Local businesses are trying to get back on track as the 2021 calendar turns its first page for the first time.

After opening just before the pandemic started in 2020, the Hofford Mill has adapted to many challenges over the past year.

As things begin to reopen, the Weissport venue is looking to offer more variety of entertainment to Carbon County and the surrounding area. Hofford Mill already offers a unique taste for locals. It features The Gorge Eatery, a restaurant with a revamped menu, private event space, coffee shop, ax throwing and much more.

“We want to start doing more dinner and entertainment,” said owner Kathryn McEvilly. “I know a lot of people go out for live music, but there is other stuff too. Right now, we’re not booking live music, I’m kind of waiting to see where things go.”

Earlier in January, Hofford Mill welcomed Ray Sette, a world-renowned spiritualist, psychic and medium. A 12-course meal was offered to Sette and 38 guests who bought a ticket to the event.

“I spaced everything out around the room, but it was still cozy,” McEvilly said. “Everything was lit by candle. It’ll be something similar next time, but with less courses.”

Sette will be returning on Feb. 13 at 6:30 p.m. for an evening filled with great food and an interesting experience.

“I’d like to get some other things going on where people have stuff to look forward to,” McEvilly said. “Some people are apprehensive about going out, other people do not care. I find that we can have that middle ground. I know we have people that come in our place that are afraid and still end up being comfortable. If we keep striking that balance, I’m happy.”

The Gorge Eatery is now open Thursday-Sunday. For more on Hofford Mill, visit thehoffordmill.com, or visit its Facebook page.

Not too far from Hofford Mill is Penn’s Peak, which dealt with many statewide regulations as well.

Earlier this month, the venue announced additions to its Winter Encore Series. Marketing manager Krysta Fink said Penn’s Peak held outdoor events through Nov. 1.

“We had tents on the deck with heaters under them and tried to stay outside as long as possible,” Fink added. “We moved inside in November and were able to hold five events in the concert hall. We sold tickets as tables of four and eight people and socially distanced everyone.

“Servers and bartenders served food and drinks right to the tables. The turnout was great. We ended up selling out a few events. We were limited to 370 people (including band, servers, event staff, etc.) as opposed to our normal 1,800-plus people. In December, we had six events scheduled, but were unable to hold them due to the limited time mitigation order by the governor.”

A Proud Monkey (tribute to Dave Matthews Band) will perform on Feb. 19. Green River (tribute to Creedence Clearwater Revival and John Fogerty) will be at the venue on Feb. 20. On Feb. 27, Triple Rail Turn - The Modern Country Band will hit the stage. General seating admission is $50 for a table of up to four people.

“Most people were supportive of us closing in December,” said Fink. “Of course, some wanted us to remain open, but our first priority is keeping our staff and guests safe.”

For more on Penn’s Peak, visit pennspeak.com or its Facebook page.