Reading, Pennsylvania, is a city alive with culture, festivals, and community pride. Throughout the year, residents and visitors come together for events that celebrate the heart of the city—its people, traditions, and vibrant energy. Here’s your guide to the annual highlights that make Reading a place of constant discovery.
Spring in Reading
Great American Cleanup – Earth Day
Join the city’s largest volunteer effort as residents come together to clean parks, neighborhoods, and public spaces, promoting a cleaner, greener Reading.
Junior League of Reading – Touch a Truck
Held at FirstEnergy Stadium, this event gives kids a hands-on chance to explore emergency vehicles, trucks, and heavy equipment, complete with fun family activities.
Iron Pour Festival at GoggleWorks
Experience the excitement of live iron pouring, local art installations, and community workshops in this one-of-a-kind industrial arts celebration.
Taco Fest in Downtown Reading
Celebrate food and fun with local vendors serving up creative taco flavors, live entertainment, and festive vibes in the heart of the city.
Summer Highlights
WWII Weekend Downtown Reenactment
Downtown Reading transforms with WWII-era reenactors, vintage military vehicles, and interactive exhibits along Penn Street on the Friday before the regional airshow.
Reading Fightin Phils Baseball
Catch Minor League Baseball at FirstEnergy Stadium, a summer tradition for families and sports fans.
4th of July Fireworks Display
Enjoy a spectacular fireworks show over Mount Penn, with beautiful views from downtown Reading and surrounding neighborhoods. The Pagoda serves as a stunning backdrop for this annual Independence Day celebration.
Duryea Hillclimb
Racing fans won’t want to miss the Duryea Hillclimb, a thrilling motorsport event held each August in Reading. First established in 1951, the 2.2-mile course challenges drivers as they race from the bottom of Duryea Drive to the summit at the William Penn Memorial Fire Tower. Spectators can enjoy the action all weekend, with shuttle service and scenic views along the course. Admission is by voluntary donation, supporting local non-profits including Pagoda-Skyline, Inc., and the Third and Spruce Recreation Center.
Fall Festivities
Glow Block Party
Downtown lights up with glowing art, music, and dance during this high-energy nighttime street party.
Halloween on Penn
Families enjoy trick-or-treating, costumes, and Halloween fun along Penn Street, with support from local businesses.
Puerto Rican Day Parade and Festival
Celebrate Puerto Rican culture with a lively parade and festival featuring music, dance, and traditional foods.
Reading Film Fest
A showcase of independent films from around the world, screened at city venues, with filmmaker talks and special events.
Winter Traditions
Reading Holiday Parade
Kick off the holiday season with this city tradition featuring festive floats, bands, and community spirit along Penn Street.
Christmas Tree Lighting
Held at 5th & Penn in downtown Reading, this festive event brings the community together to light the city’s Christmas tree, with holiday music, treats, and special guests to usher in the season.
Reading’s Christmas on the Mountain
A cherished holiday tradition, Christmas on the Mountain transforms Hillside Playground in Reading into a dazzling winter wonderland each December. Featuring millions of lights, festive decorations, and family-friendly activities, the free event offers visitors the chance to enjoy holiday magic, meet Santa Claus, and experience new attractions each year. Supported by local volunteers and businesses, Christmas on the Mountain continues to delight families from Reading and beyond with its joyful and welcoming atmosphere.
The Pagoda Blinks for Santa
A beloved Reading tradition, the Pagoda’s lights blink at 9 PM on Christmas Eve to signal that Santa is on his way to Berks County, delighting children and families across the city.
Year-Round Venues and Cultural Hubs
While these seasonal events mark the calendar, Reading also boasts venues that host dynamic programming year-round. The Santander Arena is home to the Reading Royals hockey team and also hosts concerts, family shows, and sports events. Nearby, the Santander Performing Arts Center offers live theater, dance, and music.
For those who enjoy the arts, GoggleWorks Center for the Arts is a must-visit, with ongoing exhibitions, workshops, and film screenings. The Reading Public Museum is another cultural gem, featuring rotating exhibits, a planetarium, and family-friendly events that run throughout the year.
Music, theater, and dance also find a stage at the RACC Miller Center for the Arts, providing high-quality performances in an intimate setting. Additionally, Genesius Theatre, a local favorite, offers vibrant community theater productions ranging from classic musicals to contemporary plays, showcasing local talent and creativity year-round.
The Berks History Center, located on Centre Avenue, offers a permanent museum exhibit exploring Berks County’s rich history, from its industrial roots to cultural milestones. The center also hosts occasional lectures and special exhibits tied to local heritage.
For younger audiences, the Reading Science Center in downtown Reading provides hands-on science exhibits and interactive learning experiences designed for children. Open year-round, it’s a family-friendly destination perfect for educational fun.
Celebrate with Us
Reading’s events reflect the heart of the city—diverse, creative, and community-focused. Whether you’re new to the area or a lifelong resident, there’s always something to enjoy and discover. Stay tuned with Reading Magazine for the latest on upcoming events and opportunities to connect with the city and its people.
