PA State Flaming Fall Foliage Festival

Wendy Royal Fall 2026

photos courtesy of the PA State Flaming Fall Foliage Festival

2026 marks the 77^th year of the PA State Flaming Fall Foliage Festival in Renovo, Clinton County. The 3-day event will be held on October 9th to 11^th. Saying that this annual festival represents the pride that exists in small towns throughout the Commonwealth is an understatement.

Renovo’s identity has always been tied to the land, the lumber and an abundance of appreciation for the beauty of the area. With a population of just over 1,000 residents, the festival brings nearly 25,000 visitors to the area each year.

Steeped in tradition, the PA State Flaming Fall Foliage Festival features a large parade that lasts around 2 hours, the crowning of the Flaming Foliage Queen and local artisans, craftspeople and food vendors all with the backdrop of the colors of fall.

PA State Flaming Fall Foliage Parade

I Love a Parade

Anticipation builds in the morning, as the bands, floats, and vehicles of all kinds line up in their designated spots along Huron Avenue. In truth, anticipation starts days earlier as residents save their viewing spots along the parade route.

There is nothing more Americana than high school marching bands performing for the crowd while keeping step. All the pageantry, colors and school spirit on display in hopes to earn the coveted best of the bands title.

There is also judging for the many festive floats that make their way down Huron. The parade allows local businesses, organizations, community and high school bands to participate, and hand out some treats to youngsters along the parade route.

The festival queens also make an appearance in the parade. Riding in shiny convertibles or trailers these lovely ladies show off their best figure-eight wave and inspire little girls to compete to become the Flaming Fall Foliage Festival Queen. In fact, extreme cuteness is on display at the festival’s Future Queen and Escort competition.

Madelyn Gordner, MIss Hughesville 76th Flaming Foliage Queen

Miss Hughesville, Madelyn Gordner, 76th Flaming Foliage Queen

All Hail the Queen

The crowning of the festival queen is one of, if not the most anticipated moments of the event. Since 1949, girls from area high schools in central and northcentral PA have been competing for the honor to be named Miss Flaming Foliage. Each candidate is judged by her character, poise, and communication skills. The potential queens are treated like royalty, with a luncheon, banquet and ball held in their honor.

During the 3-day festival more than 150 artisan, craft and food vendors are available from 9 am to dusk on Friday and Saturday and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday.

Kettle Corn Stand at the PA Flaming Fall Foliage Festival

Kettle Corn vendor at the PA Flaming Fall Foliage Festival

Bucktail Area High School, in Renovo, is the place to be on Saturday evening. The Flaming Foliage Festival Follies will start at 7 p.m. The talent show features the expected array of polished singers and dance teams, as well as a healthy dose of fun comedy acts the entire family will enjoy.

Hyner View Overlook is just a short drive from Renovo

Since this is a festival that honors the beautiful landscape of the area, staying at least couple days is recommended. Take time to explore. Since Renovo is situated along the West Branch Susquehanna River, canoeing or kayaking is an extraordinary way to take in the fall foliage. Perhaps the best view is from the spectacular Hyner View Overlook, located just 20 minutes (or an hour bike ride) from town.