Adventure Together: Take a day trip to Lancaster County for wolves, birds and even a dragon

December 30, 2024 | by Natalie diSanto

Photo courtesy of Wolf Sanctuary of PA.

One of the most definable traits of central PA is its ruralness.

On a recent day trip, the scent of manure slipped uninvited into my truck, despite the windows being sealed against the cold. This is healthy farmland. Rolling green hills appeared infinite, traced by winding roads that hugged turns with terrifying accuracy. Bumps and curves reminded my kid of a rollercoaster, so he threw his hands up in the back seat and shrieked with delight as we sped along. For this trip, we were headed beyond cultivation, to where the wild creeps back into Penn’s Woods.

Slightly north of the town of Lititz, the Wolf Sanctuary of PA sits on over 80 acres of dense woodland. Families can learn about and meet the wolves by participating in a tour. The sanctuary seeks to educate the public on the important role these apex predators play in food webs and ecosystems. But it’s not all serious. The volunteer tour guides also share fun facts about their canine companions, such as that gray wolves can be tan, brown, black or even white. Our favorite wolf was Remus, who shares his name with the werewolf professor from Harry Potter. There are over 50 wolves in the sanctuary, some shyer than others. Make sure to read the rules of the facility with your family before scheduling a tour.

Volunteers that work directly with the animals must be 18 or older, but younger wolf enthusiasts can get involved by setting up a donation drive in their community. These wild animals love to eat and are fed by donations from conservation-minded kids and families. Along with raw meat, the sanctuary accepts donations of paper products, dish soap and other items that can be found on the wish list on their website. Young and old alike can inform friends and neighbors about the importance of wolves and the work being done to protect them. Fundraising and community education is an opportunity for young scientists and future conservationists to observe their actions creating positive reactions.

After spending time with wolves, your pack may be ready for a feast of its own. In the nearby town of Ephrata, the Green Dragon Farmers Market has a treat for every taste. Open Fridays, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. year-round, the market is home to over 100 vendors. You can find items ranging from free range eggs to hand-painted, upcycled tractor gears, fried fish sandwiches, antiques and, my kid’s favorite, a vendor selling discounted beanie babies for $2. Inside the market, the dismal chill of winter melts away and is replaced by a warming bustle as purveyors, makers and shoppers chat in cheerful exchange. For aspiring artists or restaurateurs, the Green Dragon Farmers Market showcases the direct-to-consumer business model and can serve as inspiration for kids while demonstrating the dedication it takes to be an entrepreneur.

After treasure hunting and filling up on snacks, check out The Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area located in Stevens, a little under 10 minutes from the market. Middle Creek is a rare Globally Important Bird Area, visited yearly by migrating snow geese and tundra swans. You and your family can brainstorm other animals that migrate, such as the monarch butterfly, which briefly visits us in the summer and travels thousands of miles during its migration. Many animals perform incredible feats to survive winter, such as groundhogs that hibernate, terrapins that brumate, chipmunks that stockpile nuts and berries, or minks that are tough, opportunistic hunters and stay active throughout the year. The Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area’s Visitor Center reopens to the public on Tuesday, Jan. 21 and is a resource for young minds brimming with questions, while serving the symbiotic purpose of being both heated and indoors.

On this adventure, we discovered that ruralness is not really all we have to offer here. Pocketed away within our open spaces are community hubs, where passionate people share with us some of what drives them. In just a day trip, families can experience sanctuaries that harbor wolves, visit sprawling markets bustling with people, and be awed by isolated beauty in wildland preserves. Even in the depths of winter, the heart of Pennsylvania thrives and we along with it.

For more information about the Wolf Sanctuary of PA, visit www.wolfsanctuarypa.org.

To find out more about the Green Dragon Farmers Market, visit www.greendragonmarket.com.

For more information about the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area, visit www.pgc.pa.gov.

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Musical Notes: New Year, New Music

December 30, 2024 | by Skye Leppo

The year is starting off strong with a lot of great music in the area, and we’re here for it. And, if your venue or friends have a show coming up that you think I should check out, drop me a line at [email protected]. See you in the pit!

LET’S DANCE
1/11, MINKA Masquerade, H*MAC
If videos from the band’s last Masquerade are to be believed, MINKA has a vibrant, electric energy that will deliver a whole lotta funk into any moment. This particular dance party is a masquerade, so find your most ridiculous costume and get onto the dance floor. Still not sure? Check out tracks like “Conquistadors” and “Gemini Rising” for a better idea of what’s in store.

WORTH THE DRIVE
1/23, Langhorne Slim & Oliver Wood, Appell Center for the Performing Arts
It’s an Americana doubleheader at the Appell Center! We’ve got Bucks County via Nashville singer-songwriter Langhorne Slim, whose raw, smoky voice surely will be recognized by Philly music scene enthusiasts (also look for the delightful Philadelphia Easter eggs all over Slim’s most recent album, “Strawberry Mansion”). Oliver Wood, frontman of roots mainstays, The Wood Brothers, delivers a tangy warmth and is a real treat on songs like “Fine Line” and “Have You No Shame” (feat. Katie Pruitt).

DISCOVERY
1/25, John Rai & The Locals, H*MAC
Nepali singer-songwriter John Chamling Rai, who performs with his touring band as John Rai & The Locals, is bringing the current U.S. tour to the H*MAC stage at the end of the month. Shared widely on TikTok and Instagram over the last few years, Rai’s emotionally charged music seems to have smitten listeners. “Sadhana” and “K Garu” are both beautiful and arresting in their own ways, and from a cursory glance on Eventbrite and social media, this writer thinks the show might sell out.

HONORABLE MENTIONS
1/5, Awake At Last, Lovedrafts Brewing Co.
1/5, Charm City Junction, Unitarian Universalist Congregation of York
1/17, Escaper and Mono Means One, The Abbey Bar
1/17, The Dirty Nil, Lovedrafts Brewing Co.
1/18, HE$H, H*MAC
1/23, Lotus, XL Live
1/24, The Four Horsemen, XL Live
1/29, Platinum Moon, Lovedrafts Brewing Co.

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Community Corner: Notable January Events

December 30, 2024 | by Missy Smith

Penguin Plunge
Jan. 1: Take a plunge into the Susquehanna River to welcome the New Year with hundreds of Humane Society of Harrisburg supporters. The 28th annual event begins at 10 a.m. at the City Island beach in Harrisburg with the plunge taking place at noon. Enjoy drinks, food, raffles, music, games and more. www.humanesocietyhbg.org

Calm the Mind
Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Start the New Year learning short, easy 15-minute calming meditations at Fredricksen Library, 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill, on Thursdays from 12 to 12:30 p.m. www.fredricksenlibrary.org

Scavenger Hunt
Jan. 2-31: Kids ages 0-12 are invited to New Cumberland Public Library, 1 Benjamin Plaza, for a month-long scavenger hunt to locate bathtime-related objects hiding inside the library for Bath Safety Month throughout January. Find all the scavenger hunt items around the children’s room and win a prize. www.newcumberlandpa.org

Get Fit
Jan. 2-31: Start the New Year right with Capital Blue Cross Connect, 4500 Marketplace Way, Enola, for a series of in-person and virtual wellness and fitness classes. Sign up for a variety of classes including yoga, barre, Pilates and tai chi. Find a full list of classes on their website. www.capitalbluecrossconnect.com

Photo Display
Jan. 2-25: View photographs entered in Friends of Wildwood Park’s annual contest in the Olewine Nature Center, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg. Vote for your favorite images. Winners will be announced on Jan. 12 at 1 p.m., and People’s Choice Award winners will be named at the show’s conclusion. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Winter Discovery
Jan. 2-31: Visit the Olewine Nature Center at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, to see special exhibits and activities that highlight some of Wildwood’s animals in winter, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Follow self-guided signs along the Towpath Trail and learn the natural history of the park and animals in winter. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

HBG Flea
Jan. 4: Explore the HBG Flea for local art, vintage treasures, curated curios and unique gifts, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Strawberry Square, 320 Market St., Harrisburg. The mission of the HBG Flea is to create a platform for community growth by bringing artists, small businesses and patrons together. www.hbgflea.com

Farm Show
Jan. 4-11: The PA Farm Show, the largest indoor agricultural show in the nation, returns to the PA Farm Show Complex and Expo Center, N. Cameron and Maclay streets, Harrisburg. Milk a cow, enjoy a Farm Show milkshake, learn about science and skills used in agriculture and discover new events and features. www.pa.gov/agencies/farmshow/pa-farm-show

Book Sale
Jan. 4, 18: Friends of the New Cumberland Public Library, 1 Benjamin Plaza, will hold pre-owned book sales on the first and third Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Foundation House, across the shared parking lot from the library. Find books, vintage items, jewelry, DVDs, CDs, kids’ books, vinyl records and more. www.cumberlandcountylibraries.org

Food Safety
Jan. 6, 13: Penn State Extension offers in-person courses to prepare people for the food safety manager certification exam at 310 Allen Rd., Suite 601, Carlisle. The workshop cost is $165 and includes materials. www.extension.psu.edu

Burns Night
Jan. 8: Scottish Society of Central Pennsylvania will host the 68th Annual Burns Night Supper, a celebration of the life, poetry and music of the Scottish bard. Enjoy dinner, Burns poetry, bagpipe music, haggis procession, live entertainment and an opportunity to wear a kilt. A social time will be held from 2 to 4 p.m., followed by dinner. www.pennscots.org

Winter Edibles
Jan. 9: Join a Wildwood Park naturalist for a hike at Detweiler Park, 1451 Peters Mountain Rd., Dauphin, 2 to 3:30 p.m., with a focus on trees and edible winter foods. Become familiar with a variety of common species and a few recipes you can try at home. Dress for the weather. Cost is $5 and space is limited. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Library Fun
Jan. 9, 15: Beat the winter chill at East Shore Area Library on Jan. 9, 6 to 6:45 p.m., and William H. & Marion C. Alexander Family Library on Jan. 15, 5 to 5:45 p.m. with snow and winter-themed crafts, STEAM activities and challenges, books and more. The events are designed for families with children ages 3 and older. www.dcls.org

Curiosity Kids
Jan. 10: Families and kids ages 3 to 6 are invited to the State Museum of Pa., 300 North St., Harrisburg, to learn all about chemistry at 11:30 a.m. Curiosity Kids events are included with museum general admission, but space is limited. www.statemuseumpa.org

Film Friday
Jan. 10: Fredricksen Library, 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill, will show “Die Falscher” from Germany, starting at 2 p.m. Watch the film at the library and stay for a moderated discussion. www.fredricksenlibrary.org

Tonight’s Sky
Jan. 10, 11, 12: Join the planetarium director at the State Museum of PA, 300 North St, Harrisburg, at 3 p.m. to explore what you can see in the night sky. Learn about the basic motions of the sky, visible constellations and planets and special celestial events. www.statemuseumpa.org

Birds & Coffee
Jan. 11: Stop by the Nature Center at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, for a cup of coffee, tea or hot cocoa, 10 to 11 a.m. Join a naturalist and Appalachian Audubon to observe and count common feeder birds as part of Project FeederWatch. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Volunteer Preview
Jan. 11: In support of Martin Luther King, Jr. National Day of Service, join the East Shore Area Library, 4501 Ethel St., Harrisburg, to learn about volunteer work being done in your community, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Explore area agencies and organizations and how to volunteer. Giveaways and snacks provided. www.dcls.org

PA Rocks
Jan. 11: Explore rocks of Pennsylvania at the State Museum, 300 North St., Harrisburg, 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. Trace the path of sedimentary, igneous and metamorphic rock through the rock cycle and experiment with rocks to discover the qualities that make them unique. Then make a “kindness” rock to take home or share. www.statemuseumpa.org

Aquaponics 101
Jan. 14: Join Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, for a Winter Sustainability Series lecture with students from the West Shore School District Aquaponics Program at 7 p.m. Learn the basics of hydroponics and aquaponics and discover how these methods can inspire creativity and independence and advance suburban farming. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

MLK Day Banquet
Jan. 15: Help celebrate the holiday with the third annual Central Pennsylvania Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Banquet, taking place at 5:30 p.m. at the Hershey Lodge in Hershey. Author and minister Dr. Michael Eric Dyson will be the keynote speaker. Register until Jan. 5. Contact Dr. Wanda B. Knight at [email protected].

3rd in The Burg
Jan. 17: Explore the best of Harrisburg during 3rd in the Burg, the monthly arts and culture event, where you can visit and enjoy galleries, restaurants and art spaces throughout downtown and Midtown, 6 to 9 p.m. www.thirdintheburg.org

Menopause Workshop
Jan. 18: Attend “The 3 Keys to Better Sleep in Peri- to Post-Menopause,” a free workshop with Mary Rothwell Integrative Wellness at 2133 Market St., Suite 205, Camp Hill, at 10 a.m. Space is limited; register by Jan 16. Attendees will receive a gift. www.maryrothwell.net

Snowflake Fun
Jan. 18: Explorers ages 5 to 10 are invited to Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, for Kids Discover to learn about snowflakes, 10 to 11:30 a.m. Make your own snowflakes and discover the size of the largest one ever found. Dress for a winter walk, go on a scavenger hunt, and try winter science experiments. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Dance Night
Jan. 19: Dance enthusiasts are invited to join Harrisburg USA Dance Chapter #3009 for social dancing and music by Dance Avanti at PA DanceSport, 585 E. Main St., Hummelstown, 2 to 6 p.m. All levels are welcome. Admission is $15, $10 for members and $5 for students. Facebook: USA Dance Chapter #3009 – Harrisburg Area PA

Guitar Gathering
Jan. 19: Join Gather the Spirit for Justice, a nonprofit aiding Allison Hill neighbors, for “Gather the Guitars” benefit concert at Appalachian Brewing Company’s Abbey Bar, 50 N. Cameron St., Harrisburg, 3 to 6:30 p.m. Enjoy live music and support a worthy cause that benefits your community. www.gatherthespiritforjustice.org

MLK Service Day
Jan. 20: Save the date for the annual Central PA MLK Day of Service, with projects taking place throughout the Harrisburg area. Visit the Central PA MLK Day of Service website for details about the opening ceremony and this year’s events. www.mlk-365.org

Day of Service
Jan 20: Join Wildheart Ministries from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day for a cleanup event focused on preparing the Wildheart mansion for this year’s community activities. www.wildheartministries.net

Legislators’ Forum
Jan. 22: Harrisburg Regional Chamber and the West Shore Chamber of Commerce host the Legislators’ Forum, featuring area members of the Pa. House of Representatives, at the Hilton Harrisburg, 1 N. 2nd St., 8 to 10 a.m. Cost to attend is $70 or $50 for members. www.harrisburgregionalchamber.org

“The Call of the Crusades”
Jan. 25: Catch an original play about nine Penn State Harrisburg students who discover Dr. King’s legacy through Harrisburg’s hidden MLK Memorial. Written by Sharia Benn (Sankofa African American Theatre), co-directed with Professor Maria Enriquez, and performed by students, 2 p.m. at Kulkarni Theatre on campus. Free admission and parking. www.bit.ly/MLKCrusades

Civil War Dance
Jan. 26: Take the whole family to a free Civil War-era dance class at the National Civil War Museum, 1 Lincoln Circle, Harrisburg, 2 to 4 p.m. [email protected]

Library Cinema
Jan. 26: Escape the winter chill and enjoy a free movie at East Shore Area Library, 4501 Ethel St., Harrisburg, 3 to 5 p.m. Enjoy popcorn, snacks and the classic film, “Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris.” Space is limited, so register today at the library’s website. www.dcls.org

Recycling Talk
Jan. 28: Join the Friends of Wildwood for a Winter Sustainability Series talk on waste reduction and recycling with Dauphin County Dept. of Solid Waste & Recycling from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg. Learn what can be recycled at home and at the Dauphin County Recycling Center. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Orchid Show
Jan. 30-Feb. 2: Susquehanna Orchid Society presents its 41st annual Orchid Show & Sale at the Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory, 170 Hotel Rd., Hershey, Jan. 31 to Feb. 2. View more than 1,000 orchids, attend tours and shop with vendors. Members can enjoy a preview on Jan. 30 from 2 to 5 p.m. www.hersheygardens.org

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Happenings: Our January Calendar of Events

December 30, 2024 | by Missy Smith

Museums & Art Spaces

AACA Museum
161 Museum Dr., Hershey
717-566-7100; aacamuseum.org

“Forgotten Features—Classic & Cool Discontinued Options,” through April 20

Shelby Mustangs, through April 20

Art Association of Harrisburg
21 N. Front St., Harrisburg
717-236-1432; artassocofhbg.com

“Ann Benton Yeager—A Timely Retrospective,” featuring some of Ann’s early work and the progression of her current work, through Jan. 3

“Figuratively Speaking,” AAH member exhibition of artwork showcasing drawn, painted or sculpted figures and forms, Jan. 10-Feb. 13; reception: Jan. 17, 5-8 p.m.

Arts on the Square
20 S. 2nd St., Harrisburg
717-257-1270; marketsquarechurch.org

Photography exhibition featuring Market Square Church members Susan Hoover and Ron Poorman, Jan. 19-March 9; reception: Jan. 19, 12:15-1:30 p.m.

The Cornerstone Coffeehouse
2133 Market St., Camp Hill
thecornerstonecoffeehouse.com

January artist of the month

East Shore Area Library
4501 Ethel St., Harrisburg
717-652-9380; dcls.org

“Limelight on Local Artists,” Jan.-March; reception: Jan. 25, 2-4 p.m.

Gallery on the Square
Millersburg Area Art Association
226 Union St., Millersburg
Facebook: Gallery on the Square

Millersburg-related art, through Jan. 31

Gallo’ry on Market
2010 Market St., Camp Hill
717-623-2090; galloryonmarket.com

January featured artists

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyart.org

HAAA Member Artwork at Hershey Public Library, hallway gallery, through Feb. 8

HAAA Member Artwork at Hershey Public Library, community room, through May 31

Lebanon Picture Frame & Fine Art Gallery
847 Cumberland St., Lebanon
LebanonPictureFrame.com

“Fired Up!, A Celebration of Wood-Fired Ceramics,” through Feb. 1

Messiah University
One University Ave., Mechanicsburg
717-766-2511; messiah.edu

Senior Art Educator Exhibition, Jan. 17-Feb. 2; reception: Jan. 17, 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Handmade paper and mixed media artworks by Maeve Leslie, Jan. 24-March 2; reception: Jan. 24, 4:30 p.m.

National Civil War Museum
One Lincoln Circle, Harrisburg
717-260-1861; nationalcivilwarmuseum.org

“The Overland Campaign of 1864,” through Jan. 31

Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art
176 Water Company Rd., Millersburg
717-692-3699; nedsmithcenter.org

Photographs of Millersburg by Kit Cowan, through Jan. 18

New Cumberland Public Library
1 Benjamin Plaza, New Cumberland
717-774-7820; newcumberlandlibrary.org

Art in the Stacks— Tiffany George & Cynthia Rudzis, through Jan. 31

Pennsylvania National Fire Museum
1820 N. 4th St., Harrisburg
717-232-8915; pnfm.org

Exhibits dedicated to Pennsylvania firefighting history

Perry County Council of the Arts
PCCA Gallery, 1 S. 2nd St., Newport
717-567-7023; perrycountyarts.org

Traditional Rug Hooking by Deb Smith, through Jan. 8

The State Museum of Pennsylvania
300 North St., Harrisburg
717-787-4980; statemuseumpa.org

“Art of the State,” highlighting the Commonwealth’s rich artistic heritage with a variety of artwork by 96 artists from 28 Pennsylvania counties, through Jan. 5

“Game Changers—Pennsylvania Women Who Made History,” celebrating women from across PA in diverse fields, detailing their contributions and challenges they faced in their lifetimes

“Bannered Heroes—Celebrating Pennsylvania’s African American Veterans,” presented by Beta Pi Boulé, the Harrisburg chapter of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity (the Boulé)

“HORSE2AUTO: A Transportation Revolution”

“Seeing Fallingwater—Celebrating Pennsylvania’s Architectural Masterpiece”

Susquehanna Art Museum
1401 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-233-8668; susquehannaartmuseum.org

“Domestic Affairs,” Susquehanna Art Museum’s 9th annual juried exhibition with artwork exploring subjects relating to the domestic, through Jan. 5

“Edvard Munch—Works on Paper from the John Szoke Gallery,” through Jan. 19

“You Threaded in Me,” Morgan Ford Willingham manipulates found textiles with photography and hand embroidery, exploring motherhood and nature versus nurture, through Feb. 23

The Trout Gallery
Dickinson College
240 W. High St., Carlisle
717-254-8159; troutgallery.org

“Girl in Slacks—Women Artists From the Reading Public Museum,” through Jan. 25

The Ware Center
42 N. Prince St., Lancaster
717-871-2308; artsmu.com

“Stolen Views II—New Lancaster Scenes,” featuring recent works created throughout Lancaster County by a local plein air artists, through Jan. 31.

Wheel of Light Studio
3738 Peters Mountain Rd Halifax
wheeloflightstudio.com

The art of Wheel of Light Studio founders, Robin and James Wheeler, featuring pottery and photography inspired by their latest adventures, Jan. 2-Feb. 8, reception: Jan. 4, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Wildwood Park
100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg
717-221-0292; explorewildwoodpark.org

2024 Photo Contest Display, through Jan. 25; reception: Jan. 12, 1 p.m.

Read, Make, Learn

The Art Center School & Galleries
18 Artcraft Dr., Mechanicsburg
717-697-2072; theartcenterschoolandgalleries.com

Jan. 14, 21, 28: Exploring Emotions Through Watercolor (adults), 6-8 p.m.
Jan. 14, 21, 28; Feb. 4, 11, 18: Functional Pottery – All Levels (adults), 6-9 p.m.
Jan. 14, 21, 28; Feb. 4: Intermediate Pottery (ages 15+), 12-3 p.m.
Jan. 14, 21, 28; Feb. 4: Figure Drawing Studio (adults), 6-8 p.m.
Jan. 15, 29; Watercolor Step-by-Step (adults), 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Jan. 16, 23, 30; Feb. 6: Intermediate & Advanced Pottery (adults), 1-3:30 p.m.
Jan. 16, 23, 30; Feb. 6: Pottery Wheel Throwing (adults), 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 16, 23, 30; Feb. 6: Pastel Painting (adults), 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 16, 23, 30; Feb. 6, 13, 20: Pottery for All (ages 15+), 6-9 p.m.
Jan. 16, 23, 30; Feb. 6, 13, 20: Vibrant Landscapes in Oil (adults), 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 18, 25; Feb. 1, 8: Surface Decoration (ages 15+), 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Jan. 21, 28; Feb. 4, 11: Charcoal Drawing (adults), 1:30-3 p.m.
Jan. 23, 30; Feb. 6, 13: Acrylic Painting (adults), 1:30-3 p.m.

Bosler Library
158 W. High St., Carlisle
717-243-4642; boslerlibrary.org

Jan. 1-Feb. 13: Play and Learn Group (ages 3-6), Thursdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Jan. 2: CCHS Local History Series—Carlisle’s Lincoln Cemetery, 6-7 p.m.
Jan. 6: Tween Quest, 4 p.m.
Jan. 6, 13, 27: Baby Time, 9:30-10 a.m.
Jan. 6, 13, 27: Toddler Time, 10:15-10:45 a.m.
Jan. 6, 13, 27: Preschool Storytime, 11:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: Toddler Sensory Exploration, 10:30-11 a.m.
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: American Girl Club, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Jan. 15, 22, 29: Teen Café, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Jan. 25: Tween Tech, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Carlisle Arts Learning Center (CALC)
38 W. Pomfret St., Carlisle
717-249-6973; carlislearts.org

Jan. 7-Feb. 4: Art Journaling, Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Jan. 8: Suicide Loss Survivors (ages 13-adult), 5:30-7 p.m.
Jan. 11: Inspired Mixed Media Art (adults), 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Jan. 15-Feb. 12: Art Club—K-2nd Grade, Wednesdays, 3:45-5 p.m.
Jan. 18, 25: Draw with a Cause (ages 12-16), 12-2 p.m.
Jan. 20: Lunar New Year (ages 6-12), 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Jan. 21-April 24: Artworks!, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 3-5 p.m.
Jan. 23-April 24: High School Art Lab, Thursdays, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Jan. 24-Feb. 28: Art Club—3rd-5th Grade, Fridays, 3:45-5 p.m.

Dauphin County Library System
dcls.org

Jan. 16, 23, 30: Disability Acceptance Through Literature via Zoom, 6-7 p.m.
Jan. 21: Books on Tap at Rubber Soul Brewery, Hummelstown, 6-7 p.m.

East Shore Area Library
4501 Ethel St., Harrisburg
717-652-9380; dcls.org

Jan. 4: Figment Forge Writing Group, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Jan. 8: Food Preservation 101 with Cultivating Roots Advocacy, 4-6 p.m.
Jan. 9: There’s SNOW Place Like the Library, 6-6:45 p.m.
Jan. 11: Volunteer Recruitment Fair—Martin Luther King Jr. National Day of Service, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Jan. 16: Sip & Speak, 3-4:30 p.m.
Jan. 18: Minds Matter Harrisburg, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Jan. 21: Around the World in 12 Fairytales, 5-5:45 p.m.
Jan. 26: East Shore Cinema, 3-5 p.m.

Elizabethtown Public Library
10 S. Market St., Elizabethtown
717-367-7467; etownpubliclibrary.org

Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Fiber Artists, 3-6 p.m.
Jan. 4: Knitter’s Group, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: Card Making Group, 5-7 p.m.
Jan. 11: Fiber Artists, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Jan. 25: Board Game Meetup, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Jan. 25: Dungeons & Dragons Group, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m

Fredricksen Library
100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill
717-761-3900; fredricksenlibrary.org

Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Meditation to Calm the Mind, 12-12:30 p.m.
Jan. 3: Chess Club, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Jan. 4: The Puzzlers, 1-4:30 p.m.
Jan. 5: Game Day for All, 1-4:30 p.m.
Jan. 5, 12, 19, 26: Heartfulness Meditation Workshop, 1-2 p.m.
Jan. 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, 29: Baby & Toddler Storytime, 10-10:30 a.m.
Jan. 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, 29: Children’s Storytime, 11-11:30 a.m.
Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27: Book Explorers, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Jan. 6, 20: Fredricksen Writes, 7 p.m.
Jan. 7: Curl Up with the Classics—“The Awakening,” 10-11 a.m.
Jan. 7: Plot Twisters, 6-7:30 p.m.
Jan. 9, 23: Journaling for Life, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Jan. 11: Paint with Us, 1-3 p.m.
Jan. 13: Coffee (BYO) and Conversation, 10-11:30 a.m.
Jan. 13: The Puzzlers, 1:30-8:30 p.m.
Jan. 13: Philosopher’s Roundtable, 2-3:30 p.m.
Jan. 17: Peaceful Poses Adult Yoga, 9:15-10 a.m.
Jan. 26: Aurora—Lights in the Sky, 2-3 p.m.
Jan. 27: Fredricksen Reads—“This Other Eden,” 7-8 p.m.

Gallery on the Square
Millersburg Area Art Association
226 Union St., Millersburg
Facebook: Gallery on the Square

Jan. 12: Herbal Salve Workshop, 1-3 p.m.
Jan. 16: Starry Night Snowman, 6-8 p.m.

George & Hettie Love Memorial Library
530 S. 29th St., Harrisburg
717-234-3934; dcls.org

Jan. 7, 21: Coloring for Adults!, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Jan. 11: Knit One, Crochet Too!, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Jan. 17: Silent Book Club, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyart.org

Jan. 6-Feb. 24: Oil and Acrylic Painting, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Hershey Gardens
170 Hotel Rd., Hershey
717-534-3492; hersheygardens.org

Jan. 4: Craft Christmas Creations, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Jan. 18: Winter Bird Watch, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 18, 25: Guided Walk, 10-11 a.m.
Jan. 24: Eco-Fiction Book Club, 10-11:30 a.m.

Hershey Public Library
701 Cocoa Ave., Hershey
717-533-6555; hersheylibrary.org

Jan. 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30: Penn State Hershey—Mothers & Babies, 10:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Jan. 2, 16, 30: Hershey Quilters, 12-4 p.m.
Jan. 4, 11, 18, 25: Chess Club, 1-3 p.m.
Jan. 7: Hershey Area Pokémon Club, 5:30-7 p.m.
Jan. 8: MOMS Club of Derry Township, 10-11:30 a.m.
Jan. 8: Open Book Group, 6-7:45 p.m.
Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29: Board Game Night, 5-7:45 p.m.
Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29: Community Crochet Night—Teen Space, 6-7:45 p.m.
Jan. 9, 16, 23, 30: Teen Time, 3-4:30 p.m.
Jan. 13: Hershey Area Neighbors and Newcomers, 10:15 a.m.-1 p.m.
Jan. 14: Philosophers’ Round Table Discussion Group, 2-3:30 p.m.
Jan. 18: Cocoa Area Fiber Enthusiasts, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Jan. 22: Overhaul Your Pantry, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Jan. 25: Hershey Reads Event—Friends Edible Book Contest
Jan. 25: Family Game Room, 2-4 p.m.
Jan. 28: Silent Book Group at Starbucks in Towne Square, 10-11:30 a.m.

Horn Farm Center for Agricultural Education
4945 Horn Rd., York
717-757-6441; hornfarmcenter.org

Jan. 22: Beekeeper Training Program, 6-7:30 p.m.

Joseph T. Simpson Public Library
16 N. Walnut St., Mechanicsburg
717-766-0171; simpsonlibrary.org

Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23: Mah Jongg, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: LEGO Time, 10:15-11:15 a.m.
Jan. 6: Teen Movie Monday, 6-8:30 p.m.
Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27: Rhyme Time, 10:15-10:35 a.m.
Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27: Toddler Time, 10:45 a.m.-11:05 a.m.
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: Tea and Stitches, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: Storybook STEAM, 6-7 p.m.
Jan. 13, 17: English Conversation Club, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Jan. 16: Thursday Morning Book Club, 10-11 a.m.
Jan. 16: Scrabble in the Library, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Jan. 18: Craft-A-Palooza, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Jan. 20: Monday Night Book Club, 7-8 p.m.
Jan. 25: Trivia at Home—“Friends,” 6-8 p.m.
Jan. 27: Tween Scene, 6-7 p.m.

The LGBT Center of Central PA
717-409-5781; centralpalgbtcenter.org

Jan. 4, 11, 18, 25: Passageways, 2 p.m.
Jan. 5, 12, 19, 26: Young Adult Group, 4 p.m.
Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29: Common Roads (ages 12-17), 6-8 p.m.
Jan. 11: QTPOC Advisory Group, 6-8 p.m.

Madeline L. Olewine Memorial Library
2410 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-232-7286; dcls.org

Jan. 28: Coloring for Adults!, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

McCormick Riverfront Library
101 Walnut St., Harrisburg
717-234-4976; dcls.org

Jan. 11: Reading the Rainbow Book Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 24: Blood Drive, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Middletown Public Library
20 N. Catherine St, Middletown
717-944-6412; middletownpubliclib.org

Jan. 2: Book Lovers Book Club, 6 p.m.
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: Storytime & Craft, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: Tales with T.A.I.L.S., 6-7 p.m.
Jan. 8, 22: Crafters Circle, 1 p.m.
Jan. 9, 16, 23, 30, LEGO Club, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Jan. 11: Family Board Game Day, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 13, 20, 27: Kids STEM Club, 5:30 p.m.
Jan. 13, 20, 27: Teen STEM Club, 6:30 p.m.
Jan. 16: Creative Writers Forum, 6 p.m.
Jan. 20: Mystery Book Club, 6 p.m.
Jan. 28: Silent Book Club, 6 p.m.

The Millworks
340 Verbeke St., Harrisburg
717-695-4888; millworksharrisburg.com

Jan. 12: Mini Mystic Realm Fantasy Sculpture Christmas Workshop, 1-4 p.m.

National Civil War Museum
One Lincoln Circle, Harrisburg
717-260-1861; nationalcivilwarmuseum.org

Jan. 27: Civil War Book Talk with Dr. Bennett Parten, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art
176 Water Company Rd., Millersburg
717-692-3699; nedsmithcenter.org

Jan. 8: Homeschool Day Workshop, 10 a.m.

New Cumberland Public Library
1 Benjamin Plaza, New Cumberland
717-774-7820; newcumberlandlibrary.org

Jan. 1-31: Bathtime Scavenger Hunt (ages 0-12)
Jan. 1-31: Be a Reading Machine (ages 0-12)
Jan. 2: PlayDoh Palooza (ages 2-5), 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Jan. 2-6: Snowy Scene LEGO Contest (ages 6-12)
Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Tech Time, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Jan. 3, 17: Block Party (ages 0-3) 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Jan. 4, 18: Book Sales, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Jan. 6, 13, 27 Winter Preschool Storytime (ages 2-5), 10:30-11:15 a.m.
Jan. 6, 13, 27: Teen Monday FUNdays (ages 13-17), 3-4 p.m.
Jan. 6, 21: Monday Great Books Discussion Group, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28: Book Babies (ages 0-2), 11:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 8: STEAM Scene (ages 6-12), 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Jan. 8: Piece Seekers, 6-7:30 p.m.
Jan. 8-Feb. 12: iPhone Class for Adults, Wednesdays, 2-3:30 p.m.
Jan. 9: Ruth’s Mystery Discussion Group, 10:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 9, 23: Movers and Groovers (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
Jan. 10, 24: Tumble Tots (ages 0-3), 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 14: Shelf Love, 6-7 p.m.
Jan. 14: Tales for Tails (ages 6-12), 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Jan. 15: Wednesday Great Books Discussion Group, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Jan. 15: Family Pajama Storytime, 5:30-6 p.m.
Jan. 16, 30: Musical Mornings (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
Jan. 21: Winter Escape Room (ages 9-13), 5-6 p.m.
Jan. 22: Kid Builders (ages 3 and older), 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Jan. 22: PennWriters Writing Group, 6-9 p.m.
Jan. 25: Crafty Crafters Club, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Jan. 28: Good Trouble Teen Book Club (age 12-16), 6-7:30 p.m.
Jan. 29: Teen Crafternoon (ages 13-17), 3-4 p.m.
Jan. 31: Family Fort Fest (ages 2-5), 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Palmyra Public Library
50 Landings Dr., Annville
717-838-1347; palmyra.lclibs.org

Jan. 6: Genealogy Group, 10-11 a.m.
Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29: Strength & Stretching 50+, 10-11 a.m.
Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29: Smart Start Storytime, 12:15-1:15 p.m.
Jan. 13: Book Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 27, 30: Little Explorers, 10:30-11 a.m.
Jan. 27: BYO Craft Night (adults 18+), 4:30-6:45 p.m.

Perry County Council of the Arts
Landis House, 67 N. 4th St., Newport
717-567-7023; perrycountyarts.org

Jan. 14, 15, 21, 28, Feb. 4: Adult Night Out Pottery Class, 6-8 p.m.
Jan. 15: Mosaic Snowman, 6-8 p.m.

The State Museum of Pennsylvania
300 North St., Harrisburg
717-787-4980; statemuseumpa.org

Jan. 2-29: Zula Patrol—Down to Earth, 11-11:30 a.m.
Jan. 2-30: Constellations
Jan. 2-30: Seasons
Jan. 3, 18: Storytime, 10:30 a.m.
Jan. 4, 17, 18, 25: Earth, Moon & Sun, 12-12:30 p.m.
Jan. 5: Drawing Depth and Meaning—Artists Conversation featuring Greg Rohrer and Geoffrey Beadle, 2:30 p.m.
Jan. 10: Curiosity Kids—Chemistry, 11:30 a.m.
Jan. 10, 11, 12: Stargazing—Tonight’s Sky Live Chat, 3-4 p.m.
Jan. 11: Pennsylvania Rocks!, 11:30-3 p.m.
Jan. 15: Color, 11:30 a.m.
Jan. 24: Virtual Program—Build Earth’s Climate 12:15-12:45 p.m.
Jan. 24: Crayons, 11:30 a.m.
Jan. 25: Transportation—Horse to Auto, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
Jan. 29: A Bird’s Eye View, 11:30 a.m.

Susquehanna Art Museum
1401 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-233-8668; susquehannaartmuseum.org

Jan. 4: Kids Art Club, Winter Birch Trees (ages 6-9), 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Wheel of Light Studio
3738 Peters Mountain Rd Halifax
wheeloflightstudio.com

Jan. 4: Ceramic Dumpling Snow Folk, 1-2:30 p.m.
Jan. 10: Ceramic Dumpling Snow Folk, 6-7:30 p.m.
Jan. 11, 1-3 PM, Snowy Train Painting, 1-3 p.m.
Jan. 14, 6-8 PM, Mosaic Snowman, 6-8 p.m.
Jan. 18, 1-3 PM, Snowman Gourds, 1-3 p.m.
Jan. 24, 7-9 PM, Dirty Date Night, 7-9 pm.
Jan. 31, 6-8 PM, Ceramic Gnomes, 6-8 p.m.

Wildwood Park
100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg
717-221-0292; explorewildwoodpark.org

Jan. 9: Winter Edibles Walk at Detweiler Park, 2-3:30 p.m.
Jan. 11: Birds and Coffee with Appalachian Audubon, 10-11 a.m.
Jan. 14: Winter Lecture Series Sustainable Food Systems—Aquaponics, 7-8:30 p.m.
Jan. 14: Winter Lecture Series Waste Reduction—Recycling, 7-8:30 p.m.
Jan. 18: Kids Discover—Snowflakes (ages 10-14), 10-11:30 a.m.
Jan. 25: Photography Workshop for Adults, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jan. 25: Photography Workshop for Youth (ages 10-15), 1-3 p.m.

William H. & Marion C. Alexander Family Library
200 W. Second St., Hummelstown
717-566-0949; dcls.org

Jan. 10: Blood Drive, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Jan. 15: There’s SNOW Place Like The Library, 5-5:45 p.m.
Jan. 18: The Plot Thickens, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Jan. 25: Crafternoon, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Live Music

American Music Theatre
2425 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster
717-397-7700; amtshows.com

Jan. 11: 50s Dance Party: The Music of Buddy Holly, The Big Bopper and Ritchie Valens
Jan. 25: Elvis Birthday Bash with Mike Albert & Scot Bruce
Jan. 26: Mike Albert’s Elvis Gospel Show with The Stamps Quartet
Jan. 31: TUSK—The Classic Fleetwood Mac Tribute

Appalachian Brewing Co./Abbey Bar
50 N. Cameron St., Harrisburg
717-221-1083; abcbrew.com

Jan. 2, 16: Open Mic Night
Jan. 17: Escaper and Mono Means One
Jan. 17: Bailey Applebee of Lucid Ruby

Appell Center for the Performing Arts
50 N. George St., York
717-846-1111; appellcenter.org

Jan. 3: Jazz in the City
Jan. 9: The Outlet—Music & Poetry Open Mic
Jan. 18: York Symphony
Jan. 23: Langhorne Slim and Oliver Wood
Jan. 24: The Hair Band Experience
Jan. 31: Gangstagrass

Blues Society of Central PA
Champions Sports Bar and Grill
300 2nd St., Highspire
bscpblues.com

Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Blues Jams

Carlisle Theatre
44 West High St., Carlisle
717-258-0666; carlisletheatre.org

Jan. 10: Hollywood Nights—The Bob Seger Experience
Jan. 25: Eaglemania—The World’s Greatest Eagles Tribute Band

Carley’s Ristorante and Piano Bar
204 Locust St., Harrisburg
717-909-9191; carleysristorante.com

Jan. 2, 9: Andrea Britton
Jan. 3, 17: Ted Ansel
Jan. 4, 18: Anthony Haubert
Jan. 8, 29: Christine Purcell
Jan. 10: Roy Lefever
Jan. 11, 23, 30: Dr. Nyce
Jan. 15, 22: Tristin Lynee
Jan. 16, 24, 25, 31: Chris Emkey

H*MAC
1110 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-441-7506; harrisburgarts.com

Jan. 10: Boys of Fall
Jan. 11: Minka
Jan. 12: HE$H

Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra
The Forum at 5th and Walnut St., Harrisburg
717-545-5527; harrisburgsymphony.org

Jan. 11-12: Bruch, Coleman, Sibelius
Jan. 25-26: Shostakovich Celebration

Hollywood Casino
777 Hollywood Blvd., Grantville
717-469-2211; hollywoodpnrc.com

Jan. 3: M80, Bad Sister Duo
Jan. 4: Nicks in Time—Stevie Nicks Tribute Band, Jaded Acoustic
Jan. 10: Cazhmiere, Frost Duo
Jan. 11: Dance Fever, Jim & Michele
Jan. 17: Los Monstros, Kevin Raubenstine
Jan. 18: Katz 22, Night Howls
Jan. 24: Colt Wilbur Band, Vertigo Vultures
Jan. 25: Josh Squared Band, North Mountain Ramblers
Jan. 31: Jason Dumm Band, Grant Bryan

Johnson Memorial Library
799 East Center St., Millersburg
717-692-2658; dcls.org

Jan. 7: This Program is for the Birds, 4:30-5:15 p.m.
Jan. 18: Upcycled Crafting, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Lovedraft’s Brewing Co.
165 Gateway Dr., Mechanicsburg
717-610-3331; lovedraftsbrewing.com

Jan. 3: Tribute to Butt Rock
Jan. 5: Awake At Last
Jan. 9: Skinlab
Jan. 17: The Dirty Nil
Jan. 18: Set For Tomorrow & Take the Name
Jan. 20: Nile & Six Feet Under
Jan. 25: Emo Night Karaoke
Jan. 29: Platinum Moon

Luhrs Performing Arts Center
1871 Old Main Dr., Shippensburg
717-477-7469; luhrscenter.com

Jan. 30: KC and the Sunshine Band

Market Square Concerts
www.marketsquareconcerts.org

Jan. 5: Stuart & Friends

Messiah University
One University Ave., Mechanicsburg
717-766-2511; messiah.edu

Jan. 16: Third Coast Percussion

Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art
176 Water Company Rd., Millersburg
717-692-3699; nedsmithcenter.org

Jan. 4: Stuart & Friends

The Susquehanna Folk Music Society
717-745-6577; sfmsfolk.org

Jan. 5: Charm City Junction
Jan. 25: Winter Coffee House
Jan. 26: Open Mic Night

The Ware Center
42 N. Prince St., Lancaster
717-871-2308; artsmu.com

Jan. 3: Joseph Strider

XL Live
801 S. 10th St., Harrisburg
717-409-8975; xlhbg.com

Jan. 18: Defiant, Ruiness, Sickcentury, Lives Lost, Light the Lamp
Jan. 23: Lotus
Jan. 24: The Four Horsemen
Jan. 25: Southern Accents—Ultimate Tom Petty Experience
Jan. 31: Grateful Dub

The Stage Door

American Music Theatre
2425 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster
717-397-7700; amtshows.com

Jan. 12: Wild World of Animals w/Grant Kemmerer & Friends
Jan. 19: Dancing with the Stars w/Co-host Stephen Nedoroscik

Appell Center for the Performing Arts
50 N. George St., York
717-846-1111; appellcenter.org

Jan. 18, 19: “OrangeMite’s RICHARD III”
Jan. 27: “The Tina Turner Musical”

The Belmont Theatre
27 S. Belmont St., York
717-854-3894; thebelmont.org

Jan. 17-26: “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike”

Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre
510 Centerville Rd., Lancaster
717-898-1900; DutchApple.com

Jan. 2-5: “White Christmas”
Jan. 17-Feb. 22: “Murder for Two”

Gamut Theatre Group
15 N. 4th St., Harrisburg
717-238-4111; gamuttheatre.org

Jan. 15-Feb. 1: “Rumpelstiltskin” w/Popcorn Hat Players
Jan. 17-19: “Much Ado About Nothing”

Harrisburg Christian Performing Arts Center
1000 S. Eisenhower Blvd, Middletown
717-939-9333; thehcpac.org

Jan. 17-19: “Frozen Jr.”

Harrisburg Comedy Zone
110 Limekiln Rd., New Cumberland
717-920-5653; harrisburgcomedyzone.com

Jan. 3, 4: Don Jamieson and Andrew Glessner

Harrisburg Improv Theatre
1633 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
hbgimprov.com

Jan. 3: Free Improv Jam, Elderprov, Snicker Casket, Barn Bitches, Plegminism
Jan. 4: Solo Sleepover, Ham Juice, Actor’s Worst Nightmare, What? Hell Yeah! What?, Jeremy++
Jan. 4, 11, 17, 18: Free Improv Mixer
Jan. 10: Level 1 Class Show, House Team 1, Spice Crones, Coping Mechanism, Team Z
Jan. 11: Awkward Timing, Uncomfortable, Rockstar, Rockstar Karaoke
Jan. 17: Los Complicados, Am I the Assshow, Offbeats, Hyena Skits, REAL Fast Coast Wives of Central PA
Jan. 18: Homie-Sexual, The Next Leaver, Original 6, Barbra, Blackest Thing Ever
Jan. 24: House Team 1, Leg of Lamp, Coping Mechanism, Lil Stinkers
Jan. 25: Free Improv Mixer, All Over the Place, The Bondfire Society, Cosmic Trash, Big Business LLC, And Another Thing—A Sketch Comedy Show

Hershey Theatre
15 E. Caracas Ave., Hershey
717-534-3405; hersheytheatre.com

Jan. 12: Joe Gatto
Jan. 14-19: “Pretty Woman The Musical”

Luhrs Performing Arts Center
1871 Old Main Dr., Shippensburg
717-477-7469; luhrscenter.com

Jan. 15: “Swan Lake”

Majestic Theater
25 Carlisle St., Gettysburg
717-337-8200; gettysburgmajestic.org

Jan. 10: “Dancing With the Local Stars”

Messiah University
One University Ave., Mechanicsburg
717-766-2511; messiah.edu

Jan. 24-26: “Peter Rabbit and Me”

Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art
176 Water Company Rd., Millersburg
717-692-3699; nedsmithcenter.org

Jan. 25: Gamut Theatre’s TMI Improv Group

Open Stage
223 Walnut St., Harrisburg
717-232-OPEN; openstagehbg.com

Jan. 16-19: “Peter and the Star Catcher”

Oyster Mill Playhouse
1001 Oyster Mill Road, Camp Hill
717-737-6768; www.oystermill.com

Jan. 10-26: Agatha Christie’s “Love From a Stranger”

Theatre Harrisburg
513 Hurlock St., Harrisburg
717-232-5501; theatreharrisburg.com

“The Lightning Thief—The Percy Jackson Musical,” Jan. 24-Feb. 9

If you like what we do, please support our work. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

December 27, 2024 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

Jason Rounds of Consciousness Coffee

As 2024 winds down we want to thank our readers for your support this year. Before we head into the new year, make sure to catch up on all of this week’s news coverage, below.

Consciousness Coffee in Lemoyne serves up locally sourced coffee, while promoting local businesses and artists, our magazine story reported. Owner Jason Rounds already has plans to grow the new business.

Dauphin County approved a significant tax hike for 2025 and our publisher has some thoughts on it, here.

A little tree along Route 322 East between Millerstown and Newport has become known by travelers as a shining light in the darkness. In our magazine article, we tell the story behind the mysterious tree and the couple who is responsible for lighting it.

MLK Day of Service will return to central Pa. in January, our online story reported. The organizer, MLK365, has dozens of projects for volunteers to participate in.

Our 2024 web stories covered everything from local government to local business to community features. Find our most read stories of the year, here.

Rex and Deanna Rothrock founded the Rothrock Foundation in 2020 with a passion for providing disaster response assistance. In our magazine story, find out more about the local couple and the work they have done.

Sara Bozich has compiled all of this weekend’s fun events happening in the Harrisburg area, here.

Tri-County Regional Planning Commission officially launched its “Sober Ride Home” program, which gives Uber vouchers to people who have consumed alcohol at bars and restaurants, our online story reported. The initiative aims to deter drunken driving.

Underdog Sports Bar and Grill on Paxton Street in Harrisburg is known locally as a “hometown bar,” according to bar manager Jill Yurcic. In our Bartender’s Choice column, Yurcic recommends a festive holiday cocktail.

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Support quality local journalism. Join Friends of TheBurg today!

Planning group launches “Sober Ride Home” ride share voucher program

December 26, 2024 | by Maddie Gittens

Tri-County Regional Planning Commission launched the Sober Ride Home pilot program at a press conference in July.

A new program offers people a safe trip home after a night out.

Tri-County Regional Planning Commission (TCRPC) officially launched its “Sober Ride Home” this week, providing Uber vouchers to people who have consumed alcohol at bars and restaurants.

“Ultimately, our goal is to improve safety on local roadways and decrease DUI crashes through safe, accessible transportation alternatives,” said Andrew Bomberger, TCRPC executive director.

The initiative, which launched as a pilot program in July, offers free, on-demand rides to those under the influence of alcohol in Dauphin, Cumberland and Perry counties, from 3 p.m. to 3 a.m. on Thursdays through Sundays. The program will also be offered on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

To access Uber vouchers up to $40, users can visit the Sober Ride Home website at www.soberridehome.org to scan a QR code. Users must have an Uber account with a credit card on file to access a voucher.

TCRPC is collaborating with local bars and restaurants to encourage patrons not to drive under the influence and to educate servers on how impaired patrons can use the program.

According to Bomberger, 40% of fatal crashes and 30% of serious injury crashes in the area involve impaired drivers.

The program is a partnership of TCRPC with Uber and Commute PA. Funding for the initiative comes from a grant from the Federal Highway Administration and the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program.

For more information, visit the Sober Ride Home website.

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Year in Review: The most popular stories of 2024, click by click

December 26, 2024 | by Lawrance Binda

When reporters sit down to write a story, they never know how it will be received.

Will it go viral—or will it fall flat?

TheBurg’s most popular online stories of 2024 are a case in point. I never would have guessed that most of these would rank among the top 10 most-read stories of the past year.

But who am I to second-guess our readers? We report stories, publish them, and the rest is up to you.

So, without further ado, here’s our annual list of our most-read online stories of 2024, as voted by your clicks. These stories garnered the most page views out of over 600 stories we published over the past year.

Owners Jason Crocenzi & Jennifer Draisey-Crocenzi

No. 10. Toy Story. As you may know, TheBurg operates on two tracks: daily, online news reporting and a monthly print magazine. The daily reporting tends to dominate this annual top 10 list, probably because those articles can only be read online. This past year was no exception. An August feature on the Treasure Trove Toy Store was the sole print magazine story to make the 2024 list. The story featured the greater mission of the owners, who not only sell toys and other goods, but make their store a hub for helping the homeless in Harrisburg.

Dan Snow

No. 9. Engineer Exit. City hall experienced a fair amount of churn in its top leadership in 2024. Harrisburg’s engineering department arguably had the most turmoil. After 1½ years without a full-time city engineer, Harrisburg hired Dan Snow in August 2023. However, he lasted only until the following March, as we detailed in our ninth most-read story of 2024. A few months later, Harrisburg hired a replacement, Joel Seiders, who, as of this writing, is still in the post.

No. 8. Thriving. In 2024, several affordable housing projects opened, with more planned, certainly a bright spot for Harrisburg over the course of the year. Our story about one of those projects, an apartment building specifically for homeless young adults, made our top 10 list. In November, Thrive Housing Services debuted a newly renovated, 16-unit building for 18- to 24-year-olds on the 200-block of S. 13^th Street in Allison Hill. With it, young people now will have a place to live as they develop life and job skills, headed for a more promising future.

Sonya McKnight

No. 7. News Judgment. At TheBurg, we don’t usually follow the crowd. If a story is being covered by every other news outlet in town, we often will take a pass, saving our scarce reporting resources for less-followed news. That said, we will jump into the scrum if a local story is especially newsworthy. In our view, the case of suspended Magisterial District Judge Sonya McKnight, charged for allegedly shooting her ex-boyfriend, is one of those exceptions. In 2024, we wrote several stories on McKnight, including one from August that made our most-read list. Expect more coverage in 2025, as the case proceeds towards a possible springtime trial.

No. 6. Vending Essentials. Like many cities, Harrisburg has long had a homelessness crisis, a subject we wrote about many times in 2024. Just one of those stories made our top 10 list—and it was only indirectly related. In July, UPMC and Penn State College of Medicine launched a “Health to Go” vending machine outside of the UPMC Harrisburg emergency room, giving 24/7 access to free health items such as naloxone, fentanyl test strips, wound care kits, personal care items and pregnancy tests, among other items. The story was widely read and shared, a testament to the need in our community.

No. 5. Recycle Vibe. In late June, we published a short online article about a new recycling initiative from three local groups: Ngozi’s Let’s Get Dirty!, the Bridge and Harrisburg Area Camp Curtin YMCA. They partnered with Harrisburg-based Precision Recyclers to create two sites for the free disposal of end-of-life electronics. At TheBurg, we often write these types of community stories: concise, informative, impactful—I’d say we specialize in them. But did I expect this one to be among the most popular of the year? No, I did not.

No. 4. Sliced Wrong. So, this has never happened before. Back in May, we published a story about how two well-known local restaurateurs were combining forces to open a new pizza shop called Slice of Midtown, thus creating tons of buzz for the business. And then we waited and waited and waited some more for the place to open. Each year, we write stories about planned businesses, and, over our history, only a few have ultimately failed to open. None of those, though, has been among our most popular stories of the year—until right now.

No. 3. Dive In. In November, we broke the story about a new restaurant and bar headed to Midtown Harrisburg—the High Dive. This is the latest concept from veteran restaurateur Josh Kesler, who promises an artsy take on the traditional dive bar, a comfortable venue where you can get both a cheap beer and a craft cocktail. Incidentally, Kesler is a veteran occupant of our annual list. Last year, his purchase of Cork & Fork in Harrisburg was the seventh most-popular story of 2023. As long as Kesler keeps opening restaurants, we’ll continue covering them.

No. 2. Thanks Des! At TheBurg, we still believe in nuts-and-bolts reporting, so we cover most Harrisburg City Council meetings. Rarely does a meeting story count among our most popular, but a July story proved to be an exception. Most of the online article involved the rather mundane issue of council denying a building demolition—boring, huh? But the story’s popularity may lie more with our second topic. Scrolling down, readers found out that council had approved a ceremonial street-name change to honor long-time super-volunteer Destry “Des” Mangus. That, plus the picture we published of Des with council members, may have elevated the story into the runner-up spot for 2024.

Nelson Mena, the managing partner of Karma

No. 1. Great Karma. Our No. 1 story of 2024 came as no surprise to us. Simply put, it had it all. In May, we broke the story that the old Stallions nightclub would be bought, renovated and rebranded as “Karma.” This online story, then, had all the elements of a very popular story for TheBurg. It was a new business (check), a restaurant/bar (check) a building project (check) and headed by well-known local people (check). The fact that we had the story first, before other local media, further secured its status as our most popular story of 2024. So, let that formula be a lesson to anyone hoping to top our charts in 2025.

For a different take on 2024, I will have my annual list of top local news stories in the January magazine, which drops on Dec. 30. Does my list differ from that of our readers, who voted with their clicks? Return on Monday to find out!

Lawrance Binda is publisher/editor of TheBurg.

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Weekend Roundup with Sara Bozich

December 26, 2024 | by Sara Bozich

Plan your weekend with my weekly list of things to do around Harrisburg and central PA!

What you’ll find ⤵️

For something new: My challenge to you — use your downtime to check out any new-to-you local spot. Visit my Instagram for some ideas! Worth noting: Next-to-last weekend on much of the holiday programming (some do run through Jan. 5, but that’ll cut into your Farm Show time!) Things on my agenda this weekend: Heading to Elk County for Christmas #4

For your weekend planning

5 Festive cocktails for your holiday celebrations (stay tuned, I’ll have some for New Year’s this weekend, too)
Stay safe this holiday season (and every weekend!) with free Uber rides
See what else you missed on the blog

Below are more options for your weekend.

A Look Ahead

I just ordered more Maker canned wine (Brut Bubbly!) – you save 15% when you buy through my link
Are you on my email list?
Submit your events for the Weekend Roundup

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MLK Day of Service to return in January, dozens of projects listed

December 23, 2024 | by Maddie Gittens

MLK365 board members and supporters in January 2024.

Next month, volunteers will spend a day in service to their community.

The Central PA Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service will take place on Jan. 20, with dozens of local projects to participate in.

“We are excited that the 16th Annual Central PA MLK Day of Service is one month away, and there are many ways to get involved and help out,” said Marisa Tokarsky, co-chair of MLK365, the service day organizer. “The MLK Day of Service is a great way to honor someone who spent his life in service to others, and the perfect way to make a day off from work or school, a ‘day on’ in the community.”

Currently, the organization has nearly 40 service projects listed on its website, with more added regularly. Projects include everything from assembling mental health kits to painting to picking up trash. Individuals and groups are invited to sign up to volunteer or host projects. MLK365 hopes to have hundreds of volunteers.

This year’s theme for the day is “Championing The Next Generation.” According to Eileen Jacobs Crummel, MLK365 co-chair, the organization will highlight the importance of educating and uplifting the young people in the community.

The board also noted that the day of service falls on the same day as the presidential Inauguration, and that the event is meant to be “unifying” and welcoming to all.

“Each year, families and friends make a plan to volunteer on MLK Day, and it’s great to see the community come together in such a positive way,” Jacobs Crummel said.

For more information or to volunteer, visit MLK365’s website. To host a service project, email [email protected].

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The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

December 20, 2024 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

Harrisburg City Council meeting on Tuesday.

Happy Holidays to all of our Burg readers! In the midst of the festivities and busy-ness, take some time to check in on all of our community coverage from this week that you may have missed, our gift to you.

Bob’s Art Blog wraps up the year with some final artsy thoughts, featuring artists from Carlisle and Harrisburg.

The Broad Street Market announced that it is seeking a new market manager, our online story reported. The manager will oversee day-to-day operations of the market.

The Broad Street Market’s turnaround from last year’s fire and financial turmoil is commendable, says our publisher. He gives credit to the community for supporting the market through its challenges.

Dauphin County passed its 2025 budget, which included a property tax raise for the first time in 20 years, our online story reported. The increase will help fill a budget deficit.

Gifting local items is the perfect way to find one-of-a-kind treasures, while supporting your community. Our writer rounds up all of the best Harrisburg-area giftables, here.

Harrisburg has extended its Local Economic Revitalization Tax Abatement program, which aims to incentivize development. In his editorial, our publisher encourages the city to improve the much-needed initiative.

Harrisburg passed its 2025 budget, which includes no tax increase, our online story reported. The $142 million general fund budget includes infrastructure investments and personnel costs.

Heinz-Menaker Senior Center petitioned Harrisburg to give it some of its federal COVID relief money, our online story reported. The center’s director said that without financial support, the center may need to close.

Honey Bear Ice Cream opened in the Broad Street Market, our online story reported. The vendor offers dairy-free, gluten-free scoops and treats.

Lamont Jones, a Harrisburg City Council member, has announced his bid for mayor, our online story reported. Jones said he is running on the ideas of “change” and “progressive leadership.”

New Year’s Eve celebrations will return to downtown Harrisburg on Dec. 31, our online story reported. The festivities will include the traditional strawberry drop and fireworks.

Open Stage and Dr. David Bronstein, an arts advocate, have received Theatre Harrisburg’s Arts Awards, our online story reported.

Sara Bozich has her list of weekend events ready for you, here.

The Susquehanna Chorale announced its new director as Michael McCarthy, our online story reported. He was the former director of music at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., where he led their choirs for 21 years.

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Plan your weekend with my weekly list of things to do around Harrisburg and central PA!

What you’ll find ⤵️

For your weekend planning

A Look Ahead

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

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