In October of 1996, the college held the first Penn State Harrisburg Community Arts and Crafts Festival.  The festival brought approximately 7000 people to campus, and raised over $3000 for the Olmsted Recreation Board to provide programs to Middletown area youth.   The festival featured arts and crafts vendors from all over Pennsylvania and Maryland, bluegrass and contemporary folk music performances, and an appearance by the Middletown Marching Band.  Other events included: make and take crafts and face painting for children, square dance demonstrations, and poetry readings.