By Becky Sciullo | January 21, 2026
Winter in Happy Valley doesn’t slow us down, it simply shifts how we show up. Whether you’re looking for a cozy concert, a cultural experience, or the buzz of Penn State energy, there’s something happening this week that matches your mood.
We’ve simplified your decision-making by curating a handful of standout events, organized by the kind of vibe you’re craving. Want more? Explore the full Connect Happy Valley Events Calendar: https://connecthappyvalley.com/events/
If You Want Live Comedy or Music
State College has live music and comedy nearly every night of the week, and many bars host late-night acts that appear on the Connect Happy Valley calendar. Those are great options if you’re in the mood for a later night out.
If you’d rather get out earlier, still enjoy live sound, and be home at a reasonable hour, these events offer that balance.
🎶 No Filter: Tommy Wareham & Tom Gallagher
Tonight! 7:00 PM
📍 Pine Grove Hall (Upstairs)
A standout local music night featuring two pillars of the Happy Valley music scene. No Filter blends live performance with candid conversation, as longtime Ale House pianist Tommy Wareham and Groove Society saxophonist and Music Mart owner Tom Gallagher share behind-the-scenes stories about sustaining a local music community.
https://pinegrovehall.com
🎤 State Comedy Presents: Steve Rinaldi
Wednesday, January 21 • 8:00 PM
📍 Manny’s State College
A proper headliner comedy night featuring Philadelphia-based comic Steve Rinaldi, known for a sharp, story-driven style and national club experience.
https://mannysstatecollege.com
🎶 Lord Forest
Friday, January 23 • 7:00 PM
📍 Pine Grove Hall
A concert-style evening blending beloved classics from Steely Dan, The Beatles, Crosby, Stills & Nash, and Fleet Foxes with original songs. A complete music experience without a late bedtime.
https://pinegrovehall.com
More Live Music Options
Pine Grove Hall is also hosting Kate Anderson, Jazz Saxophonist. Manny’s has Bring Your Own Vinyl Night and Ethel Meserve with Static Brian. For a daytime option, Jeff Unplugged is playing at Seven Mountains Wine Cellars.
Find details, ticket links, and venue information on the Connect Happy Valley Calendar: https://connecthappyvalley.com/events/
Performances Not to Miss
🥁 Drum Tao: The Best
Tuesday, January 27 • 7:30 PM
📍 Eisenhower Auditorium
An internationally acclaimed taiko drumming ensemble known for thunderous rhythms, martial-style choreography, and high-energy theatrical performance. Drum Tao blends traditional Japanese percussion with modern staging for a visually striking, unforgettable night out. A rare global tour stop and one of the most high-impact live shows coming through State College this season.
https://cpa.psu.edu/events/drum-tao
If You Want Arts, Culture, or Something Quietly Engaging
These choices are ideal when you want to be out in the world without a lot of noise, crowds, or decision-making. They work well for midday breaks, solo outings, or slower weekend plans.
🎶 Bach’s Lunch: School of Music Voice Area Concert
Thursday, January 22 • 12:10 PM
📍 Eisenhower Chapel
A midday classical concert featuring Penn State School of Music students. Calm, accessible, and set in a relaxing environment.
https://music.psu.edu
🖼 Drop-In Tour: A Guide’s Choice
Sunday, January 25 • 2:00 PM
📍 Palmer Museum of Art
A docent-led tour highlighting a rotating selection of works from the Palmer’s collection. Ideal if you want a thoughtful arts experience without overplanning.
https://palmermuseum.psu.edu
More Free Arts & Culture on Campus
Other quietly engaging, free events on the Connect Happy Valley calendar include Alexis Chae’s MM Final Recital (viola), the Tiger Lily Trio Guest Artist Recital, and the lecture “Brutal Intelligence and Vulgar Sophistication: The Smithsons’ Mies-Image” by Mark Linder.
Full details, venues, and links are available on the Connect Happy Valley Events Calendar: https://connecthappyvalley.com/events/
If You Want the Energy of Penn State Sports
Penn State athletics offer an easy way to get out, show school spirit, and enjoy a lively atmosphere without needing a full game-day plan. Many events are free to attend, making this one of the simplest ways to add energy to your week.
🤼 Penn State Wrestling vs. Indiana
Friday, January 23 • 7:00 PM
📍 Rec Hall
A Big 10 matchup featuring Penn State’s nationally dominant wrestling program in the iconic Rec Hall.
🥅 Penn State Women’s Ice Hockey vs. Delaware
Friday, January 23 • 6:00 PM
Saturday, January 24 • 2:00 PM
📍 Pegula Ice Arena
A spotlight game for one of Penn State’s strongest women’s programs, offering fast-paced action and an arena atmosphere that feels fun and accessible.
More Penn State Sports This Week
Additional events on the Connect Happy Valley calendar include Women’s Basketball vs. Minnesota (Wednesday), Men’s Basketball vs. Wisconsin (Thursday), Women’s Gymnastics vs. Maryland (Sunday), and the Penn State Invitational for Fencing (Sunday). Full schedules, times, and ticket information are available on team websites and the Connect Happy Valley Calendar: https://connecthappyvalley.com/events/
Looking Ahead (Worth Planning Now)
By now, many people have plans for the Hockey Winter Classic in Beaver Stadium. A few other upcoming events are also worth keeping on your radar.
🎶 Terri Lyne Carrington – We Insist! 2025
Thursday, February 5, 2026 • 7:30 PM
📍 Eisenhower Auditorium
Four-time Grammy Award–winning drummer Terri Lyne Carrington brings a bold, modern reimagining of We Insist! Max Roach’s Freedom Now Suite, now preserved in the Library of Congress. The performance blends jazz, gospel, funk, and global influences into a powerful, contemporary tribute.
https://connecthappyvalley.com/events/
🎭 Morris & Essex County Line
Opens February 27
📍 Penn State Centre Stage
A Tony Award–winning musical inspired by a true story, coming to Penn State Centre Stage later this winter. A strong pick for anyone in the mood for live theater with emotional depth and compelling storytelling.
https://connecthappyvalley.com/events/
A Final Thought
Getting out does not have to be complicated.
Sometimes it just has to be chosen.
For full listings, additional events, and planning details, visit:
https://connecthappyvalley.com/events/
