 Home > Lifestyle > CULTURE -- theatre, concerts, pottery, and more...
Our County has a long, rich history of cultural and performing arts. Whether you prefer theatre, concerts, or pottery demonstrations, we have it all. Seasonally throughout the year events and venues, such as the Garrett Lakes Art Festival, Autumn Glory Festival, and Penn Alps Spruce Forest Artisan Village, offer concerts, plays, and crafts for all to enjoy.
Autumn Glory Festival:
For nearly 40 years, the 5-day Autumn Glory Festival has kept onlookers amazed and entertained. Held in October, the Festival includes many popular attractions -- a Grand Feature Parade, Fireman's Parade, Octoberfest, Arts & Crafts Shows, Maryland State Banjo & Fiddle Contests, Tournament of Bands and much more. Contact the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce at (301) 387-4FUN to learn more about this fantasic event.
Garrett Lakes Art Festival: This 6-month cultural extravaganza begins in March and runs through November. It is the largest gathering for performing arts and art education in our County. It includes youth, amateur, and professional artists and their crafts. The Festival continues to grow, expand, and develop as the years go by.
Little Yough Summer Music Festival: Encompassing bluegrass, folk, and pop, the Little Yough Summer Music Festival runs from June to August in the downtown Oakland Farmers' Market. With artists such as the Steve Chapin Band, Wild Carrott, and the Kennedys, as well as local artists including The Remedy and Smith & Roberts, it is an event not to be missed.
Bring your blankets and lawnchairs for an evening of fun and entertainment. And here's the best part -- admission is FREE!
Penn Alps Restaurant and Craft Shop: For the past 50 years, the Penn Alps Restaurant and Craft Shop has been home to the very finest and most authentic German and Amish-influenced cuisine. In addition, a diverse mix of crafts from artists throughout the tri-state area can be found in the Craft Shop. With a quaint church on the premises, a banquet room above the restaurant, and a beautiful backdrop that includes the Casselman Bridge, Penn Alps is the perfect place for celebrating any occasion.
Spruce Forest Artisan Village: At the Spruce Forest Artisan Village, eight professional artists make their homes along a wooded path near Penn Alps Restaurant. They offer the ecuational experience, free of charge, of watching vaiuors masters of their craft produce baskets, soaps, and stained glass. While the crafts are for sale, everyone is encouraged to walk through the Village and experience the sights, smells, and sounds of skilled craftsmanship.
Theaters and Museums: Oakland, our County seat, is a cultural hot spot, featuring local and national theatre, as well as a museum. "Our Town Theater" hosts shows from local works to travelling theatre troupes to nationally and internationally renowned masterpieces. The Garrett County Historical Society Museum depicts the history of life in Oakland and Garrett County through antiques and replicas. The 10-room Museum showcases artifacts important to the historical and cultural development of our County. Visit Oakland’s website for more information on these interesting attractions. The Friend Family Association's National Heritage Museum and Library, located in Friendsville, depicts the history of the Town first settled by John Friend in the early 1760's. Along with 700 general genealogical books and files, the Museum and Library contain many artifacts of early Indian dwellers. For more information on these and other interesting attractions, please click on the link below:

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