By Connect Crew | February 4, 2026
Let’s be honest, we’re crushing it.
While others are dreaming of warmer weather, Happy Valley is out here winning at winter. From packed trivia nights and buzzing brewpubs to snowy hikes, ski runs, and full house crowds cheering for Penn State sports, the energy is real.
And this is just the start. In Happy Valley, we don’t just survive the seasons, we celebrate every single one.
Now, with Spring Break and Daylight-Saving Time both landing on March 8, it’s the perfect moment to fill your calendar with connection, creativity, and pure local joy.
22 Workdays. Dozens of Ways to Show Up.
With 22 workdays until Spring Break, there are so many opportunities to make memories, beat the chill, and enjoy the best of what Happy Valley has to offer. Here are just a few can’t-miss events and experiences:
Make Something Meaningful
Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or just ready to get creative, the maker energy is strong:
- Valentine Cookie Decorating, Painted Bottle Lamps, and Pick Your Project Workshops at The Makery and Board & Brush, February 10 to 14
- Art After Hours and hands-on Gallery Talks at Palmer Museum on February 14 and 26
These events are great for solo fun, date nights, or outings with friends.
Turn Up the Local Soundtrack
If you love live music, this is your season.
- Weekend performances at Pine Grove Hall, Manny’s, 814 Cider Works, and Elk Creek Café
- Special shows including Mike Viola, Spafford, Freedom Songs with Eric Ian Farmer, and You Got Gold at The State Theatre
- Classical and jazz concerts like the Rhapsody Series and Jazz Ensembles Mardi Gras Concert from the Penn State School of Music
Wellness, Wine, and Connection
February is the perfect time to recharge and connect with what matters.
- Wine and Chocolate Pairings at Mount Nittany Vineyard on February 6, 13, and 14
Hockey Valley. Wrestling Valley. Basketball Winning.
We’re not just winning winter, we’re winning games.
- Home matchups from Lady Lions, Men’s Basketball, and Penn State Wrestling all month
- Wrestling vs. Ohio State on February 13
- Men’s Basketball vs. USC on February 8, Rutgers on February 18, and Iowa on February 28
- Big Ten Wrestling Championships at Bryce Jordan Center on March 7
- Hockey vs. Ohio State on February 20 and 21
This is the season to show up and cheer loud.
Snow, Stars, and Tussey Buzz
The outdoors is calling. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or just soaking in the season, there’s something for you.
- Tussey Mountain is alive with skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.
- Try a Black Moshannon hike, a winter bird walk, or a snow science activity for kids.
- Enjoy a warm drink under the stars and share it with your people.
From Frost to Fresh Starts
As the days grow longer and the buzz builds toward Spring Break, this is your moment to connect, move, create, and celebrate what makes Happy Valley so special.
Winter is never wasted here. It’s a chance to gather, grow, and enjoy every step toward spring.
This isn’t just where we live. This is home. And no one does four seasons better.
