Participants from last year’s Shamrock Shake 5K Run & Walk make their way through the Galleria Mall in Johnstown. Courtesy photo

Friday, Feb. 27

Iron Bridge Dinner Theater presents “The Ark” at Grace Baptist Church, 2308 Adams Ave., Tyrone. “The Ark” is a fresh take on a familiar tale, the story of how one family learns to brave life’s rough waters by sticking together. With incredibly uplifting music ranging from pop to gospel, this show will move you to laughter and tears. Tickets for the show only are $28 for 1 p.m. performances Saturday, Feb. 28, and at 6 p.m. Sunday, March 1. Tickets for performance with full buffet dinner are $48 all inclusive for 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27 (show at 7 p.m.), and Saturday, Feb. 28. For ticket information, call 814-505-2551.

The Community Arts Center of Cambria County is bringing the second Log Art Theatre production of 2026 with “God’s Favorite” by Neil Simon. “God’s Favorite” is a modern, wildly hilarious twist on the biblical story of Job. The show will be in the Community Arts Center’s M. Josephine Paul Family Museum, which doubles as a black box theatre, located at 1217 Menoher Blvd., in the Westmont section of Johnstown. Performances will be at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27, Saturday, Feb. 28, Friday, March 6, and Saturday March 7, with 2 p.m. matinee performances Sunday, March 1, and Sunday, March 8. For tickets and more information, visit www.caccc.org.

More than 300 attendees from over 30 institutions will come together in Greensburg at the beginning of Seton Hill’s spring break for the American College Dance Association Northeast Conference through Tuesday, March 3. The conference features a full slate of classes taking place in Seton Hill’s downtown arts buildings. Six shows open to the public will be performed at the Palace Theatre starting with adjudication performances Saturday, Feb. 28, and ending with an encore performance on the afternoon of Tuesday, March 3. Tickets are $12, which includes all performances. Tickets and additional information are available for these performances at 2026 American College Dance Association’s Northeast Conference — Westmoreland Cultural Trust.

Saturday, Feb. 28

The Jay T. Vonada Jazz Duo will perform from 7 to 9 p.m. Feb. 28 at Three Twelve Kitchen, 312 Penn St., Huntingdon. For more information, call 814-643-7200 or visit threetwelverestaurant.com.

Downtown Bedford is going to be “super sweet” on Saturday, Feb. 28, during the Ninth annual chocolate walk. Visit participating businesses to receive a chocolate-themed giveaway or experience at participating locations. A Golden Ticket is hiding in one of the giveaways. One lucky winner will receive a 1/2 pound of free chocolate each month — March thru December 2026 — from Bedford Candies. Tickets are available for $25 by visiting downtownbedford.com/events.html or at the DBI Office. The first 150 tickets purchased online only each Saturday can enjoy a free movie at the Pitt Theater at 3 p.m. On Feb. 28, the movie will be “Harry Potter and The Sorcerer’s Stone.”

As part of the celebration of Western Pennsylvania’s rich football history leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, NFL Films will present “The Football Town,” a film which explores the storied football tradition of the region. Premiering Saturday, Feb. 28, at Kamin Science Center’s Rangos Giant Cinema, Pittsburgh, the documentary will run for two months. Tickets will be available by visiting https://tinyurl.com/yy4d7tse

The Rocket Blasters will perform from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, at the Heidelberg CC, 812 Frankstown Road Altoona. $5 cover charge. Food from Rob’s Catering/Grill will be available.

Looking for some frighteningly-fun activities but can’t wait until the Halloween season? Baker Mansion has partnered with Haunted Rooms America for a special paranormal investigation event. From 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, at the Baker Mansion, guests will be provided with an all-access pass for investigating the mansion’s reported ghostly happenings and exploring the home’s unique history. Equipment training and refreshments will be provided for all guests. Spots are limited. For tickets and more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/yc56hkak

Sunday, March 1

Huntingdon County’s second annual Raystaurant Week will wrap on on Sunday, March 1. Details about special menu offerings, the digital passport and the Sunday Celebration Music Fest can be found at RaystaurantWeek.com

Coming up

“Hope Springs Eternal: The Holocaust Project” is proud to announce the arrival of the internationally acclaimed exhibition, “Let Me Be Myself — The Life Story of Anne Frank.” The exhibition will be hosted from March through June at the Frank & Sylvia Pasquerilla Heritage Discovery Center, Johnstown. For more information regarding gallery hours, visit hopespringseternalproject.com or contact the Heritage Discovery Center at 814-539-1889.

Tony and Grammy Award-winning “Hadestown” will come to Happy Valley for two nights at 7:30 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, March 2 and 3, at the Eisenhower Auditorium, University Park. Tickets start at $74 for an adult; $48 for a University Park student; and $57 for a person 18 and younger. Purchase tickets online at https://tinyurl.com/yesbk69u or avoid the $4 fee by purchasing over the phone at 814-863-0255.

Penn State Altoona will host a poetry reading by James Daniels at 12:05 p.m. Tuesday, March 3, in the Titelman Study of the Misciagna Family Center for Performing Arts. The reading is free and open to the public.

“46 Plays for America’s First Ladies” will presented by Things Unseen Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 5, Friday, March 6, and Saturday, March 7, and at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 8, at The Sweitzer Theatre/The Church in the Middle of the Block, 217 Fifth Ave., Altoona. Tickets can be purchased at https://thingsunseen.booktix.com/ or at the door.

The Community Arts Center of Cambria County (CACCC) will launch its 2026 Coffee House series with a performance by Meat & Potatoes at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 5. The Coffee House Series will be taking place outdoors on CACCC’s Amphitheatre or indoors in the main space gallery of the Goldhaber-Fend Fine Arts Center building in Johnstown. Coffee, teas and baked goods will be available for purchase. Admission is free.

Watch all of 70’s Classic Rock Electric Light Orchestra hit songs be recreated by ELO Tribute group “Strange Magic” as this multi-media show makes its way to The Palace Theatre in Greensburg at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 5. Tickets range from $35 to $75

and can be purchased online at https://westmorelandculturatrust.org or by calling the Palace Theatre at 724-836-8000.

The 2026 Annual International Jewish Film Festival continues Thursday, March 5 and March 12, at the Penn State Devorris Downtown Center, 1431 12th Ave., Altoona. Films begin at 7 p.m. and admission is a $5 donation, students are free. On March 5, the movie will be “Running on Sand” and on March 12, “Torn” will be presented. There will be a Meal before Movie from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Agudath Achim Social Hall 1306 17th St, Altoona, for $20 per person. Contact altoonafed@gmail.com for reservations (required).

1492 Home Association will present Don Osborn & Bill Hunter LIVE @ The Knights of Columbus, 1508 12th Ave., Altoona, from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, March 6. Doors open at 6:30. Come on in and hang out with two of the area’s most talented musicians at the monthly First Fridays @ The Knights.

Bishop Guilfoyle Academy will present Rodgers & Hammerstein’s beloved musical, “The Sound of Music,” at 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 6, and Saturday, March 7, at the Mishler Theatre. With cherished songs including “My Favorite Things,” “Do-Re-Mi,” “Edelweiss,” and “Climb Ev’ry Mountain,” this vibrant production is appropriate for all ages and promises an evening of emotional resonance and pure theatrical joy. Tickets are $17. For tickets and more information, visit mishlertheatre.org or call the box office at 814-944-9434.

Mark your calendars for the Third Annual Shamrock Shake 5K Run & Walk at the Johnstown Galleria Mall on Saturday, March 7. Registration is $25. Check-in will be from 7 to 7:45 a.m. Walkers race begins at 8 a.m and runners race begins at 8:30 a.m. More information and online registration can be found at https://tinyurl.com/mv7uuvwd

The Community Arts Center of Cambria County (CACCC) is proud to present its second exhibition of 2026 hosted in the Goldhaber-Fend Fine Arts Center gallery, “Just Happy Accidents,” a collection of oil paintings by the late Alvin E. Just. The exhibit will be on display from Saturday, March 7 through Friday, April 24. The public is welcome to visit the Goldhaber-Fend Fine Arts Center gallery, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays. Admission is based on a PWYD “pay what you decide” donation.

Spheres is bringing their amazing bubble show back to the Mishler Theatre for the fourth time with the debut of their new show called “ORBS” at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 8. Tickets are $13. For tickets and more information, visit mishlertheatre.org or call the box office at 814-944-9434.

Bishop Carroll will host Bingo from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 8, at Bishop Carroll Catholic High School, Ebensburg. Admission is $25. The event features all cash prizes, complimentary beverages and desserts. $25 admission. For information and tickets, call 814-472-7500.

Curious about watercolor painting? Artist Mike Vargo will present an Introduction to Watercolor Workshop from 1 to 3 p.m. Monday, March 9, at the ArtsAltoona Center. Participants will learn basic watercolor techniques while creating a scenic lighthouse painting. Cost is $15 and includes all supplies. Registration is required at https://tinyurl.com/yc2kyax4

Join the Ligonier Valley Historical Society in the historic Common Room of the Compass Inn Museum, Laughlintown, for our much anticipated ‘Fireside Chat’ series. Dr. Emily Barth will present “Tomfoolery, Hijinks and Shenanigans: the Histories & Mysteries of Where Words Come From” from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Thursday, March 12. Admission is $5 and tickets are available at https://tinyurl.com/bdhayppk

The Altoona Symphony Orchestra will present “Passport of Sound” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 14, at the Mishler Theatre. Principal Trumpet George Carpten will bring the brilliance of Haydn’s Trumpet Concerto to life, evoking the excitement of innovation and discovery. The serene intimacy of Wagner’s Siegfried Idyll, a peaceful pause along the way, will lead to the spirited energy of Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 4 “Italian”, inspired by his own travels. ASO Member Brent Register’s Alegria, an ASO World Premiere, combines the unique sounds of the bass clarinet with the English horn, and explores how the experience of new places sparks profound musical expression. Tickets are $41. For tickets and more information, visit mishlertheatre.org or call the box office at 814-944-9434.

The Angry Samoans will perform from 7 to 10:30 p.m. Thursday, March 17, at McGarvey’s Bar and Grill, Altoona. For tickets, visit https://tinyurl.com/yfa4cfk3

“Rhythm of the Dance,” the National Dance Company of Ireland, will take the stage at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 17, at the Palace Theatre, Greensburg. Tickets range from $37 to $53.75 and can be purchased online at https://westmorelandculturaltrust.org or by calling the Palace Theatre at 724-836-8000.

History Speaks: A BCHS Lecture Series — “A History of Claysburg” with Richard Allison will be presented at 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 18, at the Railroaders Memorial Museum, Altoona. Admission is free and open to the public, but donations to the Blair County Historical Society are welcome. For more information, visit blairhistory.org.

The Community Arts Center of Cambria County (CACCC) continues its 2026 Coffee House series with a performance by The SharpTones at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 19. The Coffee House Series will be taking place outdoors on CACCC’s Amphitheatre or indoors in the main space gallery of the Goldhaber-Fend Fine Arts Center building in Johnstown. Coffee, teas, and baked goods will be available for purchase. Admission is free.

“Simply The Best” is not just a tribute; it’s an immersive experience that pays homage to Tina Turner’s remarkable career and the impact of her music. “Simply the Best” is coming to The Palace Theatre in Greensburg Thursday, March 19 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $35 and can be purchased online at https://westmorelandculturaltrust.org or by calling the Palace Theatre at 724-836-8000.

Great Commission Schools will present “Singing in the Rain” at 7 p.m. Friday, March 20 and Saturday, March 21, at the Mishler Theatre. For tickets and more information, visit mishlertheatre.org or call 814-944-9434.

The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art at Johnstown will celebrate art, artists and their inspiration with their Spring, “Inspiration: Music” exhibition starting Friday, March 20, and running through July 26 at the Pasquerilla Performing Arts Center, located on the campus of the University of Pittsburgh, Johnstown. This exhibition will include photographs, etchings, paintings and drawings of musically inspired art. Visitors can view the exhibit during performance intermissions, weekends from noon to 4 p.m. or by appointment. Admission is free. For more information, visit https://www.sama-art.org, call 724-238-6015 or email hkonhaus@sama-art.org.

In 2026, as it embarks on its 50th year as a place of discovery, Shaver’s Creek, Petersburg, is inviting the community to celebrate with a series of events and activities that honor the center’s history and future. 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 must be purchased in advance for this popular event. Visit https://www.shaverscreek.org/ for more information.

Art Journaling for Wellness will be held by artist Elaine Baney from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, March 22, at the ArtsAltoona Center. Participants will be guided through creating a personalized art journal using a variety of prompts and mixed media techniques and will leave with their very first journal entry started. Cost is $35 and includes all supplies. To sign up, email ebaneyart@gmail.com or visit https://tinyurl.com/44nvwmj6

Gaelic Storm will perform at 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 25, at The State Theatre, State College. For tickets, visit https://tickets.thestatetheatre.org/

Tickets to Sesame Street live “Elmo’s Got the Moves” are on sale for the performance at 6 p.m. Thursday, March 26, at The Palace Theatre, Greensburg. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://tinyurl.com/4ukc4ad7

Join the Ligonier Valley Historical Society in the historic Common Room of the Compass Inn Museum, Laughlintown, for our much anticipated ‘Fireside Chat’ series. Aaron Hollis and Patrick Bochy will present “On the Ryes: Whiskey History in Western Pennsylvania” at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, March 26. Admission is $5 and tickets are available at https://tinyurl.com/bdhayppk

Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy, an immersive, unforgettable experience, will be presented by ArtsAltoona at 6, 8 and 10 p.m. Friday, March 27, and at 2, 4, 6 and 8 p.m. Saturday, March 28, at The Sanctuary at ArtsAltoona. Step back in time and immerse yourself in the dark and mysterious world of Edgar Allan Poe. This exclusive speakeasy will feature expertly crafted cocktails inspired by four of Poe’s most beloved stories. Tickets start at $55 and are available at artsaltoona.org/upcoming-events/edgar-allan-poe-speakeasy. For more information, contact edgarallanpoebar@gmail.com.

A1A, the Official & Original Jimmy Buffett Tribute Show, will perform at the Mishler Theatre at 8 p.m. Saturday, March 28. A1A is the only tribute show ever sanctioned by Jimmy Buffett himself. The high energy, fun, excitement, authenticity and continuous dedication to preserving Jimmy Buffett’s legacy that have always surrounded an A1A performance are an experience and a driving force that have helped the band remain the first and foremost Jimmy Buffett Tribute Show in history. Tickets are $50. For tickets and more information, visit mishlertheatre.org or call the box office at 814-944-9434.

Lenten fish lunches and dinners

– The Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, 1 Cathedral Square, Altoona, will serve its annual Lenten fish fry lunches again this year. The lunches will be available from 10:30 to 1 p.m. every Friday during Lent except for Good Friday. Cost is $12 and includes a fish sandwich, macaroni & cheese and coleslaw. Meals are available on a drive-thru basis at the Cathedral Alley door. Orders of 10 or more will be delivered to those who call ahead, 814-944-4603.

– Our Lady of Lourdes Lenten Fish Fry will be held Fridays beginning Feb. 20 through Good Friday, April 3, in the church hall. Take-out begins at 3:30 p.m. and eat in at 4:30 p.m. The menu includes fried or baked haddock, a choice of macaroni and cheese or french fries and stewed tomatoes and cole slaw or applesauce. There will be a dessert station for a choice of a dessert. Drinks are included for those dining in and soda is available to purchase. The cost is $16 per meal. Our Lady of Lourdes is at 2716 Broad Ave., Altoona. There is a handicapped entrance off of the alley with an elevator.

– St. Patrick’s seafood buffet, 731 Patrick Lane, Newry, will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Fridays, Feb. 20-April 3. The buffet includes baked/fried haddock, butterfly shrimp, macaroni and cheese, stewed tomatoes, pierogies, french fries, coleslaw, green beans, soup, roll, dessert and beverage. Cost is $22 for adults ages 13-59; $20 for seniors aged 60 and older; $10 for youth ages 5 to 12 and free to those younger than 5 years old. Cash or checks only.

– Fish fry dinners are available at the Unter Uns, 1401 Van Buren Ave., Altoona, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Fridays during Lent. The public is welcome to eat in or take out. Meals are $15 and include choice of baked or batter-fried haddock, choice of scalloped potatoes or macaroni and cheese, with coleslaw, stewed tomatoes and a roll. Ala carte items also are available. Crab cake dinners are $22 and will be available only on Feb. 27, March 20 and April 3.

– St. Therese of the Child Jesus Parish, Altoona, will hold Lenten Fish Fry Dinners from 4 to 7 p.m. on Fridays during Lent, Feb. 20-March 27, at Father Kelley Hall, 25th Avenue and Fifth Street. Dinners will be available for either eat-in or take-out. Menu includes choice of baked or fried fish, choice of two: stewed tomatoes, coleslaw or applesauce, choice of macaroni and cheese or french fries, rolls and butter, and homemade dessert. Free coffee, tea and water or $1 for soda for eat-in dinners. Cost is $15 per dinner. Optional pre-orders start at 3 p.m. and can be made by calling 814-600-9288.

Get your concert tickets now!

– Tickets are on sale now for Better Than Ezra at The State Theatre, State College, at 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 24. To purchase tickets, visit https://tickets.thestatetheatre.org/

– Singer-songwriter Pat McGee will perform in the Attic at The State Theatre, State College, at 8 p.m. Thursday, April 2. For tickets, visit tickets.thestatetheatre.org.

– Indie band “Melt” will perform at The State Theatre, State College, at 8 p.m. Thursday, April 16. Tickets are $25. To purchase tickets, visit tickets.thestatetheatre.org

– “Killer Queen: A Tribute to Queen” returns to The State Theatre, State College, at 8 p.m. Friday, April 24. Tickets are available at https://tickets.thestatetheatre.org/

– Bronx-bred superstar “A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie” takes the stage at the Bryce Jordan Center on Friday, April 24. The event promises to be an unforgettable night

of hip-hop and entertainment. Tickets are available at ticketmaster.com.

– The “Maris Goes to College” tour will visit The State Theatre, State College, at

– p.m. Saturday, April 25. Tickets are available at tickets.thestatetheatre.org.