Get ready for the
4TH ANNUAL squonkapalooza
August 1, 2026
Squonkapalooza is a FREE all-ages cryptid festival celebrating the Squonk and other creatures of Appalachian and Americana folklore and cryptozoology at Bottle Works in Johnstown, Pennsylvania.
SPONSORED BY
We will be joined by the fabulous Cosplay Queen Erica Fett of Camp Cryptid for our first-ever Squonkapalooza Cosplay Contest!!
There will be trophies and cash prizes, so come dressed to impress! Cosplay can be any genre you want, but know that your judges are partial to Cryptids.
About the Squonk
Pennsylvania’s most famous folkloric creature is the Squonk. First featured in the book Fearsome Creatures of the Lumberwoods, the Squonk is said to live in the Hemlock forest in Pennsylvania. According to legend, the Squonk always cries because it’s so hideous.
Searching out the Squonk is no easy task, but if you find yourself in the forest on a moonlit night, you might just spot one. Follow a puddled path and listen carefully for the sobbing sounds of a sorrowful Squonk.
Why celebrate the saddest creature in the world? We want to turn those frowns upside down. Spreading the love of the Squonk might cheer them up.
WHAT TO SEE AT SQUONKAPALOOZA
SPEAKERS
Engaging speakers share stories, ideas, and insights related to creativity, fandom, and community, offering inspiration and fun takeaways throughout the day.
VENDORS
SQUONK QUEST
Grab a map and play Squonk Quest! Visit the Squonkapalooza vendors and complete the challenges, get your tickets punched, fulfill the quest, and win prizes.
MUSIC
ENTERTAINERS
COSPLAY
Past Events
BECOME A SPONSOR!
Squonkapalooza is one of the fastest-growing events in the country.
The day of the event draws thousands of guests! Additionally, we receive a high volume of visitors to our website and social media platforms throughout the year.
Get seen and heard when you become a sponsor!