The holiday season begins with a cherished tradition: the Winterfest Parade. Taking place the Sunday before Thanksgiving, Nov. 24 at 2 p.m., this year’s theme, “Sounds of the Season,” promises to bring the community together for a nostalgic and cheerful celebration before the holiday.
Winterfest has become more than just a parade for many in the area. It has turned into a wide-ranging effort that showcases the heart of the community.
Event organizer Melanie Ramsey describes Winterfest as something more significant than many may think.
“The two community activities of Winterfest are popular homecoming and family events for people who live in and near the borough, and also for people who grew up in Hollidaysburg and now live farther away,” Ramsey said.
While Winterfest has become a tradition for many, newcomers are always excited to see the community come together for the parade. For freshman Jada Snyder, this will be her first time attending.
“I think Winterfest gets people together. I also think the parade will make me feel connected to the community,” Snyder said.
For Snyder, it’s not just about the entertainment or the fun of receiving candy from parade floats. She sees the event as an opportunity to immerse herself in the spirit of the community. It’s about feeling that sense of belonging, a feeling that Winterfest has provided to many for years.
The sense of connection is one of the core values that makes Winterfest such a meaningful event. It’s not just the parade that makes this event so special—it’s the people behind it. More than 55 local organizations, businesses, and community groups contribute their time and resources to ensure Winterfest’s success. One of these organizations is Penn Mont Academy.
As Penn Mont’s float passes by, students and parents from the school will hand out books to community members.
“We love to see children get excited about reading and new books,” leader of Penn Mont Academy PACK program Katie McCabe said.
The efforts of Penn Mont Academy, along with the contributions of many other local organizations, highlight the community spirit that makes Winterfest so beloved. It’s a time when families, friends, and neighbors come together to celebrate, reflect on the past and look forward to the future.
As the streets fill with the sounds of the season and the joy of the holiday spirit, the Winterfest Parade will remind everyone of what truly matters—community, togetherness, and the shared celebration of the things that make life beautiful. And in the area, that sense of community will be felt long after the final float has passed by.
