Travel Blogs

Major Annual Events

WaterFire Sharon PA Lights Up the Shenango River for Three Days in 2018 in Mercer County, PA

The world renowned, multi-sensory art event in downtown Sharon is set for July 21, August 18, and September 22, 2018. The events are free to the public and are family, group, and pet friendly. Each day-long event starts at 2 p.m. and ends at 11 p.m., offering music, food vendors, and interactive arts experiences.  This year’s themes are “Magical Moments” – July; “Everyday Heroes” – August; and “Hands across the Water” – September.

WaterFire Sharon continues to be a “beautiful experience that creates magical moments,” says Karen Anderson, Land Operations Manager for the event. WaterFire Sharon is in its sixth season and has recently announced the 2018 dates and themes.

The actual WaterFire performances begin at dusk with over 50 custom-built floating braziers that are anchored in the Shenango River in downtown Sharon, PA.  The baskets are filled with wood and set ablaze to produce a unique and compelling display. Music plays on a custom audio system which supplies the soundtrack backdrop. Fire performers and other event entertainers add to the experience on and around the river, and it is all accompanied by an eclectic mix of live and recorded music.

This year, visitors to WaterFire can expect an expanded children’s activity area in addition to live entertainment.

WaterFire was originally created by artist Barnaby Evans in 1994 in Providence, RI, as a way to revitalize the downtown area.

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Visit MercerCountyPA
VisitMercerCountyPA is the Tourism Promotion Agency (TPA) for Mercer County, Pennsylvania. We are passionate about promoting Mercer County, PA as a destination for tourists.
Visit MercerCountyPA

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