Avenues Fall 2026

AVENUES Arts, Shopping & Entertainment On and Off Penn

Fall 2026

READING

CELEBRATING THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF

West Reading Fall Fest NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM A SWELL SOIRÉE STEP BACK TO POSTWAR AMERICANA

FILMFEST WHERE CINEMA

MEETS COMMUNITY

HAUNTED

BERKS

Fall Into Motion

BERKS COUNTY’S COOLWEATHER SPORTS SCENE

The Omnia Difference Where Beauty, Wellness & Longevity Come Together

REAL FOOD. LOCAL ROOTS. COLLEGEVILLE | DOUGLASSVILLE | DOWNINGTOWN | EXTON KIMBERTON | MALVERN | OTTSVILLE | WYOMISSING

kimbertonwholefoods.com

Magic Heart THE

O F FA L L ,

THE

OF BERKS

The air gets a little cooler, the sun sets earlier and the dog days of summer give way to fall. While local wildlife may be preparing to head into hibernation, Berks County comes alive. It is a season of gathering together, celebrating local creativity and embracing the community energy that makes Berks County feel like home. In this edition of Avenues, we capture the distinct spirit of the season with stories that celebrate our rich traditions, holistic living, indie cinema and a touch of spooky local lore.

Here is a sneak peek at what you’ll discover inside this issue: • OMNIA Wellness: As the pace of the year accelerates, taking time to reset becomes essential. Our feature on OMNIA Wellness explores how holistic health, integrative self-care and mindful lifestyle practices are reshaping modern personal care in our community. Learn how their tailored approach empowers individuals to nourish both mind and body this fall.

• 20 Years of West Reading Fall Fest: Two decades ago, a modest street gathering began on Penn Avenue. Today, the West Reading Fall Fest marks its milestone 20th anniversary as one of the area’s most anticipated celebrations. We take a stroll down memory lane to honor the organizers, small business owners, artists and neighbors who turned a few city blocks into a bustling, vendor showcase of autumn magic.

• Reading FilmFEST: Lights, camera, community! The independent film scene is shining bright in Berks, and our preview of the upcoming Reading FilmFEST offers an insider look at this year’s event. From compelling documentaries to groundbreaking shorts, discover the filmmakers bringing local and international cinema to life right in our backyard.

• Haunted Berks: Fall wouldn’t be complete without a few goosebumps.

We dive deep into the area’s captivating ghost stories, historic legends and mysterious local sights. Whether you are a dedicated paranormal seeker or simply love a spooky tale by the fire, this feature uncovers the mysterious history lingering in our county’s shadow.

Whether you’re sipping a warm drink on a café patio, strolling down Main Street or nesting at home, we hope this issue inspires you to explore the various avenues around town and connect and celebrate everything Berks County has to offer. Cheers!

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CONTENTS 4

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The Omnia Difference: Where Beauty, Wellness & Longevity Come Together Two Decades on the Avenue: Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of West Reading Fall Fest The 14th Annual Night at The Museum: A Swell Soirée Step Back to Postwar Americana

10 A Community Painting & Growing Together

12 The 12th Annual Reading FilmFEST: Where Cinema Meets Community

16 The ReadingFilm Office: Framing Berks County’s Cinematic Future

19 Creamy Kale Salad Recipe 20 Haunted Berks 24 Fall Into Motion: Berks County’s Cool-Weather Sports Scene

27 Must-Attend Events

ON THE COVER: Tia Robinson, Rebecca Ressel, Jacqueline Powell, Mary Kelly, Jacqueline Crammer and Olivia Marra ABOVE: Mary Kelly, RN, MEd

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THE OMNIA DIFFERENCE

Where Beauty, Wellness & Longevity Come Together

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here was a time when aesthetic medicine and healthcare existed in completely separate worlds.

You visited one office for wrinkle relaxers, another for hormone therapy, another for weight management and yet another for preventative healthcare. Each provider focused on a single piece of the puzzle, leaving patients to connect the dots on their own.

“Health doesn’t work in isolated pieces,” says Dr. Taranath. “Neither does aging.

We wanted to build a practice that looks at the whole person instead of treating one concern at a time.”

At Omnia Integrative Health & MedSpa in Wyomissing, those dots finally come together.

“Do you do Botox?”

Under the medical leadership of Dr. Dheeraj Taranath, DO, Omnia has created something uncommon—a physician-owned practice where advanced aesthetic medicine and evidence-based wellness work side by side. The philosophy is simple: healthy aging isn’t about chasing youth. It’s about optimizing health, preserving confidence and helping people thrive through every stage of life.

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Avenues Fall 2026

That philosophy has become the foundation of everything Omnia does.

More Than a MedSpa Patients often call asking a simple question: Yes. “Weight loss?”

Yes. “Hormones?”

Yes. “Medical skincare? Hyperbaric oxygen? Red light therapy? Fillers?”

Yes, yes, yes—and much more.

Eventually the question becomes, “What don’t you do?”

The answer is that every service at Omnia is connected by one purpose: helping patients look their best because they feel their best.

Co-founder Mary Kelly, RN, MEd, believes modern medicine should be proactive rather than reactive.

“Not every patient needs filler. Not every patient needs hormones. Not every patient needs GLP-1 medications,” she explains.

“But every patient deserves someone willing to listen long enough to understand what they do need.”

That commitment to honest, individualized care has become one of Omnia’s defining characteristics. Education always comes before treatment, and patients are never encouraged to pursue procedures that aren’t truly in their best interest.

Where Science Meets Artistry Natural-looking aesthetic results never happen by accident.

Our highly trained injectors, including Mary Kelly, RN, MEd; Jacqueline Crammer, MSN, FNP-C; Jacqueline Powell, RN; and Rebecca Ressel, RN, have advanced anatomical knowledge, artistic vision and an appreciation for balance and proportion.

“Injectables are equal parts anatomy, science and artistry,” she says. “Our goal has never been to create a different face. It’s to restore what time slowly changes.”

The greatest compliment isn’t hearing someone remark on filler or wrinkle relaxers. It’s hearing patients are told they simply look healthy, rested and refreshed.

Omnia’s aesthetic services include neurotoxins like Xeomin and Daxxify®; dermal fillers such as the RHA collection and Radiesse; PRF EZ Gel, PRF and PDGF microneedling; PDO threads; hair restoration; and medical-grade facials and skincare by aesthetician Olivia Marra. Every treatment plan is customized to each patient’s anatomy, goals and stage of aging.

Beauty Begins with Better Health One of the biggest misconceptions about aesthetic medicine is that it focuses only on appearance.

At Omnia, the team knows better.

“Wrinkles aren’t always about wrinkles,” Mary explains. “If someone is chronically inflamed, sleeping four hours a night, losing muscle or experiencing hormonal changes, no injectable can completely fix that. The best aesthetic outcomes happen when the body is healthy.”

That understanding naturally led Omnia to expand into integrative wellness.

Working alongside Dr. Taranath, Nurse Practitioner Jacqueline Crammer, MSN, FNP-C, provides personalized medical care, while Mary also serves as the practice’s Wellness Health Coach, helping patients understand their treatment plans, improve nutrition, build sustainable habits and stay motivated throughout their journey.

Services now include physician-guided medical weight management, hormone optimization, advanced laboratory analysis, body composition testing, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, red light therapy, PEMF therapy, IV hydration, IM nutrient therapy, nutrition counseling and personalized longevity planning.

Rather than offering trendy treatments because they’re popular, Omnia evaluates every therapy through the lens of evidencebased medicine.

“Healthcare has become incredibly noisy,” says Dr. Taranath.

“Our responsibility is to filter through that noise. If the science is strong, we’ll explain why. If the evidence is still emerging, we’ll tell patients that too. People shouldn’t have to become scientists just to make good healthcare decisions.”

A Different Kind of Healthcare Experience One thing patients consistently mention isn’t a treatment at all.

It’s the atmosphere.

From the moment someone walks through the doors and greets our office manager, Tia Robinson, they notice a team that genuinely enjoys working together. Conversations feel relaxed.

Questions are encouraged. Appointments aren’t rushed.

“People remember how you make them feel,” says Dr. Taranath.

“Clinical excellence is essential, but kindness matters just as much.”

That commitment extends beyond individual appointments through Omnia’s Precision Longevity Concierge Membership, a physician-led program designed for patients seeking proactive, personalized healthcare. Members receive ongoing guidance, advanced diagnostics, individualized wellness planning and direct communication with their care team—all focused on optimizing long-term health rather than simply reacting to disease.

For Omnia, concierge medicine doesn’t mean exclusivity. It means accessibility, transparency and relationships.

“Concierge, to us, means personalized—not extravagant,” Mary says. “Patients deserve time. They deserve education. They deserve honest recommendations and providers who truly know them.”

Looking Forward Healthcare continues to evolve, and Omnia is evolving with it.

By combining advanced aesthetic medicine with integrative wellness under one physician-owned practice, the team is redefining what modern healthcare can look like—one where prevention, longevity, confidence and compassion are treated as equally important.

Whether someone first visits for wrinkle relaxers, weight management, hormone optimization or simply because they’re looking for answers they haven’t found elsewhere, the goal remains the same.

“We hope every patient leaves with confidence,” says Dr. Taranath.

“Confidence in how they look, confidence in their health and confidence that they’ve finally found a team that’s truly listening.”

At Omnia Integrative Health & MedSpa, beauty and wellness are no longer separate conversations.

They’re part of the same journey.

Look Good. Feel Better. Live Longer.

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TWO DECADES ON THE AVENUE Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of West Reading Fall Fest

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four blocks along Penn Avenue—from 4th to 7th Avenue—drawing over 25,000 visitors to the heart of the borough’s historic downtown district.

Avenue. To combat the lull in foot traffic brought about by the end of summer, they decided to create a similar-style event for the fall season, and Fall Fest was born!

What began two decades ago as a modest neighborhood gathering designed to spotlight a handful of local shopkeepers has grown into a massive regional landmark. Organized by the West Reading Community Revitalization Foundation (WRCRF), Fall Fest now encompasses

From Humble Beginnings to a SaveThe-Date on the Calendar The WRCRF organizes Fall Fest as part of their overall role in the West Reading community, coordinating and marketing events to highlight Penn Avenue and West Reading as a vibrant destination. By 2006, the WRCRF had realized consistent success with its flagship summer street festival, Art on the Avenue, held each June.

Local business owners and community leaders recognized they had a winning formula for bringing people to Penn

The debut event covered only two blocks along Penn Avenue and featured mostly local shops and restaurants who set up sidewalk stands with the goal of drawing foot traffic inside. A few craft tables and some fall décor—corn stalks, hay bales and the like—completed the fall festival atmosphere.

very September, as the late-summer heat yields to crisp autumn breezes, a familiar energy settles over Penn Avenue as West Reading gets ready for one of its most anticipated annual traditions: West Reading Fall Fest. This year, on Saturday, September 19, 2026, the borough’s flagship event reaches a monumental milestone, celebrating its 20th anniversary.

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Avenues Fall 2026

As Penn Avenue morphed from a traditional small-town shopping corridor into a thriving hub for independent dining, boutique retail, arts and nightlife, Fall Fest grew along with it. As word spread about

Penn Avenue’s unique culinary offerings and eclectic artisan offerings, the event expanded exponentially.

“Anytime you plan a new event, you hope each year it sees growth,” explains Nick Price, Main Street Executive Director of the WRCRF. “With Fall Fest, we have seen continued growth each year, and with the support of the borough, community and all the vendors, it has grown to our largest event of the year.”

Today, the festival serves as both a seasonal celebration and a living showcase of the borough’s entrepreneurial spirit. For one vibrant day each September, four blocks of Penn Avenue are closed to vehicular traffic, turning the Avenue into a bustling pedestrian boulevard filled with art, culinary delights, music and community fellowship.

“With so many people, vendors and 18 live music acts throughout the day, you see so many things that grab your attention.”

He also points out, “We’re coming out of the dregs of summer and into the fall, which is such a beautiful time of year to be outside.”

• Free bounce houses and inflatable obstacle courses.

Row upon row of open-air booths along the avenue will feature hand-poured candles, wood-turned kitchenware, custom jewelry, fall-themed home decor, fine ceramics and original artwork. Early holiday shoppers will have a chance to meet the creators behind the products while supporting regional small businesses.

This intentional balance—an energetic street festival with genuine family accessibility—is why local families return to Penn Avenue year after year.

West Reading’s reputation as a foodie destination takes center stage during Fall Fest. Brick-and-mortar restaurants offer street-side popup stands, serving everything from wood-fired pizzas to gourmet tacos. Craft beverage lovers can sample local brews, cocktails, wine and spirits, taking advantage of the borough’s vibrant open-air atmosphere.

Music has long been the heartbeat of Fall Fest, and for the 20th anniversary, the soundscape is bigger than ever. Three separate stages—positioned at the intersections of 4th, 6th and 7th Avenues— will host continuous live performances from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Family-Friendly Fun on 7th Avenue Fall Fest offers family fun as well at the 7th Avenue Family Zone with a dedicated area for younger attendees, featuring:

• Pumpkin painting and hands-on autumnal craft stations.

• Street performers, face painters and balloon artists wandering the blocks.

T h e He a r t o f We s t R e a d i n g’s Community Spirit At its core, the 20th anniversary of the West Reading Fall Fest is a testament to the power of community-led revitalization. “It shows how committed our Foundation, the borough and all the businesses and residents are to make the downtown a thriving place that people want to come to, check out all we have to offer, run into some old friends and enjoy a fun day or evening,” agrees Price.

Whether you have attended every Fall Fest since 2007 or are planning your very first visit to Penn Avenue, this year’s landmark celebration offers a perfect snapshot of what makes West Reading so special: rich community pride and a deep-seated love for autumn in Berks County.

West Reading Fall Fest 2026 is Saturday, September 19, from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, rain or shine!

Photos courtesy of Nick Price of the West Reading Community Revitalization Foundation

A Feast for the Senses: What to Expect at Year 20 The 20th anniversary celebration promises to be the best yet, bringing together over 200 craft vendors, local artisans, food trucks and regional makers.

Price shares that his favorite things about Fall Fest are the sights and the sounds.

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The 14th Annual Night at The Museum:

A SWELL SOIRÉE STEP BACK TO POSTWAR AMERICANA 8

Avenues Fall 2026

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s the fall season starts to get into full swing, the Reading Public Museum prepares to welcome guests once again to join together for an immersive, themed evening of art, music, food and community celebration.

On Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, the community is invited to gather for the 14th Annual Night at The Museum. As The Museum’s signature fundraising event, this year’s celebration will offer guests a first look at the fall exhibition Rockwell/Wyeth: Icons of Americana.

Rockwell/Wyeth: Icons of Americana features the work of two celebrated figures in American art: Norman Rockwell and N.C. Wyeth. The exhibition brings together two influential visual storytellers whose work helped define familiar images of American life for generations of viewers. Using vivid illustrations of memorable scenes of American life, Rockwell and Wyeth helped shape the visual language of the 20th century. Their work continues to be admired for its storytelling, nostalgia and enduring connection to American popular culture.

Mid-Century Magic: A 1940s–’50s Celebration “Night at The Museum is an opportunity for our community to come together in support of The Museum while experiencing an extraordinary exhibition in a fun and memorable way,” said Ashley Houston, Director of Development. “We’re excited to welcome guests for an evening that captures the warmth, optimism and wholesome simplicity of American life in the postwar era.”

full-skirted silhouettes, seam stockings, pearls and vintage hats or gloves. For the gents, think classic double-breasted suits, sport coats with suspenders, fedoras and bowties.

Whether you go all-out with authentic vintage wear or prefer modern cocktail attire, the goal is simply to have a “swell time” celebrating art and community.

Supporting Lifelong Learning in Berks County Beyond the fine food, music and gallery previews, the 14th Night at The Museum supports The Museum’s broader mission of supporting exhibitions, educational programs and cultural experiences for the community.

“Last year’s Night at The Museum welcomed 300 attendees and raised over $45,000 for The Museum’s exhibitions, operations and educational programming,” stated Houston. “Everyone loves having a theme to embrace, which makes the evening memorable and the exhibition come to life.”

Reserve Your Tickets: Space for the 14th Annual Night at The Museum is limited. Tickets are available online at readingpublicmuseum. org. Ticket options listed by The Museum include Members: $100 per person / $175 per couple and Non-Members: $125 per person / $200 per couple.

Inspired by the postwar optimism and timeless aesthetics reflected in the exhibition’s works, the event will transport guests back to the mid-20th century. Attendees will step into a classic 1940s–’50s atmosphere filled with lively neighborhood charm, period details and vintage elegance.

The evening’s curated program blends food stations, open bars, live music and interactive history during the three-hour celebration: • Food Stations: Mid-century culinary classics paired with an open bar throughout the night.

• Antique Cars on Display: Polished chrome and classic tailfins greet guests as they arrive, setting the stage for a trip back in time.

• Live Music & Era Activities: Soundtracks from the golden age of big bands and mid-century radio set a festive, highenergy mood across the galleries.

• Silent Auction: Guests can bid on exclusive experiences, artwork and luxury packages, with every dollar raised going directly to support The Museum’s educational mission.

To complement the nostalgic atmosphere, guests are invited— though not required—to dress in period-inspired attire. For the ladies, such attire might include tea-length cocktail dresses,

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A COMMUNITY PAINTING & GROWING TOGETHER How Plein Air West Reading is Expanding Opportunity

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he Plein Air West Reading awards presentation on June 20 at the Olympian Ballroom marked more than the culmination of another outstanding painting competition. It demonstrated how a community can elevate an event to national prominence while building up the local arts community that has shaped it for over a decade.

mission to bring art-related activities to the Berks County community by ensuring local artists share in its success and recognition.

That same spirit of inclusion continued at the community Quick Draw event, where professional artists painted alongside local artists of all ages and experience levels.

Newcomers and seasoned painters alike were encouraged to join the creative energy that defines the week.

Growing Nationally, Staying Local Presented by Art Plus Gallery and co-sponsored by the Berks Art Alliance, Plein Air West Reading welcomed 30 juried artists from seven states to spend a week painting the farms, parks, historic streets, architecture, waterways and neighborhoods of Berks County. Competing for more than $7,000 in prizes, the artists transformed familiar places into fresh works of art, inviting residents and visitors alike to see the region with new appreciation. As the event’s reputation has grown, so has its ability to showcase the beauty, character and hospitality of West Reading and Berks County to a national audience.

“Throughout the week we heard a lot of love from the visiting artists for the warm community feel of the event as well as for the unique landscape of Berks County,” said Co-director Russ Slocum. “It’s also gratifying to keep our local community in the heart of it.”

Creating a Place at the Easel This year’s most exciting addition was the new Open Category, the brainchild of Codirector Jesse Prentiss. 25 Berks County artists, selected by lottery, exhibited and competed alongside the 30 nationally juried artists. The Open Category reflects Art Plus’s

That may be the real measure of Plein Air West Reading’s success. Each year it brings national attention to Berks County while creating new opportunities for residents to paint, volunteer, sponsor, collect and celebrate together. The result is more than an acclaimed art competition—it’s an

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Behind Every Easel Stands a Community Volunteers, artist hosts, sponsors, collectors, local businesses, property owners and countless supporters all contributed to an event that has become one of West Reading’s signature cultural traditions.

investment in community pride, cultural vitality and the shared belief that as the event grows, the people who built it should grow with it.

List of Award Winners Community Artists - Open Category • First Place: The Value of Farmland by Kelsey Showalter, $300 and a U.Go Anywhere Plein Air Ponchade Box Kit Sponsored by New Wave Fine Art Products • Second Place: Bridge Glow by Joanne McIlvaine, $200 • Third Place: Under the Catalpa Tree

by Marie Jones, $100 • Honorable Mention: Wash Day at Kutz Farm by Amanda D’Agostino, $100 Juried Artists • Best of Show: Corn Ribbons by Jim Laurino, $1000 Sponsored by the Berks Art Alliance

• Second Place: Your Backyard and My Backyard by Nanci Charpentier, $700 Sponsored by Art Plus Gallery • Third Place: Perennial Garden, Reading Arboretum by Rachel Van Wylen Poserina, $200 Sponsored by Art Plus Gallery • Honorable Mention: Simply Bold by Valentina Yannotti, $200 Sponsored

by Art Plus Gallery • Artists’ Choice Award: Lea Doise, $100 Blick Art Materials gift card • People’s Choice Award: Tarryl Gabel, $100 Blick Art Materials gift card • Best West Reading Award: West Reading Drug Store by Aaron Thompson, $1000 Sponsored by the West Reading Community Vitalization Berks County Community Foundation • Remembering Reading Award: Morning Light by Marilyn Rose,

$500 Sponsored by Shelby Davis Hutchison and Sherry Davis • Berks Waterways Award: Far from the Bayou by Sabrina Shmidt, $500 sponsored by the Schuylkill River Greenways Organization • Garden Arty Award: Wild and Delicate by Lea Doise, $500 sponsored by Linda and Jim Elliott • Light of the World Award: Morning Walk on the Farm by Patsy Cooner, $500 Sponsored by Jesse and Jared Prentiss • The Bridges of Berks County Award: Bridge of Cool Waters by Robert Seabourne, U.Go Anywhere Plein Air Pochade Box Kit Sponsored by New Wave Fine Art Products • America 250 Award: Jammin’ at the Stone House by Cindy Harris, $500 sponsored by the Berks Historical Society

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The 12th Annual Reading FilmFEST:

WHERE CINEMA MEETS COMMUNITY N

estled in the heart of Berks County, each autumn, the city of Reading transforms into a hub for independent filmmakers and cinephiles across the region.

Celebrating its 12th anniversary, the Reading FilmFEST will be in full swing from November 6-8, 2026. Dubbed the “filmmakers’ film festival,” this premier cultural gathering showcases the compelling magic of independent cinema, connecting emerging visual storytellers directly with engaged local audiences.

From Grassroots Roots to a Regional Cultural Anchor The story of the Reading FilmFEST began in 2015. Founded by working filmmakers—including Creative Director Tracy Schott and Executive Producer Santo Marabella—alongside the ReadingFilm Office, the festival was born out of a simple yet ambitious vision: to build a truly filmmaker-centric festival in Reading.

At the time, regional filmmakers lacked a dedicated showcase for independent narrative features, documentaries and shorts in Berks County. The festival’s founders set out to change that, establishing an event

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created “by filmmakers, for filmmakers and film lovers.” Over the past dozen years, Reading FilmFEST has evolved from a modest inaugural gathering into an internationally recognized destination that receives submissions from around the world while nurturing homegrown Pennsylvania talent.

The Filmmaker-Centric Ethos Unlike large-scale commercial film festivals dominated by studio PR machinery and red-carpet blockbusters, Reading FilmFEST champions grassroots, original storytelling.

Organizers have positioned the festival as a welcoming, filmmaker-centered event designed to encourage visiting artists to attend screenings, meet audiences and participate in live Q&A sessions. As co-founder Tracy Schott says, “A film festival without filmmakers is just ‘going to movies’. We wanted to create an event that was much more inclusive, intimate and interesting!”

The festival’s core mission also centers heavily on inclusivity, equity and representation. From its inception, Reading FilmFEST has actively elevated women directors, Latino storytellers and filmmakers of color, reflecting the rich, multicultural fabric of the Reading community itself.

Highlights of the Festival Experience The 2026 festival is expected to continue Reading FilmFEST ’s lively mix of independent features, documentaries, shorts, student films, panels and community programming.

Screenings will be hosted at premier local arts venues, including the historic GoggleWorks Center for the Arts and the R/C Reading Movies 11 & IMAX

in downtown Reading. The VIP Gala is planned to be one of the inaugural events at the newly remodeled Trexler Mansion (the former Elks building) on Franklin/5th Street, thanks to the support of Shuman Development Group.

This year’s featured guest speakers include: • Womelsdorf native Jared Hoffa, Emmy® and Telly Awardwinning producer and co-founder of Pixquid, a communitydriven streaming platform that provides artists with opportunities to learn how to build audiences, monetize content and overcome distribution challenges. Hoffa will lead sessions covering AI creation, film distribution and emerging technologies in independent media.

• Joe Whelski will present “From Stage to Screen,” a workshop for actors 16 years of age and older who wish to learn how to translate their performances from theater to camera. Joe works with actors all over the country. He is an award-winning NYC Director, Writer, Producer, Acting Coach and SAG-AFTRA and Equity Actor. He teaches the Acting Program at The Peoples Improv Theater in New York City and is the founder and owner of Secret Station Films, NYC. Based on recent festival formats, the weekend typically includes: • Opening Night Gala and Red Carpet The 2026 festival will include an opening-night celebration at Trexler Mansion bringing together attendees, sponsors, visiting directors, actors and film enthusiasts for networking and kickoff screenings.

• StudentFEST: Empowering the Next Generation Student-focused programming has emphasized young

Continued on next page

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creators from local high schools, regional colleges and international universities, offering workshops, career guidance and opportunities to see student work presented in a festival setting.

• Screenings, Panels and “Made in Reading” Saturday and Sunday programming will feature multiple screening blocks and filmmaker-centered events, such as: - Women Filmmakers Series: This year’s festival will highlight a special screening of Jennifer Seibel Newsom’s film Miss Representation: Rise-Up, which recently premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival, plus a post-screening panel discussion including producers, government officials and women’s studies professionals.

- The “Made in Reading” Block: A recurring local-interest section has highlighted films shot in Berks County or produced by regional talent, celebrating the area on screen.

- Audience Q&As: All films feature post-screening conversations giving viewers opportunities to engage directly with filmmakers about creative choices, inspiration and production challenges. “Our mission has always been to use film as a catalyst for conversation,” says Festival Director Eliza Taylor. “The post-screening discussions create a really meaningful cinema experience.”

• Volunteer: The festival relies on community volunteers to help run venue operations, assist with red-carpet check-ins and welcome visiting filmmakers.

Mark your calendar for November 6–8, 2026, and join the celebration in downtown Reading. Twelve years in, Reading FilmFEST continues to prove that cinema is far more than entertainment—it is a powerful tool for community building, economic vitality and artistic connection.

For information about the Reading FilmFEST go to readingfilmfest.com.

THANK YOU to our Hoffmann Publishing Group Media Sponsors for their vital advertising support of the 2026 301 South 7th Ave. Reading FilmFEST. Their Doctor’s Office Building, partnership helps power Suite 3220 our vibrant community West Reading, PA 19611 of storytellers, filmmakers 484-628-2663 APG-avenues-ad-08-2026 copy.pdf 1 8/2/26 9:00 PM and cinema lovers. berksortho.com

Economic and Cultural Impact on Berks County The festival plays a pivotal role in the Reading Film Office’s broader economic mission. By showcasing the city’s architectural beauty, industrial grit and supportive creative community to visiting producers, Reading FilmFEST serves as an active advertisement for regional film production.

Reading FilmFEST has supported the Reading Film Office’s broader goal of promoting film production, tourism and creativesector activity in the region while offering Berks County residents direct access to independent cinema.

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How to Celebrate the 12th Anniversary Whether you are an avid cinephile, a local arts supporter or an aspiring director, there are several ways to take part in this year’s milestone celebration:

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• Get your VIP Pass: Don’t miss a thing! This all-inclusive pass will allow you to watch all films, meet the filmmakers and hang out with all the “cool kids” in Reading!

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A Browsing Success Original fine art by 25 local artists, a new show every month, cool little gift shop, welcoming atmosphere and zero pressure add up to make Art Plus a rewarding stop whenever you’re in town.

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• Attend Screenings: Check the Reading FilmFEST website and local venue announcements for individual tickets, passes and schedule details as the 2026 festival approaches.

• Sponsor: Reading FilmFEST depends on the generosity of community supporters to create a meaningful event for the entire community. Check out the website or contact the festival organizers to find out how you can become a sponsor and get a VIP Pass in the process!

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Art Plus Gallery 604 Penn Avenue West Reading, PA 19611 610-375-9122 www.ArtPlusGalleryPA.com A 501(c)3 non-profit cooperative

PROTECT YOUR HOME DON’T LET FALL PESTS TAKE OVER! As temperatures cool, pests begin looking for warm places to spend the winter. Spiders, stink bugs, boxelder bugs, lady beetles, rodents, and other unwanted pests can quickly find their way inside your home.

Professional fall treatments from Siani Pest Control help stop infestations before they become winter problems.

Schedule your service today for lasting peace of mind.

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COME CELEBRATE RECOVERY MONTH! Join the 2026 Berks Recovery Walk & Celebration Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026 10 AM - 1 PM Help celebrate recovery from substance use disorder with a walk from Recovery Coaching Services at 505 Penn Street in Reading on Saturday, September 19. Walk will begin at 10 AM and proceed about 1 mile to the Berks RISE Center, located at 702 N 8th St. A Recovery Celebration with light refreshments will follow at the RISE Center courtyard. All are welcome to attend.

Visit cocaberks.org/26walk or scan code for details about all our Recovery Month events including the first ever Recovery Jam on September 26!

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THE READINGFILM OFFICE Framing Berks County’s Cinematic Future 16

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hen people think of Pennsylvania’s entertainment footprint, Philadelphia’s historic streetscapes or Pittsburgh’s production infrastructure likely come to mind first. But in Greater Reading and Berks County, the ReadingFilm Office is helping put the region on the cinematic map.

ReadingFilm was founded in 2006 by local creatives, Santo Marabella and Letty Hummel, along with Reading native, the late Michael Constantine, who envisioned a time when film production would become as important to the region as manufacturing was in the 20th century. In 2021, the organization became its own 501(c)(3), which helped it expand programming throughout the community with grants and partnerships.

Through its nonprofit festival, Reading FilmFEST, and programming structure, ReadingFilm promotes the region as a film and media production destination while supporting community programming, filmmaker education and regional industry development. By presenting Greater Reading as versatile, affordable and welcoming, the office is helping reshape the city’s economic and cultural narrative.

Bringing Production to Berks County One of the ReadingFilm Office’s core priorities is attracting television, feature film, commercial and digital media productions to Berks County. The region offers a varied visual landscape—historic 19th-

century industrial architecture, vibrant urban corridors, rolling farmland and scenic ridgelines—all within a short drive.

To translate those assets into real production opportunities, ReadingFilm provides practical support for visiting filmmakers, including: • Location Scouting & Permitting: Helping directors identify the right look and navigate local permitting requirements.

• Local Crew & Vendor Connections: Connecting production teams with regional talent, equipment resources, catering, lodging and other services.

• State Incentive Guidance: Helping creators understand Pennsylvania’s Film Production Tax Credit program, including the 25% credit for qualifying productions that meet the state’s 60% in-state production-expense threshold and the potential additional 5% credit tied to qualified production facility requirements.

This year alone, ReadingFilm has supported the production of five feature films, two television shows and a major commercial shoot.

When a production shoots in Reading, spending on hotels, restaurants, security, retail, transportation and other local services can generate tangible benefits for the regional economy.

Continued on next page

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Elevating Underrepresented Voices Attracting outside productions is only part of the ReadingFilm Office’s mission. The organization is also committed to community empowerment and local storytelling.

Reading is a majority-minority city with a strong Latino presence; recent U.S. Census Bureau estimates show Hispanic or Latino residents make up more than two-thirds of the city’s population, while fewer than one in five residents identify as White alone, not Hispanic or Latino. Against that backdrop, the RFO uses media creation as a tool for social impact—amplifying underrepresented storytellers, women directors and local creators whose perspectives can reach far beyond the region. Rather than treating media as passive entertainment, the ReadingFilm frames filmmaking as a means of building civic pride and sparking dialogue around important community issues.

Flagship Programs & Youth Mentorship The ReadingFilm Office also cultivates the next generation of storytellers through signature programs that connect education, mentorship, and creative opportunity: • Reading FilmFEST: The office’s flagship event is Reading FilmFEST, an annual international festival created “by filmmakers,

for filmmakers.” The multi-day event brings independent directors, actors and producers to downtown Reading for screenings, panel discussions and red-carpet events that connect visiting artists with local audiences.

• Student Engagement: Youth education is another cornerstone of the ReadingFilm’s outreach. Through student-centered programs such as StudentFEST, film competitions and partnerships with local college programs, the film office provides young creators with tools, mentorship and encouragement to explore careers in digital media and the arts.

A Vision for the Future As remote production technologies expand and independent filmmakers look beyond major metropolitan centers, the ReadingFilm Office is well positioned to help Berks County compete. By connecting economic development with creative opportunity, the office shows that a city’s story is not only preserved in its history—it can also be filmed on its streets, shared by its residents and projected to audiences far beyond the region.

For more information about the ReadingFilm Office, go to https:// readingfilm.org/.

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Avenues Fall 2026

8/5/2026 11:53:37 AM

CREAMY KALE SALAD “This creamy kale salad is a perfect side dish to any dinner. The garnet sweet potatoes give it a vibrant color and delicious boost of flavor. It’s a healthy, feel-good dish, packed with vitamins and minerals.”

– Colin Brett

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

DRESSING INGREDIENTS

1 pound jewel sweet potatoes, diced into bite-sized pieces

½ cup vegan mayonnaise

1 teaspoon olive oil Himalayan pink salt and ground black pepper 1 bunch of kale, stripped from stems and chopped 1 medium zucchini, cut lengthwise and diced 1 cup carrots, shredded 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips

1 teaspoon extravirgin olive oil 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce

Photo Credit: Seneca Shahara Brand for the Kimberton Whole Foods Cookbook (Hickory Grove Publishing)

2 tablespoons tahini 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar 1 clove garlic, minced

¼ medium onion, sliced thin

2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated

2 teaspoons sesame seeds

1 teaspoon cinnamon Pinch of cayenne pepper ½ teaspoon Himalayan pink salt

Kimberton Whole Foods Cookbook: A Family History with Recipes: Written by Kimberton Whole Foods co-founder Pat Brett and award-winning journalist, author and food writer Courtney Diener-Stokes, with culinary contributions from award-winning chef Colin Brett and photography by Seneca Shahara Brand, this cookbook is available at all Kimberton Whole Foods stores.

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 350 F. Place sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and toss with olive oil, salt and pepper before evenly spreading out. Roast for 35 minutes, until soft.

Place kale in a medium mixing bowl and set aside. To make dressing, combine all dressing ingredients in a Mason jar with lid or small bowl and shake or whisk to combine. Pour dressing over kale and massage thoroughly to fully coat kale. Add zucchini, carrots, bell pepper and onion, and toss to combine. Add sweet potatoes and top with sesame seeds.

/AvenuesMag 19

HAUNTED BERKS A fall guide to the mansions, caverns, homesteads and campus legends where local history refuses to stay quiet.

A

s the change of seasons begins to cast its shadow over Berks County and the tree-covered hills turn amber and gold, the fog lingers low and long over the Schuylkill River. In one of Pennsylvania’s oldest settled regions, the season doesn’t just bring color to the trees—it brings stories of long-forgotten days to life.

Some of these tales are rooted deep in the county’s history. Others belong to the realm of folklore, whispered from tour guides to visitors or passed between generations of locals. Together, they create a haunted map of Berks County: a place where frontier homesteads, darkened caverns and covered bridges invite visitors to look a little closer after sunset.

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Avenues Fall 2026

Brinton Lodge: The Mansion with a Reputation Along Route 724 in Douglassville, Brinton Lodge looks like the kind of place that was built to collect ghosts. The original structure was a modest stone farmhouse built around 1711 by the Millard family, one of the area’s oldest families, who purchased the land from William Penn. Later that century, the property changed hands, becoming the Kirlin family homestead. Over the next few years, into the 1800s, the Schuylkill River Canal ran through the property, and it was rumored to also have served as a stop on the Underground Railroad.

The Wittman family, a wealthy family connected to the iron industry in Philadelphia, purchased the property in

the early 1900s and expanded the old farmhouse into a sprawling 28-room mansion. After serving as a private residence, Reading hotelier Caleb Brinton took over the site, turning it into a Prohibition-era gentleman’s club which was—according to legend—open only to the rich and famous as invited by Brinton personally.

If you are looking to experience Berks County’s ghost stories and mysterious phenomena firsthand, several organized tours, guided walks and seasonal events are available:

More recently, the lodge has been a fine dining establishment and, since 2015, the home of Hidden River Brewing Company.

1808 W. Schuylkill Road (Route 724) Douglassville, PA 19518

Its haunted reputation, however, is what keeps many visitors looking toward the staircase. In the late 1970s, British psychic medium Don Galloway visited the property, having had visions of it while en route to a World War II event in Reading.

Over the course of a two-week stay, he identified several spirits said to linger there, including Caleb Brinton; Caleb’s mother, Annie Brinton; Katharine Wittman; the sharply dressed figure known as Dapper Dan and a young girl whose laughter is said to drift through empty rooms.

brintonlodge.com/ghosttours.html

The most famous presence is the “Dark Shadow,” a dense black figure reportedly seen near the main staircase, in doorways and at the foot of upstairs beds. On candlelit tours, guests have described sudden cold spots and the unmistakable sensation of being lightly touched.

The spooky occurrences continue to happen, and still prompt visits from paranormal investigators such as Dustin Pari of Ghost Hunters, who visited the Lodge in January 2025. The Brinton Lodge is ranked as one of the top 10 most haunted houses in Pennsylvania.

Crystal Cave: The Underground Chill Near Kutztown, a subterranean mystery awaits intrepid spirit-seekers. Crystal Cave was discovered in November 1871, when limestone quarrymen blasted into a hillside and opened a glittering world beneath the surface. Within a year, it became Pennsylvania’s first official show cave, drawing Victorian-era visitors to its stalactites, stalagmites and cool, echoing passageways.

and on the surrounding surface grounds over the last 150 years.

Explore the “Dark Side” of the Daniel Boone Homestead October 26, 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Ghost Tour of Brinton Lodge

610-572-7121 • What to Expect: Held yearround on select dates (with expanded schedules in the autumn), Brinton Lodge offers a 90-minute candlelit ghost tour through its 300-year-old mansion.

• Experience: Led by guides detailing the mansion’s 18thcentury origins, Prohibition-era history and well-documented hauntings, guests explore dark hallways and hidden rooms. Visitors are encouraged to use ghost-hunting phone apps during the tour.

400 Daniel Boone Road Birdsboro, PA 19508 610-582-4900 thedanielboonehomestead.org/ event/explore-the-dark-side-ofthe-daniel-boone-homestead • What to Expect: Join in a unique, eerie and educational Halloween adventure under the full moon with a tour of the Homestead.

• Experience: Led by author, paranormal researcher and Homestead board member Charles J. Adams, III, take a tour on the spooky side beginning at the Wayside Lodge and traverses the Homestead.

Candlelight Tours at the Conrad Weiser Homestead November 14, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

“Ghost” Lantern Tours at Historic Crystal Cave

28 Weiser Lane Womelsdorf, PA 19567

963 Crystal Cave Road Kutztown, PA 19530

610-589-2934

610-683-6765 crystalcavepa.com/events • What to Expect: Held seasonally in October, Crystal Cave transforms its traditional subterranean tour into an evening lantern-lit experience.

• Experience: Costumed guides in Victorian attire lead small groups down into the cavern carrying hand-held lanterns. The tour presents the original 1870s cave presentation alongside strange, eerie occurrences and folklore reported both inside the cave

conradweiserhomestead.org/ event/candlelight-tours • What to Expect: Join a guided evening tour of the homestead and scenarios that bring the colonial past of Berks County to life.

• Experience: Led by seasoned, knowledgeable guides, a highlight of the tour is a meetup with Conrad Weiser himself.

This interactive experience promises a deeper understanding of the context of historical events as well as the challenges faced by early Berks County settlers.

Continued on next page /AvenuesMag 21

The cave’s natural acoustics do much of the storytelling. Guides and maintenance crews working after hours have reported whispers, soft footsteps and voices that seem to come from dark fissures.

Above ground, the historic Cave House and surrounding woods add another layer to the lore, with stories of flickering lights, cold blasts of air and Victorian-clad figures seen near the entrance.

Today, Halloween ghost lantern tours make the most of the atmosphere, trading bright bulbs for hand-held light and telling tales of ghostly experiences in the caves. The tours invite visitors to go back in time to the 1870s and imagine the forces behind the unexplained events underground.

Daniel Boone Homestead: A Quieter Haunting Not every ghost story arrives with a dramatic flourish. At the Daniel Boone Homestead in Birdsboro, the legends are quieter, threaded through nearly 600 acres of fields, woods and preserved 18th-century buildings. Daniel Boone was born here in 1734 and spent his early childhood on the property, which was part of the colonial frontier. In 1750, the Boone family moved south to North Carolina, selling the Homestead to a cousin.

The property went through several more owners throughout the centuries and by the 1930s, was in a state of neglect until it was purchased by the state in 1938. Since then, restoration efforts continue as the Homestead is now home not only to the original Boone House but other historic structures as well.

The main Boone House, built over an earlier log structure and expanded by later Quaker and Pennsylvania German families, anchors the 600-acre property and gives it a strong sense of place.

While the legendary frontiersman passed away elsewhere, the DeTurk Cemetery is home to many unmarked graves, giving homeless souls reason to wander. Another historic building on the property, the Bertolet Log House, was moved to the Homestead from its original home in the Oley Valley. It contains a unique feature called a “soul hole” whose purpose is believed to allow the souls of the recently departed to ascend from the earthly plane. But did they?

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Avenues Fall 2026

Although the Homestead is less haunted-house spectacle than historical atmosphere, it begs the question of how much of the past remains embedded in the land.

Conrad Weiser Homestead: Where Diplomacy Lingers On the western side of Berks, in Womelsdorf, the Conrad Weiser Homestead tells the story of Johann Conrad Weiser, a German immigrant whose family came to America in 1710. Weiser moved to the Tulpehocken area in 1729 where he built a house on what grew into a homestead. He was the first Berks County justice of the peace and a skilled interpreter whose diplomatic skills helped shape relations between colonial Pennsylvanians and Native American nations.

The grounds are peaceful, with a stone house, springhouse, family burial plot and landscape elements designed in the 1920s by the Olmsted Brothers. But the folklore of the early colonial frontier lends a hint of spookiness to the homestead. On foggy nights, it’s difficult to not imagine hearing the faint voices of old councils; the tense encounters with wildlife; and early conflicts with Native Americans.

Beyond the Big Names Berks County’s haunted reputation spreads far and wide. On Mount Penn, Stokesay Castle carries tales of shadowy figures,

cold corridors and flickering lights. Nearby, the William Penn Memorial Fire Tower and Skyline Drive have inspired stories of faint big-band music and laughter from the luxury hotels of yore drifting through the trees. The fire tower is said to be haunted by a female apparition who lingers on the tower stairs.

References: brintonlodge.com crystalcavepa.com/home thedanielboonehomestead.org https://conradweiserhomestead.org/

At Old Main at Kutztown University, the legend of “Mary”—a student said to have died before graduation in 1895—remains one of the area’s best-known campus ghost stories. Reports include doors moving on their own, footsteps in empty hallways and electronics turning on unexpectedly. Along the Tulpehocken Creek, Wertz’s Covered Bridge, Gring’s Mill and the ruins of Lock 49 add another moody chapter, with tales of phantom cries, canal-side apparitions and figures vanishing near the water.

Photos courtesy of: The Brinton Lodge Crystal Cave

Go for the History. Stay for the Shiver.

In Berks County, haunted lore does more than decorate the past—that is what makes these places so compelling: the stories are inseparable from the settings that inspired them.

MORE W

It gives visitors a reason to step inside historic buildings, descend into ancient caverns, walk quiet trails and listen closely. Whether you are a true believer, a skeptic or simply open-minded, these Berks County sites offer a promise: after dark, history feels very much alive.

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FALL INTO MOTION Berks County’s Cool-Weather Sports Scene

T

he air gets crisper, and the sun sinks earlier, but the onset of fall doesn’t mean sunset for outdoor athletics. In fact, across Berks County, sport shifts into high gear. Fall in Berks isn’t just about pumpkin patches and cider donuts; it’s peak season for local athletics.

From collision-heavy pitches to fast-paced court play, community members of all ages are heading outdoors to compete, connect and celebrate the cooler weather.

And while most minds turn to traditional fall sports like football, athletic variety is the spice that gives fun flavor to fall sports in Berks.

Grassroots Grit: Women’s Rugby Takes the Pitch Rugby continues to build impressive momentum across Pennsylvania, and Berks County sits at the heart of that growth. At Kutztown University, the Golden Bears Women’s Rugby squad

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Avenues Fall 2026

sets a strong standard in competitive collegiate play, combining tactical precision with sheer endurance. Beyond the college campus, regional club options—like the Reading Women’s Rugby Club and the Berks County Rugby Football Club—offer local athletes a high-energy platform to tackle a demanding, team-first sport.

The Reading Women’s Rugby Club was launched locally by Shane Waddy—a former collegiate player—who started the community club to not only teach the sport of rugby, but to give individuals a chance to be part of a team.1 The Berks County Rugby Football Club was founded in 2015 to establish youth and high school rugby teams in the area. Operating under the auspices of USA Rugby, their girls’ program can help players develop toward college-level opportunities.2 Grounded in deep sportsmanship and physical empowerment, fall rugby matchdays bring a fierce, captivating energy to local sidelines.

Soccer Passion: High School Rivalries & Turf Battles Fresh off the summer excitement of the FIFA® World Cup, fall in Berks County is practically synonymous with soccer. High school rivalries across the Berks County Interscholastic Athletic Association (BCIAA) draw enthusiastic student fans under Friday night lights as teams battle for division titles. At the same time, youth development clubs such as the Reading Berks Junior Soccer League and Wyomissing Area Soccer Club keep local turf facilities active every weekend.

Plus, there’s no such thing as too young to learn “the beautiful game!” Programs such as Soccer Shots offer opportunities for the youngsters to learn the sport and teamwork.

Supported by the region’s deep soccer tradition—and community cornerstones like Reading United AC—the beautiful game remains a focal point of local fall culture.3 Gridiron Dreams: Youth Flag Football Takes Off Of course, fall isn’t fall without football. Long a staple of gym classes and college quads, flag football has become one of the region’s fastest-growing youth pastimes. Programs like Reading RISE Flag Football at the Big Show Sports Complex in Leesport offer co-ed divisions for younger players and girls-only divisions extending through high school, depending on the league, each season.4

Pickleball Fever: Fast-Paced Fun for Everyone No sport has captured local enthusiasm quite like pickleball.

Courts across the county—from the Sinking Spring and TriValley YMCAs to municipal parks—are buzzing with activity.

Combining elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis, pickleball’s short learning curve makes it uniquely accessible across generations. Between competitive autumn leagues and community tournaments like Pickle Palooza in West Reading, Berks residents are keeping courts packed and rallies lively.6 Hitting the Trails: Autumn Running with the Pagoda Pacers Of course, sometimes the best exercise is the simplest. For local runners, fall delivers ideal temperatures and unbeatable scenery.

The Pagoda Pacers Athletic Club leads the community charge, organizing regular group runs, trail maintenance and signature races throughout the county. Whether navigating the flat, scenic stretches of the Schuylkill River Trail, tackling demanding Continued on next page

Flag football’s popularity among girls is such that in fall 2024, the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) recognized it as an official spring sport with seasons kicking off in the 2025-2026 school year.5 Providing a fast-paced, non-contact foundation in football fundamentals, leagues fill local fields with strategic playmaking, supportive families and genuine youth excitement.

/AvenuesMag 25

Open daily 11am–5pm (Holiday hours posted on website)

ascents up Mount Penn or lining up for fall community 5ks, area runners embrace the crisp air to chase personal bests together.7 Whether lacing up for a run, grabbing a pickleball paddle, snagging a flag or settling into a lawn chair to cheer from the sidelines, fall in Berks County offers endless ways to stay active.

Grab a jacket, step outside and dive into the athletic energy of the season!

References: 1. wfmz.com/news/area/berks/reading-area/rugby-teamin-berks-looking-for-its-next-generation-of-players/ article_cd417c64-0b89-49ad-9088-f6d775c77741.html 2. berkscountyrugby.com 3. bciaa.org, rbjsl.org, wyoareasoccerclub.org, soccershots.com/ berks-chester-delaware-montgomery, readingunitedac.com 4. readingpa.riseflagfootball.com/risereadingpa 5. cbsnews.com/philadelphia/news/ piaa-girls-flag-football-pennsylvania-eagles-steelers-nfl 6. pickleballtournaments.com/tournaments/pickle-palooza-4 7. pagodapacers.com

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Avenues Fall 2026

SEPT

September 20 Fall Fest 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Fleetwood Community Park 34 West Main St., Fleetwood fleetwoodparks.com Berks Fiddle Fest 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

West Reading visitwestreading.com

September 25 Alley Open Mic Night 6 to 8 p.m.

GoggleWorks Center for the Arts 201 Washington St., Reading goggleworks.org/events

September 19 Fall Fest on Main 3 to 9 p.m.

Kutztown kutztownpartnership.org IM ABLE Games 9 a.m.

Mid Atlantic Air Museum 1054 Arnold Rd., Reading pretzelcitysports.com

Brecknock Orchard Fall Festivals Fridays & Saturdays through October 31 Brecknock Orchard 390 Orchard Rd., Mohnton brecknockorchard.com/ festivals

OCT

September 26 Berks Cultural Diversity Festival Noon to 6 p.m.

City Park Washington St. & N. 11th St., Reading bringthechange.net/ berks-culturaldiversity-festival/

Don’t let the sun go down on good times to be had during fall in Berks County—from festivals to fitness and everything in between, the change of seasons brings with it plenty of fun to keep the entire family entertained!

Progressive Dinner 2026 4 p.m.

Art & Craft Gallery of Hamburg 320 State St., Hamburg hamburgarts.org/events September 30 Reading Liederkranz Oktoberfest 143 Spook Lane, Reading readingliederkranz.com Fall Foliage Tours Saturday & Sundays through mid-November Colebrookdale Railroad 64 S. Washington St., Boyertown colebrookdalerailroad. com Frecon Farms Pick Your Own Pumpkins Frecon Farms 501 South Reading Ave., Boyertown freconfarms.com Mast Farms Corn Maze Mast Farms 2715 Main St., Morgantown mastmaze.com

October 3-4 Pickle Palooza West Reading Pickleball Courts 915 Old Wyomissing Rd., Reading pickleballtournaments. com October 4 Kyle Pagerly Memorial 5k Run/Walk 9 a.m.

Berks Heritage Center 1102 Red Bridge Rd., Reading pretzelcitysports.com Itty Bitty Nature Buddies: Super Spiders 10 to 11 a.m.

Hawk Mountain Sanctuary 1700 Hawk Mountain Rd., Kempton hawkmountain.org

/AvenuesMag 27

October 10 Holiday Fine Art & Craft Festival 2026 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Hamburg Field House 123-127 South 4th St., rear, Hamburg pacrafts.org

October 11 Pumpkin Palooza 2026 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

GoggleWorks Center for the Arts 201 Washington St., Reading https://goggleworks.org/ events October 16 – 17 Fall Festival & Hayride 950 W. Neversink Rd., Reading exetertownship.com October 17 The Princess Bride: An Inconceivable Evening with Cary Elwes 7:30 p.m.

Santander Performing Arts Center 136 North 6th St., Reading santander-arena.com LoveNotes 8 p.m.

Miller Center for the Arts 4 North Second St., Reading millercenter.racc.edu

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Avenues Fall 2026

October 18 Reading Hospital Road Run Fun Run, 5k and Half Marathon 1/2 Marathon: 8 a.m 5k: 8:05 a.m.

1 Mile Fun Run: 10:30 a.m. rhroadrun.com Heritage Day Fall Festival Noon to 4 p.m.

Daniel Boone Homestead 400 Daniel Boone Rd., Birdsboro thedanielboonehomestead. org Fall Park Walk 2 to 3 p.m.

Memorial Park 30 Weiser Lane, Womelsdorf conradweiserhomestead. org

Autumn Amplified Noon to 5 p.m.

Green Valley Country Club Chateau 160 Green Valley Rd., Sinking Spring October 30 Trail ‘N’ Treat 6 p.m.

Berks Nature 575 St. Bernadine St., Reading berksnature.org

November 5 Jim Brickman Piano Sensation & A Little Bit of Christmas 7 p.m.

Miller Center for the Arts 4 North Second St., Reading millercenter.racc.edu November 14 Ornitherapy & Forest Bathing 5 to 6 p.m.

Hawk Mountain Sanctuary 1700 Hawk Mountain Rd., Kempton hawkmountain.org November 21 Santa’s Polar Bear Express Runs through December 24 Colebrookdale Railroad 64 S. Washington St., Boyertown colebrookdalerailroad. com

NOV

RSO - Symphony of a Thousand Images 7:30 p.m.

Santander Performing Arts Center 136 North 6th St., Reading readingsymphony.org

November 1 Oley Valley Country Classic 10 Mile & 5k Run 7:30 a.m Oley Valley High School 17 Jefferson St., Oley pagodapacers.com

October 24 Reading Royals Opening Night 7 p.m.

Santander Arena 700 Penn St., Reading www.santanderarena.com/events

October 25 Fitzy’s 22nd Anniversary Halloween 5k Run/Walk 10:15 a.m.

West Reading Playground 505 Sycamore Rd., West Reading pretzelcitysports.com

RSO - The Joffrey Ballet 8 p.m.

Santander Performing Arts Center 136 North 6th St., Reading readingsymphony.org

November 28 – 29 Leesport Market Christmas Craft Show 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Leesport Farmers Market 312 Gernants Church Rd., Leesport leesportmarket.com

DEC December 4 – 5 Handcrafted Holiday Market 2026 GoggleWorks Center for the Arts 201 Washington St., Reading goggleworks.org

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December 4 – 13 Anastasia: The Musical Times vary Yocum Institute for Arts Education 3000 Penn Ave., West Lawn yocuminstitute.org

500-600 Penn Avenue Every Sunday, through November 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. westreadingfarmersmarket.com

/AvenuesMag 29

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