As what would’ve been Arts Fest weekend begins, downtown State College doesn’t look the same as it normally does this time of year after COVID-19 forced the festivities to be virtual. While there are still a number of events happening this weekend, including live performances, the streets seem a bit bare.

In lieu of an in-person Arts Fest downtown, Way Fruit Farm in Port Matilda is branching out from its usual apple cider and pumpkins to host “Art in the Orchard.”

Co-owner Jason Coopey said the new event transpired after local festivals fell through due to the pandemic.

“These poor artists haven’t been able to make any money in a long time and given how much has changed since last year and this year, I just thought we could do it safely this year,” Coopey told The Centre County Gazette. “And I thought the artists could use the economic benefit of having something to do.”

The artist weren’t the only ones enjoying the event. Food trucks and vendors were welcomed to participate as well.

Without events festivals and carnivals, some of these businesses have struggled in the past year. Local eats such as Snyder’s Concessions, Scott’s Roasting, Sunset Slushies, and more were present at Way Fruit Farm to keep folks from going hungry.

Everyone knows that art and food aren’t the only aspects of Arts Fest. “Art in the Orchard” features local bands performing all weekend long, including The Extra Miles, Queen Blue, Velveeta, and more.

When they said “Art in the Orchard,” they really meant it. Tents were literally set up throughout the fields between apple trees and corn. It doesn’t get much more “central Pennsylvania” than that.

“Art in the Orchard” continues at Way Fruit Farm on Saturday, July 10, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. For the full lineup of events, artists, food vendors, and performances, visit the festival’s website.

At the end of the day, there is no replacing Arts Fest, but who says you need to? “Art in the Orchard” makes for another awesome, unique venue to visit and explore art in Centre County. And while this may have been the first year for this event, I can’t imagine it will be the last. Enjoy the rest of your “Arts Fest weekend” and continue to support local businesses.