Festivals, Folk Art & Fall Fun with Explore Schuylkill

August 31 | Lansford, PA

The Coal Miner’s Heritage Fest at No. 9 Mine in Lansford on August 31 promises a great time for all ages. This is the 18th annual event—so you know they know how to throw a party. The No. 9 Mine holds the distinction of being the oldest, longest-running, continuously operated coal mine in the world, with operations spanning from 1855 to 1972. Since then, it has offered an immersive look into the life and work of miners and their community.

The Heritage Festival is packed with ethnic foods, games, live music, and a raffle. There will be underground mine tours, a coal sack race, and even a coal shoveling contest!

August 31 | Hegins, PA

If summertime sipping is more your style, consider heading to Hegins Park for the Schuylkill County Wine Festival on August 31. This year’s festival theme is Winetoberfest—where German tradition meets Pennsylvania vintages. There will be music, delicious food, artisan vendors, and plenty of PA wines for sampling and sale.

Tailgating in the park is a tradition at this festival, and you’re invited to decorate your site in the festival theme, as there will be a contest and bragging rights. Don your lederhosen, raise your glass, and say “Prost!”

September 6 | Schuylkill Haven, PA

The Walk In Art Center in Schuylkill Haven is home to the Regional Folk Fest and Quilt Spectacular on September 6. The 2025 Folk Fest of the Folk Art Alliance for Schuylkill, Berks, and Lancaster Counties is bigger and better than ever.

While the Schuylkill County Quilters’ Guild’s show is featured in the Main Gallery of the Walk In, the outdoor courtyard and first-floor Folk Art Gallery will feature folk artists from around the region, showcasing their art and sharing their traditions with visitors. A schedule of live musicians keeps the atmosphere fun and lively while you experience hand-crafted PA folk ‘everything’.

September 20 | Hegins, PA

Hegins Valley Arts & Crafts Faire, in beautiful Hegins Park on September 20, is another charming event you don’t want to miss. The park is packed with over 200 crafters and artisans and offers an incredible diversity of goods.

There are delicious foods and beverages, music, and plenty of parking. Originally inspired by the Lititz Craft Faire, this event has been going on for 35 years and benefits thirteen community charities.

Pottsville, PA

September is the perfect time to visit Jerry’s Classic Cars and Collectibles Museum in Pottsville. Stepping into Jerry’s is like taking a delightful journey back to the 1950s and 60s. Housed in a historic Studebaker dealership, the museum showcases an impressive collection of classic cars alongside over 20,000 fascinating collectibles that truly capture the essence of the era.

Visitors can wander through meticulously recreated scenes such as a vintage barbershop, a charming soda fountain, a lively bandstand, and even a drive-in theater. With its authentic atmosphere and array of nostalgic items, the museum offers a unique and memorable experience for car enthusiasts and anyone looking to discover a bygone era.

September 21 | Pottsville, PA

The historic mansion of Frank D. Yuengling is the perfect setting for many indoor and outdoor events, as well as home to the Schuylkill County Council for the Arts. The 1913 Tudor-Jacobean mansion and its grounds are stunning in all seasons and are the perfect setting for the 2nd Annual Hallow-Fest & Markt on Sunday, September 21, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Enjoy a festive fall day featuring local artisans and makers offering handmade goods, spooky treasures, seasonal treats, and more. This free community event is perfect for all ages.

October 18 | Schuylkill Haven, PA

We’ve got a brand-new event on the horizon this fall: the Inaugural Schuylkill Stampede Rodeo will take place at the Schuylkill County Fairgrounds in Schuylkill Haven on October 18. This event will be an action-packed day for the entire family, with a full, live rodeo, live music, delicious food trucks, and children’s activities. The mechanical bull and a petting zoo will really keep your energy flowing throughout the day.

October 19 | Kempton, PA

The day after the Stampeded, take the family to Hawk Mountain Sanctuary in Kempton for their Trick or Treat Trail on October 19th. Pack a costume and join in at Hawk Mountain for some fall fun. The ADA-accessible trail has been transformed, and some forest friends are waiting to meet you.

Get your picture taken at our South Lookout, and then head inside to the Wings of Wonder Gallery for even more animals! And I can’t forget about the costume contest—prizes will be given out for Best Group Costume, Best Bird Costume, and Best Non-Bird Costume.