The holiday season is upon us, and Harrisburg is ready to spread festive cheer! From dazzling parades to magical ballet performances, there's something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Let's explore some top holiday events happening in the city this year.
Harrisburg Holiday Parade (Nov 22)
Kicking off the holiday season in grand style, the Harrisburg Holiday Parade is a beloved tradition that brings the community together. This parade features colorful floats, marching bands, and even an appearance by Santa Claus himself. Bundle up and join the crowds to experience the magic on the streets of Harrisburg. The parade is at 10 AM on November 22nd and will be viewable from 2nd and Front Streets in the downtown area. Check out the parade map here.
Come out the night before the parade for the City of Harrisburg's annual tree lighting ceremony from 6 PM to 8 PM. Get the details here.
Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas (Nov 22 - Dec 23)
Celebrate the holidays with Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas at Open Stage! This heartwarming Appalachian tale brings Jim Henson’s beloved holiday special to life with music by Academy Award®–winner Paul Williams. Follow Ma and Emmet Otter as they risk everything to make each other’s Christmas dreams come true in this charming story filled with folk tunes, love, and community.
The Odd Ones Holiday Bizarre (Nov 29)
Join The Millworks for a unique, all-day holiday market featuring over 30 local artists and crafters alongside their 36 in-house artists! Discover an array of handcrafted treasures, from woodwork and sculpture to paper goods, jewelry, coiled baskets, hand-turned pens, cozy knitwear, and intricate glass pieces. Vendors will be set up across all three floors, including the common arts room and brewery, making this event a perfect chance to support local artists while finding one-of-a-kind gifts for the season. More information
SoMa Christmas Market (Nov 30)
Shop small and local at the SoMa Christmas Market being held outdoors at South Third Street between Market and Chestnut Streets. Come out to the market and shop from a variety of artists, crafts people, beverage vendors and more. While you’re there, be sure to stop by Agape Elixir for a non alcoholic beverage and El Sol Restaurant for authentic Mexican cuisine! Get more details here.
PA Christmas + Gift Show (Dec 3 - Dec 7)
Looking for unique gifts or simply want to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit? The PA Christmas + Gift Show is the perfect place to do just that. You'll find an array of vendors selling holiday decor, crafts, and gifts that are sure to delight everyone on your list. After shopping, adults and kids alike can enjoy the 600 square foot Christmas Lego Village and a walk through dozens of beautifully decorated Christmas trees in this year’s Christmas Tree Lane. Tickets are $10 and children 11 years and under get in for free. Be sure to search the interactive vendor list and view the performance schedules here.
Don't Miss: Girls Night Out on Friday!
Bonus: Get $4 off tickets by using code: EXPLORE25; Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter to be the first to get discounted coupons! Plus, enjoy Government Worker Day on Thursday, December 4 when all government employees with valid ID will receive one FREE admission and a companion ticket for a guest.
Black Nativity by Langston Hughes (Dec 5-7)
Experience the power and joy of Langston Hughes’ Black Nativity, presented by Sankofa in their beloved annual production. This uplifting musical blends African American spirituality, jubilant gospel music, dance, poetry, and storytelling to reimagine the Nativity through a vibrant cultural lens. Directed by Sharia Benn with music direction by Brian McGrady, this soul-stirring celebration of faith, family, and community returns for its fourth year at HACC’s Rose Lehrman Theatre Arts Center. Tickets range from $30–$40, with group rates available.
Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra (Dec 6 & Dec 7)
Swing into the season with Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra’s POPS 2: Come Swing with Me! Singer and pianist Paul Loren returns to the stage with a lively program of timeless hits made famous by Frank Sinatra, including Come Fly With Me, My Way, New York, New York, and more. Under the direction of Gregory Woodbridge, this concert is sure to have audiences tapping their toes and feeling the rhythm of the Rat Pack era!
Breakfast with Santa (Dec 13)
Photo: Whitaker Center
Kick off a festive morning at Breakfast with Santa at the Whitaker Center on Saturday, December 13, from 8:30–11:00 AM! Santa, Mrs. Claus, and their merry helpers are flying in from the North Pole for a joyful celebration filled with music, holiday cheer, and family fun. Enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast, decorate cookies with Gingy, and make magical memories during a special meet-and-greet with the Clauses themselves.
Historic Harrisburg Association's Candlelight House Tour (Dec 14)
For those who appreciate history and architecture, the Candlelight House Tour is a fantastic way to explore Harrisburg's rich heritage. On December 14th from 1 PM to 6 PM, you will be able to visit beautifully decorated historic homes while learning about the city's history. It's a unique and educational way to celebrate the holidays. Your ticket is a 60+ page tour guide booklet with map, property descriptions and everything you need to plan a memorable Historic Harrisburg experience!
Holiday Variety Show (Dec 19)
Kick off the season with a festive evening of local talent at the Strawberry Square Music Series Holiday Variety Show. This free, three-hour showcase features a lively mix of music, comedy, theatre, dance, magic, and with DJ EMD keeping the holiday energy high between acts. Enjoy performances from Open Stage, Theatre Harrisburg, Gamut Theatre Group, Oversoon, and other local favorites, plus pop-up vendors like Hemauer Brewing, HOLLA Spirits, Agape Elixir Bar, and KelSa’s Sweetbox. Guests are encouraged to bring new or gently used winter items for the Coats in the Cart donation drive.
Christmas at Fort Hunter (Dec 2 - Dec 23)
Throughout December, Fort Hunter Mansion and Park transforms into a holiday wonderland. Each weekend, visitors can explore a charming toy-train exhibit, marvel at beautifully decorated Christmas trees, and enjoy the unique Fort Couture dresses made from unconventional materials. Young shoppers will love the kids-only holiday shop, where they can pick out special gifts just for family and friends. This month-long event combines history, creativity, and holiday spirit to provide a delightful experience for visitors of all ages.
The Fort Hunter Mansion is also open for tours Tuesday-Sunday with reservations preferred and prioritized. Admission is just $8.00 per person. Learn more & register.
