Latrobe traces the banana split to pharmacy apprentice David Strickler, who created the dessert in the city in 1904. After Pennsylvania installed a historical marker recognizing that connection, the modern Great American Banana Split Celebration began in 2013 and turned the hometown claim into an annual downtown festival.
Visitors can expect banana-themed eating and baking contests, live music, family activities, vendors, a car show and other attractions spread through downtown Latrobe. The main festival is free to attend, while separately registered events such as races, special dinners or competitions may charge fees. Activities use several downtown locations rather than one enclosed festival ground.