IVillage Bedford PA: Your Local News & Community Guide

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iVillage Bedford PA: Your Local News & Community Guide

Hey everyone! Welcome to your ultimate guide to everything happening in Bedford, Pennsylvania, brought to you by iVillage. We're diving deep into what makes this town tick, from local news and community events to the hidden gems that make Bedford so special. Whether you're a long-time resident or just passing through, get ready to discover all that iVillage Bedford PA has to offer.

What is iVillage?

Before we get started, let's talk about what iVillage is all about. iVillage is a community-focused platform designed to connect people with their local areas. Think of it as your digital neighborhood hub, bringing together news, events, and resources to help you stay informed and engaged. So, if you're looking to get more involved in Bedford, iVillage is the perfect place to start!

Local News in Bedford PA

Staying informed about what's happening in your community is super important. iVillage Bedford PA is committed to bringing you the latest local news.

Key News Outlets

First off, let's highlight some key local news outlets. These are your go-to sources for up-to-the-minute information, covering everything from local government decisions to community initiatives. Keep an eye on these to stay in the loop:

  • Bedford Gazette: Your primary source for comprehensive coverage of Bedford County. They cover everything from local politics and business to community events and obituaries.
  • WTAJ - Altoona/Johnstown: While not exclusively Bedford-focused, WTAJ provides regional news coverage that often includes important updates from Bedford County.
  • Explore Southern Alleghenies: This online platform offers a mix of news, events, and local features, providing a great overview of what's happening in the broader Southern Alleghenies region, including Bedford.

Important News Topics

What kind of news should you be paying attention to in Bedford? Here are a few important topics that frequently make headlines:

  • Local Government: Stay informed about decisions made by the Bedford Borough Council and Bedford County Commissioners. This includes zoning changes, budget allocations, and new initiatives that can impact your daily life.
  • Education: Keep up with the Bedford Area School District. School board meetings, policy changes, and updates on school programs are vital for parents and community members alike.
  • Community Events: From the Bedford County Fair to local festivals and parades, there's always something happening. Knowing about these events helps you stay connected and involved.
  • Business and Development: New businesses, economic development projects, and changes in the local business landscape are important for understanding the area's growth and opportunities.

How to Stay Updated

Okay, so you know where to find the news and what to look for, but how do you stay updated? Here are some practical tips:

  • Check Websites Daily: Make it a habit to visit the websites of the Bedford Gazette and other local news sources each day.
  • Follow Social Media: Many local news outlets have active social media accounts. Follow them on Facebook and Twitter for quick updates and breaking news.
  • Sign Up for Newsletters: Some organizations offer email newsletters that deliver the latest news directly to your inbox. This is a convenient way to stay informed without having to constantly check websites.
  • Attend Public Meetings: For in-depth information on local government and school district matters, attend public meetings. These meetings are a great way to hear directly from officials and participate in discussions.

By staying informed, you can be an active and engaged member of the Bedford community. Local news keeps you connected to the issues and events that shape our town, so make it a priority to stay updated!

Community Events in Bedford PA

Bedford, PA, is a town brimming with community spirit, and what better way to experience it than through local events? iVillage Bedford PA is your go-to source for finding out what's happening around town. Whether you're into festivals, markets, or live music, there's always something to do.

Signature Annual Events

Let's kick things off with some of Bedford's signature annual events. These are the events that locals and visitors alike look forward to each year:

  • Bedford County Fair: This is a big one! The Bedford County Fair is a week-long celebration featuring agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, live entertainment, and, of course, plenty of delicious food. It's a fantastic way to experience the area's rural heritage and have a blast with family and friends.
  • Fall Foliage Festival: As the leaves change and the weather cools down, Bedford hosts the Fall Foliage Festival. This event showcases the stunning autumn scenery with arts and crafts vendors, food stalls, and live music. It's the perfect way to enjoy the beauty of the season.
  • Old Bedford Village Events: Old Bedford Village hosts a variety of seasonal events throughout the year, including Civil War reenactments, harvest festivals, and Christmas celebrations. These events offer a glimpse into the past and are both educational and entertaining.

Regular Community Gatherings

Beyond the big annual events, there are plenty of regular community gatherings that you can enjoy:

  • Farmers Markets: Several farmers markets operate in and around Bedford, offering fresh produce, baked goods, and locally made crafts. These markets are a great way to support local farmers and artisans while enjoying high-quality products.
  • Live Music at Local Venues: Many pubs and restaurants in Bedford host live music nights, showcasing local talent and creating a lively atmosphere. Check out venues like the Jean Bonnet Tavern or the Edgewater Inn for upcoming performances.
  • Community Theater Productions: The Bedford County Arts Council and other local groups often put on theater productions, ranging from classic plays to original works. These performances provide an opportunity to support the arts and enjoy live entertainment.

How to Find Out About Events

So, how do you stay in the know about all these awesome events? Here are some tips for finding out what's happening:

  • Check the iVillage Bedford PA Calendar: Keep an eye on the iVillage Bedford PA calendar for a comprehensive list of upcoming events. We update it regularly with the latest information.
  • Visit Local Websites: Check the websites of organizations like the Bedford County Chamber of Commerce, the Bedford County Arts Council, and Old Bedford Village for event listings.
  • Follow Social Media: Many local businesses and organizations promote their events on social media. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram to stay in the loop.
  • Read the Bedford Gazette: The Bedford Gazette often includes a calendar of events in its print and online editions.
  • Look for Flyers and Posters: Keep an eye out for flyers and posters in local businesses and community centers. These are a great way to discover smaller, less publicized events.

By taking advantage of these resources, you can ensure that you never miss out on the fun and excitement happening in Bedford, PA. Get out there and experience the community spirit!

Hidden Gems in Bedford PA

Okay, folks, let's talk about the hidden gems of Bedford, PA. Beyond the well-known attractions and events, there are some lesser-known spots that are totally worth exploring. iVillage Bedford PA wants to let you in on these secrets, so you can experience the town like a true local.

Unique Attractions

First up, let's dive into some unique attractions that you might not find in the typical tourist guides:

    • covered bridges*: Bedford County is home to several beautifully preserved covered bridges. These historic structures are not only picturesque but also offer a glimpse into the area's past. Take a scenic drive and discover these charming landmarks.
  • Shawnee State Park: While it's a popular destination, many people don't realize just how much Shawnee State Park has to offer. Beyond the lake for swimming and boating, there are miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning natural scenery. It's a perfect spot for a day of outdoor adventure.
  • The Lincoln Highway Heritage Corridor: Bedford is located along the historic Lincoln Highway, one of the first transcontinental highways in the United States. Explore the Lincoln Highway Heritage Corridor and discover vintage diners, roadside attractions, and historical markers that tell the story of this iconic route.

Local Businesses Worth Discovering

Next, let's shine a spotlight on some local businesses that are truly special:

  • HeBrews Coffee Company: This cozy coffee shop is a local favorite, serving up delicious coffee, homemade pastries, and a welcoming atmosphere. It's a great place to grab a cup of coffee, catch up with friends, or get some work done.
  • Brushstrokes Gallery: Showcasing the work of local artists, the Brushstrokes Gallery is a must-visit for art lovers. You'll find a variety of paintings, sculptures, and other artwork, all created by talented artists from the Bedford area.
    • Bedford Candies*: Satisfy your sweet tooth at Bedford Candies, a family-owned candy store that has been making delicious treats for generations. From chocolate-covered pretzels to homemade fudge, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Outdoor Activities

For those who love the great outdoors, Bedford has plenty to offer. Here are some outdoor activities that you might not have considered:

  • Hiking on the Allegheny Front Trail: This challenging but rewarding trail offers stunning views of the Allegheny Mountains. It's a great option for experienced hikers looking for a longer trek.
  • Fishing in the Juniata River: The Juniata River is a popular spot for fishing, with plenty of opportunities to catch trout, bass, and other fish. Grab your fishing gear and spend a relaxing day by the river.
  • Biking on the Bedford Heritage Rail Trail: This scenic rail trail follows the path of a former railway line and is perfect for a leisurely bike ride. Enjoy the beautiful scenery as you pedal along the trail.

Tips for Exploring

Ready to start exploring these hidden gems? Here are some tips to help you make the most of your adventures:

  • Talk to Locals: The best way to discover hidden gems is to talk to locals. Ask them for their recommendations and insider tips.
  • Explore on Foot: Take a walk around downtown Bedford and explore the side streets and alleys. You never know what hidden treasures you might find.
  • Check Online Reviews: Read online reviews of local businesses and attractions to get an idea of what others have enjoyed.
  • Be Open to New Experiences: Don't be afraid to try new things and step outside your comfort zone. You might just discover your new favorite spot in Bedford.

So there you have it – a glimpse into the hidden gems of Bedford, PA. Get out there and start exploring! iVillage Bedford PA is here to help you discover all that this amazing town has to offer.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! iVillage Bedford PA is your one-stop-shop for all things Bedford. From staying updated on local news to discovering exciting community events and uncovering hidden gems, we've got you covered. We're all about connecting you with your community and helping you make the most of living in or visiting Bedford, Pennsylvania. So keep checking back for the latest updates, and let's explore Bedford together!