Latrobe’s 10th Mister Rogers Festival Gets a Passport Twist

The city of Latrobe is gearing up for its decade‑long celebration honoring Fred Rogers, a local legend. This year’s event runs from Monday to Saturday in the downtown area and offers more than just a stroll through a whimsical world. Attendees receive a “Neighborhood Passport” that they can fill out as they move from one activity to the next, turning the day into a memorable scavenger hunt. The passport idea came from the Latrobe Art Center’s executive director, who wanted to give families a way to track their adventures. Every day of the festival hosts different attractions, and each one awards a unique sticker to mark completion in the passport. The goal is simple: keep everyone—kids and adults alike—engaged while collecting keepsakes that remind them of the day’s highlights. Activities start on Monday with a self‑guided walk through downtown, featuring a Daniel Tiger storybook tour that stops at local shops. A selfie garden sits in the parklet on Main and Ligonier, while the statue of Mister Rogers at James H. Rogers Park offers a photo spot for families. The week also includes a fun sidewalk game area and the opening of the Rogers‑McFeely Memorial Pool, marking the beginning of summer recreation in Legion Keener Park.A special highlight is a Community Open House at the Fred Rogers Institute on campus. From 10 a. m. to 2 p. m. , visitors can tour exhibits and enjoy free, family‑friendly activities like a banana split bar. This open house sets the tone for the week’s inclusive atmosphere. The grand finale lands on Saturday morning, running from 11 a. m. to 3 p. m. The schedule is packed: children meet Daniel Tiger and actor David Newell, the “Mr. McFeely” character, and the Neighborhood Trolley arrives for a ride. A downtown scavenger hunt follows, alongside magic shows, reptile demonstrations, a climbing wall, pony rides, and even an inflatable obstacle course. Food vendors and live entertainment cap off a day full of excitement. The festival’s organizers hope that the passport experience encourages families to explore every corner of Latrobe, creating moments that stick in their memories. The event promises laughter, learning, and a chance to celebrate the kindness and imagination that Fred Rogers inspired.