Squonkapalooza returning to downtown Johnstown

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. (WTAJ) — Squonkapalooza is a family-friendly event that celebrates one of Pennsylvania's very own cryptids!

The Squonk is a creature described as being ashamed of its own appearance and it spends most of its time weeping. It's believed to have ill-fitting skin, covered in warts and that it dissolves into a pool of tears whenever it's cornered.

The event is held as a celebration of the creature. It will be held this year on Saturday, Aug. 10 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in Central Park in downtown Johnstown. It's hosted by local artist Joe Fogle of Cryptoteeology and fellow artist and seamstress Lisa Russell of Cryptid Comforts in conjunction with the City of Johnstown.

It's free to attend and there will be food trucks, live music, speakers, a cryptid carnival, a compliment contest and a variety of vendors offering unique merchandise as well as a plethora of fun activities.

“The response and turnout for the first Squonkapalooza was amazing and well beyond expectations...