History:
The First Laurel Festival was in 1938 and was the brainchild of Mr. Larry Woodin, a Wellsboro businessman who was so impressed with Pine Creek Gorge, located 10 miles Southwest of Wellsboro that he persuaded the Chamber of Commerce to publicize it as a natural wonder of Tioga County.
Through Mr. Woodin's efforts, visitors came to see the breathtaking 50 mile gorge, now known as the "Grand Canyon of the East" or the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon."
Organized by the Wellsboro Lions Club, the first festival was held to promote not only the Grand Canyon, but also the State Flower, Mountain Laurel. Events included a parade, a circus, block dance and a ball. The festival highlight was the crowning of the first Laurel Queen, Miss Phyllis Viola of McKees Rocks.
Over the years, the festival has under gone many changes. Its title officially became the "Pennsylvania State Laurel Festival" to indicate that many towns in the state are represented. The Pet Parade, arts and crafts fair, concert series and foot races have all added to the enjoyment and participation of young and old alike.
The Laurel Festival continues to grow each year, and the friendly hospitality of the area has not changed over the years. Visitors are welcome to enjoy not only the fun of the Festival, but also the rugged, rocky cliffs, unspoiled forest land abloom with laurel and clear bubbling water; all the natural beauty of Tioga County.
