The holiday season is upon us, and Harrisburg is ready to spread the 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 23)
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 18th and will be in downtown on 2nd St. Check out the parade map here.
Bonus: The day before the parade, the City of Harrisburg will host its inaugural tree lighting ceremony on Friday, Nov 22 from 6-8 pm. Get the details here.
Light Up the Night (Nov 26)
Join the Whitaker Center for a fun family event! Enjoy an evening filled with holiday cheer, including free entrance to the science center and festive holiday movie screenings. Kids can create seasonal crafts, savor delicious cookies, and share their holiday wishes with Santa himself. This event is the perfect way to embrace the magic of the season with loved ones and enjoy a night of joyful activities in the heart of Harrisburg.
The Odd Ones Holiday Bizarre (Nov 30)
Join The Millworks for a unique, all-day holiday market featuring over 20 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
A Christmas Carol (Nov 30 - Dec 22)
SoMa Christmas Market (Dec 1)
Shop small and local at the SoMa Christmas Market on Sunday, December 1st 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. Additionally, don't forget to check out SoMa neighborhood businesses, Tamara Boutique, Found Collab, and El Sol Mexican Restaurant! Get more details here.
PA Christmas + Gift Show (Dec 4 - Dec 8)
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 will 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.
Bonus: Get $3 off tickets by using code: EXPLORE1; Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter to be the first to get discounted coupons!
Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra (Dec 7 & Dec 8)
In the midst of all the hustle and bustle the holidays bring, the Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra has the perfect date night attraction for you and your special someone. On December 2nd and 3rd, enjoy LET’S GROOVE TONIGHT: Motown & The Philly Sound, an incredible evening of magic melodies come to life as the pop, soul, and R&B sounds of Motown and the famous hits from the Philly Sound face off. Come early on Saturday evening and grab dinner at one of Harrisburg’s delicious restaurants within walking distance, including the 1700 Degrees Steakhouse, Stock’s on Second, or Café Fresco.
Christmas at Fort Hunter (Dec 7 - Dec 22)
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 brings history, creativity, and holiday spirit together, offering 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.
Historic Harrisburg Association's Candlelight House Tour (Dec 8)
For those who appreciate history and architecture, the Candlelight House Tour is a fantastic way to explore Harrisburg's rich heritage. On December 8th 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!
Christmas at Italian Lake (Dec 9 &10)
On Saturday, December 14th, bring the family to Harrisburg for the eighth annual Christmas at Italian Lake. This year’s celebration features a Christmas market full of unique gift ideas from local small businesses, horse-drawn sleigh rides for only $5 a person and $20 per family, delicious food trucks, live musical performances, petting zoo, s'mores station, plus more, all along the banks of beautiful Italian Lake in Uptown Harrisburg. Don’t miss photos with Santa and the Elves’ Workshop, where kids can enjoy Christmas crafts and a family-friendly holiday movie. The festivities begin at 10 am and event proceeds benefit Bethesda Mission.
Drive in Movie Night (Dec 14)
City of Harrisburg's Parks and Recreation team will be screening Dr. Seuss's How The Grinch Stole Christmas on Saturday, November 14tth at 7 pm in Reservoir Park. Cars should park in the parking lot behind the bandshell. Please arrive early and bring your own snacks! Check out the City's Holiday Happenings.
The Nutcracker Ballet (Dec 14 & 15)
The Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet is delighted to present their annual production of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker at the Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts in downtown Harrisburg. This year’s performance will be held on December 14th at 1 pm and 5 pm and December 15th at 2 pm. Orchestra, mezzanine, and balcony seats are available with tickets starting at $35. Tickets for this annual tradition usually sell quickly, so be sure to reserve your seats early.
