Shippensburg is the oldest community in the Cumberland Valley (founded in 1730), and its unique culture, natural beauty, and community events make it a great Pennsylvania destination. Outdoors enthusiasts will find ample activities at Caledonia State Park, Michaux State Forest, and Pine Grove Furnace State Park. Make a point to visit the Shippensburg Historical District which is on the list of National Historic Districts. The area contains multiple architectural styles and buildings dating back to the mid-18th Century including the Shippen House and Widow Piper's Tavern.
The Shippensburg Corn Festival has been providing memorable family friendly experiences since it began nearly four decades ago, and will take place August 26, across the downtown area. Attendees will encounter more than 200 craft vendors selling everything from sculptures made out of driftwood to designer soaps. Patrons will also find dozens of food vendors selling artisan foods, festival fare, and specialty meals. Live entertainment will take place on three stages including professional craft demonstrations, live music by local bands, and a variety of activities for children. If you're a fan of corn on the cob and eating a lot of it, then try your hand at the annual Belt-Busting Corn Eating Contest. Proceeds from the event go to a variety of local organizations which work to beautify the city and preserve its historical structures. ResortsandLodges.com got the chance to interview Marijon Shearer, Publicity Chairperson for the event, to learn about this family friendly community celebration.
MS: This is our 37th year!
MS: We expect between 30-35,000 guests and 250-300 vendors.
RAL: What demographic does your event attract? Children? Families? Couples?
MS: The Corn Festival is a family-friendly event featuring craft vendors and demonstrations, live music on three stages, kids’ activities, fabulous festival food, and a belt-busting corn eating contest.
RAL: What makes this event unique?
MS: All activities and admission to the festival are free. The crafts are handmade, food is incredible, and Corny the Scarecrow is available for selfies. Run entirely by a committee of volunteers who work on planning year-round, the Corn Festival donates all its profits to historic preservation, beautification, and improvement to the Shippensburg community, donations to date total nearly $400,000.
RAL: Take me through the activities of a day at the event.
MS: Attendees can shop in the open air, pull up a hay bale to enjoy a variety of music, compete for fame and prizes in the annual corn eating contest, and more.
RAL: Will there be any guest appearances?
MS: Yes, we have musicians, magicians, robotics experts, and of course, Corny the Scarecrow.
RAL: What will attendees find for dining options?
MS: Bring your appetite because we have a great selection of food vendors and local eateries.
RAL: Tell us about the environment?
MS: It’s a fun and family friendly outdoor environment. Make sure to bring your sunscreen.
RAL: What can an attendee expect to find for local lodging?
MS: Please check our website for more lodging information.
RAL: Does this drive business to your local economy?
MS: Definitely, the extra people in the community spend money at businesses all over town. The local shop owners look forward to this event each year.
RAL: Does the event support a particular cause in the community?
MS: Originally held to fund a historic district for the town, Corn Festival funds now go to historic preservation, downtown beautification, and community improvement.
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
MS: It's unique and reasonably priced, plus we have shopping opportunities, fun for kids, and incredible food. It offers something for everyone!
For more information about the Shippensburg Corn Festival, please visit the event website.