Taste the Keystone State: Your Essential Guide to the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Expo (PA Flavor!) in Harrisburg!

For every restaurateur, hotelier, caterer, and culinary enthusiast across the majestic Keystone State, there’s one annual event that truly embodies the spirit of Pennsylvania’s vibrant hospitality industry: the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Expo, often prominently featured within the beloved PA Flavor! event. This isn’t just a tasting event for the public; it’s a strategic convergence point for industry professionals, meticulously co-presented by the powerful Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association (PRLA) alongside the Brewers of PA and the American Culinary Federation’s Harrisburg Chapter. Imagine stepping into the expansive halls of the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex, the air rich with the enticing aromas of Pennsylvania-made cheeses, craft brews, and the excited chatter of industry leaders forging new connections. You’re surrounded by passionate producers showcasing everything from award-winning local wines and spirits to artisanal food products, and restaurateurs highlighting their culinary prowess. This Expo within PA Flavor! is a dynamic marketplace, a hands-on discovery zone, and a powerful networking hub all rolled into one, designed to celebrate and elevate Pennsylvania’s unique culinary and lodging landscape. It’s where a bustling Philadelphia bistro discovers a new, sustainable local farm supplier, where a charming Bed & Breakfast in Lancaster finds innovative ways to enhance guest experiences with regional products, and where an aspiring chef gets inspired by the sheer diversity and quality of Pennsylvania-made goods. For any professional deeply invested in the success and evolution of their restaurant, hotel, bar, catering company, or institutional kitchen across Pennsylvania, attending this event is not merely an option—it’s an indispensable annual tradition that directly impacts their sourcing, fuels innovation, and strengthens the entire Commonwealth’s celebrated hospitality ecosystem.

Pennsylvania’s foodservice and lodging industry is as diverse as its landscape, spanning bustling urban centers like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, the serene farmlands of Lancaster, the historic charm of Gettysburg, and the natural beauty of the Pocono Mountains. Operators here navigate unique challenges and opportunities, whether it’s sourcing from the state’s abundant agricultural sector, adapting to specific liquor laws, or attracting tourists to its varied destinations. The Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Expo (as part of PA Flavor!) is specifically crafted to address these very issues. It’s where a State College eatery can find tailored solutions from local distributors, where a resort in the Poconos can connect with beverage producers to enhance their offerings, and where industry leaders can discuss the latest trends and legislative updates impacting their businesses across the Commonwealth. The event’s commitment to showcasing local excellence, direct engagement, and community building makes it an incredibly efficient platform for businesses of all sizes to thrive. If you’re a restaurateur looking for a competitive edge, a lodging professional aiming to enhance your guest experience, or a supplier keen to expand your market reach within this vital state, attending this Expo offers a practical, inspiring, and profoundly strategic experience that directly contributes to your business growth and strengthens Pennsylvania’s renowned hospitality sector.

The Keystone to Connection: Venue and Time

The Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Expo (within PA Flavor!) consistently takes place in Harrisburg, the state capital, a centrally located city that offers excellent accessibility for professionals from all corners of Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex & Expo Center: Home of Pennsylvania’s Best! The Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Expo, as a key component of PA Flavor!, is annually held at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex & Expo Center, located at 2300 N. Cameron St., Harrisburg, PA 17110, USA. This vast and versatile facility is a fitting host, deeply connected to Pennsylvania’s agricultural roots, and provides:

• Expansive Exhibition Space: The Farm Show Complex boasts enormous exhibit halls, providing ample room for hundreds of vendors, tasting stations, and demonstration areas, ensuring a comfortable and easy-to-navigate experience even with a large crowd.
• Central Location: Situated in Harrisburg, the Complex is easily accessible from major interstates (I-81, I-83, I-76 PA Turnpike), making it a convenient drive for attendees from Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Scranton, Erie, and all points in between.
• Ample Parking: Given its design for large-scale events, the Complex offers extensive on-site parking, which is a significant convenience for attendees traveling from across the state.

A Spring Celebration: The Annual Schedule PA Flavor!, which encapsulates the essence of the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Expo for industry professionals, is an annual event, strategically timed in the spring to align with the preparation for the busy warmer months.

• When It Happens: The event typically takes place in April. For example, the upcoming confirmed date is Saturday, April 26, 2025. This timing allows operators to explore new products, technologies, and strategies well in advance of the peak spring and summer seasons.
• Duration: PA Flavor! is usually a single, intensive day event, maximizing the impact for busy professionals.
  • Typical Schedule (e.g., 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM for General Admission, with an earlier VIP hour): While it includes a public tasting component, the earlier VIP hour and the presence of numerous industry-focused exhibitors throughout the day make it a concentrated opportunity for business-to-business interaction, sourcing, and networking.

The structure of the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Expo within PA Flavor! is designed to provide maximum value and engagement:

• Comprehensive Exhibit Hall: The core attraction, featuring diverse product categories from Pennsylvania’s leading food and beverage producers, as well as suppliers of essential restaurant and lodging services.
• Tasting & Sourcing Opportunities: Unparalleled access to sample and directly discuss products with local breweries, wineries, distilleries, and food producers, fostering direct sourcing relationships.
• Networking Hub: A prime environment to connect with peers, industry leaders, and potential business partners from across the state.
• Industry Presence: The co-hosting by the PRLA and the American Culinary Federation highlights the event’s commitment to professional development and industry growth, beyond just a public tasting.

This focused and engaging schedule ensures that Pennsylvania’s foodservice and lodging professionals can efficiently discover new solutions, gain vital industry knowledge, and forge invaluable business relationships within a productive timeframe.

The Bounty of the Commonwealth: Key Product Categories

The Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Expo (within PA Flavor!) offers a remarkable array of products and services, primarily focusing on the rich bounty of Pennsylvania, while also connecting professionals with essential industry solutions. It’s a showcase of local excellence and practical innovation tailored for the state’s diverse hospitality businesses. Key product and service categories you can expect to explore include:

• Pennsylvania-Made Food & Beverage Products: This is the heart of the event, showcasing the vast agricultural and craft beverage output of the state:
  • Craft Beer, Wine & Spirits: An extensive selection from Pennsylvania’s thriving brewery, winery, and distillery scene. This offers unparalleled opportunities for restaurants and bars to directly source unique, local adult beverages to enhance their offerings.
  • Dairy & Cheese: Artisanal cheeses, fresh milk, yogurts, and other dairy products from local farms.
  • Meats & Poultry: High-quality beef, pork, poultry, and specialty meats, often from family-owned farms.
  • Produce: Seasonal fruits, vegetables, and specialty crops from Pennsylvania growers.
  • Baked Goods & Confectionery: Handcrafted breads, pastries, chocolates, and other sweet treats.
  • Specialty Foods: Jams, jellies, sauces, condiments, honey, maple syrup, snacks, and other unique packaged goods often perfect for retail sales in hotels or as distinctive menu ingredients.
• Foodservice & Hospitality Suppliers: While PA Flavor! emphasizes product, it is a key networking event where you can often connect with distributors and service providers who carry a wider range of products for restaurants and lodging:
  • Food & Beverage Distributors: Representatives from major national and regional distributors who serve the Pennsylvania market, showcasing their full product lines and logistical capabilities.
  • Equipment & Smallwares: While not a primary focus, you may find information or connections to suppliers of essential kitchen equipment, tableware, and serving tools.
  • Technology Solutions: Potential connections to POS systems, online ordering platforms, and hospitality management software, often through partners of the PRLA.
  • Cleaning & Sanitation Supplies: Essential products for maintaining hygiene and safety standards.
• Business Services & Solutions:
  • Industry Associations: Direct access to the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association (PRLA) for resources, advocacy updates, training programs, and membership benefits.
  • Financial & Insurance Services: Providers specializing in the unique needs of the hospitality industry.
  • Marketing & Digital Services: Consultants and agencies offering solutions for website design, social media, and online presence.
  • Staffing & Training Resources: Information on workforce development, culinary schools, and certifications like ServSafe.

This focus on Pennsylvania’s incredible local bounty, combined with the presence of key industry associations and distributors, makes the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Expo (within PA Flavor!) an incredibly rich and relevant event for any professional operating in the state’s dynamic hospitality sector.

The Pulse of the Commonwealth: Visitor and Exhibitor Count

The Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Expo, through its integration with PA Flavor!, is a highly popular and well-attended event in Harrisburg, drawing a significant and engaged audience that includes both the general public and, crucially, a substantial number of industry professionals.

• Visitor Count: PA Flavor! typically attracts thousands of attendees over its single-day run, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. While this figure includes the public, a significant portion of attendees are:
  • Restaurant Owners & Operators: From fine dining establishments to casual eateries, cafes, and multi-unit chains across Pennsylvania.
  • Hotel & Lodging Professionals: Including general managers, F&B directors, and purchasing managers from hotels, resorts, bed & breakfasts, and inns.
  • Executive Chefs & Culinary Professionals: Seeking new ingredients, product inspiration, and networking opportunities.
  • Catering & Event Managers: Looking for unique food and beverage options for their events.
  • Beverage Directors & Bar Managers: Particularly interested in the extensive craft beer, wine, and spirits offerings from Pennsylvania.
  • Institutional Foodservice Buyers: From schools, universities, and healthcare facilities.
  • Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Individuals looking to enter or expand in the Pennsylvania food and lodging industry. The presence of the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association (PRLA) and the American Culinary Federation as co-presenters ensures that the event is a targeted draw for industry decision-makers who are actively seeking new products, partnerships, and insights.
• Exhibitor Count: The show floor is packed with a diverse array of companies, predominantly those tied to Pennsylvania’s rich food and beverage heritage. The event features hundreds of unique exhibitors, creating a dense and rewarding experience for attendees. These exhibitors typically include:
  • Pennsylvania Breweries, Wineries, and Distilleries: A major highlight, showcasing the vast and growing craft beverage scene, offering direct tasting and sourcing opportunities.
  • Local Pennsylvania Food Producers: Farmers, artisanal food creators, specialty food companies, and processors showcasing dairy, meats, produce, baked goods, sauces, and more.
  • Food & Beverage Distributors: Key regional and national distributors with strong roots in Pennsylvania, connecting producers with restaurants and hotels.
  • PRLA Partners & Industry Service Providers: Companies offering essential services such as insurance, technology, uniforms, marketing, and training relevant to the hospitality and lodging sectors.
  • Culinary Schools & Associations: Providing information on education, career development, and industry resources.

The focused nature of the exhibitors on Pennsylvania products, combined with the active participation of leading industry associations, makes the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Expo (within PA Flavor!) an incredibly effective platform for business development and fostering vital connections within the state’s hospitality community.

Pouring Success: Benefits and Perks of Attending

Attending the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Expo (as part of PA Flavor!) offers a powerful blend of strategic advantages and unique experiences, making it an invaluable annual event for any professional in Pennsylvania’s vibrant hospitality industry:

• Direct Sourcing of Local Products: This is the unparalleled primary benefit. You get direct, hands-on access to hundreds of Pennsylvania-made food and beverage products – from craft beers, wines, and spirits to artisanal cheeses, farm-fresh produce, and specialty meats. This allows you to directly engage with producers, understand their stories, and establish valuable local sourcing relationships that can differentiate your business and appeal to customers seeking “local” options.
• Unrivaled Networking Opportunities: Connect face-to-face with thousands of your peers – independent restaurateurs, hotel owners, executive chefs, caterers, and industry leaders from across all regions of Pennsylvania. Share insights, discuss common challenges, and forge invaluable partnerships that can lead to collaborations, mentorships, and a stronger professional network within the Commonwealth.
• Discover Unique Menu & Beverage Program Ideas: By tasting and discussing products directly with producers, you’ll uncover new ingredients, flavor profiles, and beverage pairings that can inspire innovative menu development and enhance your bar program, keeping your offerings fresh and exciting.
• Connect with Industry Associations: Engage directly with the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association (PRLA) and the American Culinary Federation. This is your chance to learn about their advocacy efforts, educational programs, and resources that can help your business navigate challenges, comply with regulations, and access valuable support.
• Stay Ahead of Trends: While the event heavily emphasizes local products, the presence of various producers and industry professionals means you’ll naturally gain insights into emerging food and beverage trends within Pennsylvania and the broader market.
• Cost-Saving Opportunities: Directly connecting with producers and distributors can sometimes lead to favorable pricing or terms for bulk orders, especially when establishing new partnerships.
• Showcase Pennsylvania Pride: By sourcing local products discovered at the Expo, you reinforce your commitment to supporting Pennsylvania businesses and farmers, a powerful marketing message that resonates with consumers.
• Inspiration from Culinary Experts: While exact schedules vary, the presence of chefs from the American Culinary Federation often means opportunities to see how these local products can be expertly incorporated into dishes, providing practical inspiration.
• Experience Harrisburg’s Hospitality: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Pennsylvania’s capital city. The event provides a perfect opportunity to combine business with a chance to explore Harrisburg’s attractions, dining scene, and cultural offerings.

For any foodservice or lodging professional in Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Expo (within PA Flavor!) is not merely an event to attend; it’s a strategic investment in your business’s future, offering a direct path to innovation, local sourcing, efficiency, and sustained success in this unique and flavorful state.

Your Harrisburg Home: Nearby Hotels and Convenient Accommodation

Attending the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Expo (as part of PA Flavor!) in Harrisburg means you’ll have access to a good selection of hotel options, many conveniently located to the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex & Expo Center, catering to various budgets and preferences. Harrisburg is designed to accommodate event-goers, making your stay comfortable and accessible.

Here are some highly recommended hotels, ranging from full-service to more budget-friendly, all within easy reach of the Farm Show Complex:

• Closest Proximity to Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex & Expo Center:
  • Staybridge Suites Harrisburg Hershey (IHG): Often cited as being very close or adjacent to the Farm Show Complex (around 0.5 miles), offering suite-style accommodations with kitchenettes, which can be convenient for longer stays or groups. Includes breakfast.
  • Hampton Inn & Suites Harrisburg/North: Located within a few miles of the Complex, this Hampton Inn offers comfortable rooms, complimentary breakfast, and reliable service.
  • Home2 Suites by Hilton Harrisburg North: Another excellent option for extended stays or those preferring suites, offering kitchenettes, free breakfast, and pet-friendly policies, typically a short drive from the Complex.
• Downtown Harrisburg Options (Short Drive to Complex):
  • Hilton Harrisburg: A full-service hotel located in downtown Harrisburg, offering excellent amenities, dining, and walkable access to the Capitol Building and other downtown attractions. It’s a short drive (around 2-3 miles) from the Farm Show Complex.
  • Crowne Plaza Harrisburg-Hershey (IHG): Also in downtown Harrisburg, providing comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a convenient base for exploring the city, a short drive from the Expo.
• Nearby Suburbs (Short Drive to Complex):
  • Penn Harris Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham (Camp Hill): This hotel and conference center is within easy reach of downtown Harrisburg and the Farm Show Complex. It offers onsite dining and a good range of amenities.
  • SpringHill Suites by Marriott Camp Hill: A popular choice in the Camp Hill area, offering all-suite accommodations with complimentary breakfast, a short drive to the Expo.
  • Comfort Suites Camp Hill-Harrisburg West: Another solid option in Camp Hill, providing spacious rooms and complimentary breakfast.

Booking Advice:

• Book Early: While Harrisburg has many hotels, major events at the Farm Show Complex can lead to higher occupancy, especially if other large events are concurrent. Booking several weeks or even months in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred option and rate.
• Check Official PRLA Resources: The Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association (PRLA) website or the official PA Flavor! event page may provide preferred hotel partners or special attendee rates. Always check their “Travel & Logistics” or “Hotel Information” section for the most current recommendations.
• Consider Transportation: Factor in whether you’ll have a car. While many hotels are a short drive away, having your own vehicle offers the most flexibility for getting to the Farm Show Complex and exploring the greater Harrisburg area.

Choosing a convenient and comfortable hotel ensures you can maximize your time at the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Expo (within PA Flavor!), allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the valuable opportunities and experience the charm of Harrisburg.

Investing in Pennsylvania’s Plate: Understanding the Cost to Attend

Attending the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Expo (as part of PA Flavor!) is a valuable investment for industry professionals in the state, with registration fees structured to provide access to this unique sourcing and networking opportunity.

• Attendee Registration (Industry Professionals & Public):
  • PA Flavor! offers different ticket tiers, recognizing its appeal to both the general public and industry professionals. The pricing for the upcoming April 26, 2025 event is as follows:
    • VIP Admission: Around $75 USD. This typically includes earlier access to the event (e.g., an extra hour before general admission), which is a significant perk for industry professionals looking to connect with exhibitors before the larger crowds arrive. It often includes additional exclusive tastings or experiences.
    • General Admission: Around $50 USD. This grants access during the main event hours.
    • Designated Driver Ticket: Around $25 USD. This is a lower-cost option for those not participating in alcohol tastings.
  • While the event is open to the public, the strong presence of the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association (PRLA) and American Culinary Federation ensures that it’s also a targeted gathering for professionals.
  • PRLA Members: While explicit member discounts aren’t always widely publicized on general event pages, members of the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association should always check directly with the PRLA or on their member portal for potential discounts or complimentary passes, as this is a key benefit of membership for many association-backed events.
• What Your Pass Includes: Even the standard admission pass offers immense value:
  • Direct access to hundreds of Pennsylvania food producers, breweries, wineries, and distilleries.
  • Opportunities to sample a vast array of unique, local products.
  • A chance to network with peers, establish new supplier relationships, and discover potential partners.
  • The energetic atmosphere of a major industry-supported event.
• Exhibitor Costs:
  • For Pennsylvania food and beverage producers looking to showcase their products, the cost is for exhibit booth space. This varies based on booth size and location. Information for exhibitors is typically managed through the Brewers of PA, the PRLA, or the event’s direct organizers.
  • Exhibitor packages usually include the booth space, basic setup, and a certain number of exhibitor badges.
• Additional Costs for Attendees:
  • Beyond the ticket price, attendees should budget for travel expenses (gas, tolls, parking – often $15 at the Farm Show Complex by credit card only), accommodation (hotel stay if traveling from afar), and any meals outside of the samples provided at the Expo.

The accessible pricing, especially for the VIP option which facilitates targeted industry networking, combined with the comprehensive showcase of Pennsylvania’s culinary and beverage bounty, makes the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Expo (within PA Flavor!) an incredibly high-value opportunity to enhance your business’s offerings and connections within the Commonwealth.

Your Seat at Pennsylvania’s Table: Your Journey to the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Expo Begins Here!

The Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Expo, truly embodied by the dynamic PA Flavor! event, is more than just a gathering; it’s the annual celebration of Pennsylvania’s diverse and delicious hospitality industry. It’s where the state’s agricultural heritage meets culinary innovation, where crucial business connections are forged over shared passions for quality and service, and where the next unforgettable ingredient or local beverage for your establishment is just waiting to be discovered. If you are serious about the success of your restaurant, lodging property, catering business, or any foodservice operation across the Keystone State, then marking your calendar for this Expo is an absolute must. Come and immerse yourself in the unique flavors, the invaluable insights, and the vibrant community that make Pennsylvania’s food and lodging scene truly exceptional.

To learn more about the upcoming Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Expo (PA Flavor!), including specific dates, exhibitor lists, and to secure your registration, please visit:

paflavor.com