Friday, September 19, 2008

It's that time of year!


Howdy, fellow Ligonier Camp friends! We're getting to the time of year where the Laurel Highlands are absolutely beautiful. It's just the best place to be, and we're all thankful for the chance to work at such a wonderful piece of God's creation. I just wanted to let you all know about some pretty great things that happen up in this area in the fall:

First things first, there are tons of farmer's markets in this area, with local farmers and vendors supplying everything from fresh tomatoes, pumpkins, apples, and flowers to homemade crafts, foliage arrangements, pies, jams, jellies, and more. And since next week is "Buy Local PA" week, it's a great time to get out and try some local fare. The weekly Ligonier Country Market is Saturday morning from 8 am until noon.

There are two weekends left for the Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival held in West Newton, just under an hour from Ligonier Camp. The Renaissance festival is a great chance to experience the culture of the Renaissance while trying everything from turkey legs to jousting!

Many local towns and farms celebrate fall festivals, including folk music, Victorian home tours, ethnic celebrations, fall foliage drives, apple-picking, food vendors, arts and crafts, parades and more! Some locations include: Scottsdale, PA; Smicksburg, PA; Mount Pleasant, PA; Ebensburg, PA; Nemacolin Woodlands Resort in Farmington, PA; Faranda Farm in Hollsopple, PA; Springs, PA; and Seven Springs Mountain Resort in Seven Springs, PA.

Finally (and my personal favorite), Ligonier Fort Days take place the weekend of October 10-12. This celebration takes the town of Ligonier from a population of 1611 (per a July 2007 survey) to over 100,000 people for the weekend. The festival includes a Friday kick-off at noon in the heart of town, with food vendors and craft vendors aplenty (just a tip: Ligonier locals get great deals in downtown shops on Thursday, October 9). The festival offers tours of Fort Ligonier, reenactments, a Saturday parade, and cuisine from buffalo burgers to halushki to funnel cakes supreme. You can't miss it!

If you've ever though about bringing a group of friends or family to enjoy the Laurel Highlands, make sure to give the camp a call! We have housing for all kinds of groups, and would love to accomodate your time enjoying all the Highlands have to offer. Feel free to call and request a tour, if your child is considering a week or two at summer camp in 2009.

No comments: