As summer turns to fall, Sharon’s riverfront will once again come alive with light, music, and community. On Saturday, September 20, 2025, WaterFire Sharon returns with a special Harvest Moon theme. This unique event blends art, performance, and local culture into a memorable evening along the Shenango River.
WaterFire Sharon will feature activities for all ages. During the afternoon, visitors can enjoy artisan markets, family-friendly activities, and local food vendors. As dusk falls, more than 50 floating bonfires will be lit on the Shenango River between Connelly Boulevard and East Silver Street, creating a striking centerpiece for the evening.
The event begins with the Blessing of the Shenango River, led by Leon Sam Briggs, a cultural educator, artist, and speaker who is an enrolled member of the Tonawanda Seneca Hawk Clan. Throughout the day and evening, guests can enjoy live performances, including fire artistry, music, and dance. Performers such as Jimmy Pyro of Energemata Poi will be featured, with additional acts taking place across the downtown area.
Artisan vendors will showcase jewelry, pottery, woodworking, paintings, glasswork, fiber art, and more, with live demonstrations throughout the market. Families can visit the Family Fun Zone, where children can enjoy face painting, crafts, chalk art, robotics demonstrations, and other interactive activities.
Food vendors will offer a range of options, from savory meals to sweet treats, ensuring plenty of choices for visitors. In addition, the Sharon Historical Society will lead historic downtown walks, while public art installations throughout the city provide additional opportunities to explore and learn.
WaterFire Sharon offers a chance to enjoy the beauty of the Shenango River under the glow of the Harvest Moon. The event also highlights the importance of supporting local arts and culture. Visitors can meet artisans, listen to live music, and experience performances that reflect the region’s creativity and talent. From handmade crafts to engaging demonstrations, WaterFire Sharon provides a space to connect with the community’s artistic side.
For families, the event offers a welcoming environment where children and adults can enjoy activities together. During the day, parents can bring children to the PNC Bank Children’s Fun Zone, while in the evening, they can relax by the river and watch the fires light up the night. Whether attending with family, friends, or as a couple, the event is designed to be enjoyable for all.
This event is an opportunity to explore more of what Sharon and Mercer County have to offer. Local shops, restaurants, and accommodations provide plenty of ways to extend the visit into a weekend getaway. The festival and the surrounding area combine to make WaterFire Sharon a worthwhile experience for both residents and visitors.
For more information about schedules, vendors, or planning your visit, see WaterFire Sharon’s official event page and explore more things to do at VisitMercerCountyPA.com.
