Home WOODWORKING COMMUNITY Trade Shows & Events WoodFest Draws Crowds to Clarion Mall Despite Damp Start – exploreClarion

WoodFest Draws Crowds to Clarion Mall Despite Damp Start – exploreClarion

CLARION, Pa. (EYT) — The weather didn’t dampen the enthusiasm for the third annual WoodFest at the Clarion Mall. The festival celebrates craftsmanship, education, and the continuing role the timber industry plays in the local economy.

Tyler Hopper, one of the original organizers, noted that while the weather did not cooperate on Friday, he hoped conditions would improve for Saturday and Sunday. Hopper mentioned there would be live music outside on both days, along with the addition of vendor tents in the mall parking lot.

“We always have new vendors at WoodFest,” said Hopper. This year, participants traveled from Pittsburgh, Rural Valley, and Kane, joining many local crafters.

Three year-old Melba Cox of Clarion was fascinated by a trio of dancing skeletons at Spooky D’s display of woodenwares during WoodFest.

The Pennsylvania Wood Mobile was stationed in the parking lot, offering an interactive look at the history of the lumber industry. Joining them were U.S. Army recruiters and several food trucks offering a variety of fare, from barbecue to tacos. Nearby, chainsaw carvers sent wood chips flying as they showcased their unique skills.

Holly Komonczi, Executive Director of the Lumber Heritage Region (LHR)—a co-sponsor of the event—noted that the LHR is the largest region in the state, covering 15 counties. Based in Emporium, Komonczi said the LHR highlights the importance of the lumber industry for the “past, present, and future.” She added that the goal of the LHR is to market its assets to potential visitors and serve as a resource for the Pennsylvania hardwood industry. For additional information, visit their website at www.lumberheritage.org.

Also present was Amy Shields, Executive Director of the Allegheny Hardwood Utilization Group (AHUG). AHUG is a non-profit forest industry association that “coordinates the ideas, energy, and resources of the region’s hardwood sector to strengthen economic growth, support job creation, and advance safe forest management.” In 2025, AHUG sponsored 45 educational events, reaching 4,622 students.

The festival is open on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. On Sunday, the festival runs from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Three year-old Ella Fair of Brookville, was delighted to work with peanut butter and seeds to create a bird feeder. She had help from Kronospan volunteers.
Mary Kay Hiller, owner of Maple Glenn Farms near Kane brought some of her homemade recipes to the Woodfest at the Clarion Mall. Nancy Suchacek of the Cook Forest area took some of the goods home with her.
Wooden objects ranging from jewelry to bowls showcased the versatility of timber products at the third annual Woodfest held at the Clarion Mall.
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