Back to the Bard: Gamut casts an Iron Age spell with the legendary “King Lear”

February 26, 2026 | by Hope Mackenzie

Gabriella DeCarli, Weimy Montero Candelario, Alex Winnick

“Who is it that can tell me who I am?”

Gamut Theatre Group in downtown Harrisburg has long been considered the city’s “go-to” Shakespeare Theatre.

Every year, Gamut produces an educational Shakespeare production and a “Free Shakespeare in the Park” production. However, it’s been eight years since the theatre has produced a Shakespeare play on their Select Medical Mainstage. Finally, they are back to the bard with “King Lear.”

This month, Clark Nicholson, artistic director and co-founder of Gamut Theatre, takes on this beast of a role as the tortured king.

“Let’s be honest, people have wondered for a long time when Clark would get around to playing this role,” said Thomas Weaver, the director. “It’s a heavy load for any actor. Lear pretty much feels everything a human can feel at some point.”

But he assures us, “Clark is in his prime for Lear, and I think we’re all excited to see what he does.”

Nicholson isn’t the only Harrisburg Shakespeare Company all-star you’ll see in “King Lear.” The cast and crew are beautifully constructed of local veteran actors as well as new talent. Jeff Wasileski (Gloucester), Rachel Landon (Goneril), Robert Campbell (Cornwall), Karen Ruch (props designer), and Andrew Nyberg (set designer) are just a few of the many names you’ll see listed in your program.

Weaver didn’t stop at a brilliant cast. His concept for “King Lear” makes this production unique from anything you’ve seen before. Gamut’s version is set in a Celtic, Iron-Age Britannia with “ancient Druidic practices and beliefs” serving as a “backbone to this story.”

The director specifically mentioned the character of the Fool as a key competent to his storytelling. Whereas most productions follow the classic “court jester” model for this character, Weaver leaned into the Druidic notes and has the Fool serving as a priest and seer, accompanying Lear on his journey.

“A great deal of my inspiration came from one of my favorite genres of film—folk horror.” Weaver said. “Films like ‘Midsommar’ and ‘The Wicker Man’ have greatly informed this production. It’s made for some creepy and beautiful moments!”

Speaking of “creepy and beautiful,” another important facet of this show is the fight choreography. Elizabeth Hood, also playing Edmund in the production, took months to craft fight scenes that will leave you flinching, shrieking and, ultimately, leaning in for more. Here’s your warning—there will be blood and guts. “Yay!” Or “Ew!” (depending on your personality).

Blood and guts aside, audiences will not only see a stunningly cool spectacle, but they will also leave asking questions. Or, feeling permission to ask the questions that plague us all.

“Who is it that can tell me who I am?” Lear asks. The whole play begs us to consider—who are we when everything we’ve known is stripped away from us? What is nothingness, and how does that haunt the soul?

I know—we’re giving you some great conversation topics for the way home. Regardless of their discomfort, the questions are there. Because humans are there. And humans have been trying to figure out how to be human since we started.

So, if you like sick combat, quick dialogue, spiritual connectivity or existential questioning—you’ll love Gamut Theatre’s production of “King Lear.”

See you at the theatre, where your questions aren’t answered, but expanded.

“King Lear” runs March 7 through March 29 at Gamut Theatre, 15 N. 4th St., Harrisburg. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.gamuttheatre.org/lear or call 717-238-4111.

UPCOMING EVENTS

At Gamut Theatre
www.gamuttheatre.org
717-238-4111

“King Lear”
March 7 to 29
Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.
Sundays at 2:30 p.m.

“Pinocchio”
Popcorn Hat Players
March 7 to 21
Saturdays at 1 p.m.

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

Community Corner: Notable March Events

February 26, 2026 | by Missy Smith

Community Corner

Maple Sugar Fest
March 1: Explore the annual Maple Sugar Festival at Fort Hunter Park, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg, 12 to 4 p.m. Visitors can try tapping a tree, see maple syrup and candy making, and learn about the types of syrup. Products available for purchase. www.forthunter.org

Spring Concert
March 1: Harrisburg Choral Society presents “A Season of Reflection—Psalms in Song” at 3 p.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 25 W. Springettsbury Ave., York. Tickets available online, from Choral Society members or at the door. www.harrisburgchoralsociety.org

Scavenger Hunt
March 1-31: Kids ages 0-12 are invited to celebrate Dr. Seuss’s birthday at New Cumberland Public Library, 1 Benjamin Plaza, for a month-long scavenger hunt to find characters from his popular storybooks. Find all items around the children’s room and win a prize. cumberlandcountylibraries.org

Brain Health
March 3: Penn State Extension hosts “Building Brain-Healthy Habits,” a webinar for learning how to age well to protect memory and thinking, 12 to 1 p.m. Webinar offers research-backed strategies to support cognitive well-being and brain health. www.extension.psu.edu

Wellness Walk
March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Take a moderate walk on paved, gravel and dirt surfaces led by a volunteer at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, to see the park’s trees and animals, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Pre-registration required. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Networking Mixer
March 4: Socialize with local business professionals at an afternoon mixer at Everstand, 5120 Simpson Ferry Rd., Mechanicsburg, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The event is free and open to Chamber members. wschamber.org

Music Awards
March 4: Save the date for the 7th annual Central Pennsylvania Music Awards and its Hall of Fame induction ceremony at the American Music Theatre, 2425 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster, 7 to 9:30 p.m. Celebrate the best of local music. www.cpmhof.com

Zen Meditation
March 4, 18: Sit in silence to practice awareness and letting go of your thoughts at Fredricksen Library, 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill, 2 to 3 p.m. Participants ages 18 and older will practice letting their minds “sit and stay” with gentle consistency and acceptance. All spiritual paths welcome. fredricksenlibrary.org

Kids Discover
March 5: Kids ages 5 to 10 are invited to explore the world of geese and their adaptations at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Program will include a short walk, craft and activities to take home. explorewildwoodpark.org

Home + Garden Show
March 5-8: Experience gardens and outdoor living displays, designer rooms, expert and celebrity presentations, special events, plant and specialty markets and more at the 2026 PA Home + Garden Show at PA Farm Show Complex & Expo Center, 2300 N. Cameron St., Harrisburg. www.pahomeshow.com

Calm the Mind
March 5, 12, 19, 26: Learn short, easy 15-minute meditations to calm anxiety, worry and depression on Thursdays, 12 to 12:30 p.m., at Fredricksen Library, 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill. Meditations suitable for people of any background. www.fredricksenlibrary.org

Ice & Fire
March 7: View ice-carvers, watch fire dancers and enjoy family-friendly activities at Harrisburg’s annual Ice & Fire Festival, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Festival includes a downtown street festival, vendors, entertainment and more. Ice sculptures will be placed throughout the city. www.harrisburgpa.gov

Bird Safety
March 7: Join Appalachian Audubon Society at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, 1 to 2 p.m., to learn about the Bird Safe Harrisburg initiative, including a bird collision monitoring program. Hear how to make your home or business bird-safe and how to volunteer. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Book Sales
March 7, 21: Friends of New Cumberland Public Library, 1 Benjamin Plaza, hosts pre-owned book sales on the first and third Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., in Foundation House. Find books, vintage items, jewelry, music, puzzles, kids’ books, vinyl records and more. cumberlandcountylibraries.org

Tech Support
March 7, 21: Penn State Harrisburg students and computer science majors will set up an IT help desk at Hershey Public Library, 701 Cocoa Ave., 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. They will help troubleshoot issues with cell phones, laptops or other devices. hersheylibrary.org

Charter Day
March 8: Celebrate the commonwealth’s 345th birthday on the 26th Annual Charter Day with free admission to the State Museum of Pennsylvania, 300 North St., Harrisburg, 12 to 5 p.m. View the original 1681 charter that granted the land of Pennsylvania to William Penn and explore hands-on museum stations. www.statemuseumpa.org

Tea Party
March 8: Enjoy an afternoon tea and visit with Molly Pitcher, American Revolutionary War heroine and central Pennsylvanian, at John Harris-Simon Cameron Mansion, 219 S. Front St., Harrisburg, 2 to 4 p.m. Tea service will be served from the Cameron family silver. www.dauphincountyhistory.org

Legislators’ Forum II
March 12: Join Harrisburg Regional Chamber and West Shore Chamber of Commerce for the 2026 Legislators’ Forum II—Senate, a formal breakfast for chamber and CREDC members to hear from local elected officials. Event will be held at Hilton Harrisburg, 1 N. 2nd St., 8 to 10 a.m. www.harrisburgregionalchamber.org

Food Rally
March 12: Enjoy fresh, savory foods at the New Cumberland Food Truck & Restaurant Rally every second Thursday of the month, 5 to 8 p.m. Grab dinner from food trucks or restaurants and enjoy shopping and special promotions. www.newcumberlandpa.org

Contra Dance
March 13: Harrisburg Area Contra Dance Association hosts a 2nd Friday Contra Dance with live music, 8 to 10:30 p.m., at Silver Spring Presbyterian Church, 444 Silver Spring Rd., Mechanicsburg. There will be a free beginner lesson at 7:30 p.m. www.harrisburgcontra.org

GardenWise
March 14: Explore the annual GardenWise event at Central York Middle School, 1950 N. Hills Rd., to explore environmental stewardship and sustainable gardening, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Experts will share practical tips, innovative techniques and latest findings for cultivating a thriving, eco-friendly landscape. www.extension.psu.edu

Train Show
March 14: Harrisburg Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society hosts its Railroad and Model Trains Show at Scottish Rite Cathedral, 2701 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Explore model railroad items of all gauges, books, videos, hardware, clothing and more. www.harrisburgnrhs.org

Birds & Coffee
March 14: Enjoy a cozy winter morning in the Nature Center at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, to enjoy birdwatching with 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. explorewildwoodpark.org

Volunteer Day
March 14: Enjoy the outdoors and help with park and habitat enhancement projects at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tools and work gloves provided. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

NEST Expo
March 14: Parents are invited to the free NEST Expo, 12 to 4 p.m., 1430 N. Mountain Rd., Linglestown, to explore community and professional support for parenting. Event includes resources, raffle, food trucks and discounted maternity photoshoot. www.nest-hbg.com

Dance Night
March 15: Dance enthusiasts are invited to join Harrisburg USA Dance Chapter #3009 for a Cha-Cha lesson at 2 p.m., followed by three hours of social dancing at PA DanceSport, 585 E. Main St., Hummelstown. All levels welcome. Admission is $15, $10 for members and $5 for students. Facebook: USA Dance Chapter #3009 – Harrisburg Area PA

Shamrock Shuffle
March 17: Susquehanna Township Parks and Recreation hosts a Shamrock Shuffle Kids Trail Fun Run at Boyd Park, Continental Dr., Harrisburg, 5:30 p.m. Admission is $15 or $10 for township residents. www.susqparks.com

Bird Walk
March 18: Start off your morning at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, with an early migration bird walk led by Wildwood volunteers, 8 to 10 a.m. Look for waterfowl, early songbird migrants and lingering winter bird species. www.wildwoodlake.org

Media Talk
March 19: American Association of University Women (Harrisburg) will host Joyce Davis, opinion editor for PennLive and the Patriot-News, in a talk about “Challenges to the American Media—A Veteran Journalist’s Perspective,” at Fredricksen Library, 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill, 6:30 p.m. www.fredricksenlibrary.org

3rd in The Burg
March 20: 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

St. Patty’s Parade
March 21: Harrisburg Downtown Improvement District hosts the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade starting at 2 p.m. The Lucky Charm 4-Miler race through downtown Harrisburg precedes the parade, beginning at noon. www.harrisburgstpatricksdayparade.com

Flower Walk
March 22: Take a walk at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, 1:30 to 3 p.m., to look for skunk cabbage and other cold tolerant plants and observe how plants overwinter. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Game Day
March 22: Frederickson Library, 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill, invites the community to a board game day for adults 19 years of age and older, 1 to 5 p.m. Library will have games available to play, but feel free to bring your own. fredricksenlibrary.org

Free Concert
March 22: Trindle Spring Lutheran Church, 14 State Rd., Mechanicsburg, hosts Filament, Philadelphia-based Baroque chamber ensemble, in a free public performance with works by J.S. Bach, 3 to 4:30 p.m. Guests can enjoy standards originally written for Broadway and Hollywood. trindlespringlutheran.org

Empty Bowls
March 23: Join Carlisle Arts Learning Center and Project SHARE for their annual community Empty Bowls fundraiser to help food insecurity in the Carlisle area, 5 N. Orange Street, Suite #4, Carlisle, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Enjoy a selection of local soups and take home a handmade ceramic bowl by a local potter. www.carlislearts.org

Women of Excellence
March 24: YWCA Greater Harrisburg hosts the 37th annual “Tribute to Women of Excellence” awards dinner at the Hershey Lodge, 325 University Dr., Hershey, 5:30 to 8 p.m. The tribute will honor 28 outstanding women in the capital region who make a difference in their communities. www.ywcahbg.org

Listening Tour
March 25: Governor’s Advisory Commission on Women hosts a capital region listening session to inform the first State of the Woman Report in more than 20 years. Whitaker Center, 222 Market St., Harrisburg. Begins 4 p.m. Register in advance: https://linktr.ee/pawomen.

Peaceful Poses
March 27: Fredricksen Library, 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill, hosts two Peaceful Poses yoga sessions—a yoga story time for kids ages 2 to 5 at 10 a.m. Kids will explore mindful movement, focus on deep breaths and find ways to learn about their feelings. fredricksenlibrary.org

Art Auction
March 27: Harrisburg Habitat for Humanity’s 21st annual “Art Builds Homes” art auction will be held at Penn Harris Hotel and Convention Center, 1150 Camp Hill Bypass, 6 to 10 p.m. Event includes an artist reception with hors d’oeuvres, music, live and silent auctions and live art auction. www.harrisburghabitat.org/art-builds-homes

Wild Art
March 29: Meet the artists behind “Art in the Wild,” as they put finishing touches on installations for the outdoor art exhibit at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, Take a self-guided, 3-mile trail walk to chat with the artists and observe their creation processes, 1 to 3 p.m. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

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

Happenings: Our March Calendar of Events

February 26, 2026 | by Missy Smith

Art Association of Harrisburg

Museums & Art Spaces

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

“Mustang Then and Now,” through April 19

“Old School Rods and Customs, through April 19

SAAB Showroom, through April 19

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

“A Contemplative Dream,” works by Surina Slack that depict surreal fantasy landscapes that reference lucid dreams, witchcraft, psychedelic experiences and emotional memories, through March 22; reception: March 6, 5-8 p.m.

“Women of the Permanent Collection,” featuring a variety of female artists from the 20th century with their own distinctive style and unique perspective, through March 27

“A Day in the Life,” featuring the work of Sarah Mendez, Mark Dennis, Rebekah Campbell and Lisa Moore, through April 2; reception: March 20, 5-8 p.m.

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

Works from The Art Center collection, Tuesdays and Thursdays, March 3-26, 12-7 p.m.

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

“Faces & Places,” works by Mindy Deardorff and Sherryl Heberlig Sunday, through April 19 (select dates)

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

“Dandelion—CALC’s 2026 Members’ Show,” exploring the many shades of yellow and/or visual puns, through March 14

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

March artist of the month

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

Artwork by Erin Margerum, March 4-28

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyart.org

HAAA Member Artwork at Hershey Public Library, hallway gallery, through April 11

HAAA Member Artwork at Hershey Public Library, community room, through May 30

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

Gallery’s Choice—A selection of paintings by local artists, through March 29

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

New works by Tami Bitner, Ann Yeager, Paul Gallo, Cindi Hardwicke, Rachael Bowense, Tara Chickey, through March 15

New works by Tina Berrier, Caren Shelley, The Huckle Buckle Boys, Jeff Scorza, Eve Tiday, Marjorie Taylor, Annika Koser, Justin Pettingell, March 16-April 12

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

Works by Ali Wunder and Emily Fussner, through March 3

Capstone artwork by seniors in the B.A. studio art program, March 21-April 12; reception: March 21, 4:30 p.m.

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

“Ned Smith—Unseen,” through March 21

Artwork by Marjorie Taylor, March 28-July 18

“Reflections,” mixed media artwork by Kristen Wierman, through April 4

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

Art in the Stacks—Elisha Esenu, March 1-31

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

Exhibits dedicated to Pennsylvania firefighting history

Rose Lehrman Art Gallery
One HACC Drive, Harrisburg
717-780-2435; hacc.edu

Art Faculty Exhibition, through March 20; reception: March 12, 5:30-7 p.m.

Student Honors Show, March 30-April 10; reception: April 9, 5:30-7 p.m.

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

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

“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

“Horse2Auto—A Transportation Revolution,” exploring the transition from horse to automobile through the history of three vehicles from Pennsylvania’s last transportation revolution

“Illuminating Independence,” featuring 35 original “illuminations” of the Declaration of Independence, completed over 10 years by self-taught Harrisburg resident and penman Sherman Notestine

“Revolutionary Things—Objects from the Collection,” special exhibit bringing together a wide range of objects that testify to Pennsylvania’s outsized role in the American Revolution, scheduled to coincide with the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026

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

“Nightfall,” juried exhibition exploring the concept of oncoming night, whether metaphorically or through medium and technique, through April 5

Suzanne H. Arnold Art Gallery
Lebanon Valley College
101 College Ave., Annville
717-233-8668; lvc.edu/gallery

“The Secret Paris of the 1930s—Vintage Photographs by Brassaï,” through April 4

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

“A Measure of Value,” works by Faith Ringgold, Sue Coe, Andy Warhol, the Guerilla Girls and others that consider how art and artifacts intersect with economic principles of markets, through April 4

“Dissecting Locomotion,” examining Eadweard Muybridge’s groundbreaking scientific and photographic project, “Animal Locomotion,” through April 4

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

“Souls Shot Portrait Project: Portraits of Victims of Gun Violence,” March 6-27

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

“Reduce, Reuse, Recycle…Art,” group show, through April 11; reception: April 11, 2-4 p.m.

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

“Art in the Wild,” an outdoor environmental art exhibit with works by local artists created with mostly natural materials, March 29-Sept. 30

Read, Make, Learn

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

March 2, 4, 9, 16, 25: Swing dance classes, 6-9:30 p.m.

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

March 3: Make Your Own Glass Marbles (12+ w/legal guardian), 6-8 p.m.
March 4 & 18: Watercolor Painting Step-by-Step (adults), 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
March 5: Make Your Own Glass Marbles (12+ w/legal guardian), 6-8 p.m.
March 5: Torn Paper Workshop (adults), 1-4 p.m.
March 19-April 2: Still Life (ages 9-14), Thursdays, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
March 17-April 21: Functional Pottery (12+ w/legal guardian), Tuesdays, 6-9 p.m.
March 18-April 22: The Ceramic Studio (adults), Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m.
March 19-April 23: Pottery for All (adults), Thursdays, 6-9 p.m.
March 20: Surface Decoration Workshop (adults), 6-8:30 p.m.
March 24-April 21: Watercolor for the Very Beginner (adults), 6-8 p.m.
March 24-April 14: Next Steps for the Very Beginner in Watercolor 3-5:30pm
March 27: Mug Mania (adults), 6-8 p.m.

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

March 2: Monday Night Book Group, 6:30-7:45 p.m.
March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Tabletop Gaming, 4:30 p.m.
March 6, 13, 20, 27: Mah Jongg Club, 9:30 a.m.- 1 p.m.
March 11: Wicked Wednesday Book Group, 1-2 p.m.
March 11: Adult Coloring Night, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
March 23: Graphic Novel Discussion Group, 6-7:30 p.m.
March 27: Just Mysteries, 1-2 p.m.

Capital Blue Cross Connect
4500 Marketplace Way, Enola
www.capitalbluecrossconnect.com/wellness/fitness-classes

March 2, 9 16, 23: Virtual Nature & Wellness Series, 12 p.m.
March 2, 9 16, 23, 30: Virtual Pilates, 5 p.m.
March 3, 10, 17, 24: Mindful Yoga & Meditation, 10 a.m.
March 4: Nutrition Workshop—Eat Better as a Family, 11 a.m.
March 4, 11, 18, 25: Virtual INSPIRE, 9 a.m.
March 5, 12, 19, 26: Ready, Steady, Action in person and virtual, 4:15 p.m.
March 6, 13, 20, 27: Strong and Fit in person and virtual, 10 a.m.
March 11: Cooking Connections—Culinary Workshop, 6 p.m.
March 31: Blood Drive, 11 a.m.

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

March 4-April 15: Intermediate/Advanced Wheel 103 (ages 16-adult), Wednesdays, 6-8 p.m. (no class: April 1)
March 7: Pen/Ink Watercolor Card, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
March 7-28: The Right Fit (ages 10-15), Saturdays, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
March 9: Third Space Craft Night, 6-8 p.m.
March 18-April 8: Drawing Basics, Wednesdays, 6-8 p.m.
March 20-May 4: Wheel 102, Mondays, 6-8 p.m.
March 20: Craft Beer & Clay, 7-9 p.m.
March 21: Creativity Exercises for Fun and Inspiration, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
March 21: Bird in a Next pottery (ages 6-12), 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
March 28: Put Your Color Pedal to the Metal (ages 13-adult), 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
March 28: Eucalyptus Magic, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Dauphin County Library System
dcls.org

March 10: Books on Tap at Rubber Soul Brewery, Hummelstown, 6-7 p.m.
March 14: Reading the Rainbow at LGBT Center of Central PA, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

East Pennsboro Library
98 S. Enola Dr., Enola
717-732-4274; eastpennsborobranch.org

March 3: Read to Dogs, 6-7 p.m.
March 4: Family Game Night, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
March 7: Dr. Seuss Day, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
March 11: Bean Mosaic Cow Craft, 6:30 p.m.
March 12, 26: Story Time and Craft, 6:30 p.m.
March 17: Drive-In Movie Night—“Balto,” 5:30-7:30 p.m.
March 19: Drop-In STEM Play, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
March 24: BINGO for Books, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
March 25: Human Trafficking Presentation, 6:30 pm.

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

March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: The Stitch Sitch, 2-3:30 p.m.
March 4: I Am 59 1/2 What Now? (Taking Care of Your Financial Future with Rose Financial Associates), 1-2 p.m.
March 7: Figment Forge, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
March 11: Assets Under Management and What It Means for Your Retirement and Financial Future (Taking Care of Your Financial Future with Rose Financial Associates), 1-2 p.m.
March 19: Sip and Speak, 3-4:30 p.m.
March 25: East Shore Cinema, 2-4 p.m.
March 29: Pigment of Your Imagination, 2-4 p.m.

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

March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Card Making Group, 5-7 p.m.
March 4, 11, 18, 25: Homeschool Happening, 2-4 p.m.
March 5, 12, 19, 26: Fiber Artists, 3-6 p.m.
March 6: Taste of Western Lancaster County!, 4:30-9 p.m.
March 7: Knitter’s Group, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
March 14: Fiber Artists, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
March 21: Book Discussion Group, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
March 28: Board Game Meetup, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Fort Hunter
5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg
717-599-5751; forthunter.org

March 19: Spring Homeschool Day, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

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

March 1: Pokémon Club for Tweens and Teens, 3-4:30 p.m.
March 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25: Preschool Story Time (ages 3-5), 11-11:30 a.m. and 6-6:30 p.m.
March 2, 9, 23: Book Explorers (ages 3-6), 5:30-6:30 p.m.
March 2, 16: Fredricksen Writes, 7-8:30 p.m.
March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Food and Farm Discovery Zone, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
March 3, 10, 17, 24: iPhone Basics Series, 3-4:30 p.m.
March 4, 18: Zen Meditation, 2-3 p.m.
March 5: Special Themed Storytime (ages 3-5), 10-10:30 a.m.
March 5: Elementary LEGO Lab, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
March 5, 12, 19, 26: Meditation to Calm the Mind, 12-12:30 p.m.
March 6: Chess Club, 6:30 p.m.
March 10, 24: Read to Dogs, 6-7:30 p.m.
March 13, 27: Device Advice, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
March 14-15: Oscar Shorts, 1-4:30 p.m.
March 16: World Explorers, 6-7 p.m.
March 20: Family Paint & Pix!, 6-8 p.m.
March 21: Neurodivergent Adult Support Group, 3-4:30 p.m.
March 22: Games, Cards and Puzzles, 1-5 p.m.
March 27: Book Dragons Club—Book Keepers, 6-8:30 p.m.
March 27: Peaceful Poses Yoga Storytime for Preschoolers, 10-10:45 a.m.

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

March 6: St. Patrick’s Day Painting (ages 12 and older), 6-8 p.m.
March 7: Kids Crochet Workshop (ages 5 and older), 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
March 7: Beginner Crochet Workshop, 1-3 p.m.
March 21: Easter Basket, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
March 22: Easter/Spring Watercolor (ages 12 and older), 2-4 p.m.
March 28: Easter Basket #2, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

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

March 7: Otherworldly Book Club, 12-1 p.m.
March 14: Knit One, Crochet Too!, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
March 20: Intro to Zines, 3:30-5 p.m.
March 21: Silent Book Club, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
March 28: Write On!, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyart.org

March 10-April 28: Oil and Acrylics, Tuesdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
March 12-April 9: Water Media, Thursdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

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

March 7, 14, 21, 28: Guided Garden Walk, 10-11 a.m.
March 8, 15: Early Spring Nature Walk, 2-3 p.m.

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

March 2: Books and Babies, 10:15-10:45 a.m.
March 2: Storytime for Everyone, 11-11:30 a.m.
March 3: Hershey Area Pokémon Club, 5:30-7 p.m.
March 3: Whee!, 10:15-10:45 a.m.
March 3: “Mysteries, She Wrote” Mystery Book Group,1 6:30-8 p.m.
March 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26: Penn State Hershey Mothers & Babies, 10:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
March 4: LEGO Club, 1-2 p.m.
March 4, 11, 18, 25: Community Crochet Night, 6-7 p.m.
March 5: Storytime for Everyone, 10:15-10:45 a.m.
March 5, 12, 19, 26: Teen Time, 2:30-4:15 p.m.
March 5, 19: Hershey Quilters, 12:30 p.m.
March 7: Painting with Kayla, 2-4 p.m.
March 7, 21: Cyber Lions PSU Tech Support, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
March 9: Hershey Area Neighbors and Newcomers, 10:15 a.m.-1 p.m.
March 10: Philosopher’s Round Table Discussion Group, 2-3:30 p.m.
March 14, 28: Chess Club, 1-3 p.m.
March 17: Splash of Serenity—Watercolors for Relaxation, 2-3:30 p.m.
March 17: Tween Tuesday, 4-5 p.m.
March 17, 31: Silent Book Group, 10-11:30 a.m.
March 21: Cocoa Area Fiber Enthusiasts, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
March 28: Fused Glass Owl, 1-4 p.m.

Historic Harrisburg Resource Center
1230 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
historicharrisburg.org

March 23: Fourth Monday Program—On the Road at Historic Grace Church, 6-7 p.m.

Historical Society of Dauphin County
John Harris-Simon Cameron Mansion
219 S. Front St., Harrisburg
717- 233-3462; dauphincountyhistory.org

Mansion Tours, Tuesdays-Friday, 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.

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

March 1: Emerging Abundance—Late Winter Foraging Walk 1:30-3:30 p.m.
March 10: Stick It and It Will Grow—Planting Habitat with Live States, 6-7:30 p.m.
March 15: Grow a Forest with Sticks—The Secret of Live Stakes, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
March 15: Grow Your own Garden Fence—Introduction to Living Willow Structures, 1:30-4 p.m.
March 24: Building a Regenerative Economy for Local Tree Nuts, 6-7:30 p.m.
March 28: Intro to Power Tools—Build a Picnic Bench, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
March 28: Critter Crawl—Salamanders, 6-7:30 p.m.
March 29: Grow Your Own Microgreens, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
March 31: Soil Ecology and Self-Renewing Fertility, 6-8 p.m.

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

March 5: DriveHer Knowledge, 6-7 p.m.
March 16: Bring Your Own Book Club, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
March 18: Weekday Getaway, 4-5:30 p.m.

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

March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Story Time, 10:15-11 a.m.
March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Toddler Time, 11:15-11:35 a.m.
March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Storybook STEAM, 6-7 p.m.
March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Tea and Stitches, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
March 4, 11, 18, 25: Story Time, 1:30-2:15 p.m.
March 6, 13, 20, 27: LEGO Time, 10:15-11:15 a.m.
March 10: Creative Movement Story Time, 10:15-11:15 a.m.
March 14, 28: Block Party, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
March 14, 28: Puzzle Party, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
March 19, 26: Play Scrabble!, 1:15-3:15 p.m.
March 21: Craft-A-Palooza, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
March 24: Tea & Stitches Extended Edition, 12-2 p.m.

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

March 1, 8, 15, 22: Young Adult Group, 4 p.m.
March 4, 11, 18, 25: Common Roads (ages 12-17), 6-8 p.m.
March 7, 14, 21, 28: Passageways, 2 p.m.
March 14: QTPOC Advisory Group, 6-8 p.m.

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

March 4, 11, 18: Zine for Teens, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
March 10: Information Basics, 3-4:30 p.m.
March 17: Snapology, 5-6:30 p.m.
March 31: Coloring for Teens, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

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

March 16: Ace That Job App, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

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

March 2, 9 16, 23, 30: STEAM Club, 6 p.m.
March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Tiny Tots Storytime, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Wee Readers Storytime, 1-2 p.m.
March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Tales with T.A.I.L.S., 6-7 p.m.
March 5, 12, 19, 26: Teen Time, 4-5 p.m.
March 5, 12, 19, 26: LEGO Club, 6-7 p.m.
March 14: Community Table Top Game Time, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

March 15: Glass Eggs Workshop, 1-2:30 p.m.
March 22: Fluid Art Workshop, 1-4 p.m.

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

March 4: Pre-K Story Time, 10:30 a.m.
March 15: Waterfowl Survey, 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
March 21: PA Hunter-Trapper Education Course, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

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

March 1-31: Dr. Seuss Scavenger Hunt (ages 0-12)
March 1-31: Read Across America Reading Challenge (ages 0-18)
March 2, 16: Great Books Discussion Group, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
March 3: Pout-Pout Party (ages 3 and older), 5-6 p.m.
March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Book Babies (ages 0-2), 11:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
March 4: Piece Seekers, 6-7:30 p.m.
March 5: Ruth’s Mystery Discussion Group, 10:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
March 5: Musical Mornings (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
March 5: Kids Paint Party (ages 5 and older), 5-6 p.m.
March 6: Tumble Tots (ages 0-3), 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
March 7, 14, 21: Take and Makes (ages 0-12)
March 7, 21: Book Sales, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
March 9-April 13: Preschool Storytime (ages 3-5), 10:30-11:15 a.m.
March 10: Shelf Love, 6-7 p.m.
March 10: Tales for Tails (ages 6-12), 6:30-7:30 p.m.
March 12: Toddler Time (ages 2-3), 10:30-11 a.m.
March 12: Pi Day Art & Architecture Workshop (ages 6-12), 5-6 p.m.
March 13, 20, 27: 1,2,3 Paly With Me (ages 1-3), 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
March 14: Teen Craft Kits (ages 13-17)
March 17: Brush Hour Art Club (ages 12 and older), 4:30-5:30 p.m.
March 19: Movers and Groovers (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
March 20: Mini Gold at the Library (ages 8-12), 6-7 p.m.
March 22: 40 Years at the NCPL with Judy Dillen, 3-4:30 p.m.
March 26: STEM Sort & Match with Spring Sensory Bins (ages 2-5), 10:30-11:30 a.m.
March 28: Crafty Crafters, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
March 31: Junior Scientists (ages 5 and older), 5-6 p.m.

Panacea Healing Arts
701 N. Mountain Rd., Harrisburg
484-373-9109; panaceahealingarts.com

March 2: Crystal Bowl Sound Immersion, 6-7 p.m.
March 6, 20: Hero’s Journey (Role Playing Game-Based Personal Growth for Teens/Young Adult), 6-8 p.m.
March 7: From Stuck to Unstoppable—Simple NLP and Self-Hypnosis Tools for Real Change, 2:30-4 p.m.
March 10, 17, 24: Intro to Breathwork, 6-7:30 p.m.
March 16: Central Pennsylvania Psychedelic Society meeting, 6:30-8 p.m.
March 17: Sonic Neural Experience (advanced breathwork), 6-8 p.m.
March 30: Gentle Yoga & Sound Immersion Savasana, 6:30-8 p.m.

Pathways Institute for Lifelong Learning
100 Mt. Allen Dr., Mechanicsburg
717-591-7213; thepathwaysinstitute.org

March 9, 16: The World of Ancient Rome, 1:30 p.m.
March 10, 17, 24, April 7, May 12: The American Film Institute’s Top 50 Films (5-session series), 1 p.m.
March 11: Scams All Around Us—Don’t Take the Bait, 10:30 a.m.
March 11: President Putin—25 Years and Counting, 1:30 p.m.
March 12: The Mantrailing Bloodhound Locating the Missing, 10 a.m.
March 13, 20, 27: Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes (3-session series), 10 a.m.
March 16: Exploring Bob Dylan’s Musical Legacy, 10 a.m.
March 19, 26, April 9: Exploring AI—Practical Tools for Everyday Life (3-session series), 10 a.m.
March 19: Behind the Beat—The Surprising True Stories of the Beatles, 1 p.m.
March 23: The Beauty of the Natural World, 1 p.m.

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

March 3: Clovers, Peeps & Easter Eggs Mosaic Workshop, 6-8 p.m.
March 4-April 8: Homeschool & Cyber School Art Class (grades 4-9), Wednesdays, 1-2:30 p.m.
March 4-April 8: Public After School Art Class (grades 4-9), Wednesdays, 4:30-6 p.m.

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

March 6, 21: Storytime—Sadie Sprocket Builds a Rocket, 10:30 a.m.
March 7: Memory & Logic, 10 a.m.-12 p.m., 1-3 p.m.
March 13: Curiosity Kids—Gardens, 11:30 a.m.
March 18: Candles, 11:30 a.m.
March 20: Virtual Program—Remembrance and Reflection, 12:15-12:45 p.m.
March 22: Memory & Logic, 1-3 p.m.
March 25: Signs of Spring—Leaves!, 11:30 a.m.
March 27: Curiosity Kids—It’s Alive or Not?, 11:30 a.m.

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

March 25: Open Figure Drawing

Susquehanna Township
1900 Linglestown Rd., Harrisburg
717-909-9228; susqparks.com

March 14: Mind Techniques Seminar, 10 a.m.
March 17: Shamrock Shuffle Kids Trail Fun Run at Susquehanna Township Boyd Park

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

March 7: Sourdough Basics, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
March 7: Clay Smoker Faerie House Workshop, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
March 9: Susquehanna Clay Club Meeting, 6 p.m.
March 10: Mosaic Clover/Easter Egg/Peep Bunny Class, 6-8 p.m.
March 11: Insect on Flower Watercolor Class with Summer of Key
March 14: Soup & a Bowl Fundraiser Chili Competition, 12-3 p.m.
March 27: Pennsylvania Birds Watercolor Class, 6-8 p.m.
March 27: Dirty Date Night on Wheel, 7-9 p.m.
March 28: Hand Built Flower Pot Workshop, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
March 28: Beginner Resin Workshop, 1-3 p.m.

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

March 3, 10, 17, 24: Weekly Wellness Walks, 1-2:30 p.m.
March 4, 11, 18: Cat In The Hat Learning Series, 10-10:45 a.m.
March 5: Kids Discover—Gregarious Geese (ages 5-10), 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
March 8: Bonsai Workshop, 12 a.m.-3 p.m.
March 11: Penn State Extension Master Gardener’s Veggie Series—Growing Great Tomatoes, 6-7:30 p.m.
March 14: Spring Wreath Workshop, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
March 14: Birds & Coffee with Appalachian Audubon Society, 10-11 a.m.
March 14: Volunteer Work Day Litter Clean-up, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
March 17: Growing Up Wild—Educator Workshop, 1-3 p.m.
March 18: Bird walk—Waterfowl and Early Spring Migrants, 8-10 a.m.
March 21: Kids Discover—Mammals and Their Pelts (ages 5-10), 1:30-3 p.m.
March 22: Flower Walk—Earliest Bloomers, 1:30-3 p.m.
March 25: Penn State Extension Master Gardener’s Veggie Series—Vegetable Gardening Through the Seasons, 6-7:30 p.m.
March 29: Art in the Wild—Meet the Artists, 1-3 p.m.

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

March 28: Sourdough for Beginners, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Live Music

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

March 5: The Phil Collins Story
March 6: Vienna Boys Choir
March 8: The Drifters, The Platters & Cornell Gunter’s Coasters
March 12: Air Supply
March 13: Celtic Woman
March 15: Mark Lowry, Endless Highway
March 27: Mitchell Tenpenny
March 28: The Oak Ridge Boys

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

March 5, 12, 19, 26: Open Mic Night
March 6: Flux Capacitor, Joe Kenney Band
March 8: Dale and the ZDubs, Sons of Paradise, Rock Creek Kings
March 11: Sunsquabi, Manic Focus
March 14: St Patrick’s Day Kick Off Party with Big Mike
March 21: Hellbender Hootenanny
March 27: DUUNES, Mdnght Dsco, Observe the 93^rd

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

March 6: Jazz in the City
March 7: York Symphony’s “Carmen Meets Beethoven”
March 13: Tartan Terrors
March 14: Stanley Jordan
March 21: Turn to Stone—A Tribute to ELO
March 22: John Moreland & Patterson Hood
March 24: The Infamous Stringdusters
March 28: The Machine Performs Pink Floyd

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

March 20: Amoroso Da Capo

Capital City Music Hall
234 N. 2nd St., Harrisburg
capcitymusichall.com

March 1: Rumours ATL
March 5: Candlebox
March 6: Glif CD Release Show
March 6: The Emo Night Tour
March 7: The Pietasters
March 13: Hold Fast
March 14: Internal Bleeding
March 14: I Love R&B
March 15: The Browning
March 20: Super 70s Rock Show
March 20: All Your Friends Indie Party
March 21: Battle of the Bands 2026
March 21: Gimme Gimme Disco
March 25: Sebastian Bach
March 27: Noun
March 28: Nailbite

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

March 4, 25: Christine Purcell
March 5, 26: Dr. Nyce
March 6, 20: Roy Lefever
March 7, 21: Chris Emkey
March 11, 18: Tristin Lynee
March 12, 19: Andrea Britton
March 13, 27: Ted Ansel
March 14, 28: Anthony Haubert

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

March 21: Start Making Sense—Talking Heads Tribute
March 22: Cherish The Ladies Irish Music, Song & Dance
March 27: Dirty Deeds—The AC/DC Experience
March 28: Beginnings—Music of Chicago

Elizabethtown College
1 Alpha Dr., Elizabethtown
717-361-1212; etown.edu

March 16: Jocelyn Swigger
March 23: Virginia State University Concert Choir

The Englewood
1219 Research Blvd. Hummelstown
717-256-9480; englewoodhershey.com

March 6: The Badlees, Jellybricks
March 7: The Badlees, Hot Wing Jones
March 10: Tannahill Weavers
March 20: Music for Good w/Meghan Cary, Peter Quinn Farell, Cate Monaco
March 28: Sugar Mountain—A Tribute to Neil Young

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

March 1: “The Golden Age of the Silver Screen”
March 14-15: “Masquerade”

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

March 21: Hershey Symphony—Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “Carousel” in Concerts

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

March 7: Draw the Line
March 13: Little Rock Band
March 14: Luv Gods
March 20: Hunkajunk
March 21: Until Sunrise
March 27: New Normal Band

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

March 1: The Texas Tenors
March 5: Taiko Project
March 10, 11: Blue Man Group

Market Square Concerts
marketsquareconcerts.org

March 17: Doric String Quartet

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

March 5: Vienna Boys Choir
March 21: Messiah University Concert Choir
March 24: Messiah University Jazz Combo

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

March 14: Big Sky Quartet

Pine Street Presbyterian Church
310 N. Third St., Harrisburg
717-238-9304; pinestreet.org

March 22: Juliette Tacchino and Grant Loehnig

Stock’s on 2nd
211 N. 2nd Street, Harrisburg
717-233-6699; stocksonsecond.com

March 13: Saint Eldred

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

March 9: Dervish
March 10: Tannahill Weavers

West Shore Theatre
317 Bridge St, New Cumberland
717-759-5464; westshoretheatre.org

March 6: Haus of Monsters—Tribute to Lady Gaga
March 7: Best Shot—A Tribute to Pat Benatar & Women Who Rock
March 8: Cumberland Honey, Aroostine Lively, Grace Mahar, Gena Lanette
March 9: Dervish
March 13: St. Patrick’s Kickoff Concert with Seasons
March 20: Blitz Dynette
March 21: Philadelphia Freedom—A Tribute to Elton John
March 27: Erica Lyn Everest
March 28: Jeffrey Gaines, Meaghan Farrell
March 29: The Unforgettable Big Band

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

March 7: Ballyhoo! Artikal Sound
March 13: Nashville Nights—The Ultimate 90s Country Band
March 14: Kilmaine Saints, The Super Hi-Tech Jet Fighters
March 25: Burning Witches
March 26: The Soul Rebels
March 28: Nirvani, Alice In Sane, Age Against the Machine

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

March 7: Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy and the Celtic All Stars
March 21: Great American Crooners

Whitaker Center
222 Market St., Harrisburg
717-214-ARTS; whitakercenter.org

March 7: Tupelo Honey

The Stage Door

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

March 19: “Menopause The Musical 2—Cruising Through ‘The Change’”
March 20: “Riverdance”
March 26: “Dr. Seuss The Cat in the Hat—Live on Stage!”

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

March 7: “Couples Therapy—The Theatrical Show”
March 12: “Kinky Boots”
March 14: Havana Night with Luis Santiago
March 19: The Outlet—Music & Poetry Open Mic
March 21: “Stone Soup…And Other Stories”
March 26: Kristin Key

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

March 1-8: “The Time of Your Life”

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

March 1-21: “Little of Shop Horrors”
March 27-May 10: “Oklahoma!”

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

March 4-21: Popcorn Hat Players present “Pinocchio”
March 7-29: “King Lear”

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

March 6, 7: Rich Vos
March 13, 14: Dan Frigolette and Josh Ryan
March 20, 21: Coleman Green, Ryan Cox
March 27, 28: Chris Wiles, Shane McConnaghy
March 29, 30: Steve-O

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

March 6: Free Improv, Lil’ Stinkers, Neighborhood Gossip, Am I the Assshow?, Who’s There?, On the Record—An Improv Talk
March 7: Free Improv Mixer
March 13, 15: Level 1—Intro to Improv Class Graduation Show
March 14: Formerly Barn Bitches
March 28: Get to the Point!, Grandy

Hershey Area Playhouse
830 Cherry Dr., Hershey
717-533-8525; hersheyareaplayhouse.com

March 6-8: “Sally Sells Seashells (And You Can, To!)”

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

March 5: Neil deGrasse Tyson
March 13: Jim Jefferies
March 14: Steve Martin & Martin Short
March 24-29: “Tina—The Tina Turner Musical”

Keystone Theatrics
The Playhouse at Allenberry
1559 Boiling Springs Rd., Boiling Springs
717-258-3211; keystonetheatrics.com

March 1: “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”

Little Theatre of Mechanicsburg
915 S. York St., Mechanicsburg
717-766-0535; ltmpa.com

March 1-15: “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare”

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

March 14: “The Magic School Bus”

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

March 1: Spring Senior Series
March 26-29: “Hansel and Gretel” opera

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

March 5: EFF Live
Through March 7: “Stoney Brook”
March 14: BaRPG
March 20-22: “Jesus Christ Superstar”
March 25-April 2: The Good at Heart Festival
March 26: “Anne Frank: Stories from the Annex”
March 27-29: “Shirley Chisholm: Unbossed & Unbowed”

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

March 6-22: “Love, Loss and What I Wore”

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

March 6: We the People First Friday—“Unbound: Poetry, Presence and the Art of Becoming”

Whitaker Center
222 Market St., Harrisburg
717-214-ARTS; whitakercenter.org

March 19: Dancing with the Celts
March 20: Gary Gulman
March 24: Ladysmith Black Mambazo

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Council passes legislation to limit city involvement with ICE

February 25, 2026 | by Alexandra Jones

ICE protesters gathered outside of City Council’s Tuesday night meeting earlier this month.

Harrisburg City Council passed legislation last night that limits the city police bureau’s ability to work with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

If signed into law by Mayor Wanda Williams, the legislation would prohibit city officials and employees from inquiring into or collecting information on or retaining people’s citizenship or immigration status, except when required by federal or state law.

“There was an enormous showing for the public to discuss this bill,” said Council Member Ausha Green. “Most residents, members of the public, came out to support legislation, but noted that they would like it to be stronger and to protect the residents of Harrisburg and everyone who frequents our city.”

Earlier this month, council members expressed interest in creating such legislation after residents spoke about their concerns about ICE presence in the city and amidst growing nationwide tensions during public comment.

“We will continue to work on this as this grows, because I don’t think it’s going to slow down any time soon,” council vice president Lamont Jones noted.

Employees would also be restricted from using city funds, personnel, equipment, data, technology, property or facilities to assist in the investigation, detention or arrest of anyone due to an immigration violation.

The legislation would also block employees from giving ICE access to non-public city facilities without a warrant.

Council member Jocelyn Rawls asked if the legislation could be amended to also block employees from coming onto any city facility, but received pushback.

“My thought is even, I don’t want them or anyone walking around the building trying to find people because that’s what I’m nervous about too,” Rawls said.

City solicitor Neil Grover had concerns about such an amendment’s legality.

“The reason you’re doing this is because the federal government has gone down a path that is trampling on rights, and it’s hard not to react back and come up with things to push back,” Grover noted. “But then you’re also trampling on rights, and if any government can tell anybody here they can’t be in a public area, that is the same thing as martial law.”

Rawls ultimately withdrew the suggestion to give it more thought in order to “do it in a way where we don’t get involved in any lawsuits,” she said.

“We don’t want to lose any more money,” she said.

Under the legislation, employees would also be unable to detain anyone based on a civil immigration non-judicial detainer or administrative request and would not be able to provide advance notice to ICE of release dates, except as required by law.

Police bureau officials have stated that they do not interact with ICE unless called to an incident. They are also required to report to federal agents if they come across someone with an immigration warrant against them.

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Harrisburg School District moves to demolish William Penn, ending years of debate

February 25, 2026 | by Alexandra Jones

William Penn, February 2026

The Harrisburg School Board voted Tuesday night to demolish William Penn and use the 27-acre property for district needs.

The dilapidated state of the building—a target of arson and vandalism that suffers from deterioration, water damage and broken doors and windows among other issues—was a big factor in the decision for the board.

“If this had been 15 years ago, this would have been in a different context,” said board member Annie Hughes. “We’d be dealing with a different situation. There’d be different options on the table that aren’t on the table really viably right now because it’s been 15 years.”

The century-old, five-acre school building has been vacant since 2011, last used as a vocational school in 2011. Its demolition has been quoted at $5.3 million.

Vice president Autumn Anderson said that she felt it was her responsibility as a school board director for a district that just exited receivership last year to go with the least-risky option, despite being someone who personally would love to see the building restored.

“This is a hard decision, but at the end of the day, I’m making a decision as a school board director,” she said. “I have to put the school district students first, and so that comes down to making good, financial and responsible decisions for them.”

The 7-1 demolition vote noted that William Penn’s land will be used “in a manner consistent with the educational mission of the district,” although, two weeks ago, Superintendent Benjamin Henry identified the construction of athletic fields as the administration’s recommendation for the property’s use.

Board member Brian Carter expressed concern before the vote about pursuing sports fields, rather than academics.

“Every student in the district is not an athlete,” he said, prior to voting against the demo.

Primarily, the administration had recommended a soccer field (estimated at $896,000) for the varsity girls’ team, currently practicing in the outfield of a boys’ baseball field.

Board President Rosyln Copeland, who attended the co-op program at William Penn when she was a student, added that the building is plagued by vandalism and that the district pays a hefty price (roughly $566,000 per year) in security and insurance costs to keep the building standing.

“Our children are not in this building, so they’re not learning,” she said.

Harrisburg School Board officials

The district’s risk-versus-benefit analysis earlier this month also weighed an additional seven options, all presented in November to the board at a special meeting. The analysis also followed years of dialogue with the Harrisburg community over the future of the building following a called-off plan for its demolition in 2023.

Three options that would pursue the building’s adaptive reuse for various projects were considered financially risky (as they relied on to-be-determined funding sources) and failed to align with the district’s K-12 education agenda. Plus, defaults or underperformance on such projects could affect the district’s credit, clarified district solicitor Jeffrey Sultanik Tuesday.

The board moved 5-3, with board members Carter, Copeland, and Terricia Radcliff voting “no,” to explicitly decline pursuing these partnerships further Tuesday night.

Melanie Cook, community task force member and Harrisburg resident, expressed her dissatisfaction Tuesday that the board had failed to take into account the recommendations that were made by a task force.

“That task force made a recommendation that that building be preserved to the greatest extent possible and adaptively be reused to create opportunities for our students,” she said, noting it was made up of Harrisburg engineers, lawyers, community activists, urban planners and urban farmers.

The Community Task Force’s proposed plan to partially or fully repair the building into a career technical education center was also considered financially risky for the district, as it would bring an estimated cost of $13 to $93 million. The district is operating under an existing debt burden of $19 million per year through 2036.

Board member Danielle Robinson was absent from the meeting.

The William Penn building is located on the 2900-block of N. 4th St., Harrisburg.

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Building Dreams in the Keystone State With Keystone Custom Homes

February 25, 2026 | by Admin

Your home is the foundation of your life — your castle, your pride and joy, your private retreat. It should have a floorplan that flows with your life, a design that reflects your personality and the peace of mind that comes from quality craftsmanship. For those ready to build a life in Pennsylvania, Keystone Custom Homes stands out among the best custom home builders. Get ready to bring your vision to life, one beautiful detail at a time.

The Keystone Story — More Than a House, It’s a Home

Every great story starts with a pivotal moment. For you, that’s your decision to build your dream home from scratch. For Keystone Custom Homes founder Jeff Rutt, it was the moment he gave up a long career in dairy farming to follow his own dream into homebuilding.

Since that life-changing moment in 1992, Keystone Custom Homes has built more than 9,000 stunning homes across the East Coast and in more than 30 beautiful communities in Pennsylvania. It’s the first company ever to have been recognized three times as America’s Best Builder.

Jeff believes that every home is an expression of its owners. That’s why families can choose from more than 40 customizable floorplans. Keystone’s innovative KeyChoices system makes it easy to express your personality, tastes and lifestyle preferences, with more than 1,500 options per floorplan. You should have the freedom to design a home that’s truly yours, and with this many combinations, that’s exactly what you can do.

Why Custom Build in Pennsylvania?

Though you could just buy a home and remodel it to your taste, according to the latest Verisk Repair and Remodel Cost Index, renovation costs have risen by almost 67% in the last decade, regularly outpacing inflation for much of modern memory.

Renovations are expensive, disruptive, stressful and time-consuming. Working with the best custom home builders, like Keystone Custom Homes, you can design from the ground up instead, getting exactly what you want. Personalized layouts mean you can add in the features that matter to you — such as a home office — without having to reorganize and repurpose an existing home. Best of all, you get the joy of moving into a brand-new dream home, usually within 9 to 12 months.

Building Green — for the Planet and Your Wallet

Another key reason to custom-build in Pennsylvania is energy efficiency. With electricity bills soaring across the state and set to rise further through 2026, many householders are looking for ways to cut energy costs.

The best custom home builders commit to minimizing environmental impact. When you build with Keystone Custom Homes, your new home will have a HERS rating of 52 — that’s around 50% more energy-efficient than a standard new build and 80% more efficient than a typical resale home.

That means you can be proud of your home’s commitment to sustainability, and you will feel the difference in your wallet, too. Keystone’s homes are all Energy Star-rated, meaning a typical energy bill is up to 30% lower than non-rated new builds, and considerably lower than in most resale homes.

The Keystone Difference — A Streamlined Path to Your Dream Home

Home builders on the East Coast understand that the process can feel daunting. Keystone’s step-by-step process puts you in control:

You’ll start by choosing one of the company’s vibrant Pennsylvania communities, or alternatively, you can build on your own lot.
After that, you choose a floorplan you love and a site for your build.
Next, you’ll sign the purchase agreement and pay the deposit.
Then you will start exploring your home’s customization choices — flooring, cabinetry, lighting, countertops, decks, bathrooms and so much more.
Keystone’s New Home Advisor will connect you with a lender to arrange financing.
With finance in place, it’s time for your Living Choices Meeting, where you can make any structural or electrical changes to your floorplan.
Finally, meet your Deco Designer to finalize your design choices.

With everything selected, you’ll be guided through the build process by your Construction Manager, who will keep you up to date with the schedule. Through Keystone’s app, you’ll get photos and full access to the ongoing build.

And then, when your home is ready, you’ll inspect it from top to bottom during a Celebration Walk-through. With an industry-leading 20-year structural warranty on your building, your future starts here.

Your Forever Home, Forged in the Keystone State

Building your dream home is one of life’s biggest adventures. It’s a journey of choices, creativity and aspiration — and with Keystone Custom Homes, the best home builders on the East Coast, you won’t take that journey alone. From the moment you choose a floorplan to the day you walk through your finished home, you are supported by award-winning quality that brings your unique vision to life. Your new beginning is waiting.

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Homicides down for 2025, officer vacancies high, Harrisburg police annual report says

February 24, 2026 | by Alexandra Jones

Harrisburg police car

An annual report released Tuesday by the Harrisburg police showed the number of homicides in the city dropped last year.

Harrisburg experienced 14 homicides in 2025, down from 22 the year prior, the report indicated. The victims consisted of 10 Black men, two white men and two Black women.

Incidents of rape, assault, and drug offenses ticked up.

The city had 27 rape incidents compared to 2024, which saw 24. There were a total of 739 assaults, compared to 696 in 2024. Drug offenses for 2025 numbered 1,381 compared to last year’s 1,148.

Drunk driving incidents almost doubled. Officers counted 200 offenses in 2025, up from 2024’s 112 incidents.

There was a significant decrease in the number of reported car thefts—down to 165 in 2025, compared to 245 the year prior. Notably, in 2023, this number had been much higher at 340 incidents.

Trespassing offenses were also slightly down last year with only 79 incidents reported (down from 91 in 2024).

No use of force incidents or hate crimes were reported last year.

The Harrisburg Police noted in the report that, throughout the year, the bureau increased community involvement and engagement as part of violence prevention programming by participating in public panels and hosting assemblies in schools and prisons to educate the public on alternatives to group and gun violence.

The department also said it introduced a recruitment vehicle last year to help attract new applicants to become police officers and is struggling with ongoing staffing shortages and declining retention rates.

“Law enforcement continues to experience nationwide staffing shortages, and the Bureau faces the additional challenges of offering competitive salaries compared to other townships and local Class III cities,” the bureau said in the report.

Roughly a quarter of its sworn personnel positions were vacant last year. This included 28 patrol officer positions, four supervisor and four detective positions and one forensic investigator position.

“With several upcoming retirements projected in 2026, this percentage may continue to increase despite on-going recruitment and officer retention efforts,” the report acknowledged.

However, it added, by maintaining a visible presence within the community, the bureau hopes to attract additional qualified, motivated individuals.

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Grant Applications Now Open to Support South Central Pennsylvania Nonprofits

February 24, 2026 | by Admin

The Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC) is now accepting applications for Grant Cycle 2, offering funding opportunities to nonprofits serving South Central Pennsylvania. Eligible nonprofits can review guidelines and apply at www.tfec.org. The application deadline is Friday, May 1, 2026. Nonprofits with questions about application or eligibility for available competitive grants can learn more by emailing [email protected].

These funds support programs that strengthen families, expand access to education and health care, address basic needs, protect the environment and enrich communities through the arts.

“Every grant awarded represents an investment in our community,” said Jennifer Doyle, president and CEO of TFEC. “When local nonprofits have the resources they need, they can respond to real challenges, meet people where they are and create lasting impact.”

Grant Cycle 2 is open to eligible nonprofits serving Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Lebanon and Perry counties, as well as the Dillsburg area. Funding priorities reflect the charitable goals of donors who partner with TFEC to make a difference close to home.

“When nonprofits thrive, our communities thrive,” said Stefani McAuliffe, vice president of community impact at TFEC. “In 2025 alone, more than $9 million in grants helped organizations expand services, launch new programs and reach more people. That investment strengthens families, supports economic stability and improves quality of life across South Central Pennsylvania.”

During this grant cycle, the following grants are open for application:

Arts for All
- Funding Priorities: Programs designed to integrate cultural appreciation in the everyday lives of underserved audiences; most interested in proposals that will increase access to the arts.
- Arts for All
Franklin County Community Foundation
- Funding Priorities: Arts & Culture, Community Development, Education, Environment, and Health & Human Services in Franklin County.
- New in 2026: As housing needs continue to grow in our communities, an additional $10,000 is available through FCCF to support housing-related needs for individuals in targeted regions. This funding is intended to help nonprofits respond to immediate challenges and strengthen housing stability.
- FCCF Grants for Franklin County Nonprofits
Gail Deimler Charitable Fund
- Funding Priorities: Healthcare issues and hospice services in the Cumberland, Dauphin, Perry, Franklin, Lebanon and Northern York Counties.
- https://www.tfec.org/grants/gail-deimler-charitable-fund/
Harold L. Brake & Dolores K. Brake Legacy Fund
- Funding Priorities: Projects and initiatives supporting nonprofit work in St. Thomas, Peters and Hamilton townships in Franklin County.
- Funding increased to $75,000 in 2026.
- Brake Legacy Fund Grants | Franklin County PA
The Palmer Family Foundation Fund
- Funding Priorities: The Palmer Family Foundation Fund offers an annual competitive grant opportunity to any nonprofit visual or performing arts organization located in Franklin County for programs and/or projects that support the arts in Franklin County, PA.
- Palmer Family Foundation Fund Grants
Fund for Women & Girls
- Funding Priorities: The mission of The Fund for Women & Girls, a special initiative of The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, is to broaden the awareness of and response to issues affecting women and girls through the power of collective philanthropy.
- Fund for Women & Girls

New in 2026, TFEC is also offering a unique opportunity to nonprofits through our Partners in Purpose program. Through this program, three nonprofits will be selected by a community-based committee to be featured in an in-depth story in TheBurg’s print and digital publications in 2026. Written by TheBurg’s in-house journalists, each feature will highlight the nonprofit’s mission, impact and role in strengthening our region, while increasing visibility with more than 20,000 readers across South Central Pennsylvania. This opportunity is offered at no cost to participating organizations with support from TFEC.

To learn more about Partners in Purpose, please visit Nonprofit Storytelling Opportunity in Dauphin & Cumberland PA.

Community change begins with people who care. TFEC is powered by private generosity, not government funding, which means individuals, families and businesses can shape the future of their own neighborhoods. By starting a charitable fund, donors can turn their values into lasting impact and strengthen the place they call home. To learn how to begin, connect with Kim Alvarez, Vice President of Philanthropy at TFEC, at [email protected].

The Foundation for Enhancing Communities The Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC) inspires giving by partnering with donors to achieve their charitable goals and strengthens our local communities by investing in them now and for future generations.

TFEC has served the South-Central Pennsylvania counties of Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Lebanon and Perry, and the Dillsburg Area for over 100 years.

Regional foundations of TFEC include the Greater Harrisburg Community Foundation, the Franklin County Community Foundation, the Mechanicsburg Area Community Foundation, the Perry County Community Foundation and the Dillsburg Area Community Foundation.

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Expert-Recommended Orthopedic Hospitals in Pennsylvania

February 24, 2026 | by Admin

Persistent pain in your bones, joints or muscles should never be something you simply learn to live with. Across Pennsylvania, various hospitals are offering high-quality orthopedic treatment, advanced surgical options and patient-focused recovery to help you move comfortably and confidently again. The best orthopedic hospital in Pennsylvania depends on your specific condition, where you live and the type of care you need, but experts consistently recommend the following four hospitals.

1. UPMC

UPMC is widely regarded as one of the best orthopedic hospitals in Pennsylvania for various reasons. Headquartered in Pittsburgh, it combines national recognition with strong local access to make high-level orthopedic care accessible close to home. In particular, UPMC Harrisburg was ranked seventh in the state and second in the Harrisburg metro area by U.S. News & World Report, with high-performing status in orthopedics.

You can get a wide range of personalized orthopedic care at UPMC. These include joint replacement, spine care, fractures, and shoulder, knee, foot and ankle problems. The skilled medical team is known for being compassionate and willing to answer any questions you may have. Some locations also offer walk-in orthopedic injury clinics, which allow you to see a specialist without an appointment.

The treatment at UPMC usually starts with identifying the root cause of your pain through advanced imaging and testing. The team will help you explore nonsurgical care such as medication, injections and braces as the first line of defense. If surgery is the best option, the hospital offers minimally invasive options and structured physical therapy to help you move safely and confidently again.

Key Features

Walk-in orthopedic injury clinics for timely care
Advanced diagnostics and minimally invasive techniques
Extensive network across Pennsylvania, including Harrisburg and Hershey

2. Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is nationally recognized for excellence in orthopedic care and has more than 120 orthopedic experts. As central Pennsylvania’s only academic medical center, you can expect to receive care based on proven methods supported by ongoing research. The same doctors treating patients are also researchers working on new treatment approaches.

Since the hospital is a Level I Trauma Center, it treats all types of orthopedic injuries and provides care for patients of all ages, from children to older adults. Among the musculoskeletal conditions it treats are arthritis, muscle and tendon injuries, complex spine disorders, traumatic bone injuries, and bone cancers. Moreover, the hospital performs more than 1,000 joint replacements each year, which means the surgeons are highly trained and experienced.

Care at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is known to be highly coordinated. Orthopedic specialists, rehabilitation experts, nutritionists, pain management and athletic training professionals work together to give you a personalized treatment. The hospital is an excellent option for kids, too, as it has Child Life specialists who support them throughout treatment.

Key Features

Level I Trauma Center with full orthopedic injury coverage
Performs over 1,000 joint replacements annually, including revision surgery
Academic, research-driven orthopedic care

3. Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals

Serving the Greater Philadelphia and South Jersey area, Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals brings together orthopedic specialists from Rothman Orthopaedics, 3B Orthopaedics, Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center and other regional providers. This means you can access a broad range of expertise within one coordinated system. Additionally, you may benefit from the latest standards of care since it is an academic hospital.

The hospital specializes in nonsurgical solutions and ongoing monitoring. It offers treatments such as medication, splinting and bracing, steroid and nerve block injections, platelet-rich plasma therapy, and physical therapy. When surgery is required, the orthopedic team uses minimally invasive techniques, arthroscopic procedures, robotic surgery technology and advanced imaging to support recovery. Following surgery, patients will work closely with physical therapists to create personalized rehabilitation plans.

Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals has earned numerous recognitions and accreditations for its top-notch orthopedic offerings. It’s nationally recognized for orthopedic excellence by U.S. News & World Report, as well as the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval and Disease-Specific Certification for hip and knee replacement surgery.

Key Features

Integrated care from leading regional orthopedic practices
Focus on nonsurgical treatment options
Certified and nationally recognized joint replacement care

4. Penn Medicine Lancaster General Hospital

Lancaster General Hospital is a long-standing recipient of the Magnet designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Being a part of the Penn Medicine health system, this 525-bed nonprofit hospital provides access to one of the region’s most comprehensive ranges of specialty services, including orthopedics.

You have access to both nonsurgical and surgical options here supported by the latest techniques, technology, research and clinical trials that many of its medical team are involved in. A full spectrum of orthopedic care is available, including joint replacement, sports medicine, trauma, spine care, peripheral nerve care and more.

Lancaster General Hospital also offers structured education, rehabilitation planning and an advanced pain protocol proven to improve mobility for each patient. In addition, you can get second opinions.

Key Features

Magnet-designated hospital recognized for patient safety
Comprehensive orthopedic services
Part of the Penn Medicine system, with access to research and clinical trials

How the Expert-Recommended Orthopedic Hospitals in Pennsylvania Compare

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the best orthopedic hospitals in Pennsylvania.

Hospital	Service Area	Key Features
UPMC	Central, North Central and Western Pennsylvania	● Walk-in orthopedic injury clinics ● Highly accessible across the state
Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center	Central Pennsylvania	● Level I Trauma Center ● Academic, research-driven care
Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals	Southeastern Pennsylvania	● Integrated specialty groups ● Comprehensive nonsurgical solutions
Penn Medicine Lancaster General Hospital	South Central Pennsylvania	● Penn Medicine-affiliated orthopedic care ● Magnet-designated hospital

Methodology for the Top Orthopedic Hospital List

This list of expert-recommended orthopedic hospitals in Pennsylvania was developed using a combination of factors. These include:

National recognition: Each hospital on this list has received rankings and certifications from trusted organizations such as U.S. News & World Report and the Joint Commission. These factors show clinical outcomes, safety measures, procedural volume and reputation among specialists.
Comprehensive care: The list prioritized hospitals that treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, perform a high volume of joint replacements, manage complex trauma cases, or offer advanced surgical techniques such as minimally invasive or robotic-assisted procedures.
Accessibility: All hospitals listed offer coordinated treatment pathways, walk-in orthopedic services, academic research integration or strong regional networks that can support patients throughout treatment.

Choosing the Best Orthopedic Hospital in Pennsylvania

Orthopedic care is often a long experience, so you want to go somewhere you can truly trust. The four best orthopedic hospitals on this list have surgeons who specialize in specific orthopedic fields and have advanced technologies, compassionate medical teams, and national accreditations and recognitions.

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What Are the Best Store-Bought Kits to Go With Any Meal? 5 Top Options

February 24, 2026 | by Admin

Modern home cooking no longer involves spending hours in the kitchen, thanks to store-bought kits. These options are shortcuts to sides, salads and ready-to-heat entrees that pair easily with almost everything — and they’re actually delicious.

Here are the best store-bought kits to go with any meal that can cut your cooking time by half or more.

1. Side Delights®

Side Delights® by Masser Family of Companies is considered among the best store-bought kits to go with any meal for a reason. It makes potatoes easier to enjoy by reducing prep time without sacrificing taste. Each product consists of high-quality potatoes that offer dependable flavor and texture.

The newest addition to the lineup is Flavorables®, which features farm-fresh petite yellow potatoes paired with chef-crafted seasoning blends from Spiceology®. There are four different flavors to choose from, including butter-licious, cheese pizza, Greek freak and vampire killer. Since the spices are ground fresh, you can expect a burst of flavor in every bite. Best of all, you only need to cook it for five minutes in the microwave or 15 to 18 minutes in the air fryer.

Key features:

Healthy, convenient and can be cooked in five minutes
Available in most major grocery store retailers
Dependable, with eight generations of experience

2. Taylor Farms

Taylor Farms is the go-to option for chopped salad kits that prioritize freshness and convenience. Each one includes crisp, prewashed greens, as well as complementary toppings and dressing. To prepare the salad, all you have to do is open the bag, combine the ingredients, toss and serve. It works just as well as a side dish as it does a light lunch. You may also add extra toppings if you’d like.

The range of flavors available makes it easy to find a kit that pairs well with your meal. Options include asiago kale, bacon caesar, avocado ranch, chipotle ranch and creamy Italian. Taylor Farms also offers mini, single-serving sizes that are convenient to take to work or enjoy on the go.

Key features:

Complete kits with greens, toppings and dressing
Consistent freshness and clear portioning
Suitable as a side or stand-alone meal

3. Kevin’s Natural Foods

If you’re looking for a heat-and-eat entree with clean ingredients, give Kevin’s Natural Foods a try. The brand focuses on fully cooked, sous-vide chicken that’s both tender and juicy, paired with gluten-free, paleo and keto-certified sauces. The variety of flavors will take your taste buds around the world, with options like Korean barbecue-style chicken, teriyaki chicken, Thai-style coconut chicken and Jamaican jerk chicken.

Preparing the kits is easy. You only need to sear the chicken briefly in a pan and simmer it in sauce, or heat it directly in the recyclable tray for an even faster option. In addition to entrees, Kevin’s Natural Foods also offers soups, pastas and sides.

Key features:

Fully cooked proteins with accompanying sauces
Short stovetop cooking time
Works well with grains, vegetables or salads

4. Knorr

Knorr rice and pasta sides are often touted as the best store-bought kits, as the products can help upgrade your meal in minutes. With 35 seasoned options available, you can quickly add flavor without extra prep or planning. One of the brand’s most popular choices is Spanish rice sides, which brings together peppers, onions, tomatoes, garlic and tomato sauce.

Another favorite is chicken broccoli rice. It’s a combination of rice and pasta in a creamy, chicken-flavored sauce with broccoli florets. It’s great to enjoy as-is or to use as a base for other recipes when you want something delicious but still convenient.

Key features:

35 seasoned rice and pasta options
Ready in minutes on the stovetop
Great as a side or recipe base

5. Soules Kitchen

Soules Kitchen helps you bring home-cooked flavor to the table without spending too much time in the kitchen. Its lineup includes seasoned proteins like thinly sliced steak strips that give you a head start on meals. You can use them for cheesesteaks, stir-fries, fajitas, salads or sandwiches.

Because the protein is already fully cooked, you can heat it in a skillet, air fryer, oven or microwave. It typically takes four to five minutes on a skillet, and five to six minutes in an oven or air fryer. You can be confident serving the products on busy weeknights, for casual meals or for quick snacks, knowing the brand uses responsibly sourced ingredients and boasts decades of experience.

Key features:

Stays fresh for five days after opening once thawed
Versatile for many meal types
Made of responsibly sourced ingredients

Comparing the Best Store-Bought Kits

What are the best store-bought kits to go with any meal? Here’s a side-by-side comparison.

Brand	Product Type	Best For	How to Prepare
Side Delights®	Fresh, prepared potatoes	Versatile side for any meal	Microwave, oven, grill or air fryer
Taylor Farms	Chopped salad kits	Fresh side or light lunch	No cooking required
Kevin’s Natural Foods	Fully cooked sous-vide chicken	Quick heat-and-eat entree	Skillet or microwave
Knorr	Seasoned rice and pasta sides	Pantry-friendly side	Stovetop
Soules Kitchen	Fully cooked, seasoned proteins	Fresh protein base for meals	Microwave, oven, grill or air fryer

Criteria for the Best Store-Bought Kits

This list of the top store-bought kits focuses on products that make everyday cooking easier while still offering quality and flavor. Each was evaluated based on how well it integrates with a wide range of meals, whether as a side, base or ready-to-serve component.

Versatility, ease of preparation and ingredient quality were also important factors. Lastly, the kits are widely accessible in major grocery retailers across Pennsylvania and the U.S.

Making Mealtime Easier and More Delicious

The best store-bought kits make everyday meals more convenient and delicious. With much of the prep already done, you can spend less time cooking and more time sitting down, relaxing and enjoying a home-cooked dinner.

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The Keystone Story — More Than a House, It’s a Home

Why Custom Build in Pennsylvania?

Building Green — for the Planet and Your Wallet

The Keystone Difference — A Streamlined Path to Your Dream Home

Your Forever Home, Forged in the Keystone State

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During this grant cycle, the following grants are open for application:

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1. UPMC

Key Features

2. Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center

Key Features

3. Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals

Key Features

4. Penn Medicine Lancaster General Hospital

Key Features

How the Expert-Recommended Orthopedic Hospitals in Pennsylvania Compare

Hospital

Service Area

Key Features

UPMC

Central, North Central and Western Pennsylvania

● Walk-in orthopedic injury clinics

● Highly accessible across the state

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center

Central Pennsylvania

● Level I Trauma Center

● Academic, research-driven care

Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals

Southeastern Pennsylvania

● Integrated specialty groups

● Comprehensive nonsurgical solutions

Penn Medicine Lancaster General Hospital

South Central Pennsylvania

● Penn Medicine-affiliated orthopedic care

● Magnet-designated hospital

Methodology for the Top Orthopedic Hospital List

Choosing the Best Orthopedic Hospital in Pennsylvania

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1. Side Delights®

2. Taylor Farms

3. Kevin’s Natural Foods

4. Knorr

5. Soules Kitchen

Comparing the Best Store-Bought Kits

Criteria for the Best Store-Bought Kits

Making Mealtime Easier and More Delicious

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