Newville Fountain Festival & Stars & Stripes Parade 2026
Friday, June 19 & Saturday, June 20, 2026 | Downtown Newville
Get ready for two days of patriotic family fun as Newville celebrates America's 250th birthday with the return of the Newville Fountain Festival and Stars & Stripes Parade.
This community favorite combines fireworks, live music, food vendors, craft vendors, contests, a tractor show, a children's pedal tractor pull, a 5K race, and one of the most uniquely Pennsylvania parade competitions you will ever encounter.
Whether you come for the fireworks, the festival food, the parade, or simply to celebrate small-town community spirit, this event offers something for every generation.
At a Glance
When: Friday, June 19 & Saturday, June 20, 2026
Where: Downtown Newville, PA
Admission: Free festival admission
Best for: Families, grandparents, patriotic celebrations, tractor enthusiasts, runners, and small-town festival lovers
Top Picks for Families
Stars & Stripes Parade
The festival kicks off with the Stars & Stripes Parade on Friday evening featuring patriotic floats, tractors, vintage vehicles, fire trucks, golf carts, walkers, businesses, and community groups all decked out in red, white, and blue.
Parent hack: Bring folding chairs and arrive early for the best viewing spots along the parade route.
Fireworks at the Fountain
Friday night concludes with a fireworks display scheduled for approximately 9:45 PM, creating a spectacular finish to the opening day festivities.
Parent hack: Bring ear protection for younger children who may be sensitive to loud fireworks.
Children's Pedal Tractor Pull
One of the most popular family activities returns Saturday with the children's pedal tractor pull, giving young farmers a chance to test their strength and have some friendly competition.
Parent hack: Arrive early for registration and bring your camera because this is always a crowd favorite.
Tractor Show & Agricultural Fun
Celebrate Cumberland County's agricultural heritage with a tractor show and family-friendly farm-themed activities throughout the festival.
Parent hack: Kids who love farm equipment can easily spend extra time exploring the tractors and talking with owners.
Goat Milking Contest & Rubber Duck Race
Saturday's schedule includes quirky small-town favorites like the goat milking contest and rubber duck race, adding plenty of laughs and memorable moments to the festival.
Parent hack: These events often become unexpected highlights for kids who have never seen them before.
Food, Craft Vendors & Live Music
Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy food vendors, craft vendors, local shopping opportunities, and live music performances.
Scheduled entertainment includes the Shippensburg Swing Band, Tom Barkdoll, and Shine Through the Shade.
Parent hack: Plan extra time for browsing local vendors because there is usually a great mix of handmade and locally produced items.
Special America 250 Celebration
The 2026 festival celebrates America's 250th Anniversary with patriotic decorations, community contests, special parade themes, and a town-wide porch decorating contest.
Residents and businesses are encouraged to decorate in red, white, and blue as Newville joins communities across the country in commemorating this historic milestone.
Tips for Visiting with Kids
- Bring folding chairs. They are useful for both the parade and live music.
- Pack sunscreen. Many activities take place outdoors.
- Stay for fireworks. They are one of the biggest highlights of the weekend.
- Bring cash. Some vendors may not accept cards.
- Arrive early for children's events. Popular activities can attract crowds.
- Wear patriotic colors. You'll fit right in with the America 250 celebration theme.
Accessibility & Event Information
The festival takes place throughout downtown Newville and includes outdoor community spaces, parade viewing areas, vendor areas, and activity zones.
Visitors should expect a combination of sidewalks, streets, grassy areas, and community gathering spaces.
Accessibility may vary by activity location and crowd levels.
