About Pajama Factory
The Pajama Factory is a unique arts and events venue located in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Housed in a sprawling historic industrial complex, it spans roughly 300,000 square feet (pajamafactory.net ) of repurposed factory space that once manufactured shoes and sneakers. The facility dates back to the late 19th century: originally built by the Lycoming Rubber Company between 1883 and 1919 (pajamafactory.net ), it later became home to the world’s largest pajama factory. By the 1950s, the Weldon Pajama Company occupied the site and it inspired the Broadway musical and movie “The Pajama Game” (pajamafactory.net ).
Today, the factory lives again as a creative community hub. Local developers Mark and Suzanne Winkelman purchased the complex in 2007 and transformed it into studios, galleries and event spaces (pajamafactory.net ). Across eight linked brick buildings around a private courtyard, over 100 artists, entrepreneurs and small businesses now work under one roof (pajamafactory.net ). The site is even listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places because of its important heritage (pajamafactory.net ). Architecturally, it retains much of its industrial character – high steel-truss ceilings, original hardwood floors and enormous multi-pane factory windows flood the halls with natural light. This blend of historic charm and creative energy is what makes the Pajama Factory special: an old mill reimagined as a bustling arts center and “sandbox” of possibilities (pajamafactory.net ) (pajamafactory.net ).
Events and Programming
The Pajama Factory is active year-round with an eclectic schedule of arts and entertainment. Live music is a major draw – from local indie bands to national blues and rock acts. For example, its annual New Year’s Blues Bash (now in its 12th year (www.sungazette.com )) brings in regional blues bands like The Nighthawks and others as a community fundraiser. Monthly and seasonal events fill the calendar. Tenants offer classes and workshops (for instance, the on-site Factory Works nonprofit holds darkroom photography and ceramics sessions (pajamafactory.net )). Besides classes, the space hosts community gatherings – poetry readings, comedy shows, dance and fitness classes (like Zumba or yoga) and more.
February First Friday: A popular art walk and open-studios night each month (pajamafactory.net ).Green-o-Ree: An eco-themed spring festival with art markets and garden tours (pajamafactory.net ).Octofest: An autumn harvest festival featuring crafts and local food.Holiday Market: A winter craft fair in December with local artisans (pajamafactory.net ).Factory Fest: A summer music festival created by tenants, featuring multiple live bands, food trucks and open art studios (pajamafactory.net ) (pajamafactory.net ).
In other words, the venue alternates between big community events and smaller headliner shows. Most concerts will charge admission in the range of about $10–35. For example, one recent Blues Bash concert was listed at $35 (www.songkick.com ). Daytime art programming and workshops are often free or very low-cost. To keep track of specific events and ticket releases, check the Pajama Factory’s official calendar or local media announcements – many shows will sell tickets through local outlets or at the door on event night.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets are sold on a per-event basis, as there is no central box office at the facility. For large shows and festivals, local businesses or online outlets may handle advance sales, but it is common to buy tickets at the door on the night of the event. If you must purchase ahead of time, watch for announcements on the Pajama Factory website or social media – sometimes local shops or the event promoters will sell advance tickets. Because capacity is limited (around 300 in the main halls), popular shows can sell out, so arriving early or reserving in advance is wise. Ticket prices vary widely: small workshops might be free or under $10, while major concerts typically range from $10 up to the mid-$30s. For example, one recent blues concert was priced at $35 (www.songkick.com ).
Seating and Layout
The Pajama Factory’s event spaces are essentially large, open halls. Both the Clerestory Ballroom and the Community Room can hold up to about 300 people (pajamafactory.net ) (pajamafactory.net ). Neither room has fixed seating. For concerts and shows, floors are left open for general admission. Portable chairs may be set up along the sides or back if needed for seated audiences. The raised stage in the Community Room overlooks the main floor, so the best spot for viewing a performance is generally center-facing the stage. The ballroom’s high ceilings and wide layout mean you can stand almost anywhere, but front-center will always put you in the thick of the action. The open wood floors and brick walls give the halls bright acoustics – sound carries well, though they can have a natural reverb.
Front/Center: These spots offer the clearest view of the stage and help you hear the full mix of the sound system. (Arrive early to claim these areas.)Sides or Back: These positions usually still see and hear the show fine, though performers may appear smaller. They can offer extra space if the front is crowded.Avoid extreme corners: The very edges or extreme rear of the hall are the noisiest spots – sound may be slightly fainter and lighting can be less direct there.
Getting There and Parking
The venue address is 1307 Park Avenue, South Williamsport, PA . It’s on the south side of the city, near the Susquehanna River and Memorial Boulevard. Driving is the easiest way to reach it. There is a large free parking lot behind the complex (via Rose Street and Cemetery Street) that serves most events (webbweekly.com ). This newer lot has been paved and clearly marked as the front entrance. You’ll also find limited street parking along Park Avenue and nearby side streets, though these can fill up on busy nights. If parking in the lot, note any “reserved” spots (often for buses or staff).
Public Transit: Williamsport’s city buses (River Valley Transit) run downtown but there is no stop at the Pajama Factory. The nearest bus routes are on Third Street and Memorial Blvd, about a mile north. You would need to walk or get a taxi from there.Rideshare/Taxi: Uber and Lyft do service Williamsport. Drivers usually drop off in front of the red-brick building on Park Ave. Taxis are also available – ask a local cab company for a ride. Rideshares are recommended especially if you’re staying elsewhere and plan to drink, since local buses do not run late at night.From Highways: If coming from the north (e.g. I-180 or US-15), follow signs to downtown Williamsport, then head to Park Ave. The Pajama Factory’s tall smokestack chimney is a visible landmark on Park Ave.
Inside the Venue
When you arrive, you’ll enter through one of the factory’s main doors. Look for the iconic red door with star motifs – that’s the Community Room entrance (pajamafactory.net ). Inside, the lobby area and hallways are lined with studios, display windows and artwork by resident tenants. The atmosphere feels more like a gallery than a dark nightclub. You’ll check your ticket at the doorway (sometimes with a quick security sweep on big shows). Staff members and signs will direct you to the event hall.
Amenities inside are basic but functional. Each main hall has restrooms nearby – usually one on each side of the building. The Community Room has a built-in bar (serving beer, wine and soft drinks) during 21+ events; otherwise water fountains are not obvious (bringing a water bottle is wise). There is no full kitchen or on-site restaurant open during events, so plan to eat before you come. A small on-site cafe (Buzzsaw Coffee) operates in daytime for coffee and pastries (www.buzzsawcoffee.com ), but it is not open late. Merchandise tables at concerts are common for the bands or art vendors. Wi-Fi coverage is limited; the building has fast internet, but guests often rely on cellular data (service can be spotty). If you need to charge a phone, there are some outlets along the walls near the stage areas.
Coat Check: There isn’t an official coat check room. On colder nights people generally hang coats on racks or keep them at their feet.Merchandise: Look for tables by the stage: performers and artists often sell CDs, art prints or crafts at events. A permanent gift shop is not yet open on-site, though a “Factory Made” store is planned.Photography: Phone or small camera snapshots are usually okay for personal use, but do not use flash during shows. Professional cameras (with large lenses) or video equipment normally require prior permission.Accessibility: The ground-level halls are on one floor and have level entry. The owners are installing a full elevator to reach upper floors (webbweekly.com ), but currently upstairs areas are not fully accessible. Restrooms on the main level are wheelchair friendly. If you have special needs, contact the venue in advance to arrange assistance.
Nearby Amenities
Pajama Factory is in a mixed neighborhood of shops and homes. Some useful spots nearby (a few minutes’ drive or a 15–20 minute walk) include:
Restaurants: Within a 2-mile radius you’ll find many eating options. Notably, The Brickyard Burgers & Brews (343 Pine St) is a local favorite for gourmet burgers and craft beer (thebrickyard.net ). Franco’s Lounge (casual Italian/Pizza) and Wynkoop/Saxton’s (bar fare) are on nearby streets. Downtown Williamsport (4th St area) has diners and cafes. For a quick meal, there are pizza and sandwich shops along Pine St and Plaza Blvd.Cafes & Coffee: Buzzsaw Coffee is on-site (serving fresh coffee for mornings). Otherwise, Chains like Starbucks or local coffee shops are on Memorial Blvd downtown (1 mile away).Hotels: Several hotels are a short drive away. The Fairfield Inn & Suites and Residence Inn (both on West 3rd Street, about 1 mile east) are convenient. A Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express and other chain motels are just off Interstate 180 (2–3 miles north). All are typical moderately priced hotels where visitors often stay during festival weekends.Nightlife: Williamsport has a few brewpubs and bars. Rusty Rail Brewing Co. is on Pine St downtown (with gulf games and live music nights), and Logan’s Taproom on Temple Street serves craft beer. Keep in mind that after a late show, third-party transportation (Uber/taxi) may be needed, as few bars open past midnight.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Pajama Factory stands out because it truly is a living community, not just an empty hall. Walking around you might bump into a painter at work or pass a pottery open house before your show. Its historic character is a big part of the draw: you’re under a 24-foot-tall steel truss ceiling inside original brick walls, and even the windows are impressive (thick glass panes that diffuse sunlight in a unique way). The owners have made a point of preserving these features. For instance, a major grant in 2018 funded a new passenger elevator and several new studio spaces, ensuring the building’s history is protected while adding modern amenities (webbweekly.com ). Interestingly, many people in town have personal ties here – as one report noted, visitors often reminisce about family members who worked in the old factory (webbweekly.com ). This connection to local history makes the venue a beloved “cornerstone of the city.”
Culturally, it lives at the heart of Williamsport’s arts scene. It helped launch the city’s First Friday art walks, and it hosts local nonprofits (for example, the community radio station WXPI–88.5 and the Williamsport Guardian newspaper operate from here (keystoneedge.com )). The variety of tenants (artists, tech startups, craftsmen) means every event is exciting and authentic. Even performers appreciate it; one event organizer called the Blues Bash “one of the region’s best holiday party events” (www.sungazette.com ). In short, artists and audiences love Pajama Factory’s friendly, DIY vibe and historic charm. It feels like a fun party in a beautiful old space rather than a generic concert hall.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The main event spaces are on the ground floor with step-free entry. The tall ceilings can make the air cooler, so bring a light jacket if you tend to chill easily. An elevator is being installed for upper levels (webbweekly.com ), but currently those floors are only reachable by stairs. Restrooms on the main level are wheelchair accessible. If you have any mobility needs, consider arriving a bit early to get oriented.
What to Bring: Dress casually and comfortably. The factory floors are concrete, so sturdy shoes are best. You may want earplugs for very loud shows. Bring cash if you’ll buy merchandise or snacks (there’s usually a card reader at the door, but cash can be handy too). A small bag or jacket is fine, just know large backpacks may be checked on busy nights.Food & Drink: Beyond an occasional food truck at big events, there isn’t on-site dining after hours. The on-site cafe (Buzzsaw) is open in daytime for coffee/tea. If you plan to drink alcohol, a full bar is set up during concert events; outside alcohol is normally not allowed (except when a show explicitly permits BYOB beer/wine). Bringing a refillable water bottle is a good idea.Photography: Phone cameras are fine for personal snapshots. Avoid using flash during performances. Professional cameras/video without permission should be left at home unless pre-approved by the event promoters.Common Mistakes: Don’t leave parking to the last minute on big nights – that lot fills quickly. Plan your exit strategy if you’re drinking (Uber or cab, since buses stop early). Check age limits on tickets: many evening concerts require attendees to be 18+ or 21+ (if alcohol is served). Also, some first-time visitors forget to explore the building; after door prize, take a minute to walk through the galleries and studios if there’s time—it’s part of the experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I purchase tickets for events at the Pajama Factory?
Ticket sales are handled on a per-event basis. Many shows sell tickets at the door on the night of the event (cash and credit accepted). For larger concerts or festivals, advance tickets may be available through local outlets or the event organizers. The official Pajama Factory website and local radio/press will announce any ticket presales or door-details. There is no permanent box office at the venue, so check each event’s notice for ticket info.
What do tickets typically cost?
Ticket prices vary widely by event. Workshops and community classes are often free or under $10. Small concerts and lectures usually range $10–20. Major shows and festivals can be more; for example, a recent headline concert was priced at $35 (www.songkick.com ). Always check the specific event listing – most announcements will list the price or let you know when tickets go on sale.
What is the Pajama Factory’s address and is parking available?
The address is 1307 Park Avenue, Williamsport, PA 17701. There is free parking available in the large lot behind the building (enter via Rose Street/Cemetery Street) (webbweekly.com ). You can also find street parking on Park Avenue and adjacent roads, but these spots may fill up quickly on event nights. It’s best to arrive early to secure a spot.
Are there public transit or ride-share options to get to the Pajama Factory?
Williamsport has no direct train or subway routes. The city bus service (River Valley Transit) stops in downtown Williamsport, so any stop would require a long walk (about 1 mile) or a taxi to reach Park Avenue. Because of this, most visitors drive or use rideshare. Uber and Lyft operate locally and can drop you at the front entrance. Taxis are available as well. If you plan to drink, rideshare/taxi is recommended since buses do not run late at night.
Are seats reserved or is it general admission?
Most events are general admission. Neither hall has fixed seating. For music shows and performances, attendees typically stand on the open floor. If seating is provided (for a banquet or formal event), it will be on the floor facing the stage. In practice, you choose your own spot when you arrive. If you want a guaranteed front spot, plan to arrive early before seating fills up.
Where should I stand or sit for the best view at a show?
The best viewing spot is usually near the front center area facing the stage. This gives you a clear line of sight and the fullest sound experience. Standing or sitting against a side wall or further back can still work (the halls are fairly wide-open), but you may feel the audio and visuals are slightly reduced from those angles. Generally, try to position yourself where you can see the performers head-on and nearly all the speakers and lights are pointing toward you.
Is photography allowed during events?
Phone cameras and small point-and-shoot cameras are usually fine for personal snapshots. You should turn off any flash during performances. Professional photography/videography equipment (large DSLRs, tripods, etc.) is generally not allowed unless the artist or venue has made special arrangements. When in doubt, ask a staff member at the door about photography rules for that event.
Is the Pajama Factory wheelchair accessible?
The main concert rooms and public areas on ground level are accessible (no stairs at the entry). The building is undergoing improvements: a full elevator was funded in 2018 and is being installed (webbweekly.com ). Until it is finished, some upper-story areas will only be reachable by stairs. Accessible restrooms are available on the main floor. If you need special accommodations, contact the venue beforehand so arrangements can be made.
What is the bag policy and security like?
Security is minimal and friendly. Small purses or daypacks are generally fine; however, large backpacks or bulky bags may be subject to brief inspection at the door, especially at packed concerts. You’ll want to check or avoid bringing large items like tripods or outside containers. Weapons and illegal items are, of course, not allowed. In short: pack light and expect a quick pat-down on crowded nights.
Is the venue family-friendly?
Children of all ages are welcome at most daytime and arts events (like markets, fairs or workshops). However, many evening concerts and parties are restricted to 18 and up, or even 21+ if alcohol is served. Always check the event details – family-friendly show listings will specify if kids are allowed. For the Blues Bash and similar late-night concerts, ages 18+ is typical.
What items can I bring with me?
Bring your essentials for comfort. This often means a light jacket (the halls can feel cool), earplugs for loud music, and a water bottle (sealed). You can bring a small snack if needed, but outside alcohol is generally prohibited (unless an event specifically says BYOB). Phones, cameras and small personal items are fine. Just avoid anything large that could block aisles or be considered outside contraband.
Can I bring food or drinks into the venue?
The Pajama Factory does not serve food (outside of Buzzsaw Coffee during the day). Some events feature food trucks or concession stands, but generally plan to eat elsewhere first. You can usually bring a sealed water bottle. Outside alcoholic beverages are not allowed unless the event explicitly permits BYOB (and even then, some restrictions apply).
Are there restrooms and beverage stations available?
Yes. Restrooms are located inside the factory near each event space – typically one set of men’s and women’s facilities per hall. The Community Room has a working bar for drinks during shows. However, there are no public water fountains – it’s a good idea to bring a water bottle if you want water during an event.
Is Wi-Fi available at the Pajama Factory?
The building was recently upgraded with high-speed internet (webbweekly.com ), but there is no guaranteed public Wi-Fi login. Some events may offer a guest network, but do not count on it. Cell phone service is generally reliable, though it can be weaker in certain interior spots.
Why is it called the Pajama Factory?
The name honors the building’s history. In 1951 the Weldon Pajama Company bought this complex, and for about 30 years it operated as the world’s largest pajama factory (pajamafactory.net ). When the current owners revived the space, they adopted the “Pajama Factory” name as a nod to that legacy. No pajamas are actually made here today; the name just keeps the history alive.
