Like the 17-year cicada, we all are red-eyed and beginning to reanimate. Our First Frontier Blair County mountain main streets are filling up once again with events, music, food, and friends. Last month our team joined other outdoor enthusiasts and gear suppliers on South Juniata Street in Hollidaysburg for the Stuckey Automotive Adventurefest. The street was filled with tents, drinks, and storytelling. In normal times, this would have been just one of many. But this was notable. It was the first time in more than a year the street had life; a win for all the normalists.
The health crisis that we have navigated for more than a year is finally facing its remedy. After fifteen-months of partial or total life lockdowns, effective vaccines and treatments are now readily and widely accessible. A choice that was not previously available is now at hand. It is the key milestone to end a constant state of emergency.
So, what can us flannel loving high mountain folk do now? Reanimate. Socialize. Get to the trails, lakes and waterways. Take to the streets! Do the things again that make Blair County a unique and often quirky place to live and work. So what’s happening? Too much to cover really but here’s a quick guide.
Hit the Lower Trail – The creamery on the Lower Trail is open and adding some food options along the trail stop. Last year we shared the trail with more first timers than ever. That helped it become one of the highest rated trail experiences in the Country.
Music on the Diamond – It’s back! The first Hollidaysburg on the Diamond Thursday night music fest kicks off on June 17th. They will continue the monthly tradition throughout the summer. Bring your chair, beverage and be ready to dance in the street.
Eat, Dance, and Gather on 11th Avenue – Among many things like the farmers’ market and pop-up art, the Summer Sounds Series kicks off on June 13th in Heritage Plaza. Street BBQ on Thursdays and ton of other well curated, impromptu music, storytelling and general frivolity. Shopping too. Visit the Avenue and see for yourself.
Blair Brewery Tours – The regular crowd shuffles into our growing family of breweries and restaurants. Yes, we’ve added a few since the storm started. Hophead and Pilsner lovers alike find common ground among our seven locally owned breweries. Take a tour of Levity Brewing, Marzoni’s, Railroad City, JJ Hadley’s, Iron Pint, Chimney Rocks and the Spring Dam Brewery.
This is just the scripted stuff. There are organized on and off-road group cycling rides, kayak floats and trail running events for all interests and abilities. Don’t forget DelGrosso’s Park & Laguna Splash are back in business and Lakemont Park’s gates are opening as well. The First Frontier Blair County encourages everyone to get back out there. Do what you need as self-determined individuals. It’s time to reanimate. Work hard, play hard. Celebrate where we make a living and live while making it. You deserve it. We all deserve it.
