Overpayment Scams 101: How Scammers Can Trick You & How to Fight Back

October 30, 2025 | by Olivia Surry

Imagine this: You just sold an item online, and the buyer seems friendly and eager to pay. But then, they “accidentally” send you a check for more than the agreed-upon price. They reach out with a message like this:

Hi! I’m the person who bought your item! I accidentally overpaid for it by mistake. Please deposit the check and send the extra back in gift cards. Thanks!

Sounds harmless, right? Not so fast. This is a classic overpayment scam, and falling for it could cost you—big time.

How the Scam Works

Overpayment scams prey on your good nature. The scammer sends a check, money order or online payment for more than the actual price. They quickly follow up, asking you to return the extra money—usually through an untraceable method like gift cards or wire transfers.

Here’s the catch: The check they sent is fake. It might look real, but financial institutions take time to verify funds. By the time the check bounces, you have already sent the refund—and the scammer is long gone. Since these transactions are often done through untraceable methods, recovering the money can be extremely difficult. That’s why it is important to recognize the warning signs and avoid falling victim in the first place.

Where You Might See This Scam

These scams happen in many ways, but here are some common places where they pop up:

Online marketplace sales: Selling something on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist or eBay? Be cautious if a buyer overpays and requests a refund.
Rental property deposits: A “tenant” sends too much for a security deposit and asks for the extra back before the check clears.
Freelancing & small business payments: A new client overpays and asks for a refund—before their payment turns out to be fake.
Pet adoptions & ticket sales: Scammers also target people selling event tickets or rehoming pets, using the same overpayment trick.

Red Flags to Watch For

How can you spot an overpayment scam? Watch out for these warning signs:

The buyer sends more money than they should and claims it was a mistake.
They insist on quick repayment—often before the original check clears.
They ask for refunds in hard-to-trace methods like gift cards or wire transfers.
The check comes from a different name or account than the buyer.
The buyer has an urgent excuse for why they cannot correct the payment themselves.

How to Protect Yourself

The best way to avoid overpayment scams is to stay cautious. Here’s how:

Never refund overpayments. If someone overpays, cancel the transaction and ask for the correct amount.
Wait for payments to clear. It can take time to detect fake checks. If you deposit one, wait until it fully clears before touching the money.
Stick to secure payment methods. Use trusted payment platforms and avoid wire transfers or gift cards for refunds.
Verify the buyer. If a payment seems suspicious, research the buyer and check for red flags before proceeding.
Report scams. If you suspect fraud, report it to your financial institution, payment platform or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Stay One Step Ahead

Scammers are crafty, but with a little awareness, you can outsmart them. If something feels off—especially when it comes to money—trust your gut. And if a buyer “accidentally” overpays and asks for a refund in gift cards? That’s your cue to walk away.

At Members 1st, we want to help you protect your hard-earned money. If you ever have concerns about suspicious payments, reach out to us—we’re here to help! Remember: your best defense against these scams is yourself, so use these tips to stay vigilant.

When in doubt, give us a call at (800) 826-4314 or visit one of our nearly 60 branch locations.

This story is sponsored content.

Otterly Entertaining: This season, Open Stage debuts a new, family-friendly holiday show

October 30, 2025 | by McCaffrey Martone

Isaac Austin and Chris Krahulec

A new holiday tradition is about to swim into Harrisburg, as Open Stage this month opens the Pennsylvania premiere of “Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas.”

Running through the holiday season, this wholesome tale tells the story of kind-hearted characters, their hard work and the sacrifices they make for their loved ones.

Open Stage is excited to begin a new tradition by including “Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas” in the lineup this holiday season, something that has been in the works for ages. In fact, Open Stage is one of the first theatre companies to produce this new adaptation.

“I hope the audience walks away with warm holiday feels,” said Open Stage Artistic Director Stuart Landon.

The story was originally a 1971 children’s book written by Russel Hoban and illustrated by Lillian Hoban. In 1977, Jim Henson (“The Muppets,” “The Dark Crystal”) directed a television holiday special, employing his signature use of puppetry as an elevated art form, with a catchy score by Paul Williams (“The Rainbow Connection,” “Evergreen”). Timothy A. McDonald and Christopher Gattelli have adapted the beloved tale into a stage musical, featuring some new songs by Williams.

In a quaint, Appalachian-inspired village called Frogtown Hollow, Emmet and Alice “Ma” Otter live a humble life. They survive on the meager means Ma makes from doing laundry and what Emmet earns from odd jobs around the community. Though times are hard, they find solace in the memory of their recently passed “Pa Otter” and the folk songs they sing together.

As Christmas draws near, Emmet and Ma quietly yearn to buy a proper gift for one another. They each secretly enter a Christmas Eve talent contest in Waterville, just a boat ride away, with the hope of cashing in on the $50 prize. Joining, however, comes at a great cost.

Since its release in the 1970s, Emmet and Ma have captured the hearts of many through their toe-tapping tunes, sweet spirit and a down-home charm that resonates with an entire generation.

“If you don’t know it from your childhood, please give it a chance,” said Chris Krahulec, who plays Ma. “It is all about love and how sacrifice can come back in ways you don’t even expect.”

“Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas” is directed by Stuart Landon with Brianna Dow serving as production stage manager and TJ Creedon as assistant director. The production team includes Kalina Barrett, Kevin Cole, Carly Lafferty, Anthony Pieruccini, Delaney Reed, Zsuzsanna Smith and Andrew Whitman. The design team comprises Becky Arney, Rachel Landon, Jacob Schlenker and Tristan Stasiulis.

The cast features Isaac Austin as Emmet Otter and Chris Krahulec as Alice Otter. The ensemble includes TJ Creedon, Patty Cole, Joshua Dorsheimer, Bobby Downey, Jasmine Graham, Jessica Logan, Carly Lafferty, Drew Patti, Luke Rider, Delaney Reed, Michael Rodriguez, Karen Ruch, Jason Samarin, Brian Schreffler and Suzanne Thomas. The band is comprised of Brad Barkdoll, Adrienne Connaghan, Jon Godinez and Anthony Pieruccini. The youth cast includes Nick Caton, Bryce Carter, Beckett Copus, Ian D’Andrea, Annie Logan, Xavier Logan, Annika Nguyen, Zoe Park, Selena Swigart and Lucas Terry.

Whether the title brings a sense of nostalgia or curiosity, “Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas” is a family must-see this holiday season.

If you were looking forward to Open Stage’s annual production of “A Christmas Carol,” don’t fret. Open Stage is touring a new production to schools, libraries and retirement communities and is having a public performance on Tuesday, Dec. 16 at the theatre.

“Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas” runs from Nov. 22 to Dec. 23 at Open Stage, 25 N. Court St., Harrisburg. For tickets and more information, visit www.openstagehbg.com.

UPCOMING EVENTS

At Open Stage
www.openstagehbg.com
717-232-6736

“Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors”
A madcap spin on the classic vampire tale
Through Nov. 1

EFF Live!
Erotic fan fiction performed live
Thursday, Nov 13 at 7:30 p.m.

BaRPG
Tabletop roleplay meets comedy and cocktails
Friday, Nov. 21 at 7:30 p.m.

Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas
A heartwarming holiday musical based on the Jim Henson special
Nov. 22 to Dec. 23

Court Street Cabaret
An open mic–style night of song from Broadway and beyond
Sunday, Nov. 23 at 6 p.m.

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

Mother in the Middle: “If I Had Legs, I’d Kick You” is an uncompromising look at parenthood

October 30, 2025 | by Gabriel Brown

Image provided by A24.

Mary Bronstein’s “If I Had Legs, I’d Kick You” exemplifies what I consider to be a type of feminist filmmaking about motherhood that doesn’t have nearly enough examples.

Bronstein masterfully directs Rose Byrne to a naturalistic, unhinged and perfectly fine-tuned teakettle whistle of a performance, unafraid to explore the emotional struggles of parenthood like nothing I’ve seen since “Eraserhead.”

Byrne’s Linda is a mother with an ailing child, an absent husband away captaining a faraway vessel, and an increasingly frenetic office job as a therapist with chaotic clients and an equally frustrating coworker, played by Conan O’Brien, in a surprisingly pitch-perfect casting.

“If I Had Legs, I’d Kick You” shares the familiar setting of watching everything go wrong for a person at once. Beyond that, it’s a story entirely established from the perspective of someone who really knows this character, who empathizes with Linda in her struggle to keep everything under control and be a better mother, but who still refuses to look away from her compromises and bad decisions. As the movie progresses, it feels increasingly hostile to Linda. Every action she tries to take in the interest of her child is misunderstood, and she dances awkwardly around one obligation to the next, trying to keep her whack-a-mole life under control. But that’s not how that game works.

Maybe it’s my status as a Gen Z-er, but from my vantage point, much of modern popular culture and film seem to showcase the experience of youth and childhood (e.g. “Lady Bird”) rather than parenthood, which is often presented as a shadow to escape from or as a source of generational trauma to unlearn (e.g. “The Iron Claw,” “Encanto”). It can seem so easy to dismiss the parent as the unsympathetic stone character and let their actions remain irrational to the audience for the sake of sympathizing with their children. In my opinion, that makes Bronstein’s direction exceptional. She takes the character of the “bad mother” and turns her inside out, putting her loose wires and unkempt emotional circuitry on full display, in a very humanist way.

“If I Had Legs” is shot masterfully by Chris Messina, known for his work shooting the Safdie Brothers’ 2017 thriller, “Good Time.” His deep, rich colors and widescreen photography are a perfect fit for the unsettlingly quiet and anxiously loud moments of this film. The colors are striking, with a deep underwater green light in a hotel that continues to stick with me days after watching the film. Shooting a character study this intimate in such a wide aspect ratio is a choice I can’t get enough of. The shallow focus and wide vantage make it impossible for Byrne to fit properly into the frame as the main focus. It’s always about what’s going on around her, which is more than appropriate.

I would classify this film as a horror film, but when I finished the screener and looked it up online, it was classified as “comedy/drama.” Drama I understand, but calling this a comedy is disingenuous. This is a tough watch, and if you have any trauma related to motherhood or childhood illness, I advise you to avoid this one—that is, unless you want to face things head on. If I had to pick one word for this film, it would be “uncompromising”—an uncompromising look at unhealthy motherhood from the inside, and it’s absolutely worth the watch.

“I’ll be better,” says Linda, finally, when it feels all too late. “I promise.”

“If I Had Legs, I’d Kick You” opens at Midtown Cinema this November.

Midtown Cinema is located at 250 Reily St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit www.midtowncinema.com. Gabriel Brown serves as assistant manager at Midtown Cinema.

November Events
at Midtown Cinema

Saturday Morning Cartoon
“Balto” (1995)
Saturday, Nov. 1, 11 a.m.

Late Night Frights
“Frankenstein” (1931)
Saturday, Nov. 1, 9:30 p.m.

“The Fly” (1986)
Saturday, Nov. 22, 9:30 p.m.

National Theatre Live presents
“Mrs. Warren’s Profession”
Sunday, Nov. 2, 5 p.m.

“Inter Alia”
Sunday, Nov. 9, 5 p.m.

“Vanya”
Sunday, Nov. 16, 5 p.m.

“Present Laughter”
Sunday, Nov. 23, 5 p.m.

“The Fifth Step”
Sunday, Nov. 30, 5 p.m.

Community Events
Open Mic Night
Tuesday, Nov. 4

Trivia Night
Tuesday, Nov. 11
Tuesday, Nov. 25

Funny Flix Series
“What About Bob?” (1991)
Friday, Nov.7, 9:30 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 9, 7 p.m.

“Clue” (1985)
Sunday, Nov. 16, 7 p.m.
Tuesday, Nov. 18, 7 p.m.

Sunday Docs
“20 Feet from Stardom” (2013)
Sunday, Nov. 9, 12 p.m.

Down in Front!
Comedy riffing
“Lords of the Deep” (1989)
Friday, Nov. 14, 9:30 p.m.

Spotlight PA presents
“Unprotected: Exposing Pennsylvania’s Broken Elder Protection System”
Short documentary + Q&A
Tuesday, Nov. 18, 7 p.m.

3rd in the Burg Movie Night
“Speed Racer” (2008)
Friday, Nov. 21, 9:30 p.m.

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

Community Corner: Notable November Events

October 30, 2025 | by Missy Smith

HBG Flea
Nov. 1: Explore the HBG Flea for local art, vintage treasures, curated curios and unique gifts, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Strawberry Square, downtown Harrisburg. Mission of the HBG Flea is to create a platform for community growth by bringing artists, small businesses and patrons together. www.hbgflea.com

Family Fun
Nov. 1: Join NAMI Central PA for a free day of family fun celebrating mental and physical wellbeing, 12 to 3 p.m., Sunshine Park, 901 N. 12th St., Harrisburg. Event features free snacks, hot chocolate, yoga, henna, prizes and family-friendly activities. www.nami.org

Model Trains
Nov. 1-2: Hershey History Center hosts an event featuring interactive model trains, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 40 Northeast Dr., Hershey. Guests can enjoy multiple model train layouts, meet the railroaders, enjoy live entertainment and ride a self-propelled railcar. www.hersheyhistory.org

Book Sale
Nov. 1, 15: Friends of New Cumberland Public Library hosts a pre-owned book and media sale on the first and third Saturdays of the month, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Shop for books, audiobooks, CDs, DVDs, records and more to support the library. www.newcumberlandlibrary.org

Chocolate Classes
Nov. 2-30: Hershey Story Museum, 63 W. Chocolate Ave., hosts Chocolate Lab Classes about the art of chocolate, its origins and making medallions. Children must be at least 5 years old and accompanied by an adult. www.hersheystory.org

Wellness Walks
Nov. 5, 12, 19: Participate in free, moderately paced wellness walks at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, 6 to 7 p.m., on paved, gravel or dirt surfaces. Walkers can customize the walk length. Comfortable shoes and water recommended; dogs on leashes permitted. www.explorewildwodpark.org

Evening Shadows
Nov. 6: Vision Resources of Central Pennsylvania hosts its 14th annual “Evening in the Shadows,” a blindness awareness dinner where guests experience a sample of life without sight, 6 p.m. Event takes place at the King Mansion, Harrisburg. Proceeds support services for the visually impaired. www.vrocp.org

Calm the Mind
Nov. 6, 13, 20: Learn short, easy 15-minute meditations to help calm the mind on Thursdays, 12 to 12:30 p.m., at Fredricksen Library, 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill. Meditations are suitable for people of any background or religion. www.fredricksenlibrary.org

Autos & Ales
Nov. 7: Enjoy craft beer from 60 regional breweries, a catered dinner and live music at AACA Museum, 161 Museum Dr., Hershey, for the annual Autos & Ales craft beer festival. Event runs 7 to 10 p.m., with a VIP hour from 6 to 7 p.m. www.aacamuseum.org

Volunteer Day
Nov. 8: 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, and refreshments available. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Fundraising Gala
Nov. 8: Vista Autism Services hosts its annual fundraising gala at Hershey Country Club, 1000 E. Derry Rd., Hershey, 5:30 to 10 p.m. Dress in semi-formal attire and enjoy a gourmet dinner, live music and more. www.vistaautismservices.org

Harrisburg Marathon
Nov. 9: Celebrate 53 years of the Enders Harrisburg Marathon, beginning on City Island, Harrisburg. This fast, flat marathon winds through the capital city. Sign up for the full race, half marathon or four-person relay. www.hbgyrun.org

Seed Share
Nov. 9: Wild Ones South Central PA hosts a free seed share, 1 to 4 p.m., at Camp Hill Giant, 3301 E. Trindle Rd. Learn how to grow native plants from seed, listen to a gardening talk about insect decline and take native seeds home. www.southcentralpa.wildones.org

Winter Preparation
Nov. 9: Discover how wild animals prepare for winter during this program for ages 4 to 6, 1:30 to 3 p.m., at Wildwood Park, Harrisburg. Examine how fur and feathers keep animals warm and take a scavenger hike. Pre-registration required.www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Topiary Reveal
Nov. 9: Civic Club of Harrisburg will unveil its new “Garden Goddess” topiary created by Joe Kyte in the Women’s History Garden at the historic Overlook Mansion, 612 N. Front St., Harrisburg. The community is invited to the free unveiling, 3 to 5 p.m. www.thecivicclubofharrisburg.com

20 in Their 20s
Nov. 12: Harrisburg Young Professionals hosts its seventh annual “20 in Their 20s,” 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at the Hilton Harrisburg, 1 N. 2nd St. Celebration honors young professionals who are having meaningful impacts on their community and workplaces. www.hyp.org

Food Rally
Nov. 13: 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 New Cumberland restaurants and enjoy shopping and promotions. www.newcumberlandpa.org

Love and Power
Nov. 13: Author and Quaker activist Eileen Flanagan explores Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assertion that both love and power are necessary to create social change. She will share applicable lessons from the climate movement at 7 p.m., Harrisburg Friends Meetinghouse, 1100 N. 6th St., Harrisburg. www.eileenflanagan.com

Peaceful Poses
Nov. 14: Join an adult slow flow yoga class, 10:45 to 11:30 a.m., in the Community Room at Fredricksen Library 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill. Class is open to all experience levels, exploring yoga poses, breathing techniques and ways to manage stress. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat. www.fredricksenlibrary.org

Contra Dance
Nov. 14: Harrisburg Area Contra Dance Association hosts a 2nd Friday Contra Dance with live music, 8 to 10:30 p.m., at the Silver Spring Presbyterian Church, 444 Silver Spring Rd., Mechanicsburg. There will be a free beginner lesson at 7:30 p.m. No partner needed. www.harrisburgcontra.org

Mourning Glory
Nov. 15: The one-day Mourning Glory conference will be held at Christ Community Church, 1201 Slate Hill Rd., Camp Hill, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., to offer comfort, encouragement and tools to people navigating personal loss and life disappointment. www.jazzminemagloire.com

Dance Night
Nov. 16: Harrisburg USA Dance Chapter #3009 invites dance enthusiasts to a dance lesson at 2 p.m., followed by three hours of social dancing in ballroom, swing and Latin style, at PA DanceSport, 585 E. Main St., Hummelstown. All levels welcome. Facebook: USA Dance Chapter #3009 Harrisburg Area PA

Book Talk
Nov. 16: Documentarian Amanda Rubin discusses “The Third Reich of Dreams,” by Charlotte Beradt, a Berlin-based journalist during Hitler’s rise to power, at the Alexander Grass Campus for Jewish Life, 2986 N. 2nd St., Harrisburg, 6:30 p.m. www.hbgjff.com

Evening Mixer
Nov. 18: Join West Shore Chamber of Commerce at an evening mixer at Penn State Health Cancer Center Hampden Medical Center, 2200 Good Hope Rd., Enola, 5 to 7 p.m. The free event is open to chamber members. www.wschamber.org

Healthy Holidays
Nov. 19: Learn how to balance favorite holiday treats with a healthy eating routine throughout the holiday season at the Fredricksen Library, 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Take home tips, tricks, healthy recipes and meal ideas. www.fredricksenlibrary.org

Curiosity Kids
Nov. 21: Families with kids ages 3 to 6 are invited to the State Museum of Pa., 300 North St., Harrisburg, to learn about Thanksgiving traditions, 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Get hands-on with a turkey tail, wing and skull, and create a wild turkey to take home. www.statemuseumpa.org

3rd in the Burg
Nov. 21: 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

Holiday Parade
Nov. 22: Enjoy Harrisburg’s annual holiday parade with giant balloons, marching bands and dance team performances, decorated floats, characters, Santa Claus and more, starting at 10 a.m. After the parade, head to Strawberry Square to meet Santa and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies. www.harrisburgpa.gov

Cadence Concerts
Nov. 22, 23: Cadence Chorus (formerly Central Pennsylvania Womyn’s Chorus) presents “One More Time” free concerts at Unitarian Church of Harrisburg on Nov. 22 at 7 p.m. and at Lebanon Valley College on Nov. 23 at 3 p.m. www.cadencechorus.org

Art Tour
Nov. 22-23: Explore Foothills Artists’ 18th annual Adams County studio tour, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eight studio locations will feature paintings, pottery, printmaking, photography, illustration, bookbinding and more by 14 local artists. Limited refreshments served. www.foothillsartists.net

Youth Concert
Nov. 23: Susquehanna Chorale and three of its educational choirs will hold their annual Youth Choral Festival at the Calvin and Janet High Center for Worship and Performing Arts, Messiah University, 4 p.m. www.susquehannachorale.org

Playing Cards
Nov. 25: Fredricksen Library, 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill, will host a card playing social, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., in the Community Room, offering socializing and great exercise for the brain. Card games played determined by those present. www.fredricksenlibrary.org

Light Show
Nov. 28-Dec. 31: Enjoy the holiday season at Christmas Spirit Light Show at Clipper Magazine Stadium, 650 N. Prince St., Lancaster, with a festive drive-thru light show, including color-changing lights synchronized to Christmas music. www.christmasspiritlightshows.com

Holiday Shopping
Nov. 29: Volt Hair Studio, 6061 Allentown Blvd., Harrisburg, hosts “Sip, Santa and Shopping,” a free, family-friendly event to spread holiday cheer and give back to the community, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Guests enjoy coffee, cookies and photos with Santa. www.facebook.com/kbhairco

Holiday Bizarre
Nov. 29: The Millworks, 340 Verbeke St., Harrisburg, hosts its annual Odd Ones Holiday Bizarre on Small Business Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shop for unique, handcrafted items for the season, with more than 80 makers set up through the building. www.millworksharrisburg.com

Wreath Workshop
Nov. 29-30: Use natural materials to create an evergreen wreath at Wildwood Lake, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Workshop fee is $30 per person, which includes supplies to make a wreath with natural decorations. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Festival of Trees
Nov. 29-Dec. 21: View Christmas trees decorated with handmade ornaments and trimmed by local garden clubs at Fort Hunter Tavern House, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg, Saturdays and Sundays, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Trees will be up for raffle, and a selection of ornaments will be available for purchase. www.forthunter.org

Toy Train Exhibit
Nov. 29-Dec. 21: Keystone Model Railroad Historical Society returns to Fort Hunter Centennial Barn, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg, with a display of HO gauge trains that travel over a large layout representing communities in central PA, Saturdays and Sundays, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. www.forthunter.org

Holiday Gift Fair
Nov. 30: More than 30 nonprofit vendors will participate in the 18th annual Gifts that Give Hope Lancaster Gift Fair, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Farm and Home Center, 1383 Arcadia Rd., Lancaster. The fair provides a unique holiday shopping experience that encourages charitable giving. www.giftsthatgivehopelancaster.org

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

Ain’t No Mountain High Enough: A tale of love and adventure at Governor Dick

October 30, 2025 | by Bob MacGinnes

Tower at Clarence Schock Memorial Park at Governor Dick

November’s promise dapples the trees with the last vestige of color as the final leaf of the season hangs on waiting for just the right moment. This installment of the “Mt. Gretna Chronicles” is about people, a place and things…time traveling from the Revolutionary War to modern day. It’s a tale as much about relationships with pride of place and a center of choices for cycling, climbing and hiking, with art at its heart.

Governor Dick Park & Tower

The song title, “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” could be the soundtrack for Christian and Kathryn Barr’s new life together as newlyweds. The “mountain” is that of South Mountain near the Governor Dick Tower and Trails in Mt. Gretna.

This article came about due to a conversation with Christian, a work colleague who told me how Governor Dick got its name. This historic landmark and its many trails are comprised of 1,105 acres of forested land in southern Lebanon County, a stone’s throw from Rt. 117S that runs through Gretna. Dating to the Revolutionary War, the Cornwall Furnace relied on charcoal for smelting iron to provide cannonade for George Washington’s army. The surrounding woodlands full of chestnut trees provided an ample source of producing it. An enslaved collier who worked in the area during that time and lived on the mountain was affectionately nicknamed “Guv’nor” by his fellow workers due to his leadership and skill in producing charcoal. The term was a sign of respect and admiration. Over time, the nickname evolved to Governor Dick.

Returning to Christian, he is one of the most down-to-earth people I have met—that is, when he is not biking, hiking or mountain climbing. His weekly cycling regimen logs over 135 miles and even more with Kathryn by his side. Together, they have hiked Acadia National Park in Maine and far beyond. Somehow, Christian has found time to mountain climb, especially in his own backyard at Governor Dick Park (aka, Clarence Schock Park as it is known today.) His favorite spot for outdoor activities is the trail at Governor Dick that always looms between the light and shadows of sunrise and sunset, which calls to his restless nature.

“At this stage in my life, hiking at Governor Dick is a part of my DNA. Since childhood, I’ve climbed the tower well over 100 times,” he told me. “It’s a special place that brings tranquility and calm. Especially on a crisp fall morning, I am one with the world. As I navigate the terrain, the thrill of mountain climbing never gets old, but for clearing my head, hiking is right up there next to the joy of biking on the open road. It is exhilarating and breathtaking all at once.”

More Than a Tower

The landmark tower at Clarence Schock Memorial Park at Governor Dick stands an impressive 66 feet tall. This concrete structure, erected in 1954, offers a spectacular panoramic view of the surrounding region that includes five counties: Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Berks and York. What the tower lacks in beauty and charm, its 360-degree view more than makes up for. There is a slight challenge in climbing to the top but is well worth the view.

Remember the fun you had shimmying hand over hand across the monkey bars in the school playground? Once inside the tower, you navigate a series of nine ladders with eight rungs each to get to the observation deck at Governor Dick. The circumference is but 15 feet, so King Kong would need to scale it, not squeeze inside. From the Environmental Center, the hike to the tower is roughly 1.5 miles one way. The terrain ahead provides variety from flat and wide to steep and narrow. Prepare for a two-to-three-hour jaunt to finish the 6.3-mile loop.

Clarence Schock, a Mount Joy businessman, purchased land at Governor Dick and in 1936 opened it to the public for use. The Environmental Center named after him provides an educational resource for visitors that is outfitted with high-ceilinged wooden beams and taxidermy wildlife throughout its interior. It is a community meeting place for families to get a hands-on education of the natural world around them. The center’s park manager, Jedd Erdman, climbs the interior of the tower three times a week. It is excellent exercise and serves as a means of inspection. Taylor Casey, the park naturalist, knows the lay of the land like the back of her hand. Together, they form a dream team for visitors who want “the inside story.” Our visit there shed historical light on the once-storybook residence from decades ago that Clarence built for his wife.

Looping back to our young couple, now six months married, Christian and Kathryn are still in their honeymoon phase. They share a great love for nature, and the outdoor adventures they revel in are part of their routine. Spending time together in the great outdoors draws them even closer. As they contemplate a move to Philly—he as a project manager/field superintendent in his brother’s firm and she as a dedicated nurse—it is bittersweet to know this passage of our friendship may be interrupted, at least for the time being. Before they start their next chapter, Christian and Kathryn returned to the tower’s top for a picture together before they were transported by music for the last night of the Cicada Festival in August at the Gretna Playhouse. In life, everything comes full circle, especially in Gretna—a place to fall in love and to fall in love with.

Late Fall Events

Founded in 2015, the South-Central Pennsylvania Climbers (SCPC) are adventurers ready for any challenge that may come their way. Their mission: to “provide education while protecting and conserving central Pa. rock climbing for everyone.” This group of volunteers is looking to mentor the next generation of climbing enthusiasts.

Southeastern Pennsylvania is a well-known area for diabase bouldering, which refers to rock climbing along the hard, sticky and coarsely grained igneous rock that forms unique, often large boulders. SCPC takes advantage of the 700 diabase challenges at varying skill levels, while focused on both education and conservation. With two major events at Governor Dick Park this November and mid-December, now is a perfect time to hike or climb with like-minded individuals.

A “Bouldering Competition” is set for Saturday, Nov. 15, with a rain date of the following day. The second annual “Tame the Tower Trail Challenge” takes place on Dec. 13 for runners, walkers and hikers. Join in for a 9 a.m. start at the tower. There are two different distances to choose from, a 5K or 10K challenge. Drink in the beauty of South Mountain surrounded by a caring community of nature lovers. All event proceeds go back to the park and its component parts, education, maintenance and preservation.

Epilogue

There is no more beautiful art than that found in nature. As the sun sets earlier in November, seize the moment and squeeze every drop of fall calling out to you. To live in the land of Mt. Gretna’s beauty is a gift immeasurable. As the sands of searing color filter through the hourglass, know you are experiencing life at its best. Taking in the rarefied air of Gretna’s glens at Governor Dick is its own reward. Drink in all that is before you, let it simmer, and hold it close to your heart as the time will come when that last leaf falls.

For more information on Governor Dick and Clarence Schock Memorial Park, visit www.parkatgovernordick.org.

For more information on South Central Pennsylvania Climbers, visit www.scpclimbers.org.

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

Happenings: Our November Calendar of Events

October 30, 2025 | by Missy Smith

Happenings

Museums & Art Spaces

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

“Old School Rods and Customs, Nov.-April

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

“Stitched & Woven,” fiber art show featuring the work of Jordan Bashore, Andrea Finch and Karen Troyer, through Nov. 27

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

West Shore Photography Club Exhibit, Nov. 1-20; reception: Nov. 1, 5:30-7 p.m.

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

“Along the River & Beyond—Landscapes by Jonathan Frazier and Carrie Wissler-Thomas,” through Dec. 14 (select times)

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

Artist of the month: Phiroza Kapadia

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

Festival of Trees, Nov. 29-Dec. 21

Toy Train Exhibit, Nov. 29-Dec. 21

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

Featured artist: Peach Michael, “Hats by Peach,” through Nov. 22

The Annual Holiday show, artwork by Millersburg Area Art Association members, Nov. 26-Dec. 31; holiday open house: Nov. 28, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyart.org

HAAA Member Artwork at Hershey Public Library, gallery room, through Dec. 13

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

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

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

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

New oil paintings by Robert Heilman, through Nov. 28

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

Emily Fussner and Art 205, Hand Papermaking, through Nov. 16

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

New works by Jeff Scorza, The Huckle Buckle Boys, Yachiyo Beck, Cindi Hardwicke, Justin Pettingell, Ana Hyder and Marjorie Taylor, through Nov. 16

Holiday gift shopping, a collection of Millworks in-house artists, ready to take off the wall and wrap up, Nov. 17-Jan. 11

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

Art in the Stacks—Thom Aubrey, Nov. 1-30

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

Photography of Melissa Penley Cormier, through Nov. 1

Mark Muhich, “Turtles of PA,” through Dec. 27

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
Landis House, 67 N. 4th St., Newport
717-567-7023; perrycountyarts.org

11th Annual Juried Art Exhibition, through Nov. 20

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

“North by Nuuk, Greenland After Rockwell Kent,” through Nov. 7

Student Honors Photography, Nov. 17-Dec. 5; reception: Dec. 4, 5:30-7 p.m.

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

“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)

“Home Improvements—New to the Collections,” artifacts designed and marketed in the first half of the 1900s as modern conveniences

“Horse2Auto: A Transportation Revolution”

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

“Future Fossils,” imagined relics by international artists that depict a future apocalypse, collectively offering a preserved, contemporary snapshot of present-day life, through Nov. 2

“Collage Philadelphia Presents: Tactile Shift,” featuring three collage works by Philadelphia-based artists Jason Chen, Jake Dombroski and Florence Weisz, through Nov. 30

“Mixed Mythology,” works by Mary Curran that draw on a deep reverence for the natural world and explores how humans make sense of their surroundings, through Jan. 4

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

“Art Evolved—Intertwined,” an exhibition by Studio Art Quilt Associates and the National Basketry Organization, bringing the art forms of quilting and basketry, through Dec. 21

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

“To Listen Deeply,” examining how sound is a key component for diverse works of art, through Dec. 13

“Her Dreams Are True,” a new perspective on the role of archives, museum collections and the personal memory in Apsáalooke (Crow) artist Wendy Red Star’s prints and photos, through Feb. 7

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

“Home for the Holidays,” showcasing the latest designs and holiday crafts by Wheel of Light members, Nov. 28 to Dec. 31

Read, Make, Learn

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

Nov. 5, 12, 19: Swing Dancing Classes, 6-9 p.m.

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

Nov. 1: Wire Tree Workshop (ages 13+ with parent/guardian), 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Nov. 4-Dec. 16: Functional Pottery (ages 12+ with parent/guardian), Saturdays, 6-9 p.m.
Nov. 5 & 19: Watercolor Painting Step-by-Step (ages 18+), 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Nov. 6: Sensational Silk Scarves (ages 18+), 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 6, 13, 20: Drawing Landscapes in Colored Pencils & Pastels (ages 9-14), 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 11-Dec. 9: Next Steps for the Very Beginner in Watercolor (ages 18+), Saturdays, 3-5:30 p.m.
Nov. 13-Dec. 11: Intro to Figure Drawing (ages 18+), Mondays, 6-8:30 p.m.
Nov. 13-Dec. 11: Pottery Wheel Throwing Morning (ages 18+), Mondays, 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 18: Pumpkin Needle Felting Workshop (ages 18+), 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Nov. 18-Dec. 16: Figure Drawing Studio (ages 18+), Saturdays, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 20: Paint Your Home Watercolor Workshop (ages 18+), 5-8 p.m.
Nov. 20: Pumpkins & Leaves Watercolor Workshop (ages 18+), 2-4 p.m.
Nov. 20-Dec. 18: Intermediate/Advanced Pastel Painting (ages 18+), Mondays, 9:30 a.m.-12 pm.

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

Nov. 1, 8, 15: Simple Rules to Balance Food, Metabolism, and Health, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 3: Monday Night Book Group, 6:30-7:45 p.m.
Nov. 5, 12, 19: Insurance Basics—What You Need to Know, 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27: Play and Learn Group 2, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 8: The Power of Movement, Meditation and Music on Physical, Mental and Spiritual Health, 12-1 p.m.
Nov. 12: Wicked Wednesday Book Group, 1-2 p.m.
Nov. 12: Adult Coloring Night, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 17: Rodney Derrickson and His Story, 5-6:30 p.m.
Nov. 21: Just Mysteries, 1-2 p.m.
Nov. 24: Graphic Novel Discussion Group, 6-7:30 p.m.

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

Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22: Cartoon Drawing (ages 9-14), 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Nov. 3-Dec. 15: Monday Wheel 101, Tuesdays, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 5-Dec. 17: Wheel 101, Wednesdays, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 11: Storybook Studio (ages 2-5), 10:30-11:45 a.m.
Nov. 11: Suicide Loss Survivors, 5:30-7 p.m.
Nov. 12: Small Mixed Media Works of Art, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 15: Put Your Color Pedal to the Metal, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 15: Copper Enamel Open Studio (ages 13-adult), 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Nov. 17: Third Space Craft Night, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 21: Craft Beer & Clay, 7-9 p.m.
Nov. 24: Animal Adventures (ages 5-12), 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Nov. 25: Blast Off! (ages 5-12), 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Dauphin County Library System
dcls.org

Nov. 1: Once Upon a Rainbow, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 11: Books on Tap at Rubber Soul Brewery, Hummelstown, 6-7 p.m.

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

Nov. 4: Read to Dogs, 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 5: “Alice@Wonderland” Story Time and Meet and Greet (ages 3-6), 6 p.m.
Nov. 6, 20: Story Time and Craft, 6:30 p.m.
Nov. 11: Fall Leaf Luminary Craft, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 13: Family Game Night, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 18: Drop-In Popsicle Turkey Magnet Craft, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 19: Drop-In STEM Play, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 25: BINGO for Books, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

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

Nov. 1: Figment Forge, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 3: The Stitch Sitch, 2-3:30 p.m.
Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24: Digital Detox Book Club, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 8: Joan Y. Leopold Children’s Book Week with Brian Pinkney, 1-2 p.m.
Nov. 12: A Wicked Celebration, 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 15: Write-A-Thon, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Nov. 15: Computer Workshops—Information Basics, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 16: East Shore Cinema, 3 p.m.
Nov. 20: Sip and Speak, 3-4:30 p.m.

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

Nov. 1: Knitter’s Group, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Nov. 3: Baby Time, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25: Card Making Group, 5-7 p.m.
Nov. 5: Toddler Time, 10:30-11 a.m.
Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26: Homeschool Happening, 2-4 p.m.
Nov. 6, 13, 20: Fiber Artists, 3-6 p.m.
Nov. 8: Fiber Artists, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Nov. 15: Book Discussion Group, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 22: Board Game Meetup, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Nov. 22: Dungeons & Dragons Group, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

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

Nov. 4: Uncovering History Family Program, 10-11 a.m.
Nov. 5: Family Mansion Tour, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 6: Art Heals—Fused Glass Ornaments Workshop, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 13: Art Heals—Christmas Tree Mosaic Workshop, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 19: In Person Lecture—Fort Hunter African American Cemetery, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

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

Nov. 2: Tween LEGO STEM Lab, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Nov. 2: The Hubble Space Telescope, 2-3:30 p.m.
Nov. 2: Book Dragon Club—Craftivism, 3-4:30 p.m.
Nov. 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26: Children’s Story Time, 11-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25: Food and Farm Discovery Zone (ages 3-5), 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 4, 18: Book Dragon Club—Plot Twisters, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 5: Embroiderer’s Stitch In, 1-4 p.m.
Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26: Baby & Toddler Story Time, 10-10:30 a.m.
Nov. 6: Special Themed Storytimes (ages 3-5), 10-10:30 a.m.
Nov. 6: Beekeeping 101, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27: Meditation to Calm the Mind, 12-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27: Fredricksen Knits, 1-4 p.m.
Nov. 6, 20: Device Advice, 5-6:30 p.m.
Nov. 7: Chess Club, 6:30 p.m.
Nov. 8: Teen Game Day—Nostalgia-palooza, 2-4 p.m.
Nov. 9: Pokémon Club, 3-4:30 p.m.
Nov. 10: Zoology Club, 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 11: Tween LEGO Club, 6-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 11: Cards for the Fun of It!, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Nov. 11, 25: Read to Dogs, 6-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 12: Ask a Dietician, 2:30-3:30 p.m.
Nov. 14: Peaceful Poses Yoga Storytime for Preschoolers, 10-10:45 a.m.
Nov. 14: Peaceful Poses Yoga for Adults, 10:45-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 14: Computer Basics, 2-3 p.m.
Nov. 14: The Music of the Beatles, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Nov. 19: Have a Healthy Holiday, 2:30-3:30 p.m.
Nov. 21: STEAM Discovery Play, 10-11 a.m.
Nov. 21: Family Paint & Pix!, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 24: Money Smart, 4-5 p.m.
Nov. 25: Cards for the Fun of It!, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

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

Nov. 1: Holiday Ornament Tree, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 7: Sea Glass Wall Art, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 8: Wire Bonsai Tree 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Nov. 9: DIY Doormat, 1-3 p.m.
Nov. 15: Epoxy Resin Poinsettia, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Nov. 16: Falling Leaves, 2-4 p.m.
Nov. 21: Fresh Floral Flower Arrangement, 6-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 22: Beginner Watercolor, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 23: Stained Glass Autumn Leaf, 1-3 p.m.

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

Nov. 1: Otherworldly Book Club, 12-1 p.m.
Nov. 8: Knit One, Crochet Too!, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 11: Owls Are a Hoot!, 4-5:30 p.m.
Nov. 11: Coloring for Adults, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Nov. 11, 25: Coloring for Adults, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Nov. 15: Silent Book Club, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 25: A Celebration of Color, 5-5:45 p.m.

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

Nov. 11-Jan. 6: Level 1 Intro to Improv, Tuesdays, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyart.org

Nov. 4: The World of Watercolor Pencil Art, 10-11:30 a.m.

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

Nov. 1: Fused Glass, 1-4 p.m.
Nov. 1: Kids and Caregivers Book Club In-Person, 2-3 p.m.
Nov. 1, 15, 22: Chess Club, 1-3 p.m.
Nov. 1-29: Spice of the Month: Umami
Nov. 3: Read to a Hockey Player, 4-4:45 p.m.
Nov. 4: Exploring Poetry, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 5: LEGO Club, 1-2 p.m.
Nov. 5, 12, 19: Community Crochet Night, 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 25: Penn State Hershey Mothers & Babies, 10:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 6, 13, 20: Teen Time, 2:30-4:15 p.m.
Nov. 6, 20: Hershey Quilters, 12:30 p.m.
Nov. 8: Chess Tournament, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Nov. 10: Hershey Area Neighbors and Newcomers, 10:15 a.m.-1 p.m.
Nov. 10, 17, 24: Books and Babies, 10:15-10:45 a.m.
Nov. 10, 17, 24: Storytime for Everyone, 11-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 11: Hershey Area Pokémon Club, 5:30-7 p.m.
Nov. 11, 18, 25: 1, 2, Whee!, 10:15-10:45 a.m.
Nov. 13, 20: Storytime for Everyone, 10:15-10:45 a.m.
Nov. 15: Cocoa Area Fiber Enthusiasts, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 18: Splash of Serenity—Watercolors for Relaxation, 2-3:30 p.m.
Nov. 18, 25: Silent Book Group, 10-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 20: MOMS Club of Derry Township, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

Nov. 1: Foraging First Aid, 12:30-3 p.m.
Nov. 1: Critter Crawl—Salamanders, 5-6:30 p.m.
Nov. 2: Drupes & Tubers: Mid-Fall Foraging Walk, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 8-9: Fall Foraging Foundations—Weekend Intensive, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Nov. 8: Elements of Survival—Wilderness Skills Series, 1-4 p.m.
Nov. 9: Identifying Trees by Bark, 1:30-4:30 p.m.
Nov. 20: Fire Cider—Make & Take, 6-8 p.m.

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

Nov. 3: Mental Wellness Overview, 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 11: Computer Workshop—Information Basics, 4-5:30 p.m.
Nov. 17: Upcycled Crafting, 6-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 18: Weekday Getaway, 4-5:30 p.m.

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

Nov. 3: Graphic Novel Club, 6-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 4, 11, 28, 25: Tea and Stitches, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 4, 11, 28, 25: Storybook STEAM, 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26: Rhyme Time, 10:15-10:35 a.m.
Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26: Toddler Time, 10:45-11:05 a.m.
Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28: LEGO Time, 10:15-11:15 a.m.
Nov. 10: English Conversation Club, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 11: Creative Movement Storytime, 10:15-11:15 a.m.
Nov. 17: STEAM Club—Lava in a Bottle, 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 17: Monday Night Book Club, 7-8 p.m.
Nov. 18: Thanksgiving Story Time, 10:15-11:15 a.m.
Nov. 18: Prenatal Breastfeeding Class, 6:30-8 p.m.
Nov. 22: Trivia at Home—Family Style, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 24: Tween Scene, 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 25: Tea & Stitches Extended Edition, 12-3 p.m.
Nov. 25: Tabletop Game Night, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 28 : Dungeons & Dragons, 6-8 p.m.

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

Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Passageways, 2 p.m.
Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Young Adult Group, 4 p.m.
Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26: Common Roads (ages 12-17), 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 8: QTPOC Advisory Group, 6-8 p.m.

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

Nov. 25: Coloring for Adults, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Nov. 19: Sip and Speak, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

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

Nov. 3, 10, 17: STEAM Club, 6 p.m.
Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25: Tiny Tots Storytime, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25: Wee Readers Storytime, 1-2 p.m.
Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25: Tales with T.A.I.L.S., 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27: Teen Time, 4-5 p.m.
Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27: LEGO Club, 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 8: Community Table Top Game Time, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 24: Fluffy Stuffy Sleepover, 6:30-7 p.m.

Midtown Scholar Bookstore-Cafe
1302 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-236-1680; midtownscholar.com

Nov. 8: Storytime at the Scholar, 10-10:30 a.m.
Nov. 10: An Evening with Gary Shteyngart, 7-8 pm.
Nov. 11: An Evening with Scott Anderson and Mark Bowden

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

Nov. 1: Alcohol Ink Class, 1-3 p.m.
Nov. 13: Beginner Visual Journaling Playshop, 6:30-8 p.m.

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

Nov. 8: Fall Hike, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

Nov. 1-5: Fall Farm LEGO Contest (ages 5 and older)
Nov. 1, 8, 15: Take and Makes (ages 0-12)
Nov. 1-30: Hibernation Scavenger Hunt (ages 0-12)
Nov. 1-30: Read Grateful Challenge (ages 0-18)
Nov. 3: Great Books Discussion Group, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 5: Leaf Art Workshop (ages 3 and older), 5-6 p.m.
Nov. 5: Piece Seekers, 6-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 6 Ruth’s Mystery Discussion Group, 10:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 6: Musical Mornings (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
Nov. 6: Medicare Education Workshop, 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 7: Family Fort Fest (ages 2-5), 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 8: Teen Craft Kits (ages 13-17)
Nov. 10, 17, 24: Cozy Preschool Storytime (ages 3-5), 10:30-11:15 a.m.
Nov. 12: STEAM Scene (ages 6-12), 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Nov. 13: Toddler Time (ages 2-3), 10:30-11 a.m.
Nov. 13: Houdini’s Secret Escape Room (ages 9-13), 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 14: Tumble Tots (ages 0-3), 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 18: Zootopia at the Library (ages 3 and older), 5-6 p.m.
Nov. 18, 25: Cozy Book Babies (ages 0-2), 11:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 20: STEM Sort & Match with Fall Sensory Bins (ages 2-5), 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 20: Teen Tarot Club (ages 12-16), 5-6 p.m.
Nov. 20: John Harris in the First Person, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Nov. 21: Block Party (ages 0-3), 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 25: Junior Scientists (ages 5 and older), 5-6 p.m.

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

Nov. 3: Genealogy Group, 10-11 a.m.
Nov. 3, 10: Little Explorers Early Learning Classes, 10:30-11 a.m.
Nov. 5, 12, 19: Smart Start Storytime, 12:15-1:15 p.m.
Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26: Strength & Stretching 50+, 10-11 a.m.
Nov. 6, 13: Little Explorers Early Learning Class, 1:30-2 p.m.
Nov. 10: Book Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 20: Debut Author Book Club @ Book Bar, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 24: BYO Craft Nights 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

Nov. 1: Shibori Tie-Dyeing Class, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Nov. 1: Mindful Stitching—Swedish Huck Weaving for Beginners, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Nov. 1: Sashiko Japanese Embroidery Class, 2:30-4:30 p.m.
Nov. 12: Mosaic Christmas Tree Class, 6-8 p.m.

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

Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Violent Universe, 12-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 1-29: Legends of the Night Sky, 11-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 1-30: We Are Aliens
Nov. 2-30: Two Small Pieces of Glass
Nov. 14: Virtual Program—Railroad Museum of PA 50 Years & Forward, 12:15 p.m.
Nov. 15: Storytime, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 19: Homeschool Program—Geology of PA, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Nov. 22: Paper Cutting—Scherenschnitte, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1-3 p.m.
Nov. 21: Curiosity Kids—Thanksgiving Traditions in PA, 11:30 a.m.
Nov. 26: Gobble Gobble! The Eastern Wild Turkey, 11:30 a.m.
Nov. 28: Falltastic Crafts, 11:30 a.m.

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

Nov. 8: Origami Dragon Eyes (ages 9-12), 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Village Artisans Gallery
321 Walnut St., Boiling Springs
717-258-3256; villageartisansgallery.com

Nov. 2: Chigiri-e Torn Paper Art Demonstration, 1-4 p.m.
Nov. 8: Local Fish and Birds Watercolor Studies, 1-4 p.m.
Nov. 15: Jewelry Inspired by Simplicity in Traditional Technique, 1-4 p.m.
Nov. 23: Steampunk Automata Moving Metal Creations, 1-4 p.m.

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

Nov. 1: Clay Christmas Tree Ornaments Workshop, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Nov. 1: Ceramic Cookie Platters Workshop, 2:30-4 p.m.
Nov. 7: Funky Pumpkin Watercolor Class, 6-8 p.m.,
Nov. 11: Mosaic Christmas Tree Class, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 12: Embroidered Ornaments, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 13: Funky Pumpkin Watercolor Class, 6-8 p.m.
Nov. 14: Clay Trees Workshop, 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 22: Clay Gnomes Workshop, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Nov. 22: Winter Cardinal Painting Class with Jacqui, 1-3 p.m.
Nov. 29: Clay Trees Workshop , 2-3 p.m.

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

Nov. 4: Persimmon Walk, 1-2 p.m.
Nov. 5, 12, 19: Wednesday Wellness Walks, 1-2:30 p.m.
Nov. 6, 13, 20: Cat in the Hat Learning Series, 10-10:45 a.m.
Nov. 8: Volunteer Work Day, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Nov. 8: Birds & Coffee with Appalachian Audubon Society, 10-11 a.m.
Nov. 8: Cadette Girl Scouts—Night Owl, 4-8:30 p.m.
Nov. 9: Kids Discover—Get Ready for Winter (ages 4-6), 1:30-3 p.m.
Nov. 13: Waterfowl Walk, 8-10 a.m.
Nov. 15: Girl Scout Juniors—Animal Habitats, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Nov. 15: November Hike—Adventure Awaits, 1-3 p.m.
Nov. 18: Wild Recipes—Fall Foraging in Your Backyard, 6-7:30 p.m.
Nov. 25: Kids Discover—Turkey Talk (ages 2-5), 10-11:30 a.m.
Nov. 29, 30: Wreath Workshop, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

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

Nov. 4: Owls Are a Hoot!, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Nov. 6: A Wicked Celebration, 6-7 p.m.
Nov. 7: Joan Y. Leopold Children’s Book Week with Brian Pinkney, 1-2 p.m.
Nov. 8: Crafternoon, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Nov. 13: Candle Making Workshop, 5-7 p.m.
Nov. 22: Dance Me a Story, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Live Music

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

Nov. 6, 13, 20: Open Mic Night
Nov. 14: Women of Folk Fest Reunion featuring The Wild Hymns, Heather Hannah and Friends, Cumberland Honey, Sarah Fiore
Nov. 21: Rivers, Tanjo & Crow, Peter Stone & Anterra

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

Nov. 3: Joanne Shaw Taylor
Nov. 7: Jazz in the City
Nov. 8: York Symphony’s Brahms & Ellington
Nov. 9: I’m With Her, Ye Vagabonds
Nov. 12: Colin Hay
Nov. 15: Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox
Nov. 21: Home Free
Nov. 23: A Motown Christmas
Nov. 29: York Symphony’s Holiday Pops Spectacular

Blues Society of Central PA
bscpblues.com

Nov. 2: Hubby Jenkins hosted with Susquehanna Folk Music Society
Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27: Blues Jam at Champions Sports Bar and Grill, Highspire

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

Nov. 1: Anthrophobia
Nov. 4: Blues Traveler
Nov. 5: Plain White T’s x We The Kings
Nov. 7: Inhuman Condition
Nov. 11: Kind Eyes
Nov. 14: Black Stone Cherry, A Killer’s Confession & Dogma
Nov. 15: Penntera
Nov. 19: Bearings
Nov. 20: King 810
Nov. 21: Early Ones Only
Nov. 22: Noah Gundersen, Webby
Nov. 26: Queensryche
Nov. 29: I Love R&B

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

Nov. 1: The Best of the 70s with Dizzyfish and The Uptown Horns
Nov. 6-7: River Barry’s Cosmic Bubbles Show
Nov. 8: Tusk—The Classic Fleetwood Mac Tribute
Nov. 15: The Breakers—A Tribute to Tom Petty
Nov. 16: A Psychedelic Tribute to the Grateful Dead with Zach Nugent’s Dead Set

Carlisle Town Band
carlisleband.org

Nov. 16: Fall Concert at Carlisle High School

Central Pennsylvania Womyn’s Chorus
cpwchorus.org

Nov. 22, 23: Fall Concerts

Englewood Hershey
1219 West End Ave., Hummelstown
717-256-9480; englewoodhershey.com

Nov. 26: The Last Waltz Re-created
Nov. 28: Eric Mintel Jazz Quartet—A Charlie Brown Christmas
Nov. 29: Bill Squire

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

Nov. 6: The Elovaters
Nov. 9: Austin Meade, Elvie Shane
Nov. 14: Twiztid
Nov. 16: Tropidelic
Nov. 22: Elijah with Royale Lynn, OfVirture, Nevereasy
Nov. 26: Atlas At Hold’s Thanksgiving Eve Throwdown

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

Nov. 2: Fall Concert
Nov. 7: Young Persons’ Concert Series
Nov. 8-9: Orchestral Odysseys

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

Nov. 1: Smooth Like Clyde
Nov. 7: Uptown Band
Nov. 8: Andromeda
Nov. 14: Twisted Charm
Nov. 15: I Candee Band
Nov. 21: Turning the Tide
Nov. 22: Lobster Tot Martini
Nov. 28: Brass Pocket
Nov. 29: Jexxa

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

Nov. 9: Jo Dee Messina
Nov. 14: Ashley McBryde

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

Nov. 7: Wind Symphony Concert
Nov. 14: Centennial Celebration featuring Orpheus Chamber Orchestra and Natalie MacMaster
Nov. 16: Jazz Ensemble with the Mariel Bildstein Septet
Nov. 21: Symphony Orchestra Concert

Market Square Concerts
marketsquareconcerts.org

Nov. 5: The Sebastians

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

Nov. 1: Messiah University Percussion Ensemble
Nov. 4: Messiah University Jazz Combo
Nov. 6: Messiah University Flute Choir
Nov. 7: Messiah University Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Winds
Nov. 10: Messiah University Chamber Ensembles
Nov. 11: Messiah University Brass Choir and Brass Studios
Nov. 15: Baritone Marcus C. DeLoach
Nov. 22: Messiah University Voice Area Recital

Metropolis Collective
17 W. Main St., Mechanicsburg
717-458-8245; metropoliscollective.com

Nov. 15: windowsilk
Nov. 29: Groove Rebels and No Show Ponies

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

Nov. 22: Steve Rudolph Trio

Pine Street Presbyterian Church
310 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-238-9304; pinestreet.org

Nov. 16: Eddie Zheng

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

Oct. 3: Mark Santanna

Susquehanna Chorale
One College Ave., Mechanicsburg
717-533-7859; susquehannachorale.org

Nov. 23: Youth Chorale Festival

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

Nov. 2: Hubby Jenkins hosted with Blues Society of Central PA
Nov. 23: Seán Dagher

Trindle Spring Lutheran Church
14 State Rd., Mechanicsburg
717-766-7091; trindlespringlutheran.org

Nov. 9: Big Sky Quartet

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

Nov. 5: Mali Obomsawin
Nov. 11: Veterans’ Values & Voices
Nov. 15: Soul of America—A Tribute to the Legendary Ladies of Soul
Nov. 22: Shine Delphi & Colebrook Road
Nov. 22: Shine Delphi & Colebrook Road

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

Nov. 2: Little Brother Band
Nov. 7: Lone Crow Rebellion and The Jukehouse Bombers
Nov. 8: Technicolor Motor Home—Steely Dan Tribute
Nov. 14: Urgent—A Tribute to Foreigner
Nov. 15: The Beatles and Beyond with The Mahoney Brothers
Nov. 16: Motown With a Twist

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

Nov. 26: The Machine
Nov. 29: Solar Federation

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

Nov. 1: The Legwarmers—The Ultimate 80s Experience
Nov. 6: Kitchen Dwellers, Pressing Strings
Nov. 7: Fortunate Youth, Bumpin Uglies’ Josh Heinrichs
Nov. 8: The Ten Band—A Tribute to Pearl Jam
Nov. 9: The Crane Wives, Spencer Lajoye
Nov. 12: Black Flag & The Queers
Nov. 14: Go Go Gadjet
Nov. 15: Rome, Elephants Dancing
Nov. 21: The Warped Tour Band
Nov. 26: Yam Yam & Minka, Red Meat Conspiracy
Nov. 29: Splintered Sunlight

The Stage Door

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

Nov. 7-23: The 2025 Christmas Show—Deck the Halls

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

Nov. 10: “Tina—The Tina Turner Musical”
Nov. 14: Dusty Slay
Nov. 20: “STEVE-O: The Crash and Burn Tour”
Nov. 22: Jay Leno

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

Oct. 15-19: “Dracula”

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

Nov. 1: “A Chorus Line”
Nov. 7-Dec. 28: Irving Berlin’s “Holiday Inn”
Nov. 21-Dec. 27: “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”

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

Nov. 15: “The Nutcracker” with Pennsylvania Ballet Academy

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

Nov. 1-15: Popcorn Hat Players present “The Frog Prince”
Nov. 8-23: Gilbert & Sullivan’s “The Mikado, Eh!”
Nov. 28: TMI Improv

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

Nov. 1: Mike Speenberg and JD Colwell
Nov. 7, 8: The Bob Lauver Comedy Hypnosis Show
Nov. 12: Michael Winslow
Nov. 14, 15: Monte Allen and Tom E. Thompson
Nov. 21, 22: Greg Owens and Tony Mayo
Nov. 26: Earl David Reed
Nov. 28, 29: Raymond the Amish Comic

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

Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27: Poetry Night at H*MAC

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

Nov. 1: Solo Sleepover, Lil’ Sleepover, Ham Juice
Nov. 1, 2: Level 1 Class Graduation Show
Nov. 7: Free Improv Mixer, Good Parade, Bondfire Society, Barn Bitches
Nov. 8: Free Improv Mixer, Awkward Timing, Uncomfortable, Rockstar, Rockstar Karaoke
Nov. 14: Team Z, Girl’s Trip, Left Unsupervised, Tater Tot Dish, Spice Crones, Neighborhood Gossip
Nov. 15: Spiced Ham, Original 6, The Next Leaver, Unshushed Sisters, Barbra, Blackest Thing Ever
Nov. 21: Free Improv Mixer, Goose Parade, LoS CoMpLiCaDoS, Offbeats, The Real Fast Coast Wives of Central PA
Nov. 22: Introduce a Self, Homie-Sexual, All Over the Place, Elderprov, Cosmic Trash, Big Business LLC
Nov. 28: Free Improv Mixer, Left Unsupervised, Tater Tot Dish, What? Hell Yeah! What?!, Am I the Assshow

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

Nov. 13-16: “The Oregon Trail”

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

Nov. 1: “Sleepy Hollow” by Kit’s Interactive Theatre
Nov. 29: Lenny & Mabel’s “Nutcracker”

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

Nov. 28-Dec. 14: “Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol”

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

Nov. 28: “Blippi Join the Band Tour”
Nov. 30: Jane Lynch’s “A Swingin’ Little Christmas”

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

Nov. 13-23: “Clue”

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

Nov. 1: “Dracula—A Comedy of Terrors”
Nov. 22-Dec. 23: “Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas”

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

Nov. 7-23: “No Sex Please, We’re British”

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

Nov. 21-24: “Angels in America—Millenium Approaches, A Gay Fantasia on National Themes”

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

Nov. 14-23: “Guys and Dolls”

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

Nov. 7: The Paza Experience

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

Nov. 16: Frogtown Mountain Puppeteers presents “Everybody Loves Pirates”

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

Shop Small, Shop Local 2025

October 30, 2025 | by Admin

ANTIQUES & VINTAGE

Antique Marketplace of Lemoyne
415 Bosler Ave., Lemoyne
717-761-2865
theantiquemarketplaceoflemoyne.com

Bedford Street Antiques
44 N. Bedford St., Carlisle
717-241-5309
bedfordstreetantiques.com

Carlisle Antique Mall
164 N. Hanover St., Carlisle
717-660-0999
thebestvendors.com

Crossroads Antique Mall
825 Cocoa Ave., Hershey
717-520-1600
crossroadsantiques.com

Northgate Antique Mall
726 N. Hanover St., Carlisle
717-243-5802
ngantiques.com

OUTDOOR GEAR

Blue Mountain Outfitters
103 S. State Rd., Marysville
717-957-2413
bluemountainoutfitters.net

Susquehanna Outfitters
333 S Front St., Wormleysburg
717-503-0066
Susquehannaoutfitters.com

Earth Artisan & Outfitter
37 W. Chapel Ave., Carlisle
717-713-6170
earthartout.com

Holmes Cycling & Fitness
2139 Market St., Camp Hill
717-737-3461
holmescycling.com

Pedal Pusher
3798 Walnut St., Harrisburg
717-652-7760
Pedalpusher.live

TCO Outdoors
2 E. First St., Boiling Springs
717-609-0169 ext. 5
tcoflyfishing.com

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

Broad Street Army & Navy Store
1316 N 3rd St, Harrisburg
717-234-4948

Carriage House Boutique
829 State St. #1005, Lemoyne
717- 737-7177
carriageboutique.com

the ClothesVine
134 W. High St., Carlisle
717-249-7909
theclothesvine.com

Daisy Age
2136 Market St., Camp Hill
Shopdaisyage.com

Leaf of Eve
149 N Enola Dr, Enola
717-732-2564
leafofeveonline.com

J. Hilburn Stylist Studio
2138 Market St., Camp Hill
717- 497-1800
glennamarino1.jhilburn.com

Jean Joint
1204 N 3rd St, Harrisburg
717-232-8711
thejeanjoint.com

Little Black Dress & LBD Kids
1801 Market St., Camp Hill
717-525-7488
little-black-dress-camp-hill.myshopify.com

Maggie Adams
3605 Gettysburg Rd., Camp Hill
717-730-2000
maggieadams.com

The Meadow
1126 N 3rd St., Harrisburg
Themeadowhbg.com

Miss Ruth’s Time Bomb
24 N. Hanover St., Carlisle
717-241-2662
missruthstimebomb.com

Peacock Alley Boutique & Collective
303 and 305A Bridge St, New Cumberland
717-887-5675
thepeacockalleyboutique.com

Plum Bottom
2619 Brindle Dr., Harrisburg
717-651-1600 & 1801 Market St., Camp Hill
215-390-2780
plumbottom.net

Presence
3580 Gettysburg Rd., Camp Hill
717-761-8875
presenceboutique.com

The Rummagers
1419 N 3rd St., Harrisburg
Therummagers.com

Simply J Boutique
301 W. Caracas Ave., Hershey
717-533-5909
simplyjhershey.com

The Plum (West)
3801 Old Gettysburg Rd., Camp Hill
717-737-8153
theplumclothing.com

Three Little Birds Boutique
6455 Carlisle Pike, Mechanicsburg & 131 W Chocolate Ave., Hershey
717-309-2348
tlbboutique.com

Underneath It All
1801 Market St., Suite 104, Camp Hill
717-761-7474
underneathitall.net

JEWELRY

Christy Concept Jewelry
West Shore Farmers Market, 900 Market St., Lemoyne
717-303-2627
christyconceptjewelry.com

K Novinger Jewelry Design
1200 Market St., Lemoyne
717-972-0553
knovingerjewelry.com

Marjorie’s Gems
44 S. Hanover St., Carlisle
717-701-8148
marjoriesgems.com

Meeka Fine Jewelry
2135 Market St., Camp Hill
717-979-5448
meekajewelry.com

Mountz Jewelers
stores located in Carlisle, Camp Hill, & Harrisburg
mountzjewelers.com

Munn’s Diamond Gallery
1203 Market St., Lemoyne
717-761-8310
munns.net

ART & ARTISANS

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

Brain Vessel (The Gallery)
4702-4704 Carlisle Pike, Mechanicsburg
717-350-2306
brainvessel.com

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

Moss Creek Art
315 Bridge St., New Cumberland
717-579-3774
mosscreekart.com

Nyeusi Gallery
1224 N 3rd St., Harrisburg
nyeusi.art

Pat Craig Studios
30 W Pomfret St, Carlisle
717-245-0382
patcraigstudios.com

PCCA Gallery
1 S 2nd St, Newport
717-567-7023
perrycountyarts.org

The Millworks Gift Shop, Art Galleries & Artist Studios
340 Verbeke St., Harrisburg
717-695-4888
millworksharrisburg.com

Ten Oh! Six
1006 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
tenohsixstudio.com

Tickle My Senses
315 Bridge St., New Cumberland
717-839-3816

Village Artisans Gallery
321 Walnut St., Boiling Springs
717-258-3256
villageartisansgallery.com

Vivi On Verbeke
258 Verbeke St., Harrisburg
717-961-9826

FOOD

Central Wedge Cheese Shop
25 W High St., Carlisle
717-422-5010
Centralwedgecheese.com

Exquisite Chocolates of Carlisle
35 S Hanover St, Carlisle
717-220-7081
exquischocolat.com

Frederic Loraschi Chocolate
4615 Hillcrest St., Harrisburg
717-540-0000
fredericloraschichocolate.com

Georgie Lou’s Retro Candy
56 W. High St., Carlisle
717-243-1002
georgielousretrocandy.com

Gilded Door Oil & Vinegar Tap Room
9 E. High St., Carlisle
717-620-9560
gildeddoorpantry.square.site

Green Ridge Acres
3800 Trindle Rd., Camp Hill
717-920-6611
greenridgeacres.com

Macris Chocolates
1200 Market St., Lemoyne
717-412-7129
macrischocolates.com

Matangos Quality Candies
1501 Catherine St., Harrisburg
717-234-0882
matangoscandies.com

Mummert Chocolates
21 W. Pomfret St., Carlisle
717-258-9341
mummertchocolates.com

Radish & Rye Food Hub
1308 N 3rd St, Harrisburg
717-803-2888
radishandryehbg.com

SPECIALTY

Abrams & Weakley General Store for Animals
3963 6th St., Harrisburg
717-232-3963
abramsandweakley.com

Broad Street Market
1233 N 3rd St., Harrisburg
broadstreetmarket.org

Calicutts Spice Co.
611 Gettysburg Pike, Mechanicsburg
717- 297-0598
calicutts.com

Carmina Cristina Makeup Boutique
2209 Market St, Camp Hill
717- 343-2805
carminacristina.com

Glitz Soap Co.
100 Legacy Park Dr., Mechanicsburg
717-590-7149
glitzsoap.com

Grey Apple Market
2700 N Susquehanna Trail, York
717-356-2599
grayapplemarket.com

Knock Knock Boutique
110 W Chocolate Ave., Hershey
717-298-6331
shopknockknock.com

Live in Color Boutique
1776-1898 Market St, Camp Hill
717-695-6391

Nyianga Store
1423 N 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-601-1557

One Good Woman
1801 Market St., Camp Hill
717-975-8101
onegoodwoman.com

Oxford Hall Celtic Shop
233 Bridge St., New Cumberland
717-774-8789
oxfordhall.com

Paper Moon Flowers
916 N 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-991-2227

Plant Family
1820 N 3rd St., Harrisburg
plantfamily.love

Plant Witch
11 N 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-874-9552

Red Door Consignment
2635 Paxton St, Harrisburg
717- 233-5111
reddoorconsignmentgallery.com

Sevansa Soap
210 Walnut St., Harrisburg
Sevansa.com

The Rosemary House
120 S. Market St., Mechanicsburg
717-697-5111
therosemaryhouse.com

The Shoppe on Chocolate
130 W Chocolate Ave #128, Hershey
717-669-1865
theshoppeonchocolate.com

Toys on the Square
22 E. Main St., Hummelstown
717-566-6301
toysonthesquare.com

West Shore Farmers Market
900 Market St., Lemoyne
717-737-9881
westshorefarmersmarket.com

BOOKS & MUSIC & GAMES

Adventurer’s Guild Games & Hobbies
1010 Wesley Drive Suite 111, Mechanicsburg
(717) 561-8140
theadvguild.com

Blue Moon Games
101 S 3rd St., Lemoyne
(267) 848-4205
bluemoongamer.com

Civil War & More
10 S. Market St., Mechanicsburg
717-766-1899
civilwarandmore.com

Cupboard Maker Books
157 N. Enola Rd., Enola
717-732-7288
cupboardmaker.com

Full Circle Record Shop
20 N. Cameron St., Harrisburg
fullcirclerecordshop.com

Lazarus Games
1707 S Cameron St., Harrisburg
lazarus-games.com

Midtown Scholar Bookstore
1302 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-236-1680
midtownscholar.com

RecordSmith
16 N. Market St., Mechanicsburg
717-713-1636
recordsmithofpennsylvania.com

Retro & Rad
308 Bridge St., New Cumberland
Retroandrad.com

Whistlestop Bookshop
129 W. High St., Carlisle
717-243-4744
whistlestoppers.com

*This is not a complete listing and we encourage you to check out Central PA Shopping Lists at Explore HBG (explorehbg.com), Visit Hershey Harrisburg (visithersheyharrisburg.org), Harrisburg Downtown Improvement District (harrisburgdid.com), Visit Cumberland Valley (visitcumberlandvalley.com), Destination Gettysburg (destinationgettysburg.com), Explore York (yorkpa.org), & Discover Lancaster (discoverlancaster.com), & Visit Lebanon Valley (visitlebanonvalley.com)

Harrisburg postpones trick or treat to Halloween night

October 29, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

Trick or treat on Green Street in Harrisburg. File photo.

The city’s trick-or-treat night has been rescheduled.

Trick or treating in Harrisburg will now take place on Halloween itself, Friday, Oct. 31, instead of on Thursday, the city announced on social media.

Several other area municipalities have also rescheduled their trick-or-treat due to forecasted heavy rain.

The rescheduled date in Harrisburg includes all neighborhoods in the city. Hours will remain the same, with trick or treat running from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

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

Alexander Grass Campus opens new playgrounds for students, community in Harrisburg

October 29, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

The new playground at Alexander Grass Campus. Photo courtesy of Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg.

Harrisburg kids now have another place to play.

The Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg announced that they constructed two new playgrounds for schoolchildren and the community at their Alexander Grass Campus for Jewish Life in Uptown.

The playgrounds were built on the Etter Family Green, a large green space on the Grass Campus.

They are already being used by Jewish Community Center participants and students at the Brenner Family ELC and The Silver Academy, housed on the Grass Campus.

Additionally, the playgrounds are open to the entire community outside of school hours, after 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and until dusk on Saturdays and Sundays.

“With immense pride and happiness, we celebrate the opening of our new playgrounds—a vibrant space where laughter, imagination, and community come alive,” said Christine Cutuli, chief operating officer of the Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg. “Deepest thanks to every generous contributor who made this dream a reality; your support and kindness will echo in the joy of every child who plays and learns here.”

The playgrounds, designed by BCI Burke, include slides, enrichment features, seating spaces, and a xylophone. The Jewish Federation also upgraded the Etter Family Green with a fence and safety infrastructure.

Funds for the project came through numerous grants, including a Neighborhood Assistance Program grant from Capital Blue Cross, a Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency Non-Profit Security grant and a Dauphin County Local Shares Municipal grant, among others.

The campus will hold a playground launch party on Sunday, Nov. 2, from 12 to 2 p.m. and a ribbon-cutting/dedication ceremony in spring 2026.

The Alexander Grass Campus for Jewish Life is located at 2986 N. 2^nd St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit their website.

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City Council approves office-to-apartment conversion in downtown Harrisburg

October 28, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

315 N. 2nd St. in Harrisburg

An adaptive reuse project in downtown Harrisburg can move forward, having received the stamp of approval from City Council.

Developer Breneman Properties plans to transform three attached office buildings at 315 N. 2^nd St. into a 10-unit apartment building.

Council passed the apartment conversion by a vote of 4-2, with council member Jocelyn Rawls and council president Danielle Hill voting against the project. Hill prefaced her vote by saying she would vote “no” because the development did not include affordable housing, as defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Council member Ausha Green was not in attendance.

The vacant 8,300-square-foot office building formerly housed the Pennsylvania Healthcare Association. The renovation will include constructing one- and two-bedroom units ranging from 500 to 1,200 square feet. Eight off-street parking spots already exist on site.

Units are expected to rent from $1,000 to $1,400 a month, the developer said.

Additionally, council approved allowing the city to negotiate and enter into a professional services agreement with Ellen Freedman Schultz and Associates, LLC to develop an urban forestry and watershed education curriculum in partnership with the Harrisburg School District. The city will pay $25,000 for the program, money that will be reimbursed by a federal grant that Harrisburg received in 2023.

In other council action, Yvonne Marie Jackson was appointed to the Harrisburg Housing Authority board.

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