LOCK HAVEN — In a press release, the Castanea Township Recreation Committee and Supervisors recently announced that the 2nd Annual Pennsylvania Chestnut Festival will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Jan. 24 at the Castanea Fireman’s Picnic Grounds Building, 859 Lower Creek Road.

The event, funded by the township supervisors, is designed to honor the heritage of chestnut trees and celebrate the naming of Castanea for the chestnut. The free-admission festival drew over 800 participants last year and is expected to attract more attendees in its second year. The event will feature expanded offerings of chestnut-based foods and beverages, vendors, exhibitors, a portable ice rink, health screenings, and live music.

Musical performances by Polka Family Band are scheduled from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the party tent. The four-time Grammy-nominated band has played at numerous festivals and is popular throughout Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania.

The Anchor & Arrow Duo will perform in the party tent from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The band, which has been deemed “Happy Valley’s FUNked-up duo,” is a collaboration of husband and wife, Matt Dashem and Jennifer Henry-Dashem.

“Their unique sound is an upbeat mix of soul, funk, rock, and jazz,” the press release said.

Expanded food options at this year’s event include WETSU Catering offering open charcoal cooking and roasted chicken quarter with chestnut dressing, Italian green beans, and mac and cheese. Farmstead Fusion will offer soups, sandwiches, desserts, coffee and hot chocolate. Mama Martin’s LLC food truck will sell authentic Mexican foods. The Recreation Committee will offer roasted chestnuts and Cub Scout Pack 66 will sell s’mores. Good Neighbor Craft House will sell craft beer.

The PA Chapter of the American Chestnut Foundation will provide information about the chestnut tree and the plan for its comeback during the event. The LION Mobile Clinic will offer free health screenings and health education. Over 30 vendors and exhibitors will offer items such as stained glass, sweatshirts, 3D printed items, handmade jewelry, fairy gardens, laser engraved items, metal working, wreaths, Chestnut coasters, musical instruments, hand knit hats and bags, artisanal crafts, homemade soaps and candles, homemade jellies and candies, beaded bookmarks, prepackaged gourmet food, and doll clothes. The PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Bureau of Forestry and PA Game Commission will provide educational information and resources.

“We are really excited by the expanded event this year including the addition of vendors, a party tent, and dining options,” said Brandon Coleman, chairperson of the Castanea Township Supervisors. “The township hopes attendees will recognize the importance of our chestnut heritage and all the area has to offer. The Recreation Committee continues to strive in making the festival a destination event for locals and visitors.”

John Gradel, supervisor, noted, “the event continues to grow. The portable ice rink seems very popular as are the outdoor wood carvers, roasted chestnuts and the ecological messages provided by educational groups. Castanea is a wonderful community and we enjoy showcasing all it has offer.”

Event planners include Diana Andrus, Maripat Dion, Debbie Reeder, Vinnie Kishbaugh, Rick Schulze, Brady Carnahan, John Gradel, Charles Clukey with support from the Castanea Fire Company. Shelly Davis, Township Secretary, has also assisted in supporting the event.

For additional information visit www.castaneatownshippa.gov.