Mount Gretna Outdoor Art Show Celebrates Its 50th Year
For 50 years, the picturesque Victorian community of Mount Gretna has hosted an outdoor art show that captivates visitors with its charm and creativity. First held in July 1975, the Mount Gretna Outdoor Art Show has become a marker of the town's identity, becoming more successful with every year. The 2024 show is set for August 17-18, as it celebrates half a century of artistic excellence. The Londonderry Inn and Estate is located just 8 miles from Mount Gretna, making our historic inn a great place to stay when you're in town for the art show.
Established in the late 1800s as a summer resort, Mount Gretna continues to enchant visitors with its quaint charm, providing the perfect backdrop for this highly anticipated event. Held on the streets and in the parks of Mount Gretna, the Outdoor Art Show invites visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while exploring an array of fine art and crafts. Rain or shine, the event showcases award-winning creations from artists across the nation, including painters, potters, sculptors, metal and woodworkers, photographers, jewelry makers, and more. With over 500 applications each year, only about 200 artists are selected, ensuring a high-quality and diverse range of artwork.
The art show not only offers an unrivaled cultural experience but also serves a greater purpose. Proceeds from the event support the cultural programs of the Pennsylvania Chautauqua, a historic institution listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Additionally, the show contributes to the Mount Gretna Volunteer Fire Company and funds various community projects throughout the area.
Beyond the stunning art, the show features gourmet food, music, and entertainment, creating a festive atmosphere under the trees of Old Chautauqua. Local musicians perform a mix of jazz, bluegrass, folk, and pop music on a stage adjacent to the food court, while strolling performers delight children and families. The gourmet food court offers a diverse selection of culinary delights from outstanding local restaurants, ensuring that visitors can enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the sights and sounds of the show. Snitz Creek Brewery also will be on hand with craft beer and wine in the Hall of Philosophy.
New for 2024, the Mount Gretna Outdoor Art Show will include an International Film Festival on August 18, from noon to 3 p.m., supporting and celebrating emerging and established filmmakers. Held at the historic Mount Gretna Playhouse, an open-air theater nestled in the wooded community that is Pennsylvania’s Chautauqua, the festival will feature a screening of selected films and an awards ceremony. In its inaugural year, it will showcase shorts only, with a total running time of five minutes or under, spanning genres such as drama, comedy, horror, and documentary/video essay. This addition promises to draw even more visitors to Mount Gretna, making it one of the largest and most vibrant arts events of the year.
The Mount Gretna Outdoor Art Show is more than just an art exhibition; it's a community celebration that supports local culture and fosters artistic talent. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a food lover, or simply looking for a delightful way to spend a summer weekend, this event offers something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to experience the magic of Mount Gretna and take home a piece of art as a memento of your Central Pennsylvania getaway and stay at our historic Londonderry Inn.
