Art and community go hand in hand, and few understand this better than York-based cultural advocate and creative connector Corey Wolfe. Through his work with Red Lion ROARS, a nonprofit devoted to amplifying the arts in the town of Red Lion, and his public mural and community-driven improvement projects in York City, Corey has become a driving force in making York County’s creative spaces more accessible and transformative.
Corey’s journey, his vision for a vibrant arts culture, and his unique projects embody the #CultureHappensHere spirit. And that’s why we wanted to find out how he experiences, celebrates, and shares York County’s vibrant culture in Red Lion and beyond.
We recently caught up with Corey to learn more about his passion for public art, dedication to revitalizing spaces, and the local cultural happenings he’s most excited about—like an exclusive adult-sized playground equipment installation he thinks you won’t want to miss.
This Isn’t Just Small-Town Red Lion, PA. It’s an Emerging Arts Scene.
While Red Lion may seem like any other small town in Central Pennsylvania, it’s quietly growing into a vibrant hub for arts and culture. Known for its rich musical history and a community fueled by creativity, Red Lion has always had art at its core. Now, a new movement is reshaping the town’s image by fully embracing its artistic roots to develop vibrant new cultural ventures. Like many Central Pennsylvania towns, Red Lion’s manufacturing past left behind character-filled old buildings, now being transformed into perfect venues with the help of community organization Red Lion ROARS.
Corey notes that Red Lion’s blossoming arts and culture scene is still somewhat under the radar, but really cool things are happening. One of the most exciting projects, the soon-to-open Franklin Street Social, embodies Corey’s vision for arts-centered community spaces. Billed as York County’s first food hall and set within a reclaimed furniture factory, Franklin Street Social will feature an eclectic lineup of local vendors, public art installations, and even an “adult slide,” all designed to make arts engagement fun and accessible (Corey can’t wait to try the slide).
Having grown up just down the road from Red Lion in Airville, Corey feels deeply connected to the town’s revitalization through the arts. When asked, “Why Red Lion?” It’s a mix of hometown pride and a vision for a vibrant cultural future throughout York County that informs his response. “Red Lion has so much potential,” Corey shares. “It’s incredible to see how even small installations, like murals and sculptures, can transform public perception and make people feel proud of where they’re from.”
A Brewery Boom and Creative Gathering Spots.
Another one of Corey’s passions lies in cultivating York County’s brewery and coffee shop scene, which support brewing traditions that he considers art forms in themselves. Having worked in the brewery industry for almost a decade, Corey knows that breweries and coffee shops are not just places to grab a drink but community hubs where art and culture can thrive. “Brewing is an art, just like painting a mural,” he says, “and these spaces have become gathering points for local artists and residents alike.” In Red Lion alone, three breweries now attract locals for casual gatherings and live music, contributing to the town’s artsy atmosphere.
Back in York, Corey is also in the process of planning his own brewery project, which he hopes will offer another space for artistic and cultural exchanges in the community. And that’s not nearly all he’s working on!
Even More Cultural Connections in York and Beyond.
Beyond his work in Red Lion, Corey dedicates himself to projects across York City, volunteering as a board member at DreamWrights Center for Community Arts, performing at the York Fringe Festival, and collaborating on a project to bring a “city paper” back to York (“Remember the BarFly?” he asks), just to name a few.
He has also begun developing a graffiti mitigation effort that not only beautifies neighborhoods but fosters unity and pride among residents. All of this is on top of his background in public art management. In Corey’s words, “Public art is my favorite thing… I’ll be doing it for free for a long time, hopefully with some paid opportunities along the way.” From pop-up murals to immersive community events, Corey’s efforts showcase the power of art to bring people together, and, in doing so, to shape the identity and future of York County.
As Corey continues his journey, his work is a testament to the power of local art and its ability to foster connection, creativity, and transformation. York County’s cultural community is lucky to have such a committed advocate who is helping to build an art-filled future and demonstrating that #CultureHappensHere—it surrounds us. It IS us.
#CultureHappensHere – Get Inspired and Join the Conversation.
Looking for cool cultural happenings and events? Want to volunteer with an organization to promote arts and culture in York County? You’re in the right place.
Check out the York365 event calendar for upcoming performances, events, and so much more! And don’t forget to explore more about some of Corey Wolfe’s favorite cultural organizations and experiences:
Red Lion ROARS
Franklin Street Social
DreamWrights Center for Community Arts
Re-Source York
Kable House Presents Concert Series
York & Lancaster Story Slam
