PETERSBURG, Pa. – Nestled up in the mountains, not far from the Penn State University Park campus, Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center has been connecting the Penn State community and its neighbors to nature since 1976.
In 2026, as it embarks on its 50th year as a place of discovery, Shaver's Creek is inviting the community to celebrate with a series of events and activities that honor the center’s history and future, including a T-shirt design contest, an open house, festivals and more.
“Shaver’s Creek has been a place of discovery for both Penn Staters and the greater community for half a century. Over the years, this center has had a tremendous impact on the many people who have been a part of that journey,” said Chris Ortiz, interim director for Shaver’s Creek. “So, we hope these events provide an opportunity for the whole community to celebrate those deep roots and our bright future.”
Shaver’s Creek 50th anniversary events will happen throughout the year:
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Opening Day Hike: Kick off Shaver's Creek's milestone year with various naturalist-led hike options for all ages on Jan. 24 at 1 p.m. Stick around after the hike for games, snacks and hot cocoa by the fire. Registration is required.
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Maple Harvest Festival: Celebrate the first harvest of the spring with a pancake breakfast, live music, animal programs and maple sugaring demonstrations during the annual Maple Harvest Festival on March 21 and 22. Tickets will go on sale in February and must be purchased in advance for this popular event.
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Anniversary Celebration: Come reminisce, relive and reconnect to all things Shaver’s Creek to celebrate 50 years of inspiring discovery on May 23. The day will be filled with walks, programs, ice cream, a campfire and more. Food vendors will be on site for snack and dinner options. Registration is required.
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Open House: Discover all that Shaver’s Creek has to offer during the annual Open House on Sept. 12. On this day of discovery, visitors can meet staff and explore the grounds of Shaver’s Creek. Enjoy nature crafts, activities, educational programs and more while learning about all the opportunities Shaver’s Creek offers throughout the year.
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Solstice Celebration: Reflect on a year of celebration and gratitude on Dec. 19 to prepare for the winter solstice. The event will include guided hikes, snacks and hot chocolate to welcome the beginning of the winter season and bring Shaver’s Creek’s milestone year to a close.
Other opportunities to be a part of Shaver’s Creek’s silver anniversary include:
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T-shirt Design Contest: Shaver’s Creek is looking for a special T-shirt for its anniversary that reflects the center’s connection to the natural world. The design contest is open to the public with a submission deadline of Jan. 31.
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Field Guide to Alumni of Shaver’s Creek: All those who have been a part of Shaver’s Creek 50-year history are invited to share their story so it can be included in this special project.
Updates to these events and activities, along with a Species Spotlight video series, will be shared on social media and the Shaver’s Creek website.