Bugle Fest returns to Cross Fork Sept. 18 through 20
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CROSS FORK -- The sights, sounds, flavors and traditions of Pennsylvania's elk country will take center stage Sept. 18-20, as Bugle Fest returns to Cross Fork for its second annual celebration.
Held during the height of Pennsylvania's elk rutting season, Bugle Fest invites visitors to experience the wild character of the region while enjoying a full weekend of food, art, music, photography, wildlife education, local traditions and outdoor experiences.
Of course, the stars of the weekend are the elk.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the region and listen for the unmistakable bugle of the bull elk, with hopes of catching a glimpse of these majestic animals in the wild. Because elk are wild animals, sightings are never guaranteed -- but Bugle Fest offers plenty of reasons to visit and enjoy the experience regardless.
"Come for the elk. Stay for the experience" captures the spirit of the weekend, which is designed to showcase the many things that make Pennsylvania's elk country special.
A Weekend Full of
Experiences
Bugle Fest kicks off Friday afternoon with an evening featuring artist Ken Hunter, who will provide wildlife drawing instruction during a special Pennsylvania-inspired tea experience hosted by Quiet Oaks PA Wild Tea. Guests can relax, create and enjoy specialty teas, savory bites and sweet treats featuring Pennsylvania products.
Saturday begins with a hearty, cooked-to-order breakfast at the Road Kill Cafe at the Quiet Oaks Campground Pavilion. Throughout the day, visitors can take part in a variety of unique experiences.
Highlights include:
-- The 2nd Annual Hearty Baked Bean Contest, featuring wild-game recipes and historic cowboy-inspired team names.
-- The Art of Scrimshaw with Dave Aucker, including demonstrations and hands-on practice.
-- Focus on the Wild: Looking Beyond the Snapshot, featuring wildlife and landscape photographer Chris Calhoum and his approach to capturing meaningful images in the outdoors.
-- A weekend stop for Penn State Ice Cream, featuring specialty sundaes.
-- The Amazing World of Honey Bees with Kettle Creek Apiary, exploring pollination, life inside the hive, beekeeping and honey.
-- A presentation on Pennsylvania Elk by Makayla Groscek.
-- Live music with Matt Harrison Saturday evening.
-- Exploring the Night Sky, offering visitors a chance to discover the wonders of the night sky in Pennsylvania's elk country. The presenter will be announced at a later date.
Traditional Arts, Local Food & More
Visitors can also enjoy activities and vendors throughout the weekend, including Golden Feather Decoys, where Jeff Keifer will demonstrate the traditional art of decoy carving using tools dating back more than 100 years.
Jorich BBQ will also be serving lunch and dinner throughout the weekend, with menu favorites including pulled pork, pit beef, cracked mac, baked beans and coleslaw.
From traditional craftsmanship and local food to wildlife photography, music, astronomy and
hands-on educational experiences, Bugle Fest offers something for visitors of all ages.
Experience Pennsylvania's
Elk Country
Bugle Fest is an opportunity to experience the region during one of the most exciting times of year for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor recreation lovers.
Visitors are encouraged to bring family and friends, explore Cross Fork and the surrounding elk country and make a weekend of their visit.