‘Summer is for the Locals’ to Celebrate ‘Seasonal Shift’ and Connect Residents in State College

State College takes on a different kind of atmosphere with the end of Penn State’s spring semester, and the inaugural “Summer is for the Locals” event this weekend will kickoff the season with a celebration at Champs Downtown.

The “townie takeover” of the popular 139 S. Allen St. bar will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday. Organized by Rediscover State College, the event aims to offer a laid-back, festive atmosphere to welcome and connect new and longtime residents.

“Summer in State College offers a unique vibe—calmer streets, shorter lines, and more time to enjoy the town’s charm,” Laura Mustio, organizer with Rediscover State College, said in a news release “This event is our way of honoring that seasonal shift and giving residents, especially newcomers, a fun and easy way to connect.”

Admission is free and open to all (though the event is recommended for ages 21 and older). The celebration will feature drink and appetizer specials, prize giveaways, and community-building activities including a local-themed bingo card to encourage friendly mingling.

“Whether you’ve just moved to town or have called State College home for years, ‘Summer is for the Locals’ offers a chance to celebrate the community spirit that makes the area special,” Mustio said.