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SkiingPoconos Events Guide
Annual events and festivals in the Poconos
The Poconos is a dynamic destination packed with year-round events and activities for visitors of all ages. From lively festivals celebrating music, art, and local cuisine to thrilling races and serene outdoor adventures, this scenic region offers something for everyone. Families can enjoy kid-friendly attractions like holiday fireworks, waterparks, and fall festivals, while couples and friends can explore live concerts, craft shows, and wine trails. Adventure seekers will love races like the Pocono Challenge Mud Run or the high-octane excitement of NASCAR at Pocono Raceway. No matter the season, the Poconos is bursting with unique experiences that promise to create unforgettable memories.
Annual Celebrations with Fireworks
Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular
July 4, 2025
Lake Wallenpaupack, Hawley, PA
Attendance: Over 15,000 spectators
Why Attend: Celebrate Independence Day with a dazzling fireworks show over Lake Wallenpaupack. The lakeside setting provides a perfect backdrop for picnics, boat viewing, and family gatherings.
Who Should Go: Families, couples, and anyone looking for a patriotic celebration.
Poconos New Year’s Eve Fireworks Celebration
DECEMBER 31, 2025
Camelback Resort, Tannersville, PA
Attendance: Over 5,000 visitors
Why Attend: Ring in the new year with fireworks, live music, and special dining experiences at Camelback Resort. The event also includes skiing and snow tubing for added fun.
Who Should Go: Couples, families, and winter adventure lovers.
Boat shows
Lake Wallenpaupack Boat Show
May 2-4, 2025
Tafton Dike Recreation Area, Tafton, PA
Attendance: Over 8,000 visitors
Why Attend: This annual boat show features the latest models of pontoons, speedboats, fishing boats, and jet skis from top manufacturers. Visitors can explore on-water demonstrations, meet local marina representatives, and take advantage of exclusive discounts on rentals and purchases. Lake views and food vendors make it a fun day for all.
Who Should Go: Boating enthusiasts, families, and anyone planning a summer on the water.
Pocono Pines Antique and Classic Boat Show
July 19, 2025
Pinecrest Lake, Pocono Pines, PA
Attendance: Around 3,000 visitors
Why Attend: Step back in time at this unique show celebrating vintage wooden boats and classic designs. Visitors can admire beautifully restored vessels, meet passionate collectors, and vote for their favorite boat in the People’s Choice Awards. Live music and local craft vendors add to the charm.
Who Should Go: Classic boat enthusiasts, families, and history buffs.
Lehigh Valley Boat Show
March 7-9, 2025
Agri-Plex at Allentown Fairgrounds, Allentown, PA
Attendance: Approximately 5,000 visitors
Why Attend: Located just a short drive from the Poconos, this indoor boat show showcases a wide variety of watercraft, from kayaks to luxury cruisers. Vendors offer deals on boating accessories, dock installations, and safety gear. Seminars on boating safety and maintenance are perfect for first-time buyers.
Who Should Go: New boat buyers, seasoned boaters, and anyone gearing up for the summer boating season.
Pocono Outdoor and Boat Expo
September 6-7, 2025
Kalahari Resort Convention Center, Pocono Manor, PA
Attendance: Over 4,000 visitors
Why Attend: This end-of-summer event combines boating with outdoor adventure. Browse fishing boats, kayaks, and camping gear while enjoying family-friendly activities like casting competitions and outdoor cooking demonstrations. Special deals on rentals and guided tours make it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
Who Should Go: Outdoor adventurers, families, and boating aficionados planning their next getaway.
Arts and Craft Shows
Pocono State Craft Festival
August 23-24, 2025
Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm, Stroudsburg
Attendance: Over 7,000 visitors
Why Attend: Celebrating the region’s vibrant artisan community, this festival features more than 60 exhibitors showcasing fine jewelry, pottery, woodworking, and textiles. Set in a historic farm, visitors can enjoy live craft demonstrations, folk music, and delicious local food.
Who Should Go: Art lovers, families, and anyone looking for unique, handcrafted gifts.
Holiday Arts Festival
November 15-16, 2025
Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort
Attendance: Approximately 3,000 visitors
Why Attend: Kick off the holiday season by exploring this festive market filled with locally made ornaments, ceramics, and seasonal décor. Visitors can enjoy live caroling, mulled cider, and holiday treats as they shop.
Who Should Go: Holiday shoppers, craft enthusiasts, and families.
Food and beverage festivals
Pocono Garlic Festival
August 30-31, 2025
Shawnee Mountain Ski Area, East Stroudsburg
Attendance: Over 10,000 visitors
Why Attend: A flavorful celebration of all things garlic, featuring garlicky treats, chef demonstrations, live music, and craft vendors. From garlic-infused ice cream to roasted garlic spreads, it’s a foodie’s dream event.
Who Should Go: Food enthusiasts, families, and those with adventurous palates.
Stroudsburg Brew Fest
June 14, 2025
Courthouse Square, Stroudsburg, PA
Attendance: Over 3,000 visitors
Why Attend: Sample craft beers from over 50 breweries, including local favorites and unique seasonal brews. The event also includes food trucks, live music, and games for an exciting summer afternoon.
Who Should Go: Craft beer lovers, groups of friends, and anyone seeking a lively atmosphere.
Music festivals
Pocono Mountains Music Festival
July 11-13, 2025
Buck Hill Falls, PA
Attendance: Around 5,000 visitors
Why Attend: This three-day festival offers performances ranging from classical and jazz to Broadway and pop. Featuring nationally acclaimed artists and local talent, the festival provides an unforgettable music experience in a scenic mountain setting.
Who Should Go: Music lovers, couples, and anyone seeking a sophisticated cultural outing.
Rock the Mountain Festival
September 6, 2025
Sherman Theater Outdoor Stage, Stroudsburg
Attendance: Around 4,000 visitors
Why Attend: An energetic day of live rock and indie music performances with food trucks, craft beer, and a laid-back festival vibe. The event highlights both local bands and nationally touring acts.
Who Should Go: Rock fans, groups of friends, and casual concert-goers.
Races and competitions
Pocono Raceway’s NASCAR Cup Series
June 22, 2025
Pocono Raceway, Long Pond, PA
Attendance: Over 50,000 spectators
Why Attend: Watch the thrills of NASCAR at the “Tricky Triangle,” one of the most unique raceways in the country. Visitors can enjoy tailgating, fan meet-and-greets, and high-speed action on race day.
Who Should Go: Racing fans, adrenaline seekers, and families.
Pocono Challenge Mud Run
September 13, 2025
Pocono Mountain East High School, Swiftwater
Attendance: 2,500 participants
Why Attend: A high-energy obstacle course featuring mud pits, rope climbs, and team challenges. Perfect for fitness enthusiasts and teams looking for a fun bonding experience.
Who Should Go: Fitness enthusiasts, groups, and adventurous individuals.
Frequently asked questions
Looking for a fun event to go to in the Poconos? Let’s get some answers to questions you might have as you plan your visit!
Most events in the Poconos are free to attend, such as the Pocono State Craft Festival and the Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular. Some festivals, like the Pocono Garlic Festival, charge an entrance fee—typically around $15 for adults and $10 for children under 12. Larger events, such as concerts or NASCAR races at Pocono Raceway, may range from $25 to $100, depending on the ticket level.
Many Poconos events are great for kids! The Pocono Garlic Festival features live entertainment and food kids will enjoy, while the Pocono Challenge Mud Run often has a shorter, family-friendly version of the course. For year-round fun, the Poconos New Year’s Eve Fireworks Celebration at Camelback Resort includes family-friendly activities like skiing, tubing, and a fireworks finale.
Most events provide free or low-cost parking on-site or nearby. For example, parking at the Lake Wallenpaupack Fireworks Spectacular is free but fills up quickly, so arriving early is recommended. The Pocono Raceway’s NASCAR Cup Series offers tiered parking, with general parking for free and premium spots for around $10-$20. Always check the event website for specific parking details.
Yes! The Pocono State Craft Festival often includes live demonstrations featuring farm animals, while the Pocono Pines Antique and Classic Boat Show is pet-friendly, welcoming leashed pets to the outdoor venue. In addition, some local fall festivals like the Stroudsburg Fall Festival host pet parades or contests.
Fall in the Poconos is vibrant with festivals, including the Pocono State Craft Festival in late August and the Holiday Arts Festival in November. For families, the Stroudsburg Fall Festival in October offers pumpkin decorating, hayrides, and local vendors. These events capture the region’s stunning fall colors and seasonal charm.
The Pocono Raceway offers free general parking, but premium parking closer to the track is available for $10–$20. Tailgating is permitted in designated areas, and shuttle services are often available from parking lots to the raceway entrance for added convenience.