It is December 10. Finals are wrapping up next week. Lights are twinkling across Centre County. The energy in Happy Valley feels both nostalgic and electric. Whether you are a student squeezing in winter memories before heading home, a local building traditions or family returning for the holidays, this is one of the best weeks of the year to get out and enjoy the region.
With so much happening, it helps to have a curated list. Here are some of the best picks this week and next, the experiences worth bundling up for.
Live Music Worth Leaving the Couch For
This stretch of December is packed with standout performances across local venues from jazz to bluegrass to indie original music.
Top music highlights
- A Holiday Evening with Catherine Dupuis and Tommy Wareham
December 11 at Pine Grove Hall
A timeless, elegant holiday performance perfect for a cozy night out. - Speed Bump Willy
December 12 at Arena Bar and Grill
A fun night at one of the region’s most energetic local hangouts. - Billy Price Band
December 13 at Elk Creek Cafe and Aleworks
Blues, soul and a guaranteed full house in Millheim. - Lilly Hiatt
December 13 at The Attic at The State Theatre
A must see for fans of modern Americana and singer songwriter performances. - Groove Society
December 13 at Pine Grove Hall
Expect a full room, dancing and a great night out.
And if you love discovering new artists, Manny’s Live continues a strong December lineup with underground creativity, touring acts and local musicians.
Theatre, Dance and Holiday Magic
December in Happy Valley brings out some of the most memorable performances of the year.
- Nittany Ballet’s The Nutcracker
December 13 and 14 at Eisenhower Auditorium
A holiday staple and a perfect tradition. - Death of a Salesman
Running through December 15 from FUSE Productions
A powerful staging of a classic American story. - Centre Dance presents The Nutcracker
December 19 and 20 at The State Theatre
A community favorite and perfect for families.
Holiday Events You Need to See
Every town in the region has its traditions, but one stands out with personality and heart.
Christmas in Philipsburg
Saturday December 13
Downtown Philipsburg
If you have never experienced Philipsburg during the holiday season, this is the year.
Santa does not stroll in. He does not ride a fire truck.
He arrives by helicopter.
The day includes a human powered parade, live youth bands, decorated streets straight from a midcentury postcard, a giant Santa statue, local food, a free movie at the historic Rowland Theatre and an evening party at Dead Canary Brewing.
It is bold. It is fun. It is community at its best.
Penn State Sports Still Going Strong
Football may be over, but the energy continues.
- Lady Lion Basketball vs Arizona State
December 9 at the Bryce Jordan Center - Women’s Hockey vs Cornell
December 30 at Pegula Ice Arena - Men’s Hockey vs RIT
January 2 at Pegula Ice Arena
Explore the Full Event Calendar
These are only a few highlights. December is packed with live music, theatre, holiday festivals, markets, comedy, sports and one of a kind community traditions across Happy Valley.
Visit the full Connect Happy Valley calendar to browse everything happening now through New Year’s.
Check it often. It keeps growing.
