Indiana County Tourist Bureau – Tourism Snapshot
The County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP) Board of Directors held their annual meeting & retreat in Indiana County, June 11 – 13, 2025. CCAP President Sherene Hess and Laura Herrington, Executive Director of the Indiana County Tourist Bureau, welcomed the directors with a social event at the Jimmy Stewart Museum on the evening of Wednesday, June 11. Throughout their stay, the Hilton Garden Inn Indiana at IUP served as the central hub for the group’s meetings and accommodations.
The Indiana County Tourist Bureau contracted Smith Tours Blairsville to provide the group with transportation for a day-long familiarization tour on Thursday, June 12. The directors visited several sites across Indiana County, showcasing the county’s leadership in economic development, environmental stewardship, and healthcare innovation.
The first stop of the day was Miller Fabrication Solutions in Homer City for a tour of the facility which included remarks from owner Mr. David Miller. This was followed by a visit to the Blacklick Creek Water Treatment Plant, where attendees observed state-of-the-art treatment of millions of gallons of abandoned mine drainage at the Wehrum discharge. This vital work will eventually restore twenty miles of Blacklick Creek, allowing it to once again support aquatic life.
The final stop of the day was hosted by Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC) at the Mountains Behavioral Health Center. One of CCAP’s legislative priorities is increased funding for county-based mental health services—an urgent and growing need across most of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties.
CCAP advocates for the needs of all Pennsylvania counties, both rural and urban, and works closely with policymakers to develop solutions that address the unique challenges county governments face. The association also offers cost-saving resources, technical assistance, and a range of professional and educational opportunities to support its members.
The Indiana County Tourist Bureau (ICTB) is partnering once again with the Indiana County Christmas Tree Growers’ Association and Idlewild & Soak Zone to have “Christmas in July – Indiana County Day” at Idlewild & Soak Zone on Friday, July 18. Pack your picnic lunch and join the Indiana County Community for this special day. The first 200 kids stopping by the Indiana County Tourist Bureau/Indiana County Christmas Tree Growers’ Association gazebo will receive a GIFT! Enjoy all the attractions, visit with Santa, and sign-up for hourly prize drawings. It’s a great way to distribute ICTB member information to those visiting neighboring Westmoreland County, from the region, and beyond!
ICTB is now selling discounted tickets to Idlewild/Soak Zone for the 2025 operating season. This year you can purchase $30.00 tickets specifically for Friday, July 18, Indiana County Day & Christmas in July. In addition, Good Any Day tickets are available for $37.00 each. These prices are valid for cash or check purchases only. Stop into the tourist bureau office inside the Indiana Mall, Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 4:00 pm. For more information, please call the office, 724-463-7505 or check out the website www.visitindianacountypa.org/explore/tickets.
Summer is just getting started in Indiana County! You don’t have to travel far to enjoy live music and summer fun. Chestnut Ridge Golf Resort & Conference Center presents live music every Friday, Saturday & Sunday creating the perfect weekend atmosphere. The Blairsville Music Series Concerts offer relaxing Saturday evening concerts at Veterans Memorial Park Amphitheater and Saylor Park & Marion Center Park also offer live concerts this summer. Levity Brewing Co. and other local establishments feature various live performances. And for fans of classic country, mark your calendars—Lee Greenwood will perform at the Rayne Drop Summer Stage on July 26 in a patriotic evening of timeless American hits.
Don’t forget to save the date for a few favorite annual events such as the Knotweed Festival on August 8 & 9, featuring a parade, street fair and the Blairsville Bicentennial Fireworks display. Downtown Indiana hosts its Italian Festival on August 10, celebrating community, cuisine, and culture. On August 23, Indiana University of Pennsylvania will launch its 150th Anniversary Kickoff Carnival at the Kovalchick Convention & Athletic Complex, leading into the region’s agricultural fair season. The Indiana County Fair returns for its 162nd year from August 24 to 30, followed closely by the 90th anniversary of the Ox Hill Fair from September 1 to 6, and the 108th Cookport Fair from September 8 to 13.
September continues the excitement with the Hoodlebug Festival in Homer City on September 7, Paul Jr’s American Bike Fest from September 11 to 13, the Saltsburg Oktoberfest on September 13 and the popular Smicksburg Apple Fest spanning September 13 and 14.
Throughout the summer, the county also offers farmers’ markets, children’s art camps, outdoor adventures, and much more. Whether you’re looking for live entertainment, local food, or family fun, Indiana County is bursting with activities to enjoy close to home.
To see all upcoming events and details, visit the Indiana County Tourist Bureau’s website at www.visitindianacountypa.org/indiana-county-events.