ICTB Update

With Indiana County being well-known as the “Christmas Tree Capital of the World” and the birthplace of Jimmy Stewart, the holiday season brings about special opportunities for celebration. ICTB along with the CEO affiliates, were proud to once again be supportive of the Lucy Donnelly Memorial Fund Light-up Night & Holiday Parade and First Commonwealth Bank’s It’s A Wonderful Life Festival. This year, downtown area businesses and organizations were encouraged to offer special discounts and promotions during the kick-off weekend, then ICTB compiled the information into an easy-to-read document, highlighting the weekend festivities and included a map of the participant’s locations. Many of the specials will continue throughout the holiday season. Another new feature this year was Jimmy Stewart impersonator, Brian Rohan. Mirroring Jimmy Stewart with both appearance and mannerisms, Brian entertained locals both as George Bailey as well as Jimmy Stewart. Look for Brian to return as his presence was a big hit around town.
There is still time to visit IRMC Park, enjoy the special holiday ambiance and marvel at the beautiful, larger-than-life concolor fir Christmas tree, donated by Gregg Van Horn. ICTB is thankful to the team of community members who collaborate to make this celebration happen and we are thankful that we can say “It’s A Wonderful Life” in Indiana County!

The Indiana County Tourist Bureau is excited for the debut of the new 2023 Wall Calendar, highlighting the 60th anniversary of when the tourist bureau was proudly designated as the county’s official tourist promotion agency, in 1963. The calendar, which announces upcoming annual events, takes you on a twelve-month journey illustrating various aspects of Indiana County from years past to the present. All are encouraged to learn more about Indiana County’s rich history by visiting and supporting local historical societies, including: Historical & Genealogical Society of Indiana County, Historical Society of the Blairsville Area (HSBA), Homer-Center Historical Society, John G. Schmick Heritage Center, Rebecca B. Hadden Stone House Museum/Saltsburg Area Historical Society, Strongstown Homecoming & Historical Society and the Blairsville Underground Railroad History Center. These wall calendars will be mailed to each tourist bureau member and there will be a limited supply available at the ICTB office, located in the Indiana Mall.

In efforts to further promote ICTB member events and entice visitors to Indiana County, ICTB has revamped the annual event rack card that has traditionally been distributed in January and featured events throughout the entire year. Instead, the rack card will be replaced with a seasonal flyer, which will enable the inclusion of new and developing events as they come into fruition. As a result, ICTB will be able to adapt to the ever-changing world dynamics and adjust the promotional efforts as necessary.

ICTB membership renewals for 2023 were recently issued to all current members. As an added perk, when renewing for 2023, members can also opt to renew their membership for 2024, at a 50% discounted rate. This is an exciting opportunity for renewing members to be included in the upcoming visitor guide, which will debut in late Spring 2023. Please note, that this offer also applies to new members. Additional information about member listings in the visitor guide, as well as low-cost advertising options, will be distributed soon.