Dueling Pianos: Stars, Stripes & Art

Friday, November 6, 2026 | 6:30–11 p.m. | Scotch Valley Country Club | Hollidaysburg

Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary while supporting the arts at Dueling Pianos: Stars, Stripes & Art, a USO-inspired fundraiser benefiting the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art. The evening features an interactive, all-request performance by the Flying Ivories, with Big Band favorites and music spanning generations, along with an American-inspired menu, dancing and special recognition of veterans and those who served.

Guests are encouraged to embrace the red, white and blue theme with Americana-inspired attire. Tickets are $150 per person, with proceeds supporting SAMA’s exhibitions, educational programs and cultural experiences throughout the region.

Chocolate Harvest Festival

Saturday, Nov. 7th 2026 in Tyrone

Satisfy your sweet tooth at the inaugural Chocolate Harvest Festival in Tyrone! Held from 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., this delicious fall event celebrates all things chocolate with specialty treats, candy, baked goods, unique vendors, food, and handcrafted items.

Hosted by Gardners Candies in partnership with Tyrone Events & Promotions, the festival offers a fun-filled day of shopping, seasonal flavors, and family-friendly activities in the heart of Tyrone.

Sweat for Vets Challenge

Saturday, Nov. 8th 2026 at the Brush Mountain Sportsman Club in Altoona

Put your endurance to the test while supporting a great cause at the annual Sweat for Vets Challenge. Hosted by the nonprofit Sweat for Vets, this unique event features a challenging 10K race and climb up the Pinecroft Powerline, with proceeds benefiting local veterans throughout Central Pennsylvania.

Whether you’re competing for a personal best or cheering on participants, this inspiring event combines fitness, community, and support for those who have served our country.

Broadway Sing-Along Benefiting Altoona Community Theatre

Friday, November 13, 2026 | 6 p.m. | Behe Brothers Brewing Company | 521 N. 4th Avenue, Altoona

Sing along to your favorite Broadway hits during a fun-filled evening benefiting Altoona Community Theatre at Behe Brothers Brewing Company. Enjoy show-stopping musical theatre favorites, audience participation, a three-course menu and locally brewed beverages available for purchase.
Doors open at 6 p.m., with the sing-along beginning at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $40 per person, including food. This event is for ages 21 and older, with advance ticket sales closing November 12 at 6 p.m.

Good News Pottery Fall Open House

Friday, November 13–Saturday, November 14, 2026 | 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Both Days | Good News Pottery | 394 Spring Farm Road, Martinsburg, PA 16662

Get a head start on holiday shopping at Good News Pottery’s Fall Open House! Explore a large selection of handcrafted, wheel-thrown pottery, including mugs, bowls, plates, vases and other functional pieces perfect for everyday use or gift-giving.

Visitors can watch live pottery wheel demonstrations, enjoy complimentary refreshments and browse new seasonal collections, including Peanuts mugs, snowman designs and holiday-themed pieces. The event will also feature a new wood-fired pottery collection, special sales and discounted seconds.

The studio is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with an on-site restroom. All pottery is dishwasher and microwave safe, and all sales are final.

Murder on the Orient Express

Nov. 12–15, 2026 at the Mishler Theatre in Altoona

The Altoona Community Theatre presents Murder on the Orient Express at the historic Mishler Theatre. Adapted by Ken Ludwig from Agatha Christie’s classic mystery, this suspenseful whodunit follows famed detective Hercule Poirot as he investigates a shocking murder aboard the luxurious Orient Express, where every passenger is a suspect.

Performances are held November 12–14 at 7:30 p.m. and November 15 at 2:00 p.m. Filled with mystery, humor, and unexpected twists, this classic detective story promises an unforgettable evening of live theater.

Lights on the Lake

Nov. 13, 2026–Jan. 3, 2027 at Lakemont Park in Altoona

Experience the magic of the holiday season at Lights on the Lake at Lakemont Park. This beloved Blair County tradition features a drive-through display of more than one million lights spread across 50 acres, creating a festive experience for visitors of all ages. Tune your radio to 88.5 FM to enjoy synchronized Christmas music as you make your way through the dazzling displays.

Before heading home, stop by Santa’s Gift Shop to browse unique holiday gifts, ornaments, local baked goods, handcrafted items, and a charming model train display. Celebrating more than 25 years of holiday memories, Lights on the Lake is a seasonal tradition the whole family will enjoy.

Holiday Lights on the Lake: Holiday Market

Saturday, November 14, 2026 | 4:30–8:30 p.m. | Lakemont Park | 700 Park Avenue, Altoona

Get into the holiday spirit at the Holiday Lights on the Lake Holiday Market at Lakemont Park! Enjoy an evening of festive shopping, craft vendors, food trucks, live music and holiday activities for the whole family.
Explore Santa’s Village, check out model trains and enjoy a walking tour of the holiday displays as Lakemont Park celebrates the season.

Wine ‘n Shine Pierogie Palooza

Saturday, November 14, 2026 | Blair County Convention Center | Altoona

Sample your way through a selection of Pennsylvania wines, spirits and ciders during the Wine ‘n Shine Pierogie Palooza at the Blair County Convention Center. The event features wineries and distilleries from across the state, shopping vendors, music from DJ ALFA and plenty of pierogies and other food available for purchase.

The event runs from 11 a.m.–3 p.m., with several ticket options available. Admission for guests 21+ includes alcohol sampling and a souvenir wine glass. Food is sold separately. Guests must present valid photo ID to participate in alcohol sampling.

Golden Girls: The Laughs Continue

Tuesday, Nov. 17th 2026 at 7pm at the Mishler Theater

The beloved ladies from Miami are back in an all-new comedy! Golden Girls: The Laughs Continue reunites Dorothy, Blanche, Rose, and Sophia for another outrageous adventure filled with sharp wit, unforgettable one-liners, and plenty of laughs.

This adults-only stage production puts a fresh spin on the iconic sitcom, making it the perfect night out for longtime fans and comedy lovers alike.

Recommended for ages 18+ due to adult themes.

Magical Mystery Doors: Beatles, Zeppelin & Doors

Friday, November 20, 2026 | The Mishler Theatre | 1208 12th Avenue, Altoona

Experience the music of The Beatles, Led Zeppelin and The Doors in one immersive tribute show with Magical Mystery Doors. The band performs favorites from all three legendary groups while also blending familiar songs into creative arrangements that bring their iconic sounds together in unexpected ways.

A dynamic visual production featuring video and lighting accompanies the live performance for a night celebrating some of rock music’s most recognizable songs.

ArtsAltoona’s 4th Annual Christkindl Holiday Market

Saturday, November 21, 2026 | 11 a.m.–4 p.m. | Unter Uns Musical & Entertainment Society | 1401 Van Buren Avenue, Altoona, PA 16602

Celebrate the holiday season at ArtsAltoona’s Fourth Annual Christkindl Holiday Market, inspired by traditional German Christmas markets! Browse unique handcrafted gifts from local artisans, enjoy authentic German food and festive beverages, and experience live music and seasonal performances.

The family-friendly celebration will also feature visits from St. Nick and Krampus, children’s crafts, a holiday portrait station, chainsaw wood carving demonstrations, basket raffles and more.

Enjoy a day of holiday shopping, German traditions and festive entertainment while supporting local artists and the arts community.

Hollidaysburg WinterFest Parade

Sunday, November 22, 2026 | 2 p.m. | Downtown Hollidaysburg

Kick off the holiday season at the Hollidaysburg WinterFest Parade! Gather with family and friends in Downtown Hollidaysburg for an afternoon of festive floats, marching bands, music and holiday cheer.

This year’s parade theme, “Rocking with Rudolph,” brings a fun and festive twist to the annual celebration as the community comes together to welcome the holiday season.

A Very Merry Card Show

Saturday, November 21–Sunday, November 22, 2026 | Blair County Convention Center | 1 Convention Center Drive, Altoona

Get into the holiday spirit while browsing cards, collectibles and memorabilia at A Very Merry Card Show. Vendors will offer everything from sports cards and memorabilia to Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, Yu-Gi-Oh!, Disney Lorcana, Riftbound and more.

Whether you’re adding to your own collection or searching for a holiday gift, there will be plenty to discover throughout the two-day show. Santa will also make special appearances throughout the weekend.

Victorian Christmas Tours at the Baker Mansion

Friday, Nov. 20–Dec. 20, 2026 at Baker Mansion in Altoona

Experience the beauty and charm of the holiday season during Victorian Christmas Tours at the Baker Mansion. From November 20 through December 20, visitors can explore the beautifully decorated historic mansion and discover how Christmas was celebrated during the Victorian era.

Tours are offered daily from 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., and standard museum admission rates apply.

A Motown Christmas

Tuesday, Nov. 24th, 2026 at the Mishler Theater in Altoona

Celebrate the holiday season at the Mishler Theatre with A Motown Christmas, a family-friendly show blending Motown’s greatest hits with beloved holiday classics.

Featuring dazzling choreography, unforgettable harmonies, and the signature Motown sound, this festive performance puts a soulful spin on the music of the season and offers a fun night out for the whole family.

Turkey Trot Race

Saturday, Nov. 28th, 2026 at the Blair Regional YMCA (1111 Hewit St) in Hollidaysburg at 8:30am

Kick off the holiday season with the 23rd Annual Turkey Trot Race at the Blair Regional YMCA. Starting at 8:30 a.m., this family-friendly event features a rolling 4.5-mile run, a flat 2-mile run, and a 1-mile walk, making it a great way for participants of all ages and fitness levels to get moving before the holiday festivities.

A longtime Thanksgiving weekend tradition, the Turkey Trot welcomes both locals and visitors for a fun morning of fitness, community, and friendly competition.

The Nutcracker

December 4–6, 2026 | The Mishler Theatre | 1208 12th Avenue, Altoona, PA

Experience the magic of the holiday season with a traditional performance of The Nutcracker, presented by the Pauline Baker Rodgers School of Dance in collaboration with Cambria Dance Academy.

Follow Clara on a magical journey filled with dancing snowflakes, a battle between mice and soldiers, and a visit to the enchanting Land of Sweets. Featuring the beloved Sugar Plum Fairy and memorable characters, this classic holiday ballet brings a cherished Christmas tradition to life.

Performance Schedule:

• Friday, December 4 – 7:30 p.m.

• Saturday, December 5 – 7:30 p.m.

• Sunday, December 6 – 2 p.m.

Directed by Mary Ellen Rodgers Everhart and co-directed by Emily Koch.

All ticket sales are final. No refunds or exchanges for different performances.

Duncansville Tree Lighting Ceremony

Friday, Dec. 4, 2026 at 1211 3rd Ave in Duncansville

Kick off the holiday season with the Duncansville Tree Lighting Ceremony at Hicks Memorial Methodist Church! From 6–8 p.m., gather with the community for a festive evening featuring coffee, hot chocolate, soup, cookies, and a visit from Santa.

The official tree lighting ceremony begins at 7:30 p.m., bringing the community together to celebrate the start of the Christmas season.

Kerr’s Christmas Market in the Gardens

Saturday, December 5, 2026 | 10 a.m.–3 p.m. | Kerr’s Home & Garden | 179 S. Montgomery Street, Hollidaysburg

Celebrate the holiday season at Kerr’s Christmas Market in the Gardens! Browse a festive selection of local artisans, handmade gifts, seasonal treats and specialty foods while enjoying live music, food and drink vendors, and holiday entertainment.

Santa will be visiting the event greenhouse from 10 a.m.–2 p.m., with holiday mini photo sessions available through Ivie Images Photography. Families can also meet animals from Wopsy Wind Farms, enjoy a photo booth, and catch a special appearance by Jellycat from Kerr’s Bedford location.

Explore Kerr’s gift shop and greenhouses while shopping, enjoying festive refreshments and celebrating the season with family and friends.

Altoona’s Spirit of Christmas Parade

Saturday, December 5, 2026 | 1 p.m. | Downtown Altoona

Celebrate the holiday season in Downtown Altoona during the annual Spirit of Christmas Parade, presented by Seven Mountains Media, the City of Altoona and Courtesy Motors. Gather along the parade route for an afternoon of festive floats, community groups and plenty of Christmas cheer.

The parade steps off at 1 p.m. at 17th Street and 9th Avenue before traveling through Downtown Altoona and ending at 16th Street.

Holiday Music Nights at the Baker Mansion

Friday, Dec. 11th & Friday Dec. 18th 2026 at Baker Mansion in Altoona

Celebrate the holiday season at the Baker Mansion during Holiday Music Nights. From 6:00–9:00 p.m., enjoy live performances by local musicians, homemade desserts, and special appearances by members of the Baker family portrayed by living historians.

Admission is $5 per guest and will be collected at the door. This festive evening offers a charming way to experience local history and holiday traditions.

Altoona Symphony Orchestra: Home for the Holidays

Saturday, December 12, 2026 | 7:30 p.m. | Altoona Area High School | Altoona, PA

Celebrate the magic of the holiday season with the Altoona Symphony Orchestra’s Home for the Holidays, conducted by Maestro Nick Palmer. Featuring more than 160 performers, this festive concert brings together beloved holiday music, special guest artists and talented local performers for an evening of seasonal entertainment.

Special guests include Kera O’Brien, Jason Schwartz, Brandis Ajay, the AAHS Vocal Ensemble, HAHS Fantasia, Cambria Dance Academy, PBR School of Dance and the Altoona Youth Orchestra.

Christmas at the Curve: Santa’s Coming to Town

Friday, December 18, 2026 | Doors Open at 5 p.m. | Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark | 2400 Veterans Memorial Highway, Altoona

Celebrate the holiday season at Horseshoe Curve as Santa Claus makes a special arrival by Norfolk Southern train between 6 and 7 p.m. Families can enjoy complimentary hot chocolate, cookies and popcorn, along with opportunities to take photos with Santa at one of Blair County’s most iconic landmarks.

Admission is $10 per person. The funicular is expected to operate during the event, weather permitting, with UTV transportation available if necessary.

The John Denver Tribute Christmas Concert

Sunday, Dec. 20th, 2026 at 7:30pm at the Mishler Theater

Celebrate the holiday season with the timeless music of John Denver in this heartwarming Christmas concert featuring award-winning performer Chris Collins and Boulder Canyon.

Enjoy beloved classics like Take Me Home, Country Roads, Rocky Mountain High, and Sunshine on My Shoulders, along with festive holiday favorites inspired by John Denver’s cherished Christmas specials. Filled with nostalgia, beautiful harmonies, and seasonal cheer, this uplifting concert is a memorable holiday tradition for audiences of all ages.

Experience the music and energy of The Rolling Stones with Classic Stones Live, an eight-piece tribute band dedicated to recreating the sound, style and stage presence of the legendary rock group. From Brown Sugar and Gimme Shelter to the Stones’ biggest hits, the show captures the details and raw energy of the band in its prime.

Frontman Keith Call channels Mick Jagger alongside Bernie Bollendorf as Keith Richards for a live concert experience celebrating the music that has defined generations of rock and roll.

Setsucon

Jan. 29–31, 2027 at the Blair County Convention Center

Warm up your winter at Setsucon, Central Pennsylvania’s premier anime convention, celebrating its 20th anniversary at the Blair County Convention Center. Fans of anime, manga, cosplay, gaming, and Japanese culture can enjoy a weekend filled with celebrity guests, cosplay contests, gaming tournaments, artist and vendor halls, panels, workshops, live entertainment, and interactive events.

Whether you’re a longtime anime fan or attending your first convention, Setsucon offers a fun, family-friendly weekend celebrating creativity, fandom, and community.

Pride & Prejudice

February 11–14, 2027 at the Mishler Theater

The Altoona Community Theatre presents Pride & Prejudice at the historic Mishler Theatre. Based on Jane Austen’s beloved novel, this witty and romantic classic follows the spirited Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates family expectations, first impressions, and an unexpected relationship with the enigmatic Mr. Darcy.

Performances are held February 11–13 at 7:30 p.m. and February 14 at 2:00 p.m. Filled with humor, romance, and timeless characters, this enduring story of love and self-discovery continues to captivate audiences of all ages.

The Magical Music of Harry Potter – Live in Concert

Tuesday, Feb. 16th, 2027 at 4:30pm at the Mishler Theater

Step into the Wizarding World with The Magical Music of Harry Potter – Live in Concert, an enchanting evening featuring iconic music from the beloved film series performed by a live orchestra and choir.

Experience unforgettable scores by John Williams, Patrick Doyle, Nicholas Hooper, and Alexandre Desplat, along with magical illusions, interactive moments, and a special guest from the Harry Potter films. A must-see event for witches, wizards, and fans of all ages.

Something Rotten!

April 29–May 2, 2027 at the Mishler Theater

The Altoona Community Theatre presents Something Rotten! at the historic Mishler Theatre. Set in Renaissance England, this hilarious Broadway musical follows two playwright brothers who set out to outshine William Shakespeare by creating the world’s very first musical, leading to outrageous comedy, unforgettable songs, and nonstop laughs.

Performances are held April 29–May 1 at 7:30 p.m. and May 2 at 2:00 p.m. Packed with clever humor, energetic dance numbers, and larger-than-life characters, this crowd-pleasing musical is a fun-filled night at the theater.