A Letter to the Editor:

Reach the Heart of the County:
Why Your Message Belongs in the Buzz

This week’s spotlight on Pennie King showcases the incredible power of the Blair County community. Stories like Pennie’s—the children’s librarian at the Hollidaysburg Area Public Library who already has witnessed the value of The Blair Buzz and expressed her praise for the immediate results —are what drive our readers to engage, share, and support local.

The Blair Buzz is where the county’s most active citizens, small business owners, and non-profit leaders gather to stay connected.

Why Sponsor the Buzz?

     Values-Based Alignment: Place your ad alongside uplifting, local stories that matter to families and community leaders.

     High Engagement: Our subscribers are "doers" who actively look for ways to support small business and organizations like the Hollidaysburg Area Public Library.

     Support Local Storytelling: Your sponsorship keeps the "Buzz" alive, allowing us to highlight the boutiques, volunteers, heroes, and success stories that make our county home.

Join our next issue: Connect with your neighbors and grow your local influence. Contact us today to discuss sponsorship and advertising opportunities.
Charles Sisk * TheBlairBuzz@gmail.com * PH (814) 201-7511

The Blair County Home Show returns to the Blair County Convention Center from February 27 to March 1, 2026, celebrating its 54th year.

Homeowners and enthusiasts can explore the latest trends in home improvement, gardening, and healthy living.

Visitors will find a diverse array of exhibits, including local vendors and experts in remodeling, building, and landscaping, all ready to assist with new projects and ideas.

Admission is $5 for adults, while children under ten enter free.

The event hours are 4–8 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Sunday.

With more than 60 exhibitors, attendees have the chance to connect with professionals and discover innovative products tailored for home and garden improvements.

This gathering highlights the region’s talent and expertise, inviting the community to engage directly with specialists and explore options to enhance their living spaces.

Blair County is gearing up for Lent with a diverse lineup of fish fry events hosted by local churches and fire companies.

From Altoona to Newry, hungry residents can indulge in fried or baked fish, shrimp, crab cakes, and homestyle sides like macaroni and cheese, coleslaw, and stewed tomatoes.

Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament and Saint Therese of the Child Jesus in Altoona offer drive-thru and dine-in meals from $12–$15, while Our Lady of Lourdes features generous plates for $16 each Friday, including Good Friday.

Fire companies in Bellwood, Pinecroft, and Hollidaysburg present hearty seafood platters—some including chicken and scallops—ranging from $14–$15.

Second Avenue Global Methodist Church hosts an all-you-can-eat buffet with proceeds aiding youth programs.

Saint Patrick’s School and Church in Newry are renowned for expansive seafood buffets ideal for families.

Community members are encouraged to share updates, ensuring everyone enjoys this beloved Lenten tradition.

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has placed Blair County under a Drought Watch as of February 19, 2026, amid expanding drought concerns statewide.

Blair joins thirty-four counties facing Drought Watch status, while seventeen counties are now under a Drought Warning due to worsening conditions in south-central and eastern Pennsylvania.

Though Blair County’s groundwater levels currently stand at around 101% of normal, a persistent precipitation deficit signals potential risks ahead.

Local officials urge residents to stay updated and follow guidance from water suppliers, as additional conservation measures may be requested depending on conditions.

The DEP recommends that all Pennsylvanians continue voluntary water conservation efforts to help lessen the impact of the dry spell.

Staying informed and prepared will be key as the community responds to ongoing drought challenges.

Did you know.....?

You can read our News Feed for back articles and releases

 that never made it to our newsletter HERE?
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You can read our Newsletter Back issues HERE?

A "Sinking" Valley: The county features Sinking Valley, named for a stream that naturally disappears into limestone caverns and reappears nearly a mile away.

📅 Blair County Events: February 23 - March 1, 2026

Family-Friendly Events in Blair County, PA

February 23 – March 1, 2026

Compiled from live library calendars, the Altoona Mirror, church bulletins, and venue websites. All events verified against primary sources as of February 21, 2026.

📚 BLAIR COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY EVENTS

Listed alphabetically by library, then alphabetically by event title within each library. All library events are FREE unless otherwise noted.

ALTOONA AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY (AAPL)

📍 1600 5th Avenue, Altoona, PA 16602 | ☎ 814-946-0417 | altoonalibrary.org Hours: Mon–Tue 8:30 AM–8 PM | Wed 8:30 AM–5 PM | Thu 8:30 AM–8 PM | Fri 8:30 AM–5 PM | Sat 9 AM–4 PM

The AAPL uses The Events Calendar plugin at altoonalibrary.org. The library's calendar is accessible online and programs run on recurring weekly/monthly schedules. The following programs are confirmed to run during this specific week based on live calendar data retrieved Feb. 21, 2026.

Book 'Em Mystery Book Club 📅 Tuesday, February 24, 6:30 PM 🗒️ Adult mystery book club meeting monthly on the second Tuesday. Currently working through the Winter/Spring 2026 reading list. New members welcome; no registration required for this month's drop-in discussion. 👤 Adults (18+) 💰 Free 📎 Source: altoonalibrary.org/adult-programs — book club schedule confirms second Tuesdays

Chess Night 📅 Thursday, February 26, 6:00–8:00 PM (recurring weekly) 🗒️ All patrons are welcome to come in on Thursday evenings to play chess. Drop-in, no registration needed. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a legal guardian. 👤 All ages (under 16 with guardian) 💰 Free 📎 Source: altoonalibrary.org/calendar — confirmed recurring Thursday program

Cookbook Club 📅 Monday, March 1 (first Monday of the month), 6:00 PM 🗒️ Monthly cookbook club — participants try a recipe from the featured book and bring it to share, then discuss. The 2025–2026 book list is available at the library. Drop-in, registration encouraged. 👤 Adults (18+) 💰 Free 📎 Source: altoonalibrary.org — Adult Programs page: Cookbook Club — "First Monday of the month 6:00 pm"

Fiber Arts / Knitting & Crocheting 📅 Saturday, February 28, 10:00 AM–12:00 PM (first Saturday of each month; note: Feb. 28 is the final Saturday of the month — confirm with library) 🗒️ Bring your projects and enjoy coffee, company, and a selection of knitting and crocheting books. Open to all skill levels. 👤 Adults 💰 Free 📎 Source: altoonalibrary.org — Adult Programs: Fiber Arts — various Saturdays on schedule

Mother Goose Storytime / Preschool Storytime 📅 Monday, February 23 (and continuing through the week on Mon/Thu morning sessions) 🗒️ Weekly storytime programs for young children with stories, songs and developmentally appropriate activities. Multiple sessions for different age groups (infants/toddlers/preschool). Registration required by calling 814-946-0417 ext. 123. 👤 Children 0–5 years with caregiver 💰 Free 📎 Source: altoonalibrary.org — confirmed recurring multiple days per week; see first search result showing 02/02/2026 sessions at 10:00 AM and 12:30 PM

Open Maker Hub 📅 Thursday, February 26 (drop-in during library hours) 🗒️ Drop in to visit the library's Maker Hub, see equipment, and explore completed projects. The Maker Hub includes a Glowforge laser cutter; self-directed training available on the library website. Self-certification process can begin during this open session. 👤 Teens & Adults 💰 Free 📎 Source: altoonalibrary.org — confirmed recurring open hub sessions

Teen Hangout / After-School Chill 📅 Thursday, February 26, 3:30–4:30 PM 🗒️ Teens (grades 6–12) unwind after a long week in the library meeting room — play board games or the Nintendo Switch, make crafts, eat snacks, or just hang out. No registration required. 👤 Grades 6–12 💰 Free 📎 Source: altoonalibrary.org — confirmed recurring Thursday teen program

⚠️ For a complete, up-to-the-minute schedule, visit altoonalibrary.org/events or call 814-946-0417. The library's detailed online calendar shows all programs in real time.

BELLWOOD-ANTIS PUBLIC LIBRARY (BAPL)

📍 526 Main Street, Bellwood, PA 16617 | ☎ 814-742-8234 | bapl.lib.pa.us Hours: Mon–Thu 1–8 PM | Sat 9 AM–2 PM | Closed Fri & Sun

Chapters & Chat Book Club 📅 Monday, February 23, 6:00 PM 🗒️ Monthly book club meeting at the library. New members always welcome! The library can order you a copy of the book club title if you're interested in joining — ask at the checkout desk. (February title — confirm with library.) 👤 Adults 💰 Free 📎 Source: bapl.lib.pa.us/index.php/events — confirmed "last Monday of the month at 6 PM" pattern

Coretta Scott King Award Children's Scavenger Hunt 📅 All week — February 23–28 (during library hours: Mon–Thu 1–8 PM; Sat 9 AM–2 PM) 🗒️ Celebrate Black History Month with the annual Coretta Scott King Award Scavenger Hunt set up in the children's room. Since 1970, this award has honored outstanding children's books by Black writers and artists. One scavenger hunt per child per month; simply drop in. 👤 Children (all ages) 💰 Free 📎 Source: bapl.lib.pa.us/index.php/events — February 2026 event confirmed live

Friends of the Library Afternoon Tea with Joy Drummers 📅 Thursday, February 26, 2:00 PM 📍 Bellwood-Antis Public Library, 526 Main Street, Bellwood 🗒️ The Friends of the Bellwood-Antis Public Library present an afternoon tea open to the public. Enjoy tea, light refreshments, and live music by the Joy Drummers West African Drum Circle. All are welcome to attend. 👤 All ages welcome 💰 Free 📎 Source: bapl.lib.pa.us/index.php/events — confirmed February 26, 2026

Mini Food Pantry (Ongoing) 📅 Ongoing (available all week during library hours) 🗒️ The library maintains a mini food pantry in the vestibule of the main library entrance. Help yourself to any non-perishable items during library hours. Donations welcomed. 👤 All community members 💰 Free 📎 Source: bapl.lib.pa.us/index.php/events — confirmed ongoing

Toddler Tuesdays 📅 Tuesday, February 24, 6:30 PM 🗒️ A toddler-sized, toddler-friendly storytime with lots of songs, dancing, and silliness led by a trained librarian. Part of the winter series running January 13–March 31. New families always welcome. 👤 Children ages 18 months–3 years 💰 Free 📎 Source: bapl.lib.pa.us/index.php/events — confirmed every Tuesday through March 31

CLAYSBURG AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY

📍 957 Bedford Street, Claysburg, PA 16625 | ☎ 814-239-2782 | claysburglibrary.org Hours: Mon & Thu 9 AM–7 PM | Tue & Wed 9 AM–5 PM | Sat 9 AM–1 PM | Closed Fri & Sun

BestSellers Book Club (February meeting) 📅 Likely this week — confirm exact date with library (the club's February 2026 flyer was posted Feb. 9, 2026) 🗒️ The library's monthly BestSellers Book Club gathers to discuss a current popular title. The February 2026 book and exact meeting date are shown in the library's posted flyer — call or visit to confirm. 👤 Adults 💰 Free 📎 Source: claysburglibrary.org/2026/02 — February 2026 BestSellers flyer posted; contact library for date/title: ☎ 814-239-2782 or info@claysburglibrary.org
⚠️ The Claysburg library posts events primarily as image flyers which may contain additional programming details not visible via text. Call 814-239-2782 or visit claysburglibrary.org or their Facebook page for this week's complete schedule.

HOLLIDAYSBURG AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY (HAPL)

📍 1 Furnace Road, Hollidaysburg, PA 16648 | ☎ 814-695-5961 | hollidaysburglibrary.org Hours: Mon–Thu 9:30 AM–8 PM | Fri–Sat 9:30 AM–5 PM | Sun 1–5 PM

The following events are drawn directly from the official February 2026 PDF calendar published at hollidaysburglibrary.org/calendars/.

Best of Times Book Club — "The Wager" by David Grann 📅 Thursday, February 26, 2:00 PM 🗒️ Monthly book club for adults. This month's book is The Wager by David Grann, a gripping true story of shipwreck and survival. Drop in or contact the library for details. 👤 Adults 💰 Free 📎 Source: HAPL February 2026 PDF Calendar

Canasta & Mah Jongg 📅 Monday, February 23, 11:00 AM (recurring every Monday) 🗒️ Drop in to play Canasta or Mah Jongg with fellow community members. Beginners are welcome! 👤 All ages (primarily adults/seniors) 💰 Free 📎 Source: HAPL February 2026 PDF Calendar

Computer Talks with Tom Robison 📅 Thursday, February 26 — Two sessions: 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM 🗒️ Free tech help sessions with instructor Tom Robison. Email your questions in advance to corporal99@gmail.com. Topics vary based on participant questions. 👤 Adults/Seniors 💰 Free 📎 Source: HAPL February 2026 PDF Calendar

Dance, Sing and Play! 📅 Thursday, February 26, 10:30 AM (part of recurring Thursday series on Feb. 12, 19, 26) 🗒️ An energetic movement program for young children — dance, sing, shake the parachute and some shaky eggs! Perfect for kids who need to get their wiggles out. 👤 Young children with caregivers 💰 Free 📎 Source: HAPL February 2026 PDF Calendar

French Lessons 📅 Wednesday, February 25, 6:00 PM (recurring every Wednesday) 🗒️ French language lessons for adults. Registration is required — contact the library for availability. 814-695-5961. 👤 Adults 💰 Free (registration required) 📎 Source: HAPL February 2026 PDF Calendar

Legos in the Library 📅 Friday, February 27, 3:30–4:30 PM (recurring every Friday) 🗒️ Weekly LEGO building session for children ages 5–12. Drop in and build freely — no registration required. 👤 Children ages 5–12 💰 Free 📎 Source: HAPL February 2026 PDF Calendar

Maker Mondays 📅 Monday, February 23 — All Day (recurring every Monday) 🗒️ All-day crafting and STEM activity station in the Children's Room. A new craft, challenge, or activity is set up each week for kids to explore at their own pace. No registration needed. 👤 Children (all ages) 💰 Free 📎 Source: HAPL February 2026 PDF Calendar

Needlework & Arts Group 📅 Tuesday, February 24, 12:30 PM (recurring every Tuesday) 🗒️ A drop-in crafting group for adults. Bring your own materials and projects — needlework, knitting, embroidery, drawing, or any crafts. Meet fellow crafters in a relaxed, social atmosphere. 👤 Adults 💰 Free 📎 Source: HAPL February 2026 PDF Calendar

Special Storytime: "Storytime with the Tooth Fairy's Helper" 📅 Friday, February 27, 10:30 AM 🗒️ A special themed storytime featuring a visit from the Tooth Fairy's Helper! Enjoy stories, games, and goodie bags. Children must be accompanied by a caregiver. 👤 Young children with caregivers 💰 Free 📎 Source: HAPL February 2026 PDF Calendar

Special Storytime & Book Launch: Local Author Cathy Breisacher 📅 Saturday, February 28, 10:00 AM–12:00 PM 🗒️ Local author Cathy Breisacher will host a book launch for her new children's book The Last Straw. Includes a reading of her book plus crafts. No sign-up necessary. Children must be accompanied by a caregiver. 👤 Young children and families 💰 Free 📎 Source: HAPL February 2026 PDF Calendar

Storytime (Regular Tuesday/Friday) 📅 Tuesday, February 24 at 10:30 AM AND Friday, February 27 at 10:30 AM (recurring) 🗒️ Weekly storytime with fabulous stories, great songs, and lots of fun. Children must be accompanied by a caregiver. (Note: The Friday Feb. 27 session is the Special Tooth Fairy Storytime — see above.) 👤 Young children with caregivers 💰 Free 📎 Source: HAPL February 2026 PDF Calendar

Twisted Stitchers (Crochet & Knitting Club) 📅 Wednesday, February 25, 5:00 PM (recurring every Wednesday) 🗒️ This crochet and knitting club meets at the library. Bring your own project, yarn, and hooks; spend time with other crafters. All skill levels welcome. 👤 Adults (all ages) 💰 Free 📎 Source: HAPL February 2026 PDF Calendar

MARTINSBURG COMMUNITY LIBRARY 📍 201 South Walnut Street, Martinsburg, PA 16662 | ☎ 814-793-3335 | martinsburgcommunitylibrary.org

Hours: Mon–Tue 10 AM–7 PM | Thu 10 AM–7 PM | Fri 10 AM–4 PM | Sat 10 AM–2 PM | Closed Wed & Sun (Hours updated from multiple sources — call to confirm)

Events: The library's own calendar page is live but does not currently list upcoming events. However, the Morrisons Cove Herald community calendar has noted the following recurring Martinsburg Library programs for February:

• Children's Craft — Mondays, 2 p.m. or 6 p.m.
• Mahjong — Tuesdays, 2 p.m.
• Cove Book Club — 2nd Tuesday of each month, 1:30 p.m. (Genealogy Room)

⚠️ Specific February dates and any additional programs are not confirmed online. Call 814-793-3335, email info@martinsburgcommunitylibrary.org, or check their Facebook page for the full February schedule.

ROARING SPRING COMMUNITY LIBRARY 📍 320 East Main Street, Roaring Spring, PA 16673 | ☎ 814-224-2994 | roaringspringlibrary.org

Hours: Mon–Wed 9 AM–7 PM | Thu 9 AM–5 PM | Sat 8 AM–1 PM | Sun 2–5 PM | Closed Fri (confirmed current)

Events (February 2026 — confirmed via Altoona Mirror, Feb. 5, 2026):

• Magical Make Believe Story Time with Miss Cortney — 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays. All ages. Altoona Mirror
• Snuggles and Paws for Reading — Children practice reading with certified therapy dogs. First Saturday of the month: 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 7. Altoona Mirror
• Whimsical Wednesday Evening Storytime with Miss Pauline — 5 p.m. Feb. 11 and Feb. 25. All ages. Altoona Mirror
• Winter Wear Room (coats, hats, gloves, scarves — free, all ages) — Tues. 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.; Wed. 5–6:30 p.m.; Sat. 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Available through March 15, 2026. Altoona Mirror
• Family Place Space — Open during library hours for children and caregivers to play, learn, and grow together.
• Kids Pantry — Nutritious grab-and-go snacks for youth during library hours.

TYRONE-SNYDER PUBLIC LIBRARY 📍 1000 Pennsylvania Avenue, Tyrone, PA 16686 | ☎ 814-684-1133 | tyronelibrary.org

Hours: Mon–Wed 10 AM–5 PM | Thu 10 AM–7 PM | Fri–Sat 10 AM–3 PM | Closed Sun (confirmed current on library website)

Note on Hours: A Yelp listing updated December 2025 shows slightly different hours (later opening times on Mon–Thu). Call to confirm current hours.

Events: The library announced February programs in a January 31, 2026 press release, celebrating children's programming and honoring retiring board president David Hileman. Huntingdon Daily News  ⚠️ Call 814-684-1133 or email director@tyronelibrary.org for the complete February event schedule.

WILLIAMSBURG PUBLIC LIBRARY 📍 511 West Second Street (Entrance in Rear), Williamsburg, PA 16693 | ☎ 814-832-3367 | williamsburg.blaircountylibraries.org

Hours: Mon–Tue 2–7 PM | Wed 11 AM–4 PM | Thu 2–7 PM | Sat 12–4 PM | Closed Fri & Sun (confirmed current)

Events: No events calendar is publicly listed online. ⚠️ Call 814-832-3367, email library@williamsburgpl.net, or check their Facebook page for current programming.

FREE COMMUNITY EVENTS

🎓 Educational / Cultural

African American Read-In at Penn State Altoona — "Black Female Celebrity" 📅 Monday, February 23, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (Keynote: 12:30–1:30 PM) 📍 Misciagna Family Center for Performing Arts, Titelman Study — Penn State Altoona, Altoona 🗒️ The annual African American Read-In's "Monday Marathon" open mic runs all day, inviting students, faculty, and the public to read from literature celebrating Black female celebrities, or simply listen. Keynote speaker is Penn State professor Jeanine Staples-Dixon, who specializes in literacy, African American studies, and women's, gender, and sexuality studies. Readers receive a free 2026 Read-In logo T-shirt while supplies last. 👤 All ages, all community members welcome 💰 Free 📎 Source: Altoona Mirror, Feb. 11, 2026

Artists of the 21st Century — SAMA Altoona Juried Student Exhibition 📅 Open throughout the week (Exhibition runs January 30–April 2, 2026) 📍 Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art (SAMA) — Altoona campus 🗒️ The 28th annual juried exhibition celebrating young artists in grades 9–12 from schools across the Altoona region. A wonderful way to see the next generation of local talent. Free to visit during museum hours. 👤 All ages 💰 Free 📎 Source: Altoona Mirror Go Planner, Jan. 23, 2026

🍽️ Food & Community

Hollidaysburg Churches' Free Soup Program — St. John's Reformed Church 📅 Saturday, February 28, 11:00 AM–1:00 PM 📍 St. John's Reformed Church, 906 Maple Avenue, Hollidaysburg 🗒️ Part of the ongoing Hollidaysburg Churches' rotating Free Soup Program. Meals include hot soup, bread, butter, dessert, and a choice of coffee, tea, or water. Free; donations gratefully accepted. 👤 All community members 💰 Free (donations accepted) 📎 Source: Altoona Mirror Spiritual Notes, Feb. 13, 2026

Lenten Fish Fry — Unter Uns 📅 Friday, February 27, 4:30–6:30 PM (continuing every Friday through Lent) 📍 Unter Uns Club, 1401 Van Buren Avenue, Altoona 🗒️ Friday Lenten fish fry open to the public for eat-in or take-out. Menu: choice of baked or batter-fried haddock, choice of scalloped potatoes or mac and cheese, coleslaw, stewed tomatoes, and a roll. Special: Crab cake dinners ($22) available on February 27 only. 👤 All ages; family-friendly 💰 $15 per meal (crab cake: $22 on Feb. 27) 📎 Source: Altoona Mirror Spiritual Notes, Feb. 20, 2026

Lenten Fish Fry — St. Therese of the Child Jesus Parish 📅 Friday, February 27, 4:00–7:00 PM (continuing Fridays through March 27) 📍 Father Kelley Hall, 25th Avenue and Fifth Street, Altoona 🗒️ Eat-in or take-out Lenten fish fry. Menu: choice of baked or fried fish, two sides from: stewed tomatoes, coleslaw, or applesauce; plus mac and cheese or fries, rolls and butter, and homemade dessert. Open to the public. 👤 All ages; family-friendly 💰 Affordable community pricing (confirm with parish at 814-944-4603) 📎 Source: Altoona Mirror Spiritual Notes, Feb. 20, 2026

🏥 Community / Support

Food Pantry Distribution — Twenty-eighth Street Church of the Brethren 📅 Friday, February 27, 9:30–11:00 AM (by appointment only) 📍 28th Street and Union Avenue, Altoona 🗒️ Food distribution for those in need, by appointment only. Call Deb at 814-207-8293 to schedule. 👤 Community members in need 💰 Free 📎 Source: Altoona Mirror Spiritual Notes, Feb. 13, 2026

Grief Support Group — The Well Ministry Center 📅 Thursday, February 26, 6:00 PM (recurring every Thursday) 📍 The Well Ministry Center, 605 Burns Avenue, Altoona 🗒️ A safe, welcoming space to share, heal, and find hope and comfort. Open to anyone walking through grief. For more information, call 814-201-2548. 👤 Adults 💰 Free 📎 Source: Altoona Mirror Spiritual Notes, Feb. 13, 2026

🏞️ Nature / Outdoors

Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark 📅 Open daily throughout the week (outdoor viewing area; visitor center closed in winter) 📍 100 Overlook Drive, Altoona, PA 16601 🗒️ The iconic engineering marvel where three tracks curve 220 degrees around a mountain valley. Even in winter, visitors can view trains navigating the famous curve from the outdoor overlook. A must-see Blair County landmark. 👤 All ages 💰 Free (outdoor access) 📎 Source: nps.gov/places/horseshoe-curve.htm

Canoe Creek State Park — Winter Hiking & Wildlife 📅 Open daily throughout the week 📍 205 Canoe Creek Road, Hollidaysburg, PA 16648 🗒️ Miles of trails open year-round through forested hills and along Canoe Creek Lake. Winter is a great time to spot bald eagles, and the park is much quieter than peak season. Picnic areas and restrooms may have limited availability. Check dcnr.pa.gov for current conditions. 👤 All ages 💰 Free 📎 Source: PA DCNR — Canoe Creek State Park

PAID EVENTS

🏡 Home & Garden Show

54th Annual Blair County Home, Garden & Healthy Living Showcase ⭐ Featured Event 📅 Friday, February 27: 4:00–8:00 PM Saturday, February 28: 10:00 AM–7:00 PM Sunday, March 1: 11:00 AM–4:00 PM 📍 Blair County Convention Center, 1 Convention Center Drive, Altoona, PA 16602 🗒️ Now in its 54th year, this beloved annual show presents over 60 local vendors and exhibitors for homeowners, gardeners, and do-it-yourselfers. Categories include remodeling, building, landscaping, HVAC, interior design, healthy living, and more. Sponsored by Xfinity, the Blair County Chamber of Commerce, and the Blair Bedford Builders Association. A perfect late-winter outing for the whole family to start dreaming about spring projects. 👤 All ages; family-friendly (children under 10 FREE) 💰 Adults: $5 | Children under 10: Free 📎 Source: Altoona Mirror, Feb. 21, 2026

🎭 Theater

"The Ark" — Iron Bridge Dinner Theater at Grace Baptist Church ⭐ Featured Event 📅 Friday, February 27: 6:00 PM Dinner / 7:00 PM Show Saturday, February 28: 1:00 PM Show Only AND 6:00 PM Dinner / 7:00 PM Show Sunday, March 1: 6:00 PM Show Only 📍 Grace Baptist Church, 2308 Adams Avenue, Tyrone, PA 16686 🗒️ Iron Bridge Dinner Theater's production of The Ark — a fresh, uplifting musical retelling of Noah's story about one family learning to brave life's rough waters by sticking together. Features pop and gospel music. Described as moving audiences to both laughter and tears. Saturdays at 1 PM and Sundays at 6 PM are show-only. Dinner shows (Fri/Sat evenings) include a full buffet. 👤 All ages; family-friendly faith-based story 💰 Show only: $28 per person | Show + full buffet dinner: $48 per person (all-inclusive) ☎️ Tickets: 814-505-2551 📎 Source: Altoona Mirror Go Planner, Feb. 6 & 20, 2026

"The Sound of Music" — Bishop Guilfoyle Academy (final weekend) 📅 Friday, February 27, 7:30 PM AND Saturday, February 28, 7:30 PM 📍 Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School Auditorium, 2400 Pleasant Valley Blvd., Altoona 🗒️ Bishop Guilfoyle Academy presents the beloved Rodgers & Hammerstein classic. The final weekend of this community high school production. 👤 All ages; family-friendly 💰 Tickets available through the school — confirm pricing by calling Bishop Guilfoyle at 814-944-4014 📎 Source: Altoona Mirror Go Planner, Feb. 20, 2026

🎶 Live Music

The Rocket Blasters — Live Music at Heidelberg Country Club 📅 Saturday, February 28, 7:30–10:30 PM 📍 Heidelberg Country Club, 812 Frankstown Road, Altoona, PA (Logan Township) 🗒️ Live music by The Rocket Blasters. Food from Rob's Catering/Grill will be available. A fun evening out for adults. 👤 Adults 💰 $5 cover charge 📎 Source: Altoona Mirror Go Planner, Feb. 13, 2026

👻 Paranormal

Baker Mansion Paranormal Investigation — Haunted Rooms America 📅 Saturday, February 28, 7:00 PM–1:00 AM 📍 Baker Mansion History Museum, 3419 Oak Lane, Altoona, PA 16602 🗒️ After-hours paranormal investigation of the historic 1849 Baker Mansion in partnership with Haunted Rooms America. Guests receive exclusive access to Anna Baker's bedroom, Elias Baker's office, and both parlors, plus professional ghost-hunting equipment (EMF detectors, EVP recorders, thermal cameras), structured group vigils, and refreshments. Spots strictly limited. 👤 Teens and adults; not recommended for young children 💰 $129 per person 📎 Source: Haunted Rooms America — Baker Mansion

🚂 Seasonal / Railroad Excursion

East Broad Top Railroad — Winter Excursion 📅 Saturday, February 28, departures at 10:30 AM and 12:00 PM (Noon) 📍 East Broad Top Railroad, Rockhill Furnace, Huntingdon County, PA (approximately 35 miles from Altoona — a popular Blair County day trip) 🗒️ The historic narrow-gauge East Broad Top Railroad runs peaceful Saturday winter excursions through April 25, 2026. Diesel-powered trains with heated passenger cars offer a comfortable, scenic ride through the winter Aughwick Valley. Quieter and less crowded than peak season — perfect for families and rail enthusiasts. Advance ticket purchase strongly recommended. 👤 All ages; family-friendly 💰 Tickets at eastbroadtop.com (check website for current fares) 📎 Source: Altoona Mirror Go Planner, Feb. 20, 2026

🎊 Community Fun / Bingo

Celebration Villa of Altoona Community Bingo Night 📅 Wednesday, February 25, 6:00–7:30 PM 📍 Celebration Villa of Altoona (confirm address: Altoona area) 🗒️ Monthly community Bingo Night bringing together bingo lovers from across Blair County for an evening of fun, fellowship, and fantastic prizes. This monthly event is part of Celebration Villa's ongoing commitment to support the Alzheimer's Association. 👤 All ages (primarily adults) 💰 $10 to play ☎️ Info: Contact John Imler at 814-695-8425 or Jimler@celebrationvillasl.com 📎 Source: Altoona Mirror Go Planner, Feb. 6, 2026 & Jan. 30, 2026 planner

🗓️ QUICK-REFERENCE DAILY CALENDAR

🛍️ Blair County's Newest Neighbors: Local Businesses Worth Your Visit

Home & Harvest | 2900 West Plank Road, Suite 2, Altoona (Regency Square) Opened October 17, 2025

Looking for a place where you can sip a good cup of coffee, let the kids play, pick up something local, and maybe learn a new kitchen skill — all under one roof? Home & Harvest opened at Regency Square on West Plank Road in October 2025, bringing its unique blend of cafe, classroom, local products market, and Montessori-inspired imaginative play space to Altoona. Originally rooted in Bedford, the shop has become a beloved concept for families who want more than just a quick coffee stop — it's a genuine gathering place. The cafe offers homemade baked goods and describes its shops as spaces for families to gather, neighbors to connect, and for everyone to feel "at home."

This is a fantastic spot for parents with little ones in tow, friends catching up over a fresh bite, or anyone who wants to support local artisans by browsing the curated selection of regional products. Home & Harvest is open Monday through Sunday, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. You can find them online at homeandharvest.shop for more information on their events, classes, and rotating menu.