Calendar of Events
Echoing 250 Years: 'Fireside Chat' at Compass Inn Museum
From Horse Power to Horsepower: How Autos and Asphalt Changed the Ligonier Valley
Echoing 250 Years: 'Fireside Chat' at Compass Inn Museum
Join the Ligonier Valley Historical Society in the historic Common Room of the Compass Inn Museum for our much anticipated ‘Fireside Chat’ series. This year, we are Echoing 250 Years of history throughout the region with speakers from the Lincoln Highway Experience, McCarl Coverlet Gallery, West Overton Village, and the Ligonier Valley Historical Society.
Tomfoolery, Hijinks, and Shenanigans: the Histories & Mysteries of Where Words Come From
On March 12, visit with Dr. Emily Bath, Curator of the McCarl Coverlet Gallery at Saint Vincent College. Emily will share her extensive knowledge of the English Language with a much anticipated sequel to her History and Mysteries conversation. She will pull a few fun words and phrases to share their origins/backstories. Beware! Some of the word-origin stories are not what they seem. Join Emily for a lively afternoon of word play and see if your favorite words appear in our conversation.
Admission is $5. Due to limited space, the "Chats" are recommended for adults only. Light refreshments will be provided.
Tickets are available for purchase on Eventbrite until the day before the event. As these have been historically popular events, we cannot guarantee walk-in tickets. We highly suggest you purchase your tickets in advance.
Echoing 250 Years: 'Fireside Chat' at Compass Inn Museum
‘The Water of Life’: 1800s Whiskey Production and Consumption in Western Pennsylvania
Echoing 250 Years: 'Fireside Chat' at Compass Inn Museum
Where has all the Whiskey Gone?: The Temperance and Prohibition Movements in the Ligonier Valley
Echoing 250 Years: 'Fireside Chat' at Compass Inn Museum
Where has all the Whiskey Gone?: The Temperance and Prohibition Movements in the Ligonier Valley
Stagecoach Adventurers: Time Travelers
Gear Up, Jump In… We’re Time-Traveling Through History at Top Speed!
At Compass Inn Museum’s summer camp, Stagecoach Adventurers, kids pick up their passport to the past and set off on a week of hands‑on exploration. Each day opens a new chapter in history, filled with creativity, teamwork, and immersive discovery.
Campers travel through time, uncover stories of early travelers, and create adventures they’ll remember long after summer ends.
Ready to begin the journey? Click the button below to learn more about this year’s Stagecoach Adventurers experience.
Compass Inn Museum by Candlelight: Celebrating the Yuletide
The holiday season brings about memories of time spent with family, traditions passed down through generations, and the nostalgia of the season. The Compass Inn Museum wants to be a part of your holiday traditions.
Visit our historic Inn to take in the beautifully decorated wreaths, scents of fresh pine boughs floating through the air, and the magic of Yuletide gracing each room. By the light of candles and fireside warmth, our docents pass on the holiday traditions celebrated in the past.
When: November 30 and 31 & December 13 and 14 from 4-8 PM.
Cost: $15 for Adults, $13 for Adults 62+, $10 for Youth (6-17), and Free- Children 5 & under, Active Military, and LVHS Members
Note: Tickets go on sale September 14, 2025. You will sign-up for a start of tour time. The tour will last approx. 1.5 hours. We will accept walk-ins, but we cannot guarantee your prefered time.
Compass Inn Museum by Candlelight: Celebrating the Yuletide
The holiday season brings about memories of time spent with family, traditions passed down through generations, and the nostalgia of the season. The Compass Inn Museum wants to be a part of your holiday traditions.
Visit our historic Inn to take in the beautifully decorated wreaths, scents of fresh pine boughs floating through the air, and the magic of Yuletide gracing each room. By the light of candles and fireside warmth, our docents pass on the holiday traditions celebrated in the past.
When: November 30 and 31 & December 13 and 14 from 4-8 PM.
Cost: $15 for Adults, $13 for Adults 62+, $10 for Youth (6-17), and Free- Children 5 & under, Active Military, and LVHS Members'
Note: Tickets go on sale September 14, 2025. You will sign-up for a start of tour time. The tour will last approx. 1.5 hours. We will accept walk-ins, but we cannot guarantee your prefered time.
Festival of Lights
Step into the magic of the season with an evening inspired by the heart and humor of the Peanuts gang.
We’ll gather under twinkling lights, raise a toast to tiny trees and big hearts, and celebrate with cozy drinks, classic tunes, and plenty of laughter. Whether you’re a thoughtful Linus, a sassy Lucy, or a lovable Charlie Brown, there’s a place for you in our holiday story.
Santa will be visiting the Festival of Lights on Saturday, December 6th from 2 PM - 4 PM.
Admission is $5, $1 for youth ages 5 -12, and free for children under 5 years of age.
Proceeds from the Festival of Lights benefit Ligonier Valley Historical Society’s educational programming, archaeological studies, and preservation initiatives at Compass Inn Museum.
Toast to the Trees Gala
Festive Celebration and Auction
Ligonier Town Hall Community Room featuring…
Carol & Dave’s Roadhouse
Hors d’oeuvres & Holiday Libations served by guest bartenders
Click this button to learn more:
Compass Inn Museum by Candlelight: Celebrating the Yuletide
The holiday season brings about memories of time spent with family, traditions passed down through generations, and the nostalgia of the season. The Compass Inn Museum wants to be a part of your holiday traditions.
Visit our historic Inn to take in the beautifully decorated wreaths, scents of fresh pine boughs floating through the air, and the magic of Yuletide gracing each room. By the light of candles and fireside warmth, our docents pass on the holiday traditions celebrated in the past.
When: November 30 and 31 & December 13 and 14 from 4-8 PM.
Cost: $15 for Adults, $13 for Adults 62+, $10 for Youth (6-17), and Free- Children 5 & under, Active Military, and LVHS Members
Note: Tickets go on sale September 14, 2025. You will sign-up for a start of tour time. The tour will last approx. 1.5 hours. We will accept walk-ins, but we cannot guarantee your prefered time.
Compass Inn Museum by Candlelight: Celebrating the Yuletide
The holiday season brings about memories of time spent with family, traditions passed down through generations, and the nostalgia of the season. The Compass Inn Museum wants to be a part of your holiday traditions.
Visit our historic Inn to take in the beautifully decorated wreaths, scents of fresh pine boughs floating through the air, and the magic of Yuletide gracing each room. By the light of candles and fireside warmth, our docents pass on the holiday traditions celebrated in the past.
When: November 30 and 31 & December 13 and 14 from 4-8 PM.
Cost: $15 for Adults, $13 for Adults 62+, $10 for Youth (6-17), and Free- Children 5 & under, Active Military, and LVHS Members
Note: Tickets go on sale September 14, 2025. You will sign-up for a start of tour time. The tour will last approx. 1.5 hours. We will accept walk-ins, but we cannot guarantee your prefered time.
Compass Inn Museum By Candlelight: Celebrating Harvest-Time
The crisp Autumn airs rustle the leaves shining as gold and red gems across the landscape. A bountiful harvest provides rich and wholesome meals best enjoyed with company. The season of Autumn, of Harvest Time, brings about a feeling of celebration and thankfulness for the abundance provided by the land.
Embrace the Autumn ambiance in our candle-lit 19th-Century Stagecoach Inn as our period-dressed docents weave history and harvest together. Discover the skills, time, and dedication needed to take the Autumn bounty and turn it into winter provisions.
When: Saturday, November 8 & 15 from 4-8 PM
Cost: $15 Adults, $13 Adults 62+, $10 Youth (6-17), Free- Children 5 & up, Active Military, & LVHS Members
Note: Tickets go on sale September 14, 2025. You will sign-up for a start of tour time. The tour will last approx. 1.5 hours. We will accept walk-ins, but we cannot guarantee your prefered time.
Compass Inn Museum By Candlelight: Celebrating Harvest-Time
The crisp Autumn airs rustle the leaves shining as gold and red gems across the landscape. A bountiful harvest provides rich and wholesome meals best enjoyed with company. The season of Autumn, of Harvest Time, brings about a feeling of celebration and thankfulness for the abundance provided by the land.
Embrace the Autumn ambiance in our candle-lit 19th-Century Stagecoach Inn as our period-dressed docents weave history and harvest together. Discover the skills, time, and dedication needed to take the Autumn bounty and turn it into winter provisions.
When: Saturday, November 8 & 15 from 4-8 PM
Cost: $15 Adults, $13 Adults 62+, $10 Youth (6-17), Free- Children 5 & up, Active Military, & LVHS Members
Note: Tickets go on sale September 14, 2025. You will sign-up for a start of tour time. The tour will last approx. 1.5 hours. We will accept walk-ins, but we cannot guarantee your prefered time.
Bonfire Night at Compass Inn Museum: A Historical Fall Celebration
This fall, the flames of history will dance once again as Compass Inn Museum hosts its much-anticipated Bonfire Night. Step into the glow of centuries past and experience an evening where tradition, firelight, and Legends come alive.
Inspired by the age-old British celebration of Guy Fawkes Night, Bonfire Night at Compass Inn is anything but ordinary. Visitors will be immersed in the sights, sounds, and flavors of the 19th century, surrounded by candle-lit rooms, crackling fires, and the rich aroma of “Old English” bonfire fare. Sip on warm cider or a historic tavern drink as you wander the museum’s grounds or stay warm by the rich bonfire.
The evening features live music by Lounna and tales that echo the intrigue and rebellion of the past. Whether you're a history lover, a fall festival fanatic, or simply craving a night of cozy enchantment, this event promises an unforgettable experience.
When: Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 5 PM to 8:30 PM.
Cost: $35 for Non-members, $20 for Members
"Haunted Halloween Tales" Tours: Frightfully True Stories From The Ligonier Valley
As dusk settles over the Ligonier Valley and a crisp autumn breeze stirs the leaves, an eerie energy awakens. Whispers from centuries past drift through the streets, seeking ears brave enough to hear their chilling stories. For one weekend only, the Compass Inn Museum becomes a portal to the supernatural, welcoming curious guests of all ages to explore the mysteries of the past.
Each evening, our historic 19th Century Stagecoach Inn transforms into a haunted haven where period-dressed docents share spine-tingling tales of real-life hauntings and mysterious happenings. These stories, drawn from local lore and historical accounts, are designed to intrigue and entertain. Visitors can enjoy a candle-lit tour through the museum, where each room reveals a new tale and a glimpse into the lives of those who once walked its halls.
Whether you're a fan of historic tales, a Halloween enthusiast, or simply looking for a memorable night out with friends and family, Haunted Halloween Tales promises a delightful blend of spooky storytelling and historic fun. Experience the thrill of history and mystery intertwined.
When: Friday, October 24th thru Sunday, October 26th, nightly from 6 to 9 pm.
Cost: $15 Adults, $13 Adults 62+, $10 Youth (6-17), Free- Children 5 & under, Active Military, & LVHS Members
Note: Tickets go on sale September 14, 2025. You will sign-up for a start of tour time. The tour will last approx. 1.5 hours. We will accept walk-ins, but we cannot guarantee your prefered time.
2025 Pumpkin Carving Contest
Do you have what it takes to carve the spookiest Jack-O-Lantern on this side of Route 30? Prove it! The 10th Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest will be held at Compass Inn Museum, on Friday, October 24, 2025. Families and individuals are encouraged to participate. Design it, carve it, and display it. There is no fee to enter.
CONTEST RULES:
-Pumpkins may only be carved.
-All submissions must be free-standing.
-Only battery-operated flameless candles are permitted.
-Only one submission per person.
-Compass Inn Museum reserves the right to refuse any entry.
Pumpkins entered into the contest will be displayed and judged by popular vote during “Haunted Halloween Tales” Tours. Winners will be announced on Sunday, October 26, 2025.
Category/Age Groups:
*Junior (12 & under)*
*Adult (13 & up)*
*Family (All ages)*
Prizes for each age group:
1ST- $75
2ND- $50
3RD- $25
~ Winners will also receive two free tickets to “Haunted Halloween Tales” Tour on Sunday, October 26. ~
Please drop off your ghouliest gourd between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm Friday, October 24th at Compass Inn Museum. Although pre-registration is encouraged, walk-in submissions on October 24th will be accepted.
On the Edge of the Frontier: Western Pennsylvania in the Early 1800s
This weekend, visitors can step back in time as historical reenactors bring to life the new frontier. Alongside military drills and camp scenes, guests will experience demonstrations of daily living skills. Women of the era are also represented, sharing the essential roles they played in maintaining households, supporting soldiers, and sustaining frontier communities. Through stories, crafts, and hands-on activities, the past comes alive in vivid detail for all ages to explore and enjoy.
Click the button below for more information on the event schedule and tickets.
Hammer In: A Blacksmithing Event
Imagine iron glowing, water sizzling, and the sound of multiple blacksmiths striking their anvils all at once, making a resounding ringing in the air. If you can, then “Hammer-In: a Blacksmith Event” is for you. There will be multiple soot-covered smithies from Compass Inn Museum and the Pittsburgh Area Artists Blacksmith Association demonstrating their craft throughout the historic grounds of Compass Inn Museum. Everything forged on site that day will be for sale to benefit ongoing educational programming at the museum.
General admission is $14 for adults, $12 for seniors (ages 62 and up), and $10 for youth ages 6 to 18. Children under 6 are admitted free. Tickets for the Hammer In: A Blacksmithing Event can be purchased on-site on the day of the event.
Extrodinarily Ordinary: Compass Inn During the Regency Era
Travel back in time at Compass Inn Museum and explore life in Ligonier Valley during the early 1800s—a world of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice,” the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and the War of 1812. While all of this was happening, discover the story of Rachel and Robert Armor, who in 1814 purchased the old inn, renaming it “Compass Inn” after settling in Laughlintown. Come; immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and stories of the early 19th century with members of the Jane Austen Society of North America-Pittsburgh Region and the sailors of the Ships Company, an 1812 naval reenactment unit from Annapolis, Maryland.
Click the button below for more information on each day’s scheduled events and ticket prices:
Midsummer Family Country Dance
Bring the whole family to the Historic Compass Inn Museum for an enchanting afternoon of English Country Dancing led by dance master Emily Barth. Step back in time under a beautiful tent on the museum’s scenic lawn, where the spirit of the 1800s comes to life! Dress in your best 19th-century style—bonnets, breeches, petticoats, and waistcoats encouraged—for an immersive and memorable experience. Before the dancing begins, enjoy hands-on fun with fan painting and top hat decorating to add a personal touch to your period look.
This joyful, family-friendly celebration is open to all—children 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Refreshments will be served, and best of all, admission is pay what you can, but reservations are required. Come make timeless memories in a setting full of history and charm!
Inside Ligonier: A Home Tour
Explore a curated selection of beautiful homes in the Ligonier Valley. From charming renovations to stunning architecture, each stop offers fresh inspiration and local flair. A must-see event for design lovers and curious minds alike! Preorder Tickets - $50 each; Last Minute Tickets - $55 each.
Click below for more detail on this event.
Scoundrals, Glass Harps, & More...Oh My!
Step back in time at Compass Inn Museum’s lively living history event! Families will enjoy the whimsical “Honest Day’s Work” Children’s Museum, the curious Cabinet of Curiosities, and hands-on games exploring the colorful "Canting Language" and life on society’s fringe. Meet first-person interpreters “Ould” Badger, Maggie, and Penelope as they bring 18th- and 19th-century stories to life. Don't miss Virginia's captivating glass harp performance. History, fun, and learning come together in this unforgettable day for all ages!
Join us Sunday, June 15, at 9 am for an authentic 18th-century church service with Parson John on the museum’s historic grounds. The service is free and open to the public. Attendees receive 10% off museum admission for the rest of the day.
Click the button below for more information:
Ligonier Valley Free Museum Day
Explore six Ligonier Valley museums including Antiochian Heritage Museum, Compass Inn Museum, Fort Ligonier, Ligonier Valley Rail Road Museum, Lincoln Highway Experience, and the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art for FREE!
From extraordinary art and rare artifacts to transportation history including wagons, trains, and cars, these six museums have planned a fun day of activities, demonstrations, and tours both inside and out for participants of all ages. Begin Free Museum Day at the museum of your choice
Blacksmithing Workshop
Compass Inn Museum is excited to announce the much anticipated return of our beginners Blacksmithing Workshop. This workshop allows participants to enjoy an immersive experience, where they step into the world of traditional craftsmanship. This workshop showcases the artistry and skill of blacksmithing, highlighting tools, techniques, and the trade’s importance in everyday life. Our blacksmiths hone your hand forging skills. By the end of the workshop, you will gain a better understanding of the skill needed to craft a one of a kind fire poker and take home your work to share with friends and family.
Join our expert blacksmiths Ed and Lance Appleby on April 26th from 9am to 12pm or from 1pm to 4pm to try your hand at their craft. The cost of this workshop is $75 per person. Spots are limited to 4 participants at each session, so reserve yours today.
To register, complete and return the Registration document, the liability waver, and payment.
If you have questions, reach out to Kacey Wees at kwees@compassinn.org or call 724-238-4983.
Tastes of The Town
April 24, 2025, at the Barn at Ligonier Valley Doors open at 6:30 pm.
For more information visit our Signature Events Page.
Fireside Chats Series: Archery through the Ages: From Hunting to Warfare to Sporting
Archery has had historical significance for over 10,000 years. Many of the elements that attract people to the sport to this day – accuracy, self-reliance, and in some cultures spiritual discipline – have appealed across millennia. It began as a tool better than the spear for hunting and developed into the preferred weapon of warfare in the 14th century. After being left behind by firearms, archery found popularity as a sport when noble gentlemen and ladies of the Victorian era organized competitions.
With the introductions of repeating firearms to the native populations in America, they relied less and less on using bows and arrows for warfare and hunting. Modern bow hunting took off in the early 1950s when men like Howard Hill and Fred Bear started filming their archery adventures.
Join avid local archer Scott Craig as he explores the history and evolution of archery during this Fireside Chat on April 10, 2025, from 1 to 3 pm at Compass Inn Museum.
Tickets are avalible for purchase in advance on our website for $16 or in person day of event for $20. Due to limited space, the ‘Chats’ are recommended for adults only.
Fireside Chats Series: The Coverlets of Compass Inn: Westmoreland County & beyond
Join us at Compass Inn Museum on March 27, 2025 to hear from our speaker Dr. Emily Barth Curator of the McCarl Coverlet Gallery at Saint Vincet College who will be discussing The Coverlets of Compass Inn: Westmoreland County & beyond.
Her session will be a crash course in the history and significance of 19th century handwoven bed coverlets, highlighting the spectacular collection at Compass Inn Museum. The talk will cover what coverlets are, how they were made (and who made them), and how they fit into the fabric of society during their peak of popularity from 1830 to 1860.
Tickets are avalible for purchase in advance on our website for $16 or in person day of event for $20. Due to limited space, the ‘Chats’ are recommended for adults only.
Fireside Chats Series: From Cricket to Baseball- The Great American Pastime
When you think of the “Great American Pastime”, does Cricket come to mind?
Join Kacey Wees, Program and Communications Coordinator of the Ligonier Valley Historical Society and Compass Inn Museum, on Thursday March 13, 2025 as she discusses the influence of cricket on the development of baseball in America. Learn how the centuries-old game of cricket, with its roots in England, influenced the birth of American baseball. From early bat-and-ball games to the establishment of unique rules and customs, she will highlight the cultural exchanges and historical moments that shaped both sports. Whether you're a fan of cricket, baseball, or both, you'll gain new insights into how these two games diverged while sharing a common origin.
Tickets are avalible for purchase in advance on our website for $16 or in person day of event for $20. Due to limited space, the ‘Chats’ are recommended for adults only.
Public History Summer Internship
Compass Inn Museum is pleased to announce our 12 week long summer internship program for public history. Interns will assist other team members in organizing setting up, and facilitating education programs for youth and adults. This includes facilitating field trips and summer day camp, leading guided tours in period clothing of historic buildings, special events, and living history weekends. Other responsibilities will include greeting and orienting visitors in a friendly and professional manner, performing light cleaning of the museum buildings and grounds, and other day-to-day operation tasks. The intern will also have opportunities to assist with marketing programs and events through social media posts and creating printed materials.
We are looking for someone who is interested in sharing history with people of all ages and backgrounds; wearing period clothing during tours and events; demontrate strong organizational, verbal, and written communication skills; and can work as part of a team or independently.
For more information, click this link. Applications are due by April 15, 2025.
Fireside Chats Series
Our lecture series ‘Fireside Chats’ is back for the 2025 season. Come spend an afternoon in the quaint Common Room of the Compass Inn Museum to hear from subject matter experts as they discuss a range of topics from culture to sports. Get your ticket early in our online presale so that you do not miss our incredible line-up. Light refreshments will be served at each ‘Fireside Chat’.
For more information on each individal ‘Fireside Chat’, continue purusing our events calendar. If you are sold aready and want to buy tickets, click this link.
Because of limited space in our cozy Common Room, tickets tend to sell out fast. We suggest that you buy your tickets in the online pre-sale to guarantee your spot. A select few tickets will be avalible for purchase the day of the event for $20 or until the remaining tickets are sold. We cannot guarantee you will be able to walk into these popular events.
Festival of Lights
Since 1983, the Ligonier Valley Historical Society has spread holiday cheer with its beloved Festival of Lights. Experience the sparkle and magic of the season through enchanting holiday scenes, and a gallery of beautifully decorated trees, wreaths, and other Christmas treasures. This festive event is a great way to take a respite from the hustle and bustle of the Holidays. Enjoy the lights, a cookie, and sip apple cider December 7 through 10 in Ligonier Town Hall’s Community Room, 9 to 5 daily.
Santa will visit the Festival on December 9 from 10 to noon so bring the little ones and make some warm fuzzy memories.
Admission is $5, $1 for youth ages 5 -12, and free for children under 5 years of age.
Proceeds from the Festival of Lights benefit Ligonier Valley Historical Society’s educational programming, archaeological studies, and preservation initiatives at Compass Inn Museum.
Compass Inn Museum by Candlelight: Celebrating the Yuletide
Join us at the historic Compass Inn Museum for a cozy, candlelit Yuletide tour! November 30, December 1, 14, or 15 from 4-8 pm.
Experience the rustic charm of the early 1800s stagecoach inn adorned with natural evergreen and pinecone accents. Feel the warmth of the cheery glowing wood fires, and the flickering of candles in every room. At your final stop in the inn, you will relax by the warm crackling fire in the 1862 Room’s Rumford fireplace as you listen to "A Visit from St. Nicholas" by Clement C. Moore while sipping on hot apple cider and enjoying a ginger cookie.
Your tour will begin in the 1820 cookhouse where you can share your family's Christmas traditions. Then after touring the old inn, you will stop in the blacksmith shop to see what the smithies are forging.
Compass Inn Museum By Candlelight: Celebrating Harvest-Time
Join us at the Compass Inn Museum for a cozy candlelit celebration of the harvest season!
Celebrate another bountiful harvest by joining us for the ever-popular Harvest Candlelight Tour of our early 1800s stagecoach Inn on Saturday, November 9 or 16, 2024 from 4-8 pm. As you visit each room with your period-dressed docent, you will feel the warmth of the inn’s rustic charm while adorned with natural autumn accents, cheery glowing wood fires, and the flickering of candles in every room.
When visiting the cookhouse, your senses will come alive with the sights and smells of scrumptious food being prepared, using recipes and ingredients inspired by the harvest and the cuisine of the 18th and 19th centuries. Our masters of open hearth and beehive oven cookery will demonstrate cooking techniques and will share the history of our current-day Thanksgiving celebration.
Finally, do not miss visiting the blacksmith shop where our blacksmiths as they demonstrate their craft.
Compass Inn Museum By Candlelight: Celebrating Harvest-Time
Join us at the Compass Inn Museum for a cozy candlelit celebration of the harvest season!
Celebrate another bountiful harvest by joining us for the ever-popular Harvest Candlelight Tour of our early 1800s stagecoach Inn on Saturday, November 9 or 16, 2024 from 4-8 pm. As you visit each room with your period-dressed docent, you will feel the warmth of the inn’s rustic charm while adorned with natural autumn accents, cheery glowing wood fires, and the flickering of candles in every room.
When visiting the cookhouse, your senses will come alive with the sights and smells of scrumptious food being prepared, using recipes and ingredients inspired by the harvest and the cuisine of the 18th and 19th centuries. Our masters of open hearth and beehive oven cookery you will share the history of our current-day Thanksgiving celebration.
Finally, do not miss visiting the blacksmith shop where our blacksmiths as they demonstrate their craft.