Since 1949, May has been observed as Mental Health Awareness Month. It is a time to celebrate recovery and remind the world that mental wellness is a universal priority. On Saturday, May 9, 2026, Lebanon County will continue this tradition by hosting its fourth annual Mental Health Awareness Festival from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
The festival will transform the parking lot of the CSG Psychiatric Rehabilitation program (718 Poplar Street, Lebanon) into a vibrant hub of mental health and wellness resources, joy, and connection.
Event At-A-Glance
- Date: Saturday, May 9, 2026
- Time: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
- Location: 718 Poplar Street, Lebanon (Near the 8th St. Rail-Trail)
- Cost: FREE
Bridging the gap to care
This year’s event continues the trend of growth, boasting 55–60 local vendors. Attendees can connect directly with mental health providers and services from across Lebanon County, making it easier than ever to navigate the local landscape of support, and get connected with necessary recovery-oriented services.
“This festival has evolved into a cornerstone for our community. The continued growth and success we’re seeing each year is a direct reflection of the heart and soul poured into it by our incredible planning team, and the unwavering support of our dedicated providers and vendors,” said Skyler Deitrick, Program Director of CSG’s Psychiatric Rehabilitation program. “This event shows just how united we all are in promoting wellness, reducing stigma, and prioritizing recovery. It’s also an annual reminder that despite being a smaller county, there are a lot of great services happening throughout Lebanon County and the surrounding areas.”
New for 2026: More fun, more connection
Building on the success of previous years, the 2026 festival introduces exciting new attractions designed to bring the community together:
- Live Broadcast: Froggy 101 will be live and on-location, providing the soundtrack and vendor interviews for the day.
- Animal Therapy: In addition to last year’s favorite baby goat cuddles (Batz Farm) and a kissing horse (Casimits Farm), attendees can now also experience baby kangaroo cuddles provided by Aldinger Farm.
- Free Artistry: Local artist Ali Thome will be providing free caricature drawings for guests.
The event will also feature the return of a free Sno-Cone Wheel provided by Kinetic Kreations, and hot dogs, chips and water provided to all guests by the Salvation Army. Vendors will offer opportunities for additional activities and door prizes, and the first 100 attendees will receive a complimentary drawstring bag!
“We’re hosting the Mental Health Festival because every member of our community deserves access to support, connection, and hope,” said Monica Boyer, MH/ID/EI. “This event creates a safe and inclusive space where people can learn, share resources, and strengthen their well‑being. By bringing together providers, families, and neighbors, we aim to break stigma, promote resilience, and remind everyone that mental health is something we all have, and something we should all care for.”
Sponsor Shout-Out
A special shout-out and thank you to this year’s sponsors: WellSpan, PerformCare, UPMC, Excentia, Highmark, Meadows, Aetna, Tower Behavioral Health, Lancaster General Behavioral Health, Consumer Satisfaction Surveys, Union Community Care, Fulton Bank, and Peerstar.
