The Woodsmen Show: Celebrating our lumber heritage

Potter County | Dark Skies of the Pennsylvania Wilds

By LaKeshia Knarr

For over 68 years, wood carvers, ax throwers, log rollers and the like have descended on Cherry Springs State Park to participate in the annual Galeton Rotary Woodsmen Show.

“We strive to offer a fun and affordable family-oriented event for both locals and visitors to enjoy,” said Paul Pritchard, past president of the Galeton Rotary Club, which organizes the annual event.  “Over the past few years we have added activities beyond watching the arena shows. Many of these are geared towards younger family members.”

Aside from the typical woodsmen competitions and demonstrations, the event includes live music, food and retail vendors, and a daily treasure hunt for children. It celebrates the creative skill that goes into being a woodsmen and provides a unique cultural event for people to witness historic trades.

Cherry Springs State Park, an internationally-certified gold level Dark Skies park, is easily accessible using Route 44, a.k.a. “The Highway to the Stars,” or via Scenic Route 6.

“We are proud to be able to bring further attention to our local state parks and the many recreational opportunities they provide,” Pritchard said, noting that the history of holding the event at Cherry Springs State Park is one reason why the club enjoys the location.

The annual event has many goals, going beyond just pure entertainment for both locals and visitors.

“The show has several goals but, primarily, number one is to draw people from afar to Potter County so they can utilize the goods and services our local businesses offer,” said Pritchard. “A second goal is profitability to the Galeton Rotary Club so we can continue to make the impactful donations and contributions that the community has come to rely on.

From funds raised during this event, Galeton Rotary offers an annual giving program that benefits various entities in Potter County. The club also has a contribution request form so that local groups and organizations can apply for larger donations.

Learn more about The Woodsmen Show or leave a review/recommendation on their Wilds Cooperative of PA profile!

TIMELY TIP

Organizers are looking to hold the 2021 event August 6-8. To learn more about The Woodsmen Show and for the most up-to-date plans for 2021, check out the event website.

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