News
World War II Days Return to Tidioute After Five-Year Hiatus
Wednesday, June 18th 2025, 4:53 PM EDT
Updated:
Tidioute, PA — For the first time since 2019, the Borough of Tidioute is once again stepping back in time as it welcomes the return of World War II Days.
The popular event brings history to life with a USO dance, meet and greets with local veterans, authentic vehicles, and a dramatic re-enactment of the Battle at the Bridge of Remagen — a turning point in World War II that marked the Allies’ advance into Germany.
The event was made possible through strong community support, donations from local businesses and residents, and funding from the Warren Worx initiative.
“This is all about bringing history to life, especially for kids," stated event organizer, Aaron Schmidt. "Instead of reading it in a book, this is an actual event that people can witness on our bridge, which signaled the end of the war. It's exciting to have it back."
In addition to the live battle demonstration and pyrotechnics, visitors can enjoy a USO-style dinner and dance, featuring 1940s-era food and music. A meet-and-greet with World War II veterans will also take place during the weekend — giving guests a chance to hear firsthand stories from those who lived through it.
Local business owners say the event is not only a tribute to the past but a boost to the present-day economy.
“Events like this are so important to our local economy," said Dolores Timko, proprietor of J. Lauren Interior Design. "We really have been missing this reenactment for the past five years - it put our town on the map and brings people here, who may not have known all of what Tidioute has to offer."
"Having this event in town is so beneficial for our community," added Dan Reese, Owner of Hollow Hill Outdoors. "A lot of people who attend events like this end up coming back and visiting again - supporting the community after, so this is huge for us."
"It really is wonderful to have an event like this here, it lets us showcase what this town has to offer," said Laurie Reese, Co-Owner of Hollow Hill Outdoors.
"Having this event in town is so beneficial for our community," added Dan Reese, Owner of Hollow Hill Outdoors. "A lot of people who attend events like this end up coming back and visiting again - supporting the community after, so this is huge for us."
"It really is wonderful to have an event like this here, it lets us showcase what this town has to offer," said Laurie Reese, Co-Owner of Hollow Hill Outdoors.
Representatives from Warren Worx, which provided grant support, say it’s events like this that make an impact on both cultural preservation and economic growth.
"Warren Worx was created to boost local economy, and encourage population growth," stated Jenny Phillips, Warren Worx. "We were able to award five different towns and boroughs mini grants, Tidioute being one of the recent beneficiaries, and it is so nice to see them use this resource to bring a large community event back to life."
"Warren Worx was created to boost local economy, and encourage population growth," stated Jenny Phillips, Warren Worx. "We were able to award five different towns and boroughs mini grants, Tidioute being one of the recent beneficiaries, and it is so nice to see them use this resource to bring a large community event back to life."
Tidioute's World War II Days will be held Friday, June 20th through Sunday June 22nd, drawing history lovers, families, and visitors from across the region.
For more information on Tidioute's World War II Days, visit here.