You won’t want to miss America’s premier Pennsylvania Dutch folk festival! The Kutztown Folk Festival is the oldest continuously-operated event of this genre in the country. This celebration provides priceless insight into the traditions, food, culture, and crafts of the Pennsylvania Dutch. Visit what has been called “one of the most unique festivals on the East coast” by the Washington Post!
Are you looking for more great events in Lehigh Valley? We can help! Download our free Vacation Guide to get a list of our favorite annual festivals in the region. You’ll also find a selection of incredible restaurants, fascinating museums and historic sites, and gorgeous hiking trails to explore during your time at Sayre Mansion. Spend less time planning your trip and more time enjoying it with our free Vacation Guide
The History of the Kutztown Folk Festival
The first Kutztown Folk Festival took place in 1950 when three American folklorists wanted to give visitors an authentic, insider’s look at Pennsylvania Dutch culture. While other cultural festivals may use actors, this event featured actual Pennsylvania Dutch natives sharing their daily life. That first festival welcomed over 25,000 people. The organizers quickly realized that they needed to expand the length of the festival, and what was originally supposed to be a four-day event became nine! The Annual Kutztown Folk Festival will take place from July 2 to July 10.
Get a Sneak Peak of the Festivities
While the exact calendar of events of each Kutztown Folk Festival may differ from one year to the next, you can be certain that there will always be hearty and delicious food. Enjoy a variety of made-from-scratch soups, sandwiches, sausages, corn fritters, shoo-fly pie, apple dumplings, and more! There will also be two sit-down restaurants serving full-course authentic meals. If you’re looking for something to take home with you, browse their old-fashioned farmer’s market or head to the famous bread oven, where you can watch (and purchase) loaves of bread being baked.
Watch a Performance
What’s a festival without music and performances? Luckily, Kutztown Folk Festival has plenty! There are five stages running continuously in the festival. Enjoy a show from the brass bands or hoedown dancers, or take a ride on the last active horse-powered carousel in the country. Another highlight of the festival is the fascinating seminars on dialect, traditions, and folklore.
Enjoy Kid-Friendly Fun
If you’re attending the festival with kids, you’re in luck! There are plenty of fantastic activities geared towards the younger crowd. Stop by the Children’s Farmyard Theater for a puppet show, a sing-a-long, story time, and more! There is also a craft area, as well as pony rides and a petting zoo.
Stay at Sayre Mansion
After spending a day of fun at Kutztown Folk Festival, return to the elegant Sayre Mansion to enjoy a restful night! Our historic bed and breakfast is located in Bethlehem, PA, just minutes from awesome attractions and incredible restaurants. Consider booking one of our Carriage House Suites to enjoy spacious accommodations and quiet serenity. Suite Three, our largest, featured a king-size bed, pull-out sleeper sofa, and comfortable furnishings. The bathroom comes with a Whirlpool tub and a walk-in shower.
Check our availability and book today! We look forward to having you.