Festival Fever

Catch some fun at this ultimate guide to annual Greater Reading events

The Greater Reading area is home to an incredible variety of festivals that bring the community together with art, culture and food. From seasonal celebrations to music-filled events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Which event will you attend?  

Reading Film Fest

Every October, the ReadingFilmFEST is hosted for filmmakers and film lovers to experience the best of independent cinema, featuring films from around the world, engaging panel discussions and a vibrant local scene with nightlife, craft brewers and Amish markets. 

Reading Blues Fest

Since 2017, the Reading Blues Fest has welcomed fans to downtown Reading each November for a weekend of world-class blues, featuring award-winning artists and nationally recognized talent. Hosted at the DoubleTree by Hilton Reading, the festival creates a vibrant atmosphere with concerts and special events celebrating both traditional and contemporary blues. 

readingbluesfest.com

Berks Jazz Fest

Bringing nearly 30,000 visitors to Greater Reading, this 10-day music celebration, hosted at the beginning of April, showcases world-class performances in jazz, blues, R&B, funk and more. Featuring major concerts, free local events, collaborative performances and educational programs, the festival highlights both renowned and emerging artists while fostering a vibrant arts community. 

berksjazzfest.com

West Reading Arts on the Avenue

Celebrating nearly 30 years, Art on the Avenue turns Penn Avenue into a dynamic hub of creativity every June, featuring local and regional artists, crafters, musicians and vendors. Stretching across four pedestrian-friendly blocks with over 200 vendors, this free, rain-or-shine event offers a day of art, entertainment and culinary delights. 

visitwestreading.com/festivals-events 

Pennsylvania Cannabis Festival

Returning this October to Renninger’s Farmer’s Market in Kutztown, Pennsylvania’s premier Cannabis Marketplace features over 200 vendors, 20+ unique food trucks, live music, sponsor activations and live art exhibitions. This dynamic event celebrates cannabis culture with exclusive deals and an immersive experience for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

penncannafest.com

West Reading Fall Festival 

Spanning the blocks of Penn Avenue, the West Reading Fall Festival in September offers 200 craft and retail vendors, a variety of food and beverage options—including beer, wine and spirits—and live music across three stages for an unforgettable experience. 

visitwestreading.com/festivals-events

IX Art Show

Dedicated to imaginative realism, IX is the premier art show bringing together artists, students, collectors and fans for a one-of-a-kind celebration. Hosted every October, it offers an inspiring space where emerging and established artists push creative boundaries, explore new opportunities and showcase stunning works that bring imagination to life. 

imaginativerealism.com

Hamburg-er Festival

Hamburg, Pa., comes alive each year in August as the Taste of Hamburg-er Festival celebrates all things burgers with mouthwatering creations, non-stop entertainment, beer and wine gardens and family-friendly activities. Spanning eight blocks downtown, the festival features 40 vendors serving up creative burgers, delicious sides, sweet treats and exciting competitions, making it the ultimate destination for burger lovers. 

tasteofhamburger.com 

Chili Pepper Festival

Each September, the Chile Pepper Festival brings bold flavors to Bowers, Pa. From fiery hot sauces to smoked crabby pepper poppers, the chefs serve up spice alongside a pepper eating contest, salsa contest and field excursions where visitors can pick their own chile peppers and heirloom tomatoes. 

pepperfestival.com

World War 2 Weekend

Now in its 33rd year, World War II Weekend is North America’s largest reenactment event and the premier fundraiser for the Mid Atlantic Air Museum. Held the first full weekend of June, it offers an immersive experience with authentic aircraft, interactive exhibits and living history reenactments that honor the era’s aviation legacy. 

https://maam.org/wwii/