School

Have you heard about Flight School? It’s a fun (and delicious) way to explore the area—sip your way through flights of chicken wings, wine, beer, coffee, spirits, or even ice cream at participating businesses. Collect points towards earning your wings. It’s a tasty adventure you won’t want to miss. Sign up here for Flight School.

  1. Hit Up the Carnivals and County Fairs

Nothing brings out the magic of summer like a small-town fair. Enjoy funnel cakes, Ferris wheels, live entertainment, and old-fashioned fun at our many local carnivals and fairs. It’s the perfect way to wrap up a day. Look for our monthly calendar of events for a list of upcoming events.

Ready to Make the Most of Summer?

The Juniata River Valley is full of hidden gems and summer traditions waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a lifelong local, this bucket list is your guide to squeezing every drop out of summer.

So go ahead—exit the fast lane, slow down, and dive into the joys of summer in the Juniata River Valley.

 

Welcome Aboard—Again!

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Juniata River Valley Flight School Takes Off for Second Semester with Chicken Wing Flights and New Prizes

The Juniata River Valley Flight School is back for another semester, and this time, it’s bringing the heat—literally—with the addition of chicken wing flights to its roster of delicious experiences. Beginning May 16, the popular passport program returns with 25 locations offering flavorful flights of beer, wine, spirits, coffee, ice cream, and now wings.

After a successful first semester, the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau is excited to invite past participants—and new recruits—to join the journey once more. Whether you’re a seasoned flyer or ready for your maiden voyage, the updated passport delivers new tastes and new reasons to get out and explore.

“This program isn’t just about food and drink—it’s about discovering the Juniata River Valley in a fun, rewarding way,” said Jenny Landis, Executive Director of the JRVVB. “And now, with chicken wing flights added to the mix, we’re kicking it up a notch.”

The Juniata River Valley Flight School is powered by Bandwango, a user-friendly digital passport platform. Sign-up is simple at www.jrvvisitors.com/flight-school, where users enter basic contact information and receive a link to add the passport to their mobile home screen.

Once signed up, participants visit any of the 26 participating locations to purchase a flight. With each purchase, users earn points by entering a location-specific PIN provided by staff. Points add up to fun, exclusive prizes—and this semester features all-new rewards including a Flight School luggage tag, beanie, t-shirt, and even a bottle of Wingman Brew N Que’s signature wing sauce. Longtime favorites like stickers, pennants, hats, and hoodies are still available, along with the top-tier prize: earning your golden wings pin.

Redeemed prizes can be picked up at the Visitors Bureau office at 1 W. Market Street in Lewistown or shipped directly. All prizes must be redeemed by May 31, 2026.

“The Juniata River Valley Flight School is a flavorful adventure,” Landis said. “Whether you’re sipping, scooping, or now snacking on wings, we promise a journey your taste buds won’t forget.”

Ready to get your boarding pass? Visit www.jrvvisitors.com/flight-school to sign up and start collecting points.