Local Mojo held its first-ever Happy Valley Mojofest at Tussey Mountain on Saturday, April 18. The Woodstock-inspired event gathered some local bands and national touring acts to perform on two separate stages, along with food trucks and several merch tents.

Some of our staffers were at the mountain movin’ and groovin’, and they reviewed their full experience at the event.

Jacob Zacharia

I went in with zero expectations, so when I walked in and saw the scenery behind the giant stage, I was definitely impressed. The food trucks added to the festival vibes, but I noticed the beverage lines were extremely long. I personally had a fun time as it was a very cool venue to experience, but I’m hoping for bigger artists next year or in the years to come.

Maggie Alderisio

Mojofest was proof that the kids just yearn for Woodstock. The lines for food took almost an hour, the weather went from blazing hot to cold rain, and our bus got evacuated on the highway, yet everyone stayed chill and enjoyed the vibes. I had been excited since they announced it, and boy, did it not disappoint. The highlight of the day was 3:46 Sunrise playing during the harshest rain I’ve ever been outside for. My boots were filled with two inches of rainwater, and it was one of the best days of my life. Kids were playing in the mud and crowdsurfing, and a sweet rendition of “Champagne Supernova” echoed across the mountain. My friend’s phone got so wet in her pocket that she had to buy a new one yesterday, but she had such a good time that she didn’t complain once about it. Make Mojofest a yearly tradition.

Nathaniel Yerage

The vibes were there, for sure. With a first-time event (in State College), you can’t expect everything to be massive and perfect, so I won’t knock any points off for the long drink and food lines (and they were long). The music was great; despite not knowing most of the bands, I had a ball watching them—especially the guys dressed like Austin Powers. I’d also like to mention that the shuttles from Champs to the event were genius. Frankly, I think all Mojofest State College needs is to get bigger. More food, more drinks, more bands, more everything. I think they got everything else perfect.