UNIVERSITY PARK — The Central PA 4th Fest is back.
The annual event returns to University Park for another year. The all-day event starts in the morning, runs through the afternoon and culminates with the largest fireworks display in the commonwealth.
Celesta Powell is in her first year as the executive director of the Central PA 4th Fest.
“I think things are moving pretty quickly,” Powell said. “We have the fireworks in place and it will definitely be the biggest show in Pennsylvania, from what we hear, in terms of a firing standpoint. We’ve procured enough shells to be listed that way.”
There will once again be VIP seating at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, the home of the State College Spikes. The Spikes play Williamsport on July 3. There will be fireworks that night as well.
“It’s kind of like a little kickoff show. That will be pretty nice,” Powell said.
But the main event comes on July 4. Powell said that while the 4th Fest “footprint” is still not as big as it has been in the past, things are finally getting back to normal.
“We’re getting there with the partnership with Penn State welcoming us back to campus property. That’s been wonderful to bring 4th Fest back. It’s probably the best location we have. And that has been totally secured and completed,” Powell said.
There will be all sorts of events throughout the day. Returning this year are the popular Firecracker 4K run and walk, the Independence Day Parade, live music and community activities. Of course, it all culminates with a huge fireworks display. There will be several options for prime viewing.
Powell said that BMX bikers will put on a demonstration. The State College Roller Derby will also be on hand.
“Those are all free to the public,” Powell noted. “(Families) can walk up after the parade for those community events.”
There will also be a classic car show on campus.
“The way I look at the 4th Fest is, you choose your day. If you want to hang out and do those low-key community events, those are out there for you,” Powell said.
There is a fee to park in the lots around the 4th Fest. However, as Powell pointed out, the parking fee helps the community.
“That parking benefits 4th Fest and the community organizations that help us park cars,” Powell said. “Any time you are paying to park around the stadium, you are paying for us to continue this event.”
If you just want to park in a lot near the stadium, prices range from $10 to $25. Those attending can also opt to purchase tickets inside the baseball stadium at statecollegespikes.com. There will be a pair of bands performing inside the stadium prior to the fireworks display — the Gabe Stillman Band and Yachtley Crew.
“We have two really great bands,” Powell. “Yachtley Crew is America’s No. 1 soft rock band. They look really fun. They played Vegas, they play out west. They’re just going to be great entertainment.”
Tickets inside the stadium start at $15.
“It is not a high-budget type of activity,” Powell said. “You park, you get in there, you hang out. You really do choose your Fourth of July. We’re just really glad to celebrate as a large group there this year.”
Powell said she is excited for the event.
“We’re trying to pack the day with as much as we can,” Powell said.
There will be free hot dogs from Giant. And the large birthday cake is back as well.
“We are really excited about those things,” Powell said. “We are very appreciative of the community sponsorships and supports we’ve received.”
There is still time to step up and help. Volunteers are needed for Central PA 4th Fest. For more information about how to help the event, contact Powell at (814) 470-5955 or email centralpa4thfest@gmail.com.
