Five festivals in the Poconos to check out in May, June
With the temperatures warming up, it’s time to start thinking about your summer plans.
If you’re looking for something to do in May or June, check out these five festivals heading our way.
The Carbon and Economic Development Chamber hosts its tribute to Jim Thorpe with Native American dances and folklore, a cross-country and track and field Olympic team torch run, and an arts and crafts fair.
Fox and Sac Nation member Thorpe was the first Native American to win a gold medal.
Plus, the celebration will include on-site food vendors, horse-drawn carriage rides, and train and tram tours throughout the charming city.
The event will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 21 with a Native American tribute at the Jim Thorpe Mausoleum featuring Don Wild Eagle and John Thorpe (Jim’s grandson).
When: May 21 – 22
Information: The event takes place in the mainstays, including downtown at both Susquehanna Street and the Mauch Chunk Opera House, 14 W. Broadway. For a full schedule go to JimThorpeBirthdayCelebration
After:Jim Thorpe offers fun, charm and history
Someone has sounded the alarm: the first gathering of Hometown Heroes on the mountain is the ultimate tribute to our region’s firefighters.
Mingle with the Poconos’ first responders (and their fire trucks) as they showcase their skills with live demonstrations.
When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 28
Information: Mountain Village at Camelback Mountain, 603 Camelback Road, Tannersville, camelbackresort.com/mec-events/hometown-heros
After:These 7 Pocono Cabins and Cottages Offer Stunning Views and Chic Decor
Soar through the skies of the Poconos.
The Memorial Day weekend family event – now celebrating its 25th anniversary – includes a pancake breakfast, airplane and helicopter rides, military aircraft displays, a Huey helicopter demonstration and vintage car exhibitions.
There will also be a parachute jump following the annual Veterans Memorial Tribute. Tickets are $10 and $6 for children (12 and under).
When: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on May 29
Information: Pocono Mountains Municipal Airport, 188 Airport Drive, Tobyhanna, facebook.com/events
The Stroudsburg Courthouse Square will be adorned with rainbow flags during the second annual Pride Festival, which supports the LGBTQIA+ community.
The event, hosted by the Pocono Chamber of Commerce, features live performances by drag kings/queens and local bands, as well as children’s activities, DJs and resource tables providing tools and information to the community.
Local breweries and restaurants will participate.
The festival is looking for volunteers and artists. For info, go to poconopridefestival.com
When: 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. June 5
information: poconopridefestival.com
It will be a non-stop block party with performances by the 10,000 Maniacs on opening night, as well as sets from local musicians and artists.
Support local business owners at the two-day street fair which showcases food and craft products from around 30 restaurants and shops.
Check out Jorgensen’s Block Party (at the Dimmick Inn, 101 E. Hartford St.), known as one of every year’s favorite festivals.
The Milford Music Festival was launched in 2002 as the Milford Jazz Festival, but has since expanded. Attendees can now hear blues, rock and pop, as well as traditional jazz.
When: June 10 – 12
information: milfordpa.us/event/milford-music-festival
The Poconos African-American Network and the Sherman Theater present the 20th Annual Juneteenth Freedom Festival at Courthouse Square.
The free event, which commemorates Emancipation Day and celebrates freedom from slavery, will feature live music, as well as vendors serving food and an arts and crafts section.
Family-friendly educational booths and networking opportunities will be available for all ages.
Performers include the 2nd Street Players, Contact Collective, Rico Anthony, Gynesis Radio, 40 Double Dutch Club, Eleve Dance Theater and William Abbot Puppeteer.
When: 2 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. June 18
information: shermantheater.com/event/juneteenth-freedom-festival