Hartslog Day: A Celebration of Heritage in Huntingdon County, PA
Have you ever heard of Hartslog Day? If you’re from Huntingdon County in Pennsylvania, you probably have. But for those of you who are new to the area or just passing through, this annual festival is likely a mystery to you. Let us introduce you to your new favorite autumn tradition with our inside look at the Hartslog Day Heritage Festival.
Who is this for?
For families looking for an autumn festival in Huntingdon County, PA.
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History of the Area
To understand Hartslog Day, you’ll need a little background on the history of the area. As you might imagine from the name, the whole thing started with Hart’s Log. Literally.
The first recorded mention of “Hart’s Log” referred to a licensed Indian Trader named John Hart in 1744. The log in question was a large hollow log that he used to feed and salt his horses while trading near the Juniata River. As settlers started moving into the area, they used the log as a landmark, unofficially dubbing the area “Hartslog Settlement.”
By 1785, the name was catching on. A religious group called the “Hartslog Presbyterian Congregation” formed and began meeting in the “Hartslog Church”. It seemed all but inevitable that the town would follow this naming convention, but in 1793, the town was officially named ”Alexandria”. Still, the Hartslog tradition didn’t fully die. Many local landmarks still bear the name today, including Hartlog Street, Hartslog Valley, and Hartslog Grange.
What is Hartslog Day?
At its heart, Hartslog Day is about community. Over the decades, the festival has shifted its purpose and grown, just like the city itself has done over the centuries.
Honoring the Past:
The Hartslog Day Heritage Festival was first held in 1975. The Festival was hosted by members of the Alexandria Public Library to support the Hartslog Heritage Museum, located on the library’s second floor.
The museum preserves the town’s history by housing more than 4,000 artifacts that showcase life in early Alexandria and small-town America. During the festival every year, the museum opens its doors to celebrate the town’s heritage and educate the public about the area’s history. Some highlights include: Indigenous American relations, early trade, the canal area, and notable residents like John Scott (the only US Senator born in Alexandria).
Connecting in The Present:
Now, Hartslog Day is as much about the present as it is about the past. It’s about bringing people together with a shared sense of community. Whether your family has been in Huntingdon County for generations or recently settled, the town of Alexandria welcomes everyone.
What to Expect at the Festival
Over the last 50 years, the festival has become a favorite tradition for locals and visitors alike. With free admission for all and an open invitation to join in the fun, here is what you can expect from this charming event.
Location & Schedule
The Hartslog Heritage Festival takes place on the 2nd Saturday of October every year, rain or shine. The festival is hosted on Main Street in downtown Alexandria, typically beginning in the morning around 9:00 am and wrapping up in the early evening. This can vary year to year, so it’s best to check the event’s official page.
Arts, Crafts & Local Produce
One of the highlights of the event is the booths. Vendors line both sides of the street, offering a wide array of goods. You can find everything from quilts, woodwork, stained glass, soap, children’s toys, and more! The best part? It’s all handmade.
It’s not just arts and crafts, either. Local farms often bring produce, baked goods, pumpkin displays, and preserves. You can eat any autumn treat you can imagine, all located in one place.
Family Fun & Festival Atmosphere
The atmosphere of this annual festival cannot be beat. Kids’ activities, live music, historical exhibits, and autumn displays all work together to paint a postcard-worthy picture of small-town hospitality. Can you imagine a better family outing than this?
Weather
By the time the festival rolls around each year, autumn is in full swing. You can expect fairly mild weather this time of year. Highs typically stay under 70°F and lows around 45°F, making for a pleasant experience overall. The sun sets earlier in autumn, so pack a light coat for the evenings, and you’ll be ready for a full day of fun!
Tips for the Festival
- Arrive Early: Parking fills up fast, so do the best viewing areas for the parade. Plan ahead to guarantee a good spot for your vehicle and your seats.
- Pack Snacks: Festivals last a long time and require a lot of walking. You are likely going to get hungry and thirsty. While there will be plenty of food options, lines can be long and prices high. Bring some snacks to help keep your energy up while you wait!
- Bring a Bag: There will be a lot of amazing local arts and craft vendors at the festival, so bring an extra bag to carry around your purchases.
- Bring Cash: Many vendors can take payments from cards or payment apps, but some can’t. Make sure to bring some cash for easy transactions.
Stay at Greene Hills Resort and Campground
Need a place to stay during the Hartslog Day celebrations? Stay with us at Greene Hills Campground and Resort.
Greene Hills offers camping, glamping, and RVing in Alexandria, Pennsylvania. Located on the Little Juniata River, our campground offers forest and river views for a peaceful stay. And with accommodations ranging from rustic tent sites, full hook-up RV sites, and glamping cabins, we’re sure to have something to suit your tastes.
Whether you are attending the festival or looking to book your next family vacation, Greene Hills Campground and Resort welcomes you.
Book Now!
About the Author
Amanda Orban is a local teacher and campground manager in Pennsylvania. In her free time, she loves nothing more than pitching a tent under the stars, hitting scenic trails, and cheering on the Nittany Lions at Penn State.
