Quick. Say Zelienople. If you're from Southwestern Pennsylvania, you probably find the name rolls off of your tongue without you even thinking about it. But, those not from around here usually struggle with the unique name of a town that's as equally unusual. If you have not yet visited this unique town near Pittsburgh, make sure you add it to your places to visit in 2017.
Zelienople earned its unique moniker from the oldest daughter of the town's founder Baron Dettmar Basse of Germany. The Baron purchased 10,000 acres of land in Southwestern PA, now Zelienople, for only 25 cents an acre in 1802.
Zelie Basse Passavant, the town's namesake, didn't make her appearance in Zelienople until 1807.
Less than 4,000 people call the picturesque town just 28 miles from Pittsburgh home.
Boasting the slogan "Zelienople, a modern place with old-fashioned grace," the enchanting town features an old-fashioned Main Street where you can catch a movie or a live performance at the Strand Theater.
See what's happening at the Strand Theater at 119 North Main Street, Zelienople, PA 16063.
Or, engage in a traditional game of cricket after stopping by the Zelienople Historical Society to learn more about this town's rich past.
The Zelienople Historical Society is located at 243 S Main St, Zelienople, PA 16063.
Enjoy a relaxing meal at one of the old-fashioned restaurants like Kountry Kitchen, which features...
A long lunch counter with stools. Or, if you prefer, slip in a booth and peruse the menu that includes hot beef with mashed potatoes, the stacked ham sandwich, and the chicken strip basket.
Eat at Kountry Kitchen, located at 111 South Main Street, Zelienople, PA 16063
The close-knit community hosts numerous annual events, such as the Fourth of July festivities that include a traditional Firecracker 5K run, a parade down Main Street, and concession stands, games, and free swimming at the Community Park all day. The day caps off with a spectacular fireworks show.
Less than two weeks later, the community comes together to celebrate again, this time the annual Horse Trading Days. a decades long tradition that's slated for July 13 -15, 2017. The celebration features a 5K run, a cornhole tournament, live entertainment, and plenty of vendors.
Zelienople transforms into a charming Christmas wonderland each holiday season with Main Street decked out with wreaths and red bows, the appearance of the special Christmas Village at Zelienople Park, and a parade that brings Santa to town.
Santa welcomes children and their families into his living room at Santa's House for photos after the kids tell Old Saint Nick their greatest Christmas wishes.
The Western Pennsylvania landscape boasts an array of charming towns and you'll definitely want to add this unique town near Pittsburgh to the places you must visit in 2017.
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