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MATPRA is a cohesive unit of regional tourism partners encompassing Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C. and West Virginia.

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Outdoor Adventures

Greetings MATPRA Media Partners,

MATPRA distributes press releases designed to inspire media coverage of the Mid-Atlantic region. We plan topics months in advance to accommodate longer lead times. If you have suggestions for future topics, we’d love to hear them! Please email ([email protected]).

While the weather outside might be frightful… it’s a great time to plan for warmer weather travel. From scenic hikes with vista views to lakeside picnics and kayak excursions, check out these outdoor adventures found in destinations throughout the Mid-Atlantic.

MARYLAND


Annapolis and Anne Arundel County (MD)
With 533 miles of shoreline, Annapolis and Anne Arundel County are paradise for outdoor lovers. Sail the Chesapeake Bay, paddleboard at Quiet Waters Park, or kayak Back Creek. Bike the scenic B&A Trail. Explore Downs Park’s waterfront trails and fishing pier or hike through the lush woods of Broad Creek Park. Visit Historic London Town and Gardens for nature and history combined. Sandy Point State Park offers beach days and birdwatching. Whether it’s peaceful walks, water sports, or family picnics, the region’s parks and natural spaces invite adventure year-round.
Visit Annapolis


Calvert County (MD)
Adventure is calling in Calvert County! Explore sandy beaches and search for fossils at Calvert Cliffs State Park or Flag Ponds Nature Park. Set sail on a guided cruise with Big Kahuna Cruises in Solomons or Chesapeake Windsail Cruises in Chesapeake Beach. Prefer action on the water? Book a charter boat for a full or half-day adventure. For family fun, enjoy mini golf at K&K Adventure Park, or immerse yourself in the outdoors with 26 miles of scenic hiking trails across three locations at the American Chestnut Land Trust. Discover your next unforgettable outdoor escape today!
Choose Calvert


Hagerstown-Washington County (MD)
Washington County, Maryland offers exceptional outdoor recreation with trails, rivers, and parks that invite year-round adventure. A scenic stretch of the Appalachian Trail crosses South Mountain, providing sweeping vistas and memorable hikes. Along the Potomac River, the C&O Canal towpath offers a flat, historic route ideal for biking, walking, and wildlife watching. With opportunities for paddling, fishing, cycling, and peaceful nature escapes, the county’s diverse landscapes make it easy to explore the outdoors at any pace. Whether you’re seeking a challenging trek or a leisurely day outside, Washington County delivers an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Visit Hagerstown-Washington


Harford County (MD)
Discover outdoor adventure in Harford County, where natural beauty stretches in every direction. With 106 miles of scenic shoreline and more than 2,000 miles of winding streams, there’s endless opportunity to get out on the water-kayaking, fishing, boating, or simply taking in the view. Explore our county parks and three stunning state parks, offering miles of trails for hiking and quiet corners for reflection. Wander through forests, follow cascading streams, or chase the sound of waterfalls. And don’t forget to look up—bald eagle sightings are common, adding a touch of wild wonder to every visit. Adventure awaits in Harford County.
Hello Harford


Kent County (MD)
As warmer days return, Kent County, Maryland invites you to step outside and embrace the beauty of the Eastern Shore. Paddle along the Chester River or launch a kayak from Rock Hall for stunning Chesapeake Bay views. Hikers and birdwatchers will love the trails at Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge, where wildlife thrives in every season. For a laid-back outing, pack a picnic and enjoy a sunny afternoon at one of Kent County’s many waterfront parks. Whether you crave active exploration or quiet time in nature, outdoor adventures await around every corner in Kent County.
Kent County Tourism


Talbot County (MD)
Whether you want to splash into the Chesapeake Bay or stay on dry land, opportunities for adventure abound in Talbot County. Paddle through Talbot’s waterways, easily accessible through 600+ miles of shoreline. Cast a line with a local fishing captain or relax aboard a sailing charter. Cross the Tred Avon River on the nation’s oldest privately operated ferry. Learn the history of Talbot County aboard The Patriot, a replica 1930s steamboat. On dry land, meander through 400 acres of forests and fields at Pickering Creek Audubon Center or pedal your way across the flat countryside with six designated bike routes.
Tour Talbot

PENNSYLVANIA


Endless Mountains (PA)
The Endless Mountains Gravel Bikepacking Loop is a scenic cycling route through the counties of Northeastern Pennsylvania offering access to some of the region’s best trails. This entire route is about 430 miles long, following existing roads and trails. Paved riding is primarily quiet country roads and short on-road sections to lead cyclists into the region’s small towns. Passing through some of the region’s best known state parks (Ricketts Glen, Vosburg Neck, Worlds End) and the Loyalsock State Forest, cyclists will discover one of the best rides MidAtlantic when planning a ride on the Endless Mountains Gravel Bikepacking Loop.
Endless Mountain


Juniata River Valley (PA)
Things are finally warming up in the Juniata River Valley—time to get outside! One of the most stunning paddles awaits along the Juniata River near Thompsontown, a designated Important Bird Area. Float its calm, clear waters and keep your eyes open—you’re likely to spot heron, bald eagles, cormorants, and egrets along the way. Grab your paddle, pack your binoculars, and discover this unforgettable stretch of the Juniata.
Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau

Lancaster County (PA)
“The Local” in Quarryville is an awesome mountain bike park. Nestled in the heart of the “Southern End” of Lancaster County, the park features everything from expert level jumps to beginner flow trails. All the trails are well-marked and filter down to a mellow 40-foot climb trail, which makes skill development through sessioning a breeze. Plus, there’s plenty of parking and easy access to the Enola Low Grade Trail, for a more relaxing ride option. All in all, a perfect place for riders of all skill levels and for families looking for something to do.
Discover Lancaster


Lawrence County (PA)
The only place where you can ride underground in abandoned limestone mines, Mines & Meadows ATV/RV Resort will surely satisfy your need for the great outdoors. Along with beautiful waterfall hikes at McConnells Mill State Park, fishing on the well-stocked Neshannock Creek, kayaking, biking and more await in Lawrence County, PA!
Visit Lawrence County


Susquehanna River Valley (PA)
Discover the natural beauty of Central PA’s Susquehanna River Valley.
Whether it’s spring, summer, fall or winter, the natural beauty of our region is sure to inspire you to spend time in the great outdoors. Home to the majestic Susquehanna River, the Susquehanna River Valley is also surrounded by state parks, scenic country roads, abundant fishing streams and year-round recreational opportunities.
There’s truly something here for everyone – hiking, biking, off-roading, hunting, fishing, horseback riding, paddling, golfing and bird/wildlife watching. The Susquehanna River Valley has it all!
Susquehanna Valley River Visitors Bureau


York County (PA)
York County, PA is a natural playground packed with outdoor adventures for every kind of explorer. With four state parks and eleven county parks, there’s no shortage of trails, water access, and wide-open spaces to roam. The Susquehanna River offers stunning views and endless opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and wildlife watching, while the Heritage Rail Trail invites walkers, runners, and cyclists to enjoy miles of scenic, connected pathways. Many parks also welcome hobbyists and creators—including designated areas for flying drones—making it easy to capture the beauty of the landscape from above. Whether you’re hiking, biking, paddling, or simply soaking in the scenery, York County’s great outdoors is ready for your next adventure.
Explore York

VIRGINIA


Loudoun County (VA)
From river trails and bike paths to precipitous mountain hikes, Loudoun, Virginia is an outdoor paradise. Algonkian Regional Park on the tree-lined banks of the Potomac River is an 838-acre park with miles of paved and wooded trails and a dozen rustic cabins for overnight stays. For cyclists, the Washington & Old Dominion Trail is a narrow, paved path perfectly dissecting the county east-to-west on the bed of a former railway line. In the Blue Ridge Mountains, “The Rollercoaster” is a rugged, swooping 13-mile stretch of the world-famous Appalachian Trail with spectacular views of the Shenandoah River Valley.
Visit Loudon

About the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance
The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a collaborative network of tourism partners across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C., West Virginia – and coming soon… New Jersey! The alliance is dedicated to supporting travel journalists by providing resources that transcend geographic boundaries, much like travelers themselves. By identifying common themes and regional highlights, MATPRA offers a wealth of story ideas for journalists interested in showcasing the diverse destinations of the Mid-Atlantic region as a unified whole. For more information, visit matpra.org.

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Mid-Atlantic Breweries

Greetings MATPRA Media Partners,

MATPRA distributes press releases designed to inspire media coverage of the Mid-Atlantic region. We plan topics months in advance to accommodate longer lead times. If you have suggestions for future topics, we’d love to hear them! Please email ([email protected]).

Explore the Mid-Atlantic through its craft beer scene! Enjoy distinct flavors from makers large and small, pouring everything from crisp lagers to bold ales and rich stouts. A new favorite pour is waiting at one of these standout spots!

MARYLAND


Annapolis and Anne Arundel County (MD)
Annapolis and Anne Arundel County offer a dynamic craft beer scene. In Annapolis, Forward Brewing delivers small-batch creativity in Eastport known for its sustainability practices and support of oyster beds to rehabilitate the Chesapeake Bay. Nearby, Crooked Crab Brewing Co. in Odenton features 16 rotating taps and playful brews like “Crabtain America.” Chesepiooc Real Ale Brewery in Crofton thrives on experimentation and Pherm Brewing in Gambrills blends beer and art, including a special brew you can only find aboard the Schooner Woodwind – “Seas the Bay IPA.” From nano-breweries to taproom hubs, the region pours out flavor and community spirit.
Visit Annapolis


Calvert County (MD)
Discover the craft beer scene in Calvert County this November! From family-owned favorites to small-batch artisanal breweries, the county offers a variety of flavors for every palate. Sip award-winning beers at Mully’s Brewery in Prince Frederick, enjoy artisan brews paired with fresh cuisine at Ruddy Duck Brewery & Grill in Dowell, or relax outdoors at the Southern Maryland Biergarten at Running Hare Vineyard in Prince Frederick. North Beach’s Unauthorized Brewing offers friendly vibes and carefully crafted small-batch beers, while Greenspring Brewing Company brings art, science, and cheer to every pint. Explore local breweries and find your new favorite brew!
Choose Calvert


Hagerstown-Washington County (MD)
Washington County is home to an energetic and growing brewery scene that reflects both local tradition and innovation. From small batch craft breweries to taprooms that pair regional ingredients with experimental brewing techniques, the area offers a diverse beer-lover’s playground. In our Grapes & Grains Guide (available on our website), you’ll find a curated map and descriptions of our breweries, specialty brews, and notes on the local grains or hops they source. The Guide is a great companion whether you’re doing a brewery tour or simply discovering your new favorite brew in Washington County.
Visit Hagerstown-Washington

Photo Credit Scott Cantner


Harford County (MD)
Harford County’s brewery scene is overflowing with local flavor and fun! With eight breweries ranging from microbreweries to three scenic farm breweries; there’s a craft experience for every taste. Each spot offers its own unique vibe, from rustic countryside settings to lively taprooms, all proudly serving locally brewed beers and seasonal specialties. Family-friendly and most known for their welcoming, dog-friendly patios, these breweries are perfect for relaxing afternoons or nights out with friends. Enjoy rotating food trucks, live entertainment, and community events throughout the year as you sip, savor, and explore the vibrant craft beer culture of Harford County.
Hello Harford

Photo Credit Jodi Marschhauser


Kent County (MD)
Raise a glass to Rock Hall’s newest gem, Rock Hall Brewing Co. Nestled in this waterfront town, the brewery brings fresh energy to Kent County’s growing craft beverage scene. Visitors can enjoy a rotating selection of handcrafted beers, from crisp lagers to bold IPAs, brewed with creativity and local pride. The inviting taproom offers the perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring the Chesapeake Bay, while live music and community events add to the lively atmosphere. Whether you’re a craft beer aficionado or just looking for a refreshing stop, Rock Hall Brewing Co. is a must-visit destination.
Kent County Tourism


Talbot County (MD)
Talbot County, Maryland is home to Maryland’s longest-running brewery, Eastern Shore Brewing. Located in the charming, waterfront town of St. Michaels, Maryland, Eastern Shore Brewing offers its ales, lagers, and seasonal specialties in a lodge-like tasting room.
Tour Talbot

Photo Credit @carraway.beer

PENNSYLVANIA


Bucks County (PA)
Follow the Bucks County Ale Trail and discover 30+ outstanding craft breweries with the digital passport. One check-in to any brewery location is equal to 100 points. Start checking in to earn points and redeem for prizes. Visit https://www.visitbuckscounty.com/food-and-drink/bucks-county-ale-trail/ for more information.
Visit Bucks County


Cumberland Valley (PA)
Pennsylvania is one of the biggest producers of craft beer in the U.S., which is why the Cumberland Valley Beer Trail, located in Cumberland Valley PA should be on your list of brewery destinations to explore! There are nearly 30 breweries on the Cumberland Valley Beer Trail, which rewards craft beer with prizes and one-of-a-kind experiences. This year’s beer trail celebrates Pennsylvania sports, with new shirts and exclusive tailgates. The Cumberland Valley features a mix of well-known breweries like Pizza Boy and Ever Grain to smaller, growing craft beverages.
Visit Cumberland Valley


Endless Mountains (PA)
Nimble Hill is a family-owned Winery & Brewery located in the Endless Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania that is dedicated to producing some of the finest products available in the region. Stop in the Tasting Room located on Route 6 in Tunkhannock to discover the award-winning products brewed by this regional business. Nimble Hill’s products are sourced from a locally maintained one acre hop field which climbs on trellises just past our the family’s10 acre vineyard. Plans include advancing the local hop fields and vineyards each year so that the Nimble Hill grows as a self-sustaining regional winery and brewery.
Endless Mountains


Juniata River Valley (PA)
At Shy Bear Brewing, it’s all about great beer, good vibes, and a positive impact. Their 10-barrel brewhouse turns out everything from classic styles to progressive, whimsical brews—paired perfectly with a creative menu that evolves with the seasons. Families, kids, and pups are always welcome, especially in the beer garden where extensive live music and entertainment programs make warm days unforgettable. Beyond the glass, they’re committed to sustainability with 363 solar panels, on-demand water heating, and eco-friendly practices across the property.
Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau


Lancaster County (PA)
Our Lancaster County Brew Trail is a great way to explore our many suds (some of the most in any PA county) and earn points toward branded swag at the same time. Learn why we were once known as the “Little Munich of America” and check out Bube’s Brewery in Mount Joy – the only U.S. lager brewery from the 1800s that has survived intact.“
Discover Lancaster


Lawrence County (PA)
Home to 5 microbreweries, each location offers a different atmosphere down to the type of brew. Enjoy a sports themed brewery at Brew 32, Crooked Tongue Brewing offers homemade food pairings with each lager and Neshannock Creek Brewing or “The Crick” as some Western Pennsylvanians would say, keeps its roots close with a rustic fishing lodge feel.
Visit Lawrence County


York County (PA)
York County, PA is a must-sip destination where craft beer fans can hop from one flavorful stop to the next. Enjoy American IPAs at AleCraft, Hefeweizen at Aviator, bold, balanced beers at Gift Horse and the ski-chalet vibe complete with outdoor bar and fire pits at South County Brewing Company. Many taprooms offer seasonal outdoor seating, welcome pets, and feature great live music. Plan your adventure with Explore York’s Digital Good Libations Trails, where you can check in, discover new favorites, and sip for swag. It’s York County—one memorable pint at a time.
Explore York

About the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance
The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a collaborative network of tourism partners across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C., West Virginia – and coming soon… New Jersey! The alliance is dedicated to supporting travel journalists by providing resources that transcend geographic boundaries, much like travelers themselves. By identifying common themes and regional highlights, MATPRA offers a wealth of story ideas for journalists interested in showcasing the diverse destinations of the Mid-Atlantic region as a unified whole. For more information, visit matpra.org.

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Detour Destinations

Greetings MATPRA Media Partners,

MATPRA distributes press releases designed to inspire media coverage of the Mid-Atlantic region. We plan topics months in advance to accommodate longer lead times. If you have suggestions for future topics, we’d love to hear them! Please email ([email protected]).

Enhance your next trip to the MidAtlantic Region’s big cities with a delightful detour destination stop. Explore the surrounding area’s charming villages and towns to make the most of your trip by enjoying local eats, quirky shops, and peaceful parks along the way.

MARYLAND

Annapolis and Anne Arundel County (MD)
Beyond Annapolis, Anne Arundel County offers hidden gems worth exploring. Visit Historic London Town and Gardens in Edgewater for colonial history and lush landscapes. Try your luck at Live! Casino & Hotel in Hanover, adjacent to Arundel Mills Mall for shopping and entertainment. Discover cryptology’s secrets at the National Cryptologic Museum near Fort Meade. For nature lovers, hike scenic trails at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center in Edgewater or bike the BWI Trail. A trip to Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse is a hidden gem and a must-experience! These attractions blend history, nature, and fun—all just outside the capital’s spotlight.
Visit Annapolis


Calvert County (MD)
Battle Creek Cypress Swamp in Prince Frederick, Maryland is an ideal detour stop! Visitors can explore the boardwalk through the cypress trees, newly designed interactive exhibits, and one of the northernmost bald cypress swamps in the country! It’s peaceful, educational and uniquely local.
Choose Calvert


Kent County Economic and Tourism Development (MD)
Next time your travels take you through the Mid-Atlantic’s bustling cities, plan a refreshing detour to Kent County, Maryland. Just a short drive from urban hubs, this Eastern Shore gem offers a slower pace and authentic small-town charm. Wander Chestertown’s historic district, lined with unique shops and cozy cafés. Savor local flavors at waterfront restaurants or explore Rock Hall, where maritime heritage and friendly faces shine. Outdoor lovers can unwind at serene parks, scenic trails, or along the Chester River. Whether for a quick stop or a lingering stay, Kent County makes every detour truly delightful.
Kent County Tourism


Talbot County (MD)
Find the yin to the big city’s yang in Talbot County, Maryland, where you can explore the best of the Chesapeake Bay’s culture and cuisine, much of it bound together by a ribbon of backroads that string together the small-town pearls of Easton, Oxford, St. Michaels, and Tilghman Island. Each town offers its own distinct character and timeless appeal, creating a journey that whispers tales of colonial grandeur, maritime heritage, and the tranquil beauty of the Chesapeake Bay.
Tour Talbot


Washington County (MD)
When in D.C. or Baltimore, add a charming detour to Hagerstown-Washington County, MD. Just 1 hour away, it offers an escape from city life, inviting you to explore its quaint historic towns. Discover Hagerstown’s Arts & Entertainment District or visit the Antietam National Battlefield in Sharpsburg. Hike or bike the C&O Canal in Williamsport. Enjoy local eats, browse quirky shops, or find peace in serene parks like Greenbrier State Park. Try kayaking on the Potomac River and hike the Appalachian Trail. This trip is filled with history, nature, and authentic local character. History – it’s in our Nature!
Visit Hagerstown

PENNSYLVANIA

Bucks County (PA)
Peddler’s Village has 65 unique shops and six unique restaurants on 42 acres of landscaped gardens and brick pathways located between Doylestown and New Hope. Guests can enjoy year-round events and festivities, including specially themed months, weekend celebrations, fall scarecrow displays, comedy nights and so much more.
Visit Bucks County


Butler County (PA)
Butler County’s small towns are constantly evolving and growing. By fostering new businesses, creating unique events, and community collaboration, they’ve become a true destination for visitors. Just 25 miles from Pittsburgh, they make a perfect detour.

The charming towns of Saxonburg, Zelienople, and Harmony are known for their unique history with specialized museums, trendy boutiques and delicious restaurants. Butler and Zelienople come alive with seasonal street fairs and markets, offering extended shopping hours, local music, and fun for all.

Finally, visit Portersville and beautiful Moraine State Park, the perfect spot for a picnic, hike, or boat tour.
Experience Butler


Endless Mountains (PA)
Three seasons of the year, Brown Hill Farms is a detour destination in the heart of the Endless Mountains agricultural area that offers visitors seasonal ways to celebrate! At the beautiful property located near Tunkhannock, right off historic Route 6, Brown Hill Farms provides opportunities to stroll through over 400,000 tulips and daffodils each spring, bask in the glow of summertime magic on thirty acres of sunflowers and cut flowers, and provide the perfect fall foliage activity of picking a pumpkin from a patch that grows classic orange pumpkins as well as blue heirloom varieties.
Endless Mountains

York County (PA)
York County, PA is the perfect detour destination—close to Lancaster, Gettysburg, Hershey, and Baltimore, yet full of its own unforgettable experiences. It’s easy to turn a quick stop into a full weekend with vibrant downtowns, rich history, rolling farmlands, and a thriving food and craft beverage scene. Fun year-round, York County always has something new to explore, whether you’re chasing seasonal festivals, scenic trails, or hidden gems that make every visit feel fresh and inviting.
Explore York

About the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance
The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a collaborative network of tourism partners across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C., West Virginia – and coming soon… New Jersey! The alliance is dedicated to supporting travel journalists by providing resources that transcend geographic boundaries, much like travelers themselves. By identifying common themes and regional highlights, MATPRA offers a wealth of story ideas for journalists interested in showcasing the diverse destinations of the Mid-Atlantic region as a unified whole. For more information, visit matpra.org.

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Winter, Walk This Way: A Guide to Snowshoeing in Erie, PA

Guest Contributor: Heather Cass

Erie receives an average of more than 100 inches of snow each year, making it a winter lover’s playground. From skiing to ice fishing to snowmobiling, there is no shortage of outdoor fun to be found in the area. If you’d like to have some fun in the flakes, one of the easiest and most pleasurable ways to do so is to strap on a pair of snowshoes and start exploring.

Where to go

You can find miles of trails to snowshoe at Presque Isle State Park, Asbury Woods, and Peek’n Peak Resort.

However, the joy of snowshoeing is that you can do it anywhere you find snow—even off-trail, through public game lands, along the waterfront, or, for a unique Erie experience, on the frozen waters of Presque Isle Bay! (Note that the ice should be at least seven inches thick to walk on the bay. Check ice reports here).

Snowshoeing at Presque Isle State Park at sunset is an awe-inspiring trek. Some of Erie’s most beautiful evening skies are in the winter when the colors overhead are offset by a blanket of sparkling white snow on the landscape and the breathtaking ice dunes that hug and protect the Lake Erie shoreline from sand erosion. Just remember to admire the ice dunes from a distance and avoid walking on them, as they are hollow and dangerous.

Asbury Woods provides a peaceful escape where the only sounds are the crunch of fresh powder beneath your feet and the whisper of the wind through the trees. “Snowshoeing is a great way to get outside and get some fresh air and exercise in the colder months,” said Sarah Bennett, director of education and community programs at Asbury Woods Nature Center. “Physically, it is a little more rigorous than walking, but it doesn’t require any special skills.”

At Peek’n Peak Resort, rolling hills and snow-draped trees create a breathtaking backdrop for your snowshoeing adventure. With each step through the crisp, powdery trails, it’s an invigorating rush of fresh mountain air.

What to know

“If you can walk, you can snowshoe,” Bennett said. The key is to remain aware of how large your feet are with snowshoes on. Clown-shoe-size feet require extra care when turning or changing direction and when following others. “You want to stay a foot or two away from the person in front of you so you don’t accidentally step on the back of their snowshoe, which will trip you both up,” she said.

Bennett said that snowshoeing does require some balance, but trekking poles can help provide stability for those who may need it. Most snowshoes come with poles, whether purchased or rented.

Where to find shoes

Both Asbury Woods and Peek’n Peak Resort rent snowshoes for use on their trails, provided there is at least six inches or more of snow. Another option is to invest in your own snowshoes. A set of entry-level, recreational shoes sells for as little as $60 online and at mass retailers.

What to wear

You will work up a sweat from the effort of snowshoeing. This is what makes snowshoeing such a pleasurable wintertime activity. You can be outdoors enjoying the winter wonderland while generating more than enough heat to stay warm.

“We suggest that people dress the same as they would if they were going cross-country skiing,” Bennett said. “It’s best to dress in layers, so you can take some clothing off if you start to overheat and put it back on if you get chilled.”

Suggested attire:

  • Waterproof winter boots
  • Long, warm socks
  • Gloves (add mittens on top on very cold days)
  • Warm hat
  • Scarf or gaiter
  • Fleece-lined tights or snow pants
  • Moisture-wicking, long-sleeve top
  • Fleece pullover or light sweatshirt
  • Jacket, coat, or windbreaker, depending on temperature/windchill
  • Sunglasses (daytime) or headlamp (evening)

Heather Cass is Publications Manager at Penn State Behrend.

The Mid-Atlantic Story: Celebrating 250 Years of America’s Spirit

Across the Mid-Atlantic, 250th anniversary commemorations are unfolding in imaginative and meaningful ways from storytelling performances and art installations to small-town festivals that remind us what unity and independence truly mean.

Each event reflects a different thread in the nation’s rich tapestry whether through music, community pride, or creative expression offering visitors endless opportunities to uncover authentic stories that connect people and place.

The Juniata River Valley is gearing up for a spectacular year of celebration as we commemorate America 250 with special events all year long. The festivities begin with the Star Spangled Soirée, a semi-formal evening at Juniata Valley Winery featuring live music, delicious food, patriotic décor, and an appearance by a George Washington impersonator inside the winery’s beautiful Federal-style home.

Independence Day week will shine even brighter with fireworks and two hometown parades. Goose Day will join in the fun with a patriotic twist, offering a whimsical “Goose Washington” photo shoot, while the Festival of Ice transforms into an American Adventure themed celebration. With many more events planned throughout 2026, our community is ready to honor America’s 250th birthday in unforgettable style.

In Greensburg, Pennsylvania, the Palace Theatre will host “The Unlikely Union: A Storytelling Symphony of America” on January 17, 2026. This distinctive performance brings together Professor Greg Jackson, the historian behind History That Doesn’t Suck, and the Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Maestro Daniel Meyer. Blending narrative and music, the performance reimagines the pivotal moments of America’s first century. The show will not be recorded, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for audiences and an irresistible subject for writers seeking to explore how art and history intersect in the Mid-Atlantic’s creative scene.

Add a bit of humorous knowledge to your 250 celebrations with “The Complete History of America (Abridged)” at Prima Theatre in Lancaster City, running April 17 through May 3. Three performers, dozens of characters, centuries of chaos—90 minutes of laughs! It’s a perfect reminder that history can be meaningful and wildly entertaining, especially when shared in a room full of people ready to celebrate.

Each summer, Culpeper, Virginia comes alive with its beloved 4th of July Celebration—a day that captures the essence of small-town America at its most joyful. Parades, live music, food, and fireworks fill the day with color and community spirit. Set against the backdrop of Culpeper’s historic downtown and rolling countryside, the celebration brings together locals and visitors alike to honor independence, fellowship, and tradition. For travel writers, it’s a vivid opportunity to explore how a town with deep Revolutionary roots continues to celebrate freedom in ways that feel both timeless and new.

On the coast, Hampton, Virginia adds its own creative twist to the 250th commemorations with “Crabs on King & Queen.” This charming event places decorative “crabs” throughout downtown Hampton, each featuring a QR code linking to stories and information about Hampton VA250. The trail leads visitors through King Street and Queen Street, culminating in the city’s annual Lighted Crab Pot Drop on New Year’s Eve—a festive local tradition that illuminates the night sky as the community rings in a new year of history, hope, and heritage. This event offers visitors a chance to explore how art and technology can come together to tell a city’s story, blending creativity, curiosity, and coastal charm.

Crab on King & Queen Event

A Region of Endless Discovery

Whether you’re standing in a concert hall in Pennsylvania, a historic downtown in Virginia, or a bustling coastal street lined with lighted sculptures, the Mid-Atlantic offers an ever-growing list of experiences and stories to tell. It’s a region where communities transform history into art, festivals into fellowship, and anniversaries into opportunities for reflection. Each celebration—whether grand or intimate—adds another verse to America’s ongoing narrative.

America’s 250th Commemoration – New Exhibits in the Mid-Atlantic

The Mid-Atlantic region stretching from the Chesapeake Bay to the Blue Ridge Mountains is more than just a geographic crossroads. It is where America’s story was written, challenged, and rewritten again through generations of innovation, faith, and freedom. For travels, it offers a landscape of inspiration: a region alive with museums, historic sites, culinary experiences, and communities that continue to shape the nation’s identity.

A Living Legacy of Freedom and Faith

Across Virginia and its neighboring states, the echoes of revolution and reform still resonate. In Culpeper, Virginia, the Museum of Culpeper History invites visitors to reflect on the founding ideals that forged the American spirit.

Culpeper Minute Men: Icons of Independence

One of the museum’s cornerstone exhibits, “Culpeper Minute Men: Icons of Independence,” explores how the local militia’s bravery during the Revolution evolved into an enduring symbol of patriotism and civic pride. The story connects past and present, showing how ideals of independence continue to inspire communities today.

Culpeper Baptist Church 250: 1774–2024

Just steps away, another exhibit “Culpeper Baptist Church 250: 1774–2024” celebrates 250 years of faith and service. Developed by the church itself, the display tells how Baptist missionaries in Culpeper helped secure America’s early religious freedoms, and how that commitment to faith-based service has guided the church’s mission for centuries.

Coming Soon in Lancaster: History, Democracy, and the Fight for Opportunity

Slated to open in May 2026, the powerful national stories and insights of the Thaddeus Stevens & Lydia Hamilton Smith Center for History and Democracy in Lancaster City will utilize their experiences to help highlight larger themes within our country’s continuous striving for freedom and opportunity for all. More than a museum stop, the Center will invite visitors to connect Lancaster’s story to the broader American journey—how democracy is shaped, challenged, and strengthened through courageous leadership, community action, and the ongoing pursuit of justice.

These stories invite travelers not just to look back, but also to see how the Mid-Atlantic’s pursuit of liberty and community still thrives today. From colonial landmarks and Civil War trails to modern art centers and living museums, the region offers a thousand ways to explore America’s evolving identity.

Moreover, new stories and experiences are always emerging, new exhibits, restorations, and celebrations that breathe life into old ideas and invite travelers to see history through fresh eyes. Future additions may explore everything from maritime heritage to music, migration, and the ongoing fight for equality and innovation.