Winter is an incredible time to visit the Laurel Highlands, and two popular winter festivals will bring the heat this month with the Fire & Ice Festival in Somerset and Ice Fest in Ligonier. Fire & Ice Jan. 12-14, 2024, Somerset Pennsylvania’s Roof Garden is ready to go Under the Sea. Somerset County earned the Roof Garden nickname…

As the lead photographer and videographer at GO Laurel Highlands, I have an amazing opportunity to document our region by traveling to many picturesque locations in our three counties: Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland. The year 2023 has been a whirlwind of Laurel Highlands adventures and these are my favorite 15 images, in no particular order,…

Are you looking for a special way to say goodbye to 2023 and welcome 2024 in the Laurel Highlands? We’ve got just what you’re looking for, no matter what that is. NEW YEARS EVE PREGAME Greenhouse Winery, Irwin We have the perfect event for all those early birds... Join the party early with Lou Lou Smokehouse, complimentary wine…

Santa Claus is coming to Town! (and by town we mean the Laurel Highlands). Join in on some holiday cheer with notable restaurants and festivals in the Laurel Highlands to brighten your spirits. Traveling to the Laurel Highlands to enjoy a whimsical meal or fun-filled festival with Santa? Don't worry, we have many lodging options to lay your…

Christmas is right around the corner, and communities and businesses throughout the Laurel Highlands are getting into the holiday spirit with special light-up events. Activities such as parades, visits with Santa, Christmas music, and holiday food and beverages will have you ready to celebrate the season! Light-Up Ligonier! Friday, Nov. 24 from…

When Carmen Rose moved to the Laurel Highlands more than three decades ago, the region reminded her of her homeland of Germany. She was drawn in by its scenic beauty and the outdoor opportunities that abound here. Forbes State Forest and Laurel Summit State Park are only about five miles from her Boswell-area home, and you can find the 62-year-old…

Do you have friends who absolutely love the snow? You know, the ones who start talking about fresh powder in October? Me, too. And I definitely wasn’t on the same wavelength as them. I used to hate winter. My friends convinced me to try downhill skiing about 30 years ago and it didn’t go well. I’ve held a grudge –…

Looking to escape to the mountains this holiday season? Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway for two, a winter escape with the kids or an extended family reunion, we’ve got an option that will provide the perfect place to rest your head at night after fun-filled winter days in the Laurel Highlands. Levi Deal Mansion Bed &…

Holiday shoppers are out in full force, but outdoor sports lovers will once again be relying on Mother Nature to deliver their favorite gift: Snow! Luckily, the Laurel Highlands should have that covered this winter. Several long-range forecasts for the 2022-23 season are calling for colder temperatures and higher snowfall totals in the Laurel…

Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday are all signs that holiday shopping season is upon us. Now is the best time to get out and explore the unique and intriguing shops, boutiques and general stores in the Laurel Highlands! For those who like to see their purchases support small business and local communities, check out some of the…