In July 1975, local artists Bruce Johnson and Reed Dixon took their idea of holding an art show in Mount Gretna to John Wenzler, the then director of Chautauqua Summer Programs. Together they prepared the grounds for the first-ever Mount Gretna Outdoor Art Show, now celebrating its 50th year.
In celebration of the 50th show and the impact the event has had on the area, Lebanon County Commissioners deemed 2024 the year of the arts in Lebanon County. The arts have widely been celebrated both at Mount Gretna and throughout the county, including with a living art instillation, a moss sculpture of Luna Moth wings created by Ryan Frentz, in front of the Mount Gretna Playhouse that will remain until September.
"It's such an all-encompassing experience, because you come to our town, which has been completely transformed with tents and music and artists − it is just bursting with creativity," said Mount Gretna Outdoor Art Show Director Kerry Royer.
Proceeds of the art show set for Aug. 17 and 18 go towards the the Mt. Gretna Fire Department and community projects.
Over 200 artists will be showcasing their art this year at the nationally ranked art show and the grounds of Mount Gretna will be packed full of events including live music, an inaugural film festival and a kids show, held from 10-2 each day on the Chautauqua playground.
"We have 200 artists and each one of them is unique and special," said Royer. "They're juried, so it's ranked as a national show; it's one of the top 200 shows in the nation."
Ten of those booths each year are set aside specifically for emerging artists who haven't exhibited before, free of cost, and assistance with learning how to apply and exhibit at other art shows. Royer said this year, all 10 booths are being filled by new artists from Pennsylvania, as close as Lancaster County and as far as Pittsburgh.
Gourmet food vendors will be present at show, as well as craft beer from Snitz Creek Brewery served at the Hall of Philosophy.
Royer said the the art show sees around 10,000 visitors each year, and hopes that because it being its 50th year, they'll see even more.
Here's what to know about getting to the 50th Annual Mount Gretna Outdoor Art Show:
When and where
The Mount Gretna Outdoor Art Show will be held on Aug. 17 and 18 in the streets and parks of Mount Gretna.
During the art show weekend, traffic flow in and out of Mount Gretna will be substantially altered. Route 117 will be closed during show hours. All routes will be clearly marked and staffed.
Ticketing
Tickets are $15 per person and can be purchased at the any of the four entrance gates.
Children under 12 get in free.
Discounted tickets are available at mtgretnaarts.com until Friday, Aug. 16.
Parking
Upon arrival, visitors will be directed to park, either at the Soldiers Field and Shay's Field across timber road near the lake, close to the main gate of the grounds or at WellSpan Philhaven, where a shuttle will then bring them to the gate.
The fire department has golf carts at the field parking locations to help people at handicapped parking.
Daniel Larlham Jr. is a reporter for the Lebanon Daily News. Reach him atDLarlham@LDNews.com or on X @djlarlham.
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