For many in Cranberry Township, the Cranberry Festival parade is more than floats and marching groups. It is a memory of music coming down the street, children waiting for candy, neighbors gathering along the route, and families celebrating together.
So when community members began talking about bringing the parade back two years ago, the idea became more than nostalgia. It became an opportunity to bring people together and create a tradition for a new generation.
Regina DeLoe, Cranberry Township Secretary, volunteered her time to help with the effort. “Bringing the parade back was an idea of members of the Cranberry Small Business Association, and I was happy to volunteer my time to help with the planning and logistics,” Regina said. “Having helped plan events in the past and being part of this community with friends and family, it was something I was excited to be involved with.”
The return of the parade is a reminder that community events happen when people are willing to share the work. Volunteers give their time, businesses lend their support, township officials help navigate the details, and community members step up to make an idea a reality.
That spirit continues beyond the parade route. Following the parade on September 19, the Cranberry Festival will return to Morrison Park with free children’s activities, a craft show, car show, bake-off, live music, food vendors, and more.
The festival provides a chance to celebrate together while showcasing and supporting the local businesses that help make the region strong.
For some, the parade can also be a way to discover something new about the community.
“Going to the parade last year, I saw businesses I didn’t even know existed,” said community member Deb Beach. “After seeing them in the parade, I wanted to learn more about them and what they do.”
“The parade’s return has been a great effort between the CSBA and Cranberry Township, and I’m proud to play a small part in bringing back a tradition that so many remember and a new generation can enjoy,” Regina DeLoe said. “I hope everyone comes out and supports the parade and our local businesses!”
The story of the Cranberry Festival is ultimately a story about what can happen when people choose to participate. This year, as the parade and festival return, consider being part of it. Come out, support a local business, volunteer, or find your own way to contribute.
Because it really does take a village. And when a community is willing to say, “We’ll help,” there is no shortage of what it can accomplish.
Cranberry Festival Returns to Morrison Park for 2026
After several years at the Cranberry Mall, this year’s festival will return to Morrison Park on Saturday, September 19. Morrison Park provides plenty of space for crafters, food vendors, the car show, children’s activities and live music. See you there!
Morrison Park, 381 Allison Road, Seneca, PA 16346
Please note that this is the location for 2026 only; future festival locations have not yet been determined.
Join Us at the Cranberry Festival Parade!
Saturday, September 19th • 10 a.m. Step-Off
Patrons are encouraged to sit between Somer’s Dentistry and Farmer’s Daughter, along Route 257. Please be respectful of local businesses and their parking lots. If a parking lot is blocked off, it is unable to be used. Thank you to the Cranberry Small Business Association for hosting the parade!
Learn more at cranberry-festival.com
This article was published in the Venango Chamber’s September 2026 VenangoWorks! Newsletter.