Eat'n Park Smiley Cookie Crowned 2026 Coolest Thing Made in PA

Local restaurant celebrates 40th anniversary while sharing iconic treats with TV news crew.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 6:57pm

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A high-contrast, photorealistic studio photograph of a single Eat'n Park Smiley Cookie, its iconic yellow color and cheerful shape highlighted against a clean white background through dramatic lighting and shadows.The beloved Eat'n Park Smiley Cookie, crowned the 2026 Coolest Thing Made in Pennsylvania, shines in a premium studio still life.Altoona Today

The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry has announced the Eat'n Park Smiley Cookie as the winner of the 2026 Coolest Things Made in PA competition. The iconic cookie, produced by the Altoona-based restaurant chain, was celebrated by the WTAJ Weekend Crew, who shared the treats on live TV and promoted the diverse range of products made across the Commonwealth.

Why it matters

The Eat'n Park Smiley Cookie is a beloved regional icon that has become synonymous with Pennsylvania pride. Its victory in the Coolest Things Made in PA competition highlights the state's vibrant manufacturing and food production sectors, while also celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Altoona Eat'n Park location.

The details

The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry's annual Coolest Things Made in PA competition featured a diverse array of products from companies across the state. This year, the Eat'n Park Smiley Cookie emerged victorious, with the restaurant chain expressing gratitude for the support it received from fans. The WTAJ Weekend Crew celebrated the win by sharing Smiley Cookies with viewers, including sports anchor Ryan Risky, who was trying the iconic treat for the first time.

  • The 2026 Coolest Things Made in PA competition was held in April 2026.
  • The Altoona Eat'n Park location is celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2026.

The players

Eat'n Park Restaurants

A regional restaurant chain known for its iconic Smiley Cookies and commitment to community values.

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry

The state's leading business advocacy organization, which hosts the annual Coolest Things Made in PA competition.

WTAJ

A local television station in Altoona, Pennsylvania, that covered the Smiley Cookie's victory and shared the treats with its viewers.

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What they’re saying

“The PA Chamber's bracket featured so many amazing made-in-Pennsylvania products that represented a diverse group of companies and industries, and we're so grateful to everyone who showed their love for Smiley Cookies! We are truly honored they were named 'Coolest Thing Made in PA!'”

— Courtney Koch, Spokesperson, Eat'n Park Restaurants

The takeaway

The Eat'n Park Smiley Cookie's victory in the Coolest Things Made in PA competition is a testament to the enduring appeal of regional icons and the strength of Pennsylvania's manufacturing and food production sectors. The celebration of this iconic treat on local television also highlights the power of community-driven brands to bring people together and foster a sense of state pride.