2017’s Celebration is slated for August 25, 26 & 27.
23 year old David Strickler created this historic treat in 1904 at the downtown drug store’s soda fountain and people have been enjoying the creation for over 100 years. The town established the three day celebration in honor of this famous treat.
Although others have claimed they are the home of the banana split, evidence shows that Latrobe is the top banana! For years the debate raged on, until historians came to the conclusion that the City of Latrobe was where the Banana Split was invented!
He enjoyed experimenting with sundaes at the store’s soda fountain and one day in 1904 he came up with the banana-based triple scoop ice cream sundae. The sundae originally cost 10 cents, twice the price of other sundaes, and caught on with students of nearby Saint Vincent College. News of a new variety of sundae quickly spread by word-of-mouth and through correspondence and soon progressed far beyond Latrobe.
In 2004 – the 100 year anniversary of the Banana Split – The National Ice Cream Retailers Association (NICRA) gave Latrobe’s mayor a certificate honoring the city as the banana split’s birthplace and Strickler – its father.
The Great American Banana Split Celebration is an annual event that takes place in downtown Latrobe, PA for a 3 days. Artisan vendors from all over the region set up for the event, in addition to great food, there is a 5K race, entertainment, climbing wall, art & craft booths, car cruise, pie eating contest and much more! 2016’s celebration brought over 25,000 individuals to last year’s event.
Laurie’s Uncorked Creations sets up shop on the streets of downtown Latrobe to join in the fun for this 3 day historic event. Shop the specialty items handmade and hand painted crafts for this exclusive festival! The booth will be located at 215 Main Street, in front of Knupp & Scholfield Country Cottage. Enjoy street shopping and in store specials, including FREE Wine Tasting throughout the three day celebration.
Come enjoy great food, great shopping and great FUN this summer.
