Summer Programs

Logo for Pennsylvania Chautauqua Summer Programs featuring icons representing arts, education, religion, and recreation, with establishment year 1892 and address in Mount Gretna, Pennsylvania.

Summer Programs celebrate the four pillars of the Chautauqua movement—Arts & Culture, Education, Recreation, and Religion.

For more than 130 years, people have gathered in the Chautauqua grounds and buildings for lectures, performances, and conversations that inspire curiosity and connection.

2026 Season Program Descriptions

Pennsylvania Chautauqua Summer Programs bring together lectures, arts, music, wellness, films, family activities, and community events throughout the season in the heart of Mt. Gretna. Most programs are free or offered at minimal cost and take place on the Pennsylvania Chautauqua grounds at 212 Gettysburg Avenue, Mount Gretna, Pennsylvania. Explore the categories below to discover programs designed to educate, inspire, and connect.

Explore official Pennsylvania Chautauqua Summer Programs through the live online calendar, I don't care about it

Explore the Full Mt. Gretna Community Calendar to discover happenings across the entire Mount Gretna community.

Browse Pennsylvania Chautauqua Summer Programs by category

🎨 Art Lectures

Talks led by regional and visiting artists.

🎭 Films

Thematic film series and documentaries

🍲 Crafts & Cuisine

Interactive classes featuring artisan skills, culinary techniques, and creative projects

.✒️ Poetry, Writers& Plays

Readings, workshops, and conversations with poets, authors, and scholars.

🎶 Music & Organ Recitals

Concerts, live performances, and organ recitals across diverse genres.

Religion & Spirituality

Worship services, lectures, and conversations exploring faith, spirituality, and religious traditions

🌲 Recreation & Wellness

Yoga, fitness classes, bird walks, Mah-Jongg, and outdoor activities.

Children & Family

Art, storytelling, music, yoga, and hands-on activities for all ages.

☕ Conversation Café

.Thought-provoking film discussions and community conversations exploring contemporary topics and ideas.

🍽️ Supper Clubs & Community Events

Shared meals & music with friends, family and neighbors,

🎉 Special Events

Festivals, seasonal celebrations, special performances, and unique community gatherings throughout the summer.

Browse the complete 2026 Summer Programs Booklet with schedules, descriptions, and event listings in a downloadable PDF.

Support Summer Programs

Summer Programs are made possible through the generosity of donors, volunteers, and community supporters. Your contribution helps sustain lectures, arts, music, educational programming, and family events for generations to come.

Interested in creating lasting support for future generations? Learn more about the Summer Programs Endowment Fund.

🎨 Art Lectures, Workshops & Demonstrations

🎭 Films, Books & Plays

🍲 Crafts & Cuisine

✒️ Poetry, Writers & Plays

🎶 Music & Organ Recitals

Religion & Spirituality

🌲 Recreation & Wellness

Children & Family Programs

Conversation Café

🍽️ Supper Clubs & Community Events

🎉 Special Events