By The Connect Crew | March 4, 2026
Penn State Spring Break begins this weekend, which means town will be a little quieter and there will be more breathing room downtown, making it a good opportunity for locals and visitors to get out and about.
While the sidewalks will be calmer, the calendar is not. The Big Ten Wrestling Championships headline the weekend at the Bryce Jordan Center, alongside live music, multiple sporting events and other gatherings.
Here’s a look at some highlights.
🏟️ Sports at a Glance
It’s a full week for sports fans, both on the field and behind the scenes.
Penn State Baseball plays today at Medlar Field, while Men’s Basketball hosts Ohio State for Senior Night at the Bryce Jordan Center.
On the ice, the Women’s Hockey team faces Mercyhurst on Saturday in the AHA Championship, and Wisconsin comes to town to take on the Men.
Beyond the games themselves, there’s also an opportunity to step back and look at the history behind one of the University’s most storied programs. On Thursday, Pine Grove Hall hosts Inside the Story of Penn State Football: Session 1, an educational talk that offers a behind-the-scenes perspective on the evolution and inner workings of Penn State Football .
For additional matchups, including Lacrosse and Tennis, visit the All Sports Schedule.
🎵 Music & Live Performance
Spafford takes the stage on Friday at the State Theatre, delivering the improvisational rock sound that has built the touring jam band’s following.
Also on Friday, DOOM GONG w/ Xenia Rubinos and Howling Dragon 3 brings an eclectic mix of psychedelic and experimental sounds to Manny’s.
🎭 Arts, Ideas & Community
Join us tonight at Pine Grove Hall for another discussion on AI. Understanding AI Session 3: Creativity & Ethics explores how artificial intelligence intersects with creativity, business, and ethical decision-making.
The Nittany Valley Writers Network meets Tuesday, March 10, at 6:00 PM at Schlow Centre Region Library, offering local writers and literary-minded residents an opportunity to connect and share work.
The Everything Home Expo takes place on Friday, March 6, showcasing regional vendors and services for those planning spring home projects.
🏒 Looking ahead, the Men’s Hockey Team secured home ice for the Big Ten Hockey Tournament and will host a quarterfinal matchup at Pegula Ice Arena on Wednesday, March 11 at 7 p.m.
🌅 Even with a “Break”, There is Still Plenty to Do
Spring Break may thin the crowds a bit, but there is no shortage of ways to stay engaged. Whether you’re drawn to sports, live music, thoughtful discussions, or simply a reason to get downtown, while the pace feels a little slower.
As always, the full Connect Happy Valley Events Calendar is available here. Choose a game, concert, or discussion and show up for what’s here.
One Response
I appreciate the updates on what’s available! I’d love to see a little love toward some of the non-revenue generating sports.
For example, both mens and womens lacrosse are top 20 teams. The women will be away most of spring break but will have a top match up against Princeton on Sunday, the 15th at Panzer.
The Men (who fell in the final 4 tournament last year) take on #7Cornell on Saturday, the 7th at Panzer.
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