EVENTS 2024
Nov 23
Cargill Holiday Parade
The parade will feature giant parade balloons, marching band and dance team performances, decorated floats, characters, Santa Claus and more. Find us on Facebook for details.
Nov 29 - Dec 30
Festival of Lights
Each year, York County Parks celebrates the holiday season with Christmas Magic- A Festival of Lights at Rocky Ridge Park. Enjoy more than one million twinkling LED lights and animated scenes as you venture down the half-mile ADA walking trail surrounded by picturesque woods! Wander along a candy cane-lined walkway and through trees adorned with multi-colored lights while trying to spot all the characters hiding among nature. Warm up with hot chocolate and cookies while taking advantage of the various photo opportunities as well! It’s a truly magical experience for visitors of all ages! Details at yorkcountypa.gov.
Dec 6-8
Christmas at Fort Hunter
Centennial Barn at Fort Hunter will host a craft reunion. The event will feature handmade crafts for sale, including pottery, jewelry, candles, and more. Complete details are available at dauphincounty.gov.
Dec 14
Christmas at Italian Lake
The eighth annual Christmas at Italian Lake event will highlight the spirit of the season by bringing the greater Harrisburg region together in a day of joy, celebration, and twinkling Christmas nostalgia. All proceeds benefit Bethesda Mission with the goal of helping the nonprofit meet the needs of the homeless population of Harrisburg. Learn more at christmasitalianlake.com.
Glass Lounge Restaurant
Steaks, seafood & sandwiches offered in a long-running tavern with an unpretentious vibe.
4745 N Front St, Harrisburg, PA 17110
Phone: (717) 255-9919 | Web: www.theglasslounge.net
1700 Degrees Steakhouse
Elegant eatery featuring creative meat & seafood dishes along with an extensive wine list.
One N 2nd St, Harrisburg, PA 17101
Phone: (717) 237-6400 | Web: 1700restaurant.com
note. bistro & winebar
Cozy, modern spot with seasonal, European-inspired food & a full bar in a converted Victorian house.
1530 N 2nd St, Harrisburg, PA 17102
Phone: (717) 412-7415 | Web: www.notewinebar.com
Have a restaurant you’d like us to feature?
Send in a recommendation for your favorite restaurant to be added to our list. Be sure to mention why you think they are worthy of being featured and include a link to their website.
Sammy’s Authentic Italian
Traditional Italian pastas & mains served in a polished dining room with a BYOB policy.
502 N 3rd St #1112, Harrisburg, PA
Progress Grill
American restaurant for surf ‘n’ turf & cocktails served in an unassuming dining room & bar.
3526 Walnut St, Harrisburg, PA
El Sol Mexican Restaurant
This spacious, colorful Mexican eatery offers classic dishes & a full bar with lots of tequilas.
18 S 3rd St, Harrisburg, PA
Cafe Fresco Center City
Stylish bistro & bar specializing in creative combinations of Asian & American flavors.
215 N 2nd St, Harrisburg, PA
Los Tres Cubanos Restaurant
Lively place with an old-world atmosphere & traditional Cuban plates, plus special events.
540 Race St, Harrisburg, PA
1700 Degrees Steakhouse
Elegant eatery featuring creative meat & seafood dishes along with an extensive wine list.
One N 2nd St, Harrisburg, PA
Stock’s on 2nd
Contemporary American bar/ grill with private-event rooms & a menu built on fare such as sandwiches.
211 N 2nd St, Harrisburg, PA
The Sturges Speakeasy Tavern with a rooftop deck, offering contemporary American pub food with craft beer & cocktails.
400 Forster St, Harrisburg, PA
Rubicon
Locally sourced French cuisine & cocktails served in a soaring interior with contemporary accents.
270 North St, Harrisburg, PA
Glass Lounge Restaurant
Steaks, seafood & sandwiches offered in a long-running tavern with an unpretentious vibe.
4745 N Front St, Harrisburg, PA
EVENTS 2025
JAN 14-19
Pretty Woman: The Muscial
“PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL,” based on one of Hollywood’s most beloved romantic stories of all time, springs to life with a powerhouse creative team led by two-time Tony Award-winning director and choreographer Jerry Mitchell (“Hairspray,” “Kinky Boots,” “Legally Blonde”). Are you ready to fall in love all over again? Get your tickets at hersheypa.com.
Jan 18
Ales on the Rails: A Taste of Winter!
Join the knowledgeable and experienced Beer Guides of Brewery Tours as they hop back on the Northern Central Railway for another educational and entertaining craft beer experience that focuses on winter seasonal craft beers. Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or just starting to discover the world of craft beer, Ales on the Rails will offer a journey like no other. Don’t miss this unforgettable, winter-inspired experience! Details at ultimatecraftbeerexperience.com.
Feb 1
Elvis Tribute featuring Victor Trevino
Victor Trevino Jr is a talented actor, singer, musician, songwriter, and award-winning Elvis tribute artist bringing the music, the magic and the memory of the king of Rock ‘n’ Roll to audiences worldwide. His goal is to recreate the amazing energy, raw passion, and showmanship of the greatest entertainer the world has ever known. He gives Elvis fans a glimpse of what it may have been like to see the real Elvis in concert. Details at theeich.org.
Feb 8
Cupid’s Chase 5K
All participants get a Cupid’s Chase Short Sleeve T-Shirt, Finisher Medal, Drawstring Bag and Keepsake Bib! Limited Edition Cupid’s Chase shirts
EVENTS 2025
will be first come, first served on race day if you do not register by January 1st. Finisher medals are guaranteed while supplies last!All funds raised will benefit Community Options, Inc. in support of people with disabilities. Visit explorehbg.com.
Mar 1
Ice & Fire Festival
The City of Harrisburg presents the 8th annual Ice & Fire Festival on Saturday, March 1, 2025 from 11am-7pm. This free event will feature 60+ large and small ice sculptures throughout the City and a Downtown street festival with an ice slide, fire dancers, live ice carvings, fire pits and smores, performances by local school and community groups, kids activities, vendors, and more. Ice sculptures will be along the Downtown street festival path on North 2nd Street and Market Street, as well as City Island, Midtown, Italian Lake, Shipoke, & Reservoir Park. The sculptures will be illuminated starting at 5pm. Visit harrisburgpa.gov for details.
Apr 25 - May 11
Murder on the Orient Express
ust after midnight, a snowdrift stops the Orient Express in its tracks. The luxurious train is surprisingly full for the time of the year, but by the morning it is one passenger fewer. An American tycoon lies dead in his compartment, stabbed eight times, his door locked from the inside. Isolated and with a killer in their midst, the passengers rely on detective Hercule Poirot to identify the murderer – in case he or she decides to strike again. We are so excited to enter into this next chapter with you all. More information on auditions to come. On behalf of everyone at Theatre Harrisburg, thank you so much for your patronage! We hope you will join us as we turn the page to Season 99! See you at the theatre! Details at visithersheyharrisburg.org.
April 17-19
2025 Central PA Chainsaw Carvers Festival
The 3-day event showcases the talents of professional chainsaw carvers from across the country, with unique carvings for sale, speed carves,
EVENTS 2025
auctions, food trucks, vendors, and more! The event is held on over 100 acres of the beautiful and spacious Shippensburg Fairgrounds. Visit shippensburg.org.
May 24-26
Artfest
The 57th annual Artsfest will feature 150+ juried artisans and craftsmen from across the country. Hand-crafted works will be available for sale in sixteen different categories, including ceramics, digital, drawing, fiber (decorative and wearable), furniture, glass, jewelry, leather, metal, miscellaneous, mixed media, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture and wood. The festival also features live entertainment, Jazzfest, a community art project, Kidsfest, HBGFest powered by the HBG Flea, 25 food trucks, plein air painters, and more. Details at harrisburgpa.gov.
Jun 7
2025 Foundry Day Arts & Crafts Festival
Featuring more than 100 juried craftsmen and artists will showcase handmade jewelry, photography, fine art, pottery, furniture, decorative painting, leather work, enameling, woodworking, metalwork, doll sculptures, and fiber art will be among the unique treasures for sale. In addition to the 100 juried craftsmen, food concessions will be available along Third Street, including mouth-watering favorites and new offerings. Along with funnel cakes, gourmet sausages, crab cakes, fresh fruit, braided pretzels, apple dumplings, and home-baked pies and cookies, attendees can indulge in beef sandwiches, venison burgers, specialty teas, pulled pork, kettle corn, and much more. Go to visitcumberlandvalley.com.
Jun 27
Killer Queen: A Tribute to Queen Killer Queen’s UK popularity grew to such an extent they soon secured a residency in London’s Strand Theatre attracting nationwide BBC coverage – the first tribute to have a show in the WestEnd. Visit whitakercenter.org for details.
EVENTS 2025
Jul 4
Fourth of July Food Truck Festival
The City of Harrisburg will host the July 4th Food Truck Festival & Fireworks at Riverfront Park from 1-9pm. The event will feature 45+ food trucks, live music, a wine/beer garden, free kids activities, and more. Visit harrisburghpa.gov.
Jul 26
Central PA Pride
This year we will be bringing back the Pride Parade. The festival now features musical acts, drag queens, and attracts thousands of attendees. Visit centralpapride.org for details.
Aug 1-10
Musikfest 2025
Each summer, Bethlehem comes alive as the tradition of Musikfest returns to the city. The festival kicks off on the first Friday of August and continues for 10 consecutive days packed with music, food, and plenty of fun for all ages. Your first time attending the ‘Fest can sometimes be a bit overwhelming. We’ve compiled some tips for a happy Musikfest experience, including must-see artists, eats, guides to parking, map of “platzes” (including the new PNC Stadtplatz), and even where to take a potty break. Learn more at discoverlehighvalley.com.
Aug 30
Kipona Festival
This 3-day event features a Native American Pow-Wow, live music stage, Family Fun Zone, Artist Market, Kinetic Sculpture Parade, food trucks, beer/wine garden, and so much more!. Grab the festival program guide at harrisburgpa.gov.
Sep 6-7
Jazz and Wine Festival
Join us for the 17th Annual Dauphin County Jazz & Wine Festival at
beautiful Fort Hunter Park as we welcome national bands, wine tasting by PA wineries & more! Browse among a gathering of Central Pennsylvania’s top wineries, craft, and food vendors. Bring your lawn chairs and picnic baskets. Outside alcohol is not allowed. Details at dauphincounty.gov.
Sep 19-21
Oktoberfest
Lancaster’s oldest, traditional Oktoberfest! A celebration of German food, beer, music, song & dance. Visit lancasterliederkranz.com.
Sep 28
One World Festival 2025
The One World Festival in Lancaster, Pennsylvania in 2025 will celebrate the county’s diversity through food, arts, and activities. The One World Festival was born out of a beautiful coincidence, when on September 22, 2018, three vastly different cultures, Hispanic, Asian Indian, and Africans were being celebrated on the same day in different locations around the county. Learn more at oneworldfestivallancaster.org.
Oct 4
Harrisburg Wine & Fine Spirits Festival
Sample Fine Spirits and a splash of wine from around the world. The Central Penn Business Journal presents the Harrisburg Wine and Fine Spirits Festival to the capital region where a wide variety of wines and spirits will be offered to Pennsylvanians – something to meet every taste! – and this event provides attendees opportunities to sip, sample and savor special offerings. Complete line up, details and tickets at harrisburgwineandspiritsfest.com.
Nov 15 - Dec 29
Bright Nights York
Get ready to immerse yourself in the wonderland of Bright Nights in York, PA! Stroll through a holiday wonderland featuring three million sparkling lights – it’s WellSpan Park as you’ve never experienced it. Family fun and
Be Flexible: Travel during off-peak seasons for cheaper flights and accommodations. Midweek flights are often more affordable than weekend ones.
Stay Smart: Skip pricey hotels and opt for hostels, vacation rentals, or even house-sitting gigs.
Eat Local: Ditch the tourist traps and try street food or local markets for authentic, wallet-friendly meals.
Use Freebies: Many cities offer free walking tours, museums with free days, and parks brimming with charm.
Plan Ahead: Book tickets early to snag the best deals.
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing fun. With these tips, you can make memories that are priceless—without spending a fortune! Where will your next adventure take you?
EVENTS 2025
attractions for the young ones, including the new polar bear slide, walk-in snow globe, ornament making, letters to Santa, character appearances, and more each night of Bright Nights. Extra holiday cheer on select nights with Santa and his elves, live reindeer, Elsa and Anna from Frozen, and much more. A variety of festive food and beverage options. Learn more online at yorkpa.org.
Nov 15-16
BrickUniverse Imagine Tour
BrickUniverse, the ultimate event for LEGO® fans of all ages is coming to Carlisle, PA! Join thousands of fellow fans at the Carlisle Expo Center for the ultimate LEGO® Fan experience and celebrate the endless possibilities of LEGO® bricks during the BrickUniverse 2025 Imagine Tour. Attendees will meet professional artists from around the country, explore incredible LEGO® exhibits and creations, have a chance build their very own LEGO® masterpiece, and shop treasure troves of LEGO® brick accessories and rare finds in our the expansive and diverse Exhibit Hall. Visit www. brickuniverseusa.com.
Nov 18
Holiday ULGY Sweater Pop-Up
Welcome to the Holiday UGLY Sweater Pop-Up Vendor Tickets 4 Weekly Community Saturday event! Join us for a fun-filled day of vending, and community vibes. Get ready to rock your ugliest holiday sweater and vend to your existing clients and new clients offering your unique products. Details at Eventbrite.com.
PFLAG HARRISBURG/CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA
PFLAG National is a community of more than 250,000 members and supporters working to create a caring, just, and affirming world for LGBTQ+ people and those who love them. 626 Williams Grove Road, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania 17055 pflagcenpa@yahoo.com | WWW.PFLAGCENTRALPA.BLOGSPOT.COM
METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH OF THE SPIRIT
Reaching South Central Pennsylvania with God’s Radical Love! Whoever you are and wherever you come from on your life’s journey, there is a place for you at MCC. We are an intentionally diverse spiritual community reaching across barriers of gender, race, sexuality, disabilities, and religious backgrounds. MCCOFTHESPIRIT.ORG
LGBT CENTER OF CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA
Fostering inclusive communities and holistic well-being for LGBTQ+ people through social, educational, and cultural engagement.
CENTRALPALGBTCENTER.ORG | Phone: 717-920-9534
EQUALITY FORUM
Equality Forum produces these innovative events in collaboration with learning institutions, professional associations, research centers, for profit companies and nonprofit organizations. EQUALITYFORUM.COM | Phone: 215-732-3378
LGBT ELDER INITIATIVE
The LGBT Elder Initiative (LGBTEI) is committed to assuring that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender older adults have rights and opportunities to live vibrant, creative and mutually supportive lives. LGBTELDERINITIATIVE.ORG | Phone: 215-720-9415
ALDER HEALTH SERVICES
Alder Health is committed to providing a unique, holistic view of health through several integrated health services. We offer a relaxed, supportive, non-judgmental environment. ALDERHEALTH.ORG | Phone: 717-356-9570
Feeling drained by endless notifications and screen time? A digital detox might be just what you need to reclaim your energy and focus!
Start small—try unplugging for an hour a day. Use this time to read, journal, or simply relax. Gradually extend your tech-free periods to rediscover what life feels like offline.
Create phone-free zones, like your bedroom or dinner table, to reconnect with yourself and loved ones. Replace mindless scrolling with meaningful hobbies, like painting, yoga, or gardening.
You’ll notice big changes: better sleep, improved concentration, and more time for what truly matters. It’s not about ditching tech completely—it’s about finding balance.
So, go ahead! Power down to power up your life. What will you do with your reclaimed time?
