Overcoming Fear: “Leviticus” is both a horror movie and a celebration of young love

May 28, 2026 | by Gabriel Brown

Image courtesy of Neon.

“Leviticus” is the feature-length debut of gay Australian writer-director Adrian Chiarella, whose previous shorts have won awards at queer film festivals internationally.

It’s a tight, 87-minute horror film in the vein of “It Follows.” There’s a violent, supernatural entity haunting queer teenagers in a small town, taking the form of the person they most desire. But the monster here isn’t queerness—it’s born from a ritual that is a clear visual simile for conversion therapy.

The “Leviticus” story is inseparable from its leads and their performances: two queer teenage boys falling for each other in a hostile environment. It taps into a primal universal fear—what happens when the person you love most poses your greatest threat? There’s real horror here and enough chilling imagery to keep you awake a little longer tonight.

A character-driven film like “Leviticus” doesn’t work unless its cast is firing on all cylinders, and both leads deliver vulnerable and intimately masculine performances.

Joe Bird’s naturalistic aloofness as Naim casts shades of Florence Pugh in “Midsommar,” and Stacy Clausen’s repressed and defensive Ryan brings to mind Billy Barratt’s performance in another Australian horror, last year’s underrated “Bring Her Back” by millennial YouTubers-turned-directors Danny and Michael Philippou. Mia Wasikowska also delivers a solid performance as the main character’s mother in her first film role in several years, but I could’ve used even more of her.

With a title like “Leviticus,” a reference to a book in Abrahamic scripture frequently cited to denounce queerness by religious groups, I’ll admit I was expecting the film to be a bit heavy-handed with religious trauma and anti-queer fearmongering. Although it does touch on these, I believe “Leviticus” never wallows. The film could easily let itself coast on being a searing condemnation of conversion therapy and the stereotypical unceremonious onscreen death of queer characters. But Chiarella’s ambitious and personal script aims higher, truer and deeper—towards overcoming fear and the familiar feeling of timeless, all-encompassing, nothing-else-matters, adolescent love.

An empathetic celebration of young love in a genre known for its bitterness and malice is something that can only stem from a truly sincere artist, and if his debut is this good, Adrian Chiarella is absolutely one to watch coming into the horror scene from Australia. “Leviticus” opens at Midtown Cinema in June.

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.

June Events
at Midtown Cinema

Late Night Frights
“Onibaba” (1964)
Friday, June 5

Down in Front!
Comedy Riffing
“Miami Connection” (1987)
Friday, June 12

3rd in the Burg Movie Night
“Who Framed Roger Rabbit?” (1988)
Friday, June 19

FRIENDS OF MIDTOWN
OUTDOOR FILM SERIES 2026

“The Princess and the Frog” (2009)
Saturday, June 20

“Superman” (2025)
Saturday, July 11

“Mean Girls” (2004)
Saturday, Aug. 22

“The NeverEnding Story” (1984)
Saturday, Sept. 12

Movies at dusk. Bring your own chair.

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

Happenings: Our June calendar of events

May 28, 2026 | by Missy Smith

Museums & Art Spaces

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

“Imperial: Chrysler’s Handcrafted Masterpiece,” through Oct. 18

“American Muscle—Red, White, Blue,” through Oct. 18

“Nash—RPS-Ride, Performance, Style,” through Oct. 18

“Route 66 Centennial—East Coast Celebration,” through Oct. 18

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

98th Annual Juried Show, through June 25

“Color and Contour,” featuring a collection of work by artists from AAH’s permanent collection, through June 26

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

Students of Acrylic Painting Exhibit, June 5-25; reception: June 5, 5:30-7 p.m.

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

“How I See It—Paintings and Portraits by Rodney Pate,” through June 28 (select times)

The Bower
1190 Bower Rd., Shermans Dale
thegardenbower.com

Native Plant Landscape and Sculpture Garden open Wednesdays through Saturdays, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

Group Tours: by appointment Monday through Saturday

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

West Shore Photography Club Showcase, June 12-July 25: reception: June 12, 5:30-8 p.m.

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

June artist of the month: Clare Klaum

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

“What’s Bloomin’,” floral artwork by members of the Millersburg Area Art Association, June 3-27

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyart.org

HAAA Member Artwork at Hershey Public Library, community room, June 6-Nov. 28

HAAA Member Artwork at Hershey Public Library, hallway gallery, June 20-Aug. 8

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.

“America250 Patriots of Dauphin County,” through December

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

New works by Judy Kelly, Richard Souders, John Davis and Kat Dreibelbis, through June 14

New works by Jemar Sweets, Steve Barber, Annika Koser, Julie Iaria, Emily Zebel and Olivia Jean, June 15-July 12

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

Annual Juried Student Show from the 2025-2026 studio year, through Aug. 29

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

Art by Marjorie Taylor, through July 18

Art by Chet Davis, through July 25

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

Exhibits dedicated to Pennsylvania firefighting history

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

“American Identity—Restoring the Susquehanna River’s Artistic Legacy,” an exhibition drawn from the Friends of the Susquehanna River Art Collection and curated by Rob Evans, through June 28

“Presence—The Landscapes of Michael Allen,” through July 26

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

Recent Acquisitions to The Trout Gallery’s permanent collection, featuring the works of American artists that focus on the diversity of American stories, June 12-Oct. 13

“BRANCH—Trees in American Art,” telling the stories of America through a variety of artwork representing trees, June 12-Jan. 23

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

“Revival,” paintings by Nicole Simmons, June 3-July 18

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

“Art in the Wild,” a community outdoor environmental art exhibit with works by local artists created mostly natural materials, through Sept. 30

Read, Make, Learn

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

June 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 29: Swing and Latin dance classes, 6-9:30 p.m.

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

June 2, 9, 16, 23: Next Steps for the Very Beginner in Watercolor (adults), 3-5:30 p.m.
June 3 & 24: Watercolor Painting Step-by-Step (adults), 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
June 4: Mini Mixed Media Madness Workshop (adults), 1-3 p.m.
June 4, 11, 18, 25: Intermediate/Advanced Pastel Painting (adults), 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 4, 11, 18, 25: Pottery Wheel Throwing (adults), 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 17: Date Night with Glassblowing (adults), 6-8 p.m.
June 22-26: Fundamental Drawing Summer Camp (ages 9-14), 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 22-26: Still Life Summer Camp (ages 9-14), 1-3 p.m.
June 23: Dried Flowers & Specialty Canvas Design Workshop (adults), 1-3 p.m.
June 25: Painting Inspirations with Yachiyo (adults), 12-4 p.m.

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

June 1: Monday Night Book Group, 6 p.m.
June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Tabletop Gaming, 4:30 p.m.
June 2: G.R.A.N.D.S. Support Group, 10-11 a.m.
June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Upstairs Stitchers, 5:30 p.m.
June 4, 11, 18, 25: Knitting Group, 10:30 a.m.
June 5, 12, 19, 26: Mah Jongg Club, 9:30 a.m.
June 7: Mindfulness with Emotions and Relationships, 2-3:15 p.m.
June 10: Wicked Wednesday Book Group, 1 p.m.
June 10: Adult Coloring Night, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
June 13, 27: Writers’ Wordshop, 10-11:30 a.m.
June 22: Graphic Novel Discussion Group, 6-7 p.m.
June 26: Just Mysteries Book Group, 1 p.m.

The Bower
1190 Bower Rd., Shermans Dale
thegardenbower.com

June 24: Kids Workshop—Imagining Clouds, 10 a.m.

BrainVessel Gallery
4707 Carlisle Pike, Mechanicsburg
717-350-2306; www.brainvessel.com

“The Mystery of A Nubbins” with William Wiist, June 5-6

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

June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Virtual Pilates, 5 p.m.
June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Mindful Yoga & Meditation 10 a.m.
June 3, 10, 17, 24; Virtual INSPIRE, 11 a.m.
June 4, 11, 18, 25: Ready, Steady, Action, in-person and virtual, 4:15 p.m.
June 5, 12, 19, 26: Strong and Fit, in-person and virtual, 10 a.m.
June 9: Virtual Cooking Demo—Watermelon and Feta Salad, 12 p.m.
June 11: Virtual Prevention Power, 11 a.m.
June 16: Virtual Connect Health & Wellness Beyond, 12 p.m.

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

June 6: Pen & Ink Watercolor, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
June 8: Free Juneteenth Paint and Sip Workshop, 6-8 p.m.
June 8: Third Space Craft Night, 6-8 p.m.
June 8-12: Garden Magic (ages 6-12), 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 8-12: Animals of All the Continents (ages 8-12), 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 15-19: Game On! (ages 6-12), 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 15-19: Art & Adventure Camp (ages 9-14), 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
June 15-19: Cartoon Drawing (ages 9-14), 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 22-26: Art & Adventure Camp (ages 9-14), 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
June 19: Craft Beer & Clay, 7-9 p.m.
June 20: Put Your Color Pedal to the Metal (ages 13-adult), 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 22-26: Summer Threads (ages 6-12), 1-4 p.m.
June 27: Improv Collage, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
June 29-July 1: Paper Play Mini Camp (ages 6-12), 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 29-July 1: Let’s Go On a Cruise (ages 6-12), 1-4 p.m.

Dauphin County Library System
dcls.org

June 9: Books on Tap at Rubber Soul Brewery, 6-7 p.m.
June 13: Reading the Rainbow at LGBT Center of Central PA, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 23, 30: Upcycled Crafting at Seal Park, 6-7 p.m.

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

June 1-Aug. 15: All Ages Summer Reading
June 1-Aug. 15: Go Cumberland!
June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Summer Story Time with Mrs. B, 10:15-11:15 a.m.
June 2: Read to Dogs, 6-7 p.m.
June 4, 18: Story Time and Craft, 6:30 p.m.
June 6: Summer Reading Program Kickoff, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
June 9: Family Game Night!, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
June 11: Drop-In Dino Skeletons Activity, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
June 13: Ridiculous Nicholas, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
June 16: Seashell Collage Craft, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
June 17: Drop-In Father’s Day Craft, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
June 20: Science Heroes—Digging It, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 23: Dinosaur Scavenger Hunt, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
June 24: Drop-In STEM Play, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
June 25: Meet a Fire Truck with East Pennsboro Fire Department, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
June 27: Air Weaver Balloons, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 30: BINGO for Books, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

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

June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: The Stitch Sitch, 2-3:30 p.m.
June 2, 9, 16, 30: Learn to Play Mah Jongg, 9:30-11 a.m.
June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Crafting with the Classics, 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
June 7: East Shore Cinema—“Zootopia,” 2-4 p.m.
June 10: Summer Game Night—Evolution, 5-7 p.m.
June 13: Figment Forge, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 18: Sip and Speak, 3-4:30 p.m.
June 24: Chess Club, 12-1:30 p.m.

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

June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Card Making Group, 5-7 p.m.
June 3, 10, 17, 24: Homeschool Happening, 2-4 p.m.
June 4, 11, 18, 25: Fiber Artists, 3-7 p.m.
June 6: Knitter’s Group, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
June 13: Dungeons & Dragons Group, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 13: Fiber Artists, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
June 20: Book Discussion Group, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 27: Board Game Meetup, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

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

June 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 29: Preschool Story Time (ages 3-5), 11-11:30 a.m., 6-6:30 p.m.
June 1, 15: Fredricksen Writes, 7-8:30 p.m.
June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Mahjong Monday, 12-2 p.m.
June 2: Curl Up with the Classics, 10-11 a.m.
June 2, 9: Food and Farm Discovery Zone, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: iPhone Basics Series, 3-4:30 p.m.
June 2, 16: Teen Plot Twisters, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
June 3, 17: Zen Meditation, 2-3 p.m.
June 4: Special Themed Storytime (ages 3-5), 10-10:30 a.m.
June 4: Elementary LEGO Lab, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
June 4: Gardening with Nature, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
June 4, 11, 18, 25: Meditation to Calm the Mind, 12-12:30 p.m.
June 4, 11, 18, 25: Fredricksen Knits, 1-4 p.m.
June 5: Chess Club, 6:30 p.m.
June 6: The Puzzlers, 1-4:30 p.m.
June 11: Elementary Test Lab, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
June 12: Indie and Foreign Film, 2-4 p.m.
June 12: Book Keepers Book Club—One of Us Is Lying, 6-8:30 p.m.
June 14: Pokémon Club for Tweens and Teens, 3-4:30 p.m.
June 15: World Explorers, 6-7 p.m.
June 20: Neurodivergent Adult Support Group, 3-4:30 p.m.
June 22: Mysteries and Mayhem, 7-8 p.m.
June 23, 30: Tween LEGO Club, 6-7:30 p.m.
June 25: Elementary Design Lab, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
June 26: Peaceful Poses Yoga Storytime for Preschoolers, 10-10:45 a.m.
June 26: Peaceful Poses Yoga for Adults, 10:45-11:30 a.m.
June 26: Solopreneur Roundtable, 12-2 p.m.
June 27, 28: Paint With Us, 1-3 p.m.
June 28: Games, Cards and Puzzles, 1-5 p.m.

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

June 7: Mosaic Coasters, 2-4 p.m.
June 13: Create Your Own Metal Earrings, 1-3 p.m.
June 20: Charming Watercolor Peacock (ages 12 and older), 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 28: Kinusaiga—a traditional Japanese no-sew art form, 1-3 p.m.

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

June 6: Otherworldly Book Club, 12-1 p.m.
June 11: Beyond the Quick Fix—An Interactive Wellness Workshop, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
June 13: Knit One, Crochet Too!, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 25: Mixed Media Journaling, 5:30-7 p.m.
June 27: Write On!, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

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

June 6, 13, 20, 27: Guided Garden Walk, 10-11 a.m.
June 13: National Red Rose Day, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
June 13: Forest Bathing, 9:15-11:15 a.m.
June 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30: Zoology Zone Interactive Cart, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

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

June 2: “Mysteries, She Wrote” Mystery Book Group, 6:30-8 p.m.
June 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30: Penn State Hershey Mothers & Babies, 10:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 2, 16, 30: Silent Book Group, 10-11:30 a.m.
June 3, 10, 17, 24: Community Crochet Night, 6-7 p.m.
June 4, 18: Hershey Quilters, 12:30 p.m.
June 5: Craft and a Movie, 10:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 6, 20: Chess Club, 1-3 p.m.
June 11: Fear of Commitment Book Group (Short Fiction Only) Cassel Vineyards of Hershey, 6-7 p.m.
June 12: Play Day for Families, 10:15-11 a.m.
June 15, 22, 29: Books and Babies, 10:15-10:45 a.m.
June 15, 22, 29: Book Buddies Storytime, 11-11:30 a.m.
June 16, 23, 30: 1, 2, Whee!, 10:15-10:45 a.m.
June 17, 24: LEGO Club, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 17, 24: Furry Tales, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
June 18, 25: Messy Mornings (ages 1-5), 10:15-11 a.m.
June 19: ART FART, 2-4 p.m.
June 20: Fused Glass Vase, 1-4 p.m.
June 26: The Board Gamers, 2-4 p.m.

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

June 7: Blooms & Berries—Late-Spring Foraging Walk, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 14: Petals to Patterns—Natural Dyeing with Flowers, 1-3:30 p.m.
June 26: A Holistic Approach to Lime Disease, 5-8:30 p.m.
June 27: Outdoor Cooking for Campers, 12-2 p.m.

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

June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Story Time, 10:15-11 a.m.
June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Toddler Time, 11:15-11:35 a.m.
June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Rhyme Time in the Park (ages 0-5), 9:30-9:50 a.m.
June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Tea and Stitches, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 2, 9, 16, 30: Math-a-saurus Club, 10:30-11:15 a.m.
June 4, 11, 25: Prehistoric Explorers Club, 1:30-2:30 p.m. and 6-7 p.m.
June 8: English Conversation Club, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
June 10: Mad About Mysteries Book Club, 7-8 p.m.
June 12: Apple Users Group, 1-2 p.m.
June 12, 26: Dungeons and Dragons, 6-8 p.m.
June 13, 27: Block Party, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
June 13, 27: Puzzle Party, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 15: Tales for TAILS, 6-7 p.m.
June 15: Monday Night Book Club, 7-8 p.m.
June 16: Prenatal Breastfeeding Class, 6:30-8 p.m.
June 17: Watch the Skies Book Club, 7-8 p.m.
June 20: Craft-A-Palooza, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 23: Tea & Stitches Extended Edition, 12-2 p.m.
June 23: Fact-Check Like a Librarian, 7-8:30 p.m.
June 25: Play Scrabble!, 1:15-3:15 p.m.
June 27: Trivia at Home—Star Trek, 6-8 p.m.

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

June 3, 10, 17, 24: Common Roads (ages 12-17), 6-8 p.m.
June 6, 13, 20, 27: Passageways, 2 p.m.
June 7, 14, 21, 28: Young Adult Group, 4 p.m.
June 13: QTPOC Advisory Group, 6-8 p.m.

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

June 13, 27: Chess Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 15: Ace That Job Application, 2-4 p.m.
June 18: Audiobook Club, 10:15-11 a.m.
June 30: Rock Painting, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

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

June 8: Ace That Job App!, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

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

June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: STEAM Club, 6-7 p.m.
June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Tiny Tots Storytime, 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Wee Readers Storytime, 1-2 p.m.
June 9, 23: Read to Pets—Tales with T.A.I.L.S., 6-7 p.m.

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

June 6: First Saturday, 2-5 p.m.
June 7: Glass Pet Portrait Nightlights, 1-2:30 p.m.
June 14: Tarot Card Collage Class, 12-4 p.m.

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

June 6: “A Hell of a Regiment—To Gettysburg and Beyond with the Twentieth Maine,” 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

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

June 3: Pre-K Story Time, 10:30 a.m.
June 16-18: Outdoor Explorers Camp (ages 6-8), 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
June 23-25: Nature Snoopers Camp (ages 9-12), 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
June 30: Grandparent and Me Camp—Frog Frolic and Toad Tunes, 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

June 1: French Conversation Group, 6-7 p.m.
June 1-30: Construction Vehicles Scavenger Hunt (ages 0-12)
June 1-30: Unearth a Story Summer Reading Challenge (ages 0-18)
June 3: Piece Seekers, 6-7:30 p.m.
June 3-July 8: iPhone Class for Adults, Wednesdays, 2-3:30 p.m.
June 4: Ruth’s Mystery Discussion Group, 10:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 5: Tween Book Tasting (ages 8-12), 2-3 p.m.
June 6, 20: Book Sales, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
June 8: Kids Yoga, 10:30-11 a.m. (ages 2-5) and 11-11:30 a.m. (ages 6-10)
June 9: Storytime STEAM (ages 3-5), 10:30-11:15 a.m.
June 9: Paint Party (ages 5-12), 3-4 p.m.
June 9: Tales for Tails (ages 6-12), 6:30-7:30 p.m.
June 10-Aug. 12: America 250 Learning Series (ages 6-12), 3-4 p.m.
June 11: Family Fort Fest (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
June 11-Aug. 20: Summer Teen Craft Club (ages 12-17), 3-4 p.m.
June 12: Summer Reading Kickoff!, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
June 13, 20, 27: Take and Makes (ages 0-12)
June 13, 27: Teen Craft Kits (ages 13-17)
June 15: Musical Mornings (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
June 16: STEAM Scene (ages 6-12), 4:30-5:30 p.m.
June 16-Aug. 11: Outdoor Storytimes (ages 2-5), Tuesdays, 10:30-11:15 a.m.
June 16-Aug. 11: Outdoor Storytimes (ages 0-2), Tuesdays, 11:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 17-July 22: Ready for Kindergarten (ages 4-5), 10:15-11:45 a.m.
June 19: Outdoor Sensory Playtime (ages 0-5), 10:30-11:30 a.m.
June 22: Movers and Groovers (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
June 23: Kids Cooking Class—Dirt Pudding & Potted Garden Cakes (ages 6-12), 3-4 p.m.
June 26: Block Party (ages 0-3), 10:30-11:30 a.m.
June 27: Crafty Crafters, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 29: PlayDoh Palooza (ages 2-5), 10:30-11:30 a.m.
June 30: Kid Builders (ages 3 and older), 3-4 p.m.

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

June 1: Genealogy Group, 10-11 a.m.
June 3, 10, 17, 24: Strength & Stretching 50+, 10-11 a.m.
June 8: Book Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 15, 22, 29: Summer Family Program at Palmyra Grace Church, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 17, 24: Little Explorers Downtown at Palmyra Church of the Brethren, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
June 18, 25: Little Explorers, 10:30-11 a.m. and 1:30-2 p.m.
June 18: Debut Author Book Club at Book Bar, Palmyra, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 22: BYO Craft Nights (adults 18 and older), 4:30-6:45 p.m.
June 23: Rocks and Fossils, 12-1 p.m.
June 30: People of Pennsylvania’s Past, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

June 15: CPPS Monthly Community Meeting 6:30-8 p.m.
June 16: Intro to Breathwork 6-7:30 p.m.
June 18: Sonic Neural Experience (Advanced Breathwork), 6-8 p.m.

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

June 3: Stained Glass Wind Chime, 6-8 p.m.
June 8-12: Theatre Camp (entering grades 5-9), 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
June 15: Art in Nature (entering grades 4-9)

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

June 5, 20: Storytime, 10:30-11 a.m.
June 6: Gravity, 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m.
June 10: Making Color, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 12: Curiosity Kids—Wagons, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 12: Virtual Program—Torpedo Testing at Pymatuning, 12:15-12:45 p.m.
June 13: Fun in the Sun, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
June 14: Revolutionary Things Spring Lecture Series, 2-3 p.m.
June 17: Revolutionary Toys & Games, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 18: Magnets & Magnetism, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 21: Gravity, 1 p.m.
June 25: Tracks and Scat, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 26: Curiosity Kids—Color, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 27: Remembrances—Coins, Plates and Pins, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1-3 p.m.

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

June 8-12: Papermaking Camp (ages 5-9), 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 8-12: Papermaking Camp (ages 10-14), 1-4 p.m.

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

June 5: Clay Smoker Houses Workshop, 6-8 p.m.
June 19: Luminaries Workshop, 6-8 p.m.
June 20: Beginner Basics for Resin with Lorraine, 1-3 p.m.
June 20: Daddy & Me Clay Day on the Wheel, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 23: Mosaic Lamps Workshop with Amanda, 6-8 p.m.
June 26: Dirty Date Night, Wall Sconces, 7-9 p.m.

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

June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Weekly Wellness Walks, 1-2:30 p.m.
June 4: Bird Walk—Nesting Birds, 7:30-9:30 a.m.
June 6: Creature Feature—Red-winged Blackbirds (ages 4-6), 10-11 a.m.
June 11: Seasonal Garden Walks, 9:30-11 a.m.
June 13: Summer Wreath Workshop, 8:30 a.m.-3:15 p.m.
June 13: Volunteer Work Day, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
June 14: Kids Discover—Bald Eagles (ages 5-10), 1:30-3 p.m.
June 18: Pound the Colors of Wildwood into Cloth, 6-8 p.m.
June 20: Our Ancient Sycamore Tree, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 21: Flower Walk—Peak of Blooming, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 27: Wild Edibles, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

June 2: Dungeons & Dragons—The Holy Jungle, 5-7 p.m.
June 6: Preserving Summer Abundance with Plant Family, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 6: Crafternoon, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
June 17: Astronomy in Your Own Backyard, 6-7 p.m.
June 27: Print Making, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Live Music

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

June 4: The Temptations & The Four Tops
June 6: Scotty McCreery
June 7: The Righteous Brothers
June 13: The Happy Together Tour
June 18: Jo Dee Messina with The Bennett Hall Band
June 19: Lauren Daigle
June 24: Straight No Chaser

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

June 4, 11, 18, 25: Open Mic
June 6: Kyle Smith, Harbor Boys and Milton J
June 19: Cumberland Honey, Rivers
June 20: Everything Yes, Time in the Wilderness
June 27: The After Hours

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

June 5: Jazz in the City
June 13: Zoso—The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience
June 16: Appell Center Jazz Ensemble

Blues Society of Central PA
bscpblues.com

June 4, 11, 18, 25: Blues Society Jams at Champions Sports Bar, Highspire

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

June 24: Open Mic Night

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

June 1: Cancerslug
June 4: The Acacia Strain, The Callous Daoboys, fromjoy, Mask
June 5: Nights of Malice, My Own Will, Behead The Betrayer, BRICKTOTHEFACE, The Edge Of Desolation
June 9: Andres, Resilia
June 13: Crystal Lake, Entheos
June 14: Cold, Sierra Swan, Observe The 93rd
June 17: Haunt, Show-N-Tell
June 17: Bop To The Top
June 19: Savannah Dexter, Corey Redd
June 21: Sister Wife Sex Strike, Local News Legend
June 23: Every Avenue

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

June 4, 18: Andrea Britton
June 5, 13: Roy Lefever
June 6, 25: Dr. Nyce
June 10, 24: Tristin Lynee
June 11: Mike Dempsey
June 12, 19: Ted Ansel
June 20, 26: Chris Emkey
June 27: Anthony Haubert

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

June 8-9: ABBAFAB

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

June 6: Smooth Like Clyde
June 18: Farmhouse Porch Music Series—The Bad Toupees

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

June 5: Stonehouse Breakdown
June 19: Addily Park Band

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

June 11: Colebrook Road
June 22: West Shore Symphony Concert
June 26: Courtyard Concert

Greater Harrisburg Concert Band
717-576-758; greaterharrisburgconcertband.com

June 26: Concert at Bethany Village, Mechanicsburg
June 27: Concert at Hampden Park & Pool, Mechanicsburg

Gretna Music
gretnamusic.org

June 14: First Listen—Artemis Drake
June 14: Artists-in-Residence play Beethoven, Haydn, Derrick Skye
June 15: Telegraph Quartet
June 21: Father’s Day Jazz Brunch with Valley X-Tet June 28: The Raleigh Ringers

Gretna Theatre
Mt. Gretna Playhouse
200 Pennsylvania Ave., Mount Gretna
717-964-3627; gretnatheatre.org

June 4-7: “Always…Patsy Cline”
June 18-21: A Night with Janis Joplin
June 27: Good Vibrations—A Celebration of the Beach Boys

Hershey Theatre
15 E. Caracas Ave., Hershey
717-534-3405; hersheyentertainment.com/hershey-theatre

June 7: Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening
June 13: Josh Gates
June 14: Indigo Girls June 23: Chicago

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

June 5: Darius Rucker

Keystone Concert Band
145 E. Main St., First Floor, Mechanicsburg
717-329-7541; keystoneconcertband.com

June 7: Concert at Peach Church, Camp Hill
June 20: Concert at Essex House, Lemoyne

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

June 10: Planet K-Pop
June 27: The Raleigh Ringers

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

June 6: Green River—The Ultimate Creedance Clearwater Revival Tribute Show
June 27: Taylor’s Story—A Tribute to Taylor Swift

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

June 18: Coffee House Open Mic

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

June 6: Spring Coffee House
June 21: Michael Daves & Jacob Jolliff

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

June 14: The Lords of 52nd Street
June 28: Simply The Best—A Tribute to the Music of Tina Turner

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

June 5: The Jellybricks, Very Fine Gentlemen
June 6: Almost Queen—A Tribute to Queen
June 11: moe. & Umphrey’s McGee
June 12: Bearly Dead
June 13: Solar Federation
June 27: Paul Oakenfield, The Crystal Method

The Stage Door

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

June 26: Jatty Robinson

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

June 5: Craig Ferguson
June 6, 7: Dance it Forward presents “The Other Side of Midnight”
June 9: “The Music Man”
June 11: The Outlet—Music & Poetry Open Mic

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

June 2-22: “All Shook Up”
June 26-Aug. 8: “Mary Poppins—The Broadway Musical”

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

June 26: TMI Improv

Gretna Theatre
Mt. Gretna Playhouse
200 Pennsylvania Ave., Mount Gretna
717-964-3627; gretnatheatre.org

June 20, 27: “How I Became A Pirate”

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

June 5, 6: Kevin Farley
June 12, 13: Raj Belani

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

June 5: Free Improv Mixer, Lil’ Stinkers, Neighborhood Gossip, Am I the Assshow?, Who’s There?, On the Record—An Improv Talk Show
June 6: Free Improv Mixer, Solo Sleepover, The Next Leaver, Big Business LLC, Homie-Sexual
June 12: Character Class Graduation Show, LoS CoMpLiCaDoS, We’re Here Tho, Offbeats, Unger & Williford, Neighborhood Stinkers
June 13: Free Improv Mixer, 8-Bit Players, Mystique, Rockstar Improv
June 14: Character Class Graduation Show
June 19: Free Improv Mixer, Girl’s Trip, Four of Hearts, Lizzy McChoir, Awkward Timing
June 20: Free Improv Mixer, Ham Juice, US—Unshushed Sisters, Barbra
June 26: Free Improv Mixer, Team Z, Spice Crones, We’re Here Tho, Bad Date, Bad Therapy
June 27: Free Improv Mixer, All Over the Place, Elderprov, Opening Night, Get to the Point!, Grandy

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

June 4-7: “Seussical”

Hershey Theatre
15 E. Caracas Ave., Hershey
717-534-3405; hersheyentertainment.com/hershey-theatre

June 16: Daniel Tosh
June 30-July 5: “A Beautiful Noise—The Neil Diamond Musical”

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

June 13-29: “Footloose”

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

June 4-14: “Sweeney Todd—The Demon Barber of Fleet Street”

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

June 4-13: “The Boys in the Band”
June 26-27: “SHREK The Musical”
June 27: EFF Live!

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

June 12-21: “I Love You, You’re Perfect…Now Change”

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

June 20: Lavell Crawford & Friends
If you like what we do, please support our work. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

Mr. Bicycle: Honoring Ross Willard, founder of Recycle Bicycle

May 28, 2026 | by Lawrance Binda

Last month, Harrisburg lost one of its most dedicated and charismatic public advocates, Ross Willard.

Ross, 75, was the founder and force behind Recycle Bicycle, which gave away thousands of bikes over the course of the past 25 years—mostly to people who, otherwise, couldn’t afford them. He also taught bicycle repair and safety, and pressed, often against considerable odds and opposition, for bike-friendly streets and infrastructure.

Around Harrisburg, it was hard to miss Ross. Sure, he spent hours nearly every day in his workshop on Allison Hill, but he also was a constant presence on city streets and at events. At annual riverfront festivals, he’d gladly babysit your bike as you enjoyed your day, and maybe even tune it up in the process, leaving it in better shape than when you dropped it off.

We often encountered Ross at public meetings for road and bridge projects, where he made no bones, before government officials, about the need for bike lanes and accessibility. Sometimes, folks listened; too often, they did not. But that never deterred Ross from forging ahead, in his determined, pointed style, ready to wage the next battle.

We were delighted to call Ross a friend of TheBurg.

I’ll never forget the day, nearly a decade ago, when Ross appeared unexpectedly at our door, shortly after we moved into our current offices on N. 3rd Street. He welcomed us into our new space in the most Ross-appropriate way possible, with a gift of a reclaimed and fully repaired bicycle, which we deemed “TheBurg Bike” and still have.

Ross leaves us with a remarkable legacy, one that I’m certain now will be taken up by other members of Recycle Bicycle. Nonetheless, it surely will take the Harrisburg community, and the area’s biking community, time to rebound from the loss of such a committed, caring man, who was unmatched in his dedication and generosity.

To honor Ross, we are sharing a gallery of photos that show him in his natural environment: fixing bikes, riding bikes, teaching about bikes, etc. We thank Recycle Bicycle for providing most of these images and ask, if you can, to please donate to the organization at www.rbhburg.org.

A Celebration of Life for Ross will be held June 19 at Christ Community Church, 1201 Slate Hill Rd., Camp Hill. It will begin at 6 p.m. with visitation followed by a 7 p.m. service. The Harrisburg Bicycle Club will host a bike ride to the service.

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

Musical Notes: June Licks

May 28, 2026 | by Skye Cadzow

Past concerts at Riverfront Park. Photos courtesy of HU Presents.

Roll the windows down and turn the volume up, as Harrisburg’s stages are about to get hot with a month full of excellent music on the horizon.

In the meantime, I’m curious to hear what people’s favorite albums are so far this year. My playlists have been a frequent rotation of ups and downs—mood-wise—with Noah Kahan’s latest, “The Great Divide,” and Kacey Musgraves’ “Middle of Nowhere,” as well as MUNA’s “Dancing on the Wall” and Charli XCX’s soundtrack for “Wuthering Heights.” Let me know what you’ve been listening to!

PROUDLY PENNSYLVANIAN

6/13, Low Cut Connie, Snacktime and more, Fort Hunter

This year’s Proudly PA Festival at Fort Hunter boasts an embarrassment of riches, with a stacked lineup featuring a variety of genres from local folk pop mainstays, The Wild Hymns, to funky faves, Snacktime, and the toughest cookies you’ll find rocking the keys, Low Cut Connie. We all know the Keystone State exudes with talent, but this all-day celebration really sets a high bar for summertime fun. Pro tip: Wear comfy shoes—you’re going to want to dance at this one. See you there!

MILLENNIAL STOMPCORE

6/20, Mumford & Sons, Hersheypark Stadium

Listen, I was in college in the early 2010s and donned mustache scarves with the best of ‘em. I’m not too proud to admit that I, too, was swept up in the yearning, optimistic folk pop that persuaded all of us to learn ukulele and exclusively wear earth-toned color palettes. This accompanied a love for Mumford & Sons, starting with their debut record through their EP “Johannesburg” (2016). Since then, I had pretty much counted them out until this year’s “Prizefighter” album dropped in February. My gosh, what a treat! This album really gets back to what made Marcus Mumford’s earliest music so infectious, with honest songwriting and stunning collaborations with other artists I admire like Hozier, Gigi Perez and Finneas. Get a preview of what to expect with “Rubber Band Man” or “Icarus.”

SURF’S UP!

6/27, The After Hours, Fleur Bleu-e and Eastwood Drive, The Abbey Bar

Bring out your best beach get-ups for indie rockers The After Hours’ big summer bash, featuring French ethereal wave outfit Fleur Bleu-e and alt-rock band Eastwood Drive. The dance floor will become an atmospheric luau for what’s sure to be an awesome showcase. I’ve written about the After Hours in this column before, but I recommend listening to tracks like “Surrender,” “STAR” and “STOLT 89” from Fleur Bleu-e for a taste of their music. For fans of fuzzy psych rock, the York-based band Eastwood Drive is also worth catching; check out songs “Wetlands” and “Piesinoe.”

If you’re a musician and/or promoter, or a fan of a local artist, and you’d like to share some upcoming shows with TheBurg, drop me a line at [email protected].

HONORABLE MENTIONS

6/5, The Jellybricks, XL Live

6/11, Tyler Childers, Hersheypark Stadium

6/11, Umphrey’s McGee, XL Live

6/12, Tiny Park Concert Series presents Meaghan Farrell, Coronet Park

6/19, Cumberland Honey w/Rivers, The Abbey Bar

6/21, Sister Wife Sex Strike, Capital City Music Hall

6/24, Chris Stapleton, Hersheypark Stadium

6/26, Santana & The Doobie Brothers, Hersheypark Stadium

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

Adventure Together: Explore the west shore of the Susquehanna in June, while snacking, splashing and crafting the summer days away

May 28, 2026 | by Natalie diSanto

A day outdoors and a craft

June is the month when children are freed from the classes and hallways of school.

They’re ready to roam about outside, maybe stick tiny toes in warm streams to get swept away toward long, summer days. Parents aren’t immune to the call of freedom, the cycle of school breaks bringing up memories of our own past adventures. Whether in elementary, high school or college, one of the most popular books to celebrate the end of school with is Dr. Seuss’s “Oh, The Places You’ll Go!”

Defying Gravity

On theme with a sense of burgeoning adventure, our craft for this month is a hot air balloon: a fantastic vessel that can take one anywhere in this world or another (according to Oz). To make your own, all you need is a balloon, newspaper, glue, string and some paint.

Start by inflating a balloon, then, in a bucket, mix a 1:1 ratio of glue and warm water to make papier mâché. Rip your recycled paper (we used an old Burg magazine) into about 1-inch-thick strips. Dip a strip in the papier mâché, then apply it to the balloon. Continue this process until the balloon is fully covered in papier mâché, leaving a small hole at the bottom of the balloon where the tie is. Let your creation dry for about 24 hours.

Once dry, use a needle to pop the balloon at the bottom, where the tie is. The balloon will deflate, leaving a fragile but perfectly shaped papier mâché hot air balloon. Paint your balloon—we chose rainbow for Pride Month. Next, create your basket. We used half a walnut shell for an earthy vibe, but you can repurpose a can, Jello container, cornbread box, etc. Create some clay figurines for your basket to add an extra touch. Finally, take a piece of string and tie it around the bottom of your basket then hot glue the strings to the inside of the hot air balloon. Viola! You have a tiny hot air balloon ready to (figuratively) fly away.

Market Munch

More than anyone, parents know that adventures need snacks and there’s no better place to get them than a farmers market. The Market on Market is open for the season on Tuesdays from 3 to 7 p.m. at 2000 Chestnut St. (Trinity Lutheran Church parking lot) in Camp Hill. Featuring local bakeries, farm fresh fruits and veggies, food trucks and more, this is a perfect way to spend a warm early summer night. If weekends are more your style, the Box Lunch Review is happening June 12 and 26 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. These midday extravaganzas take place at Willow Park and feature local musicians. There are lunch options for purchase, or you can pack your own picnic with spoils from the farmers market.

Events like these don’t happen on their own, and Camp Hill borough is always seeking volunteers to help make them happen. Volunteers can help with set up, tear down, ticketing, information and other services. It’s a fantastic way to get your family involved in local events this summer. To learn more, fill out the community volunteer interest form on the Camp Hill borough website.

Run Wild

Just when I think I’ve uncovered all there is to discover around Harrisburg, another gem presents itself.

For a recent playdate, my family ventured to Adams-Ricci Park. This goliath of an open space boasts 82 acres for the community to play on. There are sports fields, batting cages, pavilions, a stage area for events, and an outdoor butterfly garden. Multiple playgrounds pepper the landscape, with the Panther Play Station designed specifically for children under 4 years old. The fun doesn’t end topside though, as there’s a pathway down to the Conodoguinet Creek where kids can splash and play in the water, search for crayfish, or observe growing tadpoles. To fish or boat the creek, you can haul your equipment down the incline at Adams-Ricci or there’s drive-up access at the next park down the road, Oyster Mill.

With so many natural places and incredible events happening along the banks of the Susquehanna, it seems the hardest part of the next few months may be finding free time. In my opinion, some of the best parts of summer are the unplanned moments, when real adventures happen.

Wherever you and your family find yourselves this summer, enjoy it. In the words of Dr. Seuss, “YOU are the one who’ll decide where to go!”

Market on Market is located at 2000 Chestnut St., Camp Hill. For more information, visit their Facebook page.

Box Lunch Review takes place at Willow Park, N. 24th/25th and Market St., Camp Hill. For more information, visit Camp Hill’s website, below.

To volunteer with Camp Hill borough, visit their website www.camphillborough.com.

Adams-Ricci Park is located at 100 E. Penn Dr., Enola.

Oyster Mill Park is located at 1150 Oyster Mill Rd., Camp Hill.

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

We Asked, You Answered: 4,000 people responded to a survey on the future of downtown Harrisburg. Now, it’s time to move ahead.

May 28, 2026 | by Ryan Unger

Photo by Michael Yatsko

About 100 days ago, a coalition of leaders from city, county and state government joined with the business community to begin building a long-term revitalization strategy for downtown Harrisburg. Every serious economic development planning effort like this starts the same way: you stop talking and start listening.

The vehicle was a community perception survey, a nationally recognized method for taking the temperature of how residents, workers, visitors and investors experience a place. Working with the Pennsylvania Downtown Center, we launched it online in mid-February. By April, 4,011 people had responded.

Four thousand people. At a time when civic cynicism is lurking in any comment section, that response is remarkable. And it tells you something important before you even look at a single data point: apathy is not our problem. One in five respondents said they want to be personally involved in the work ahead. That’s not just a survey result; it’s a community call to action.

The people behind the numbers matter too. Roughly half the respondents are city residents, with about a quarter of those living downtown. Forty-five percent are downtown workers, including nearly 1,000 state employees. Almost 3,000 reported that walking is their primary mode of getting around downtown. These aren’t drive-through opinions. These are people with a real vested interest in helping to improve downtown Harrisburg.

The survey surfaced real strengths, and, as I have mentioned in this space, we sometimes have a tendency of underselling those strengths. Respondents pointed to the architecture, the historic character and the riverfront as genuine assets. These are actual competitive advantages that other communities spend decades and millions trying to manufacture. Cultural institutions, the arts scene and restaurants continue to draw people and create activity. Walkability within our core remains a point of pride.

And beneath all of it, there was optimism. Frustrated optimism in some cases, but optimism nonetheless. People believe a turnaround is achievable. They said so, unprompted, several times throughout the survey.

Photo by Michael Yatsko

But the survey also confirmed what many of us already suspected. Downtown Harrisburg isn’t struggling because people don’t care—it’s struggling because some basic things aren’t working. Respondents were clear. The absence of everyday essentials like a grocery store or pharmacy makes downtown feel like a destination rather than a place to live. Parking continues to shape how people experience downtown, with respondents citing concerns around ease of use, communication and accessibility. Safety and cleanliness perceptions, particularly at night, keep people away who would otherwise be there.

The Pennsylvania Downtown Center, our partner in this process, synthesized the survey findings into five emerging revitalization themes.

First, reestablish downtown as a place for daily life, not just a dinner destination, but somewhere you can run errands, meet a need, and build a routine. Second, fix parking. This means working to make it more affordable, more intuitive, better communicated and more customer friendly. Third, improve both the reality and the perception of safety and cleanliness, with better lighting, visible presence and cleaner streets. Fourth, support a healthier and more diverse business ecosystem by reducing regulatory friction and actively recruiting and retaining the mix of businesses that make a downtown worth visiting. And fifth, create sustained energy through more housing, more events and more coordinated leadership. A better downtown won’t happen by accident. It requires a plan, a strategy and a coordinated urgency and collaboration among all of us.

The survey was step one. Now we take time to test these themes with other stakeholders. Focus groups are meeting to get a deeper understanding of the perspectives of all downtown users. At the end of June, we’re hosting public workshops throughout the city. These will be interactive sessions with breakout conversations, interactive exercises and real opportunities for residents to help shape what downtown Harrisburg looks like in the future. Stay tuned for the location and times for these workshops. They will be held during and after work to accommodate different schedules.

Four thousand people showed up and weighed in before we asked them to do anything. Imagine what’s possible when we turn that interest into momentum. In the short term, we have secured funding and are working in collaboration with city partners to bring something new and visible, fueled by community participation, to downtown streets in the months ahead. This program and subsequent activations will be designed to remind people why this place is worth showing up for. More details are coming soon. The work is just getting started. Follow it at www.DowntownHbg.com.

A past SoMa Block Party. Photo by Michael Yatsko Photography.

Ryan Unger is president and CEO of the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC.

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Roaming & Poeming: Through verse, Georgia Earp explores places, passions

May 28, 2026 | by Stephanie Kalina-Metzger

Georgia Masters Earp

“My poetry is a slow walk along the river, where the water may not be as shallow as it seems.”

Georgia Masters Earp, who writes under the pen name Lucy Sage, could have penned those lines from any number of places she has called home, but the Susquehanna River feels especially fitting. The sentiment also serves as a guide to her work. What may appear simple at first glance reveals greater emotional depth upon a closer read.

Earp, of Harrisburg, recently published her first book of poetry titled, “I Am from the 20th Century.” Like many who write, Earp began composing poetry at a young age, finding the act both expressive and cathartic—a theme that surfaces in the poem that inspired her book’s title. In it, she writes:

“I’m from mental illness and criticism
From a wounded mother and hardworking father”

In her collection of poetry, Earp isn’t shy about exposing her soft underbelly, not unlike that of the dogs she loves so deeply.

Global Path

Born in Philadelphia, Earp’s early years were marked by movement.

Her family relocated to Shiremanstown before heading overseas to the Philippines and Nigeria, where her father worked for the United Nations. Her education followed a similar global path, including two years at a boarding school in England, before returning stateside and attending Hershey High School.

In the mid-1960s, Earp dropped out of high school, drawn instead to the cultural energy of San Francisco. That decision set off a series of moves—to Vermont and Florida—after which she eventually earned a bachelor’s degree in arts education.

Later, she returned to Pennsylvania and completed a master’s degree in public administration at Penn State.

“I soon learned that public administration was not my strong suit, but public policy was,” Earp said. “So, that’s what I did for 30 years.”

She also started to paint again in the mid-1990s.

“I painted many watercolor portraits and have done a few oils,” she said, noting that her art is slated to be shown at Market Square Presbyterian Church in October.

Imagination & Memory

When asked where her artistic voice truly flourished, Earp points to St. Petersburg, Fla.—known as the “Sunshine City” for its average of 361 days of sunny weather per year.

She lived there from 2015 through 2023, immersing herself in visual and literary arts, attending poetry readings every Sunday in a courtyard, and creating watercolor portraits and abstract works in her home studio. Equally influential was the sense of community in the area.

“In St. Pete, I made lots of friends, workshopping my poems,” Earp said, referring to sessions organized by the “Keep St. Pete Lit” initiative.

Through the literary community there, Earp met the “Poetry Midwives,” a collective that focuses on helping poets refine and submit their work. Not long after, Earp achieved a milestone that many aspiring writers seek—securing a publisher. Kelsay Books in Utah selected her manuscript as part of a recent expansion of new authors.

Earp ultimately returned to Harrisburg, where she had built a long career as a research analyst for the state government. Still, the pull of imagination and memory often took her back to distant lands. In her poem, “Burlington Parade,” she writes:

“I could leave the ridiculous race,
Overseeing policy briefs
for state senators,
And go for a ride to a land
that does not exist in time
beyond my overcrowded mind.
I could dance the Tinikling
between bamboo sticks clapping in and out
and shout out hymns of joy.”

Heart & Soul

Now retired, Earp devotes more time to her writing and setting up readings at locations like the Market Square Presbyterian Church, Historic Harrisburg Association and the Art Association of Harrisburg.

Earp also maintains a Facebook page listed under Lucy Sage where upcoming readings are announced. She also maintains a Facebook group—Midtown Harrisburg Community Poetry—hoping to re-create what uplifted her poetry in St. Petersburg.

In the works is a memoir and another book of poetry she is working on with her nephew and that includes poems that her father wrote—works that will span three generations.

No matter where Earp has been, something always called her back to the Pennsylvania area. She explains that the job she did for so many years isn’t so far removed from what she is doing now.

“I have always been an analyst,” she said. “As a policy and research analyst, my job was cerebral. Writing is more from my heart and soul, but there is an analytical aspect to it as well. I love to slow down, observe what is around me, and describe what I am seeing and feeling, what is familiar and what is not.”

For more information on “I Am from the 20th Century,” visit www.kelsaybooks.com. Copies also can be found at brick-and-mortar and online booksellers. For more information on the author, visit the Facebook page, “Lucy Sage.” For more information on the Midtown Harrisburg Community Poetry group, visit their Facebook page.

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Moviate Underground Film Festival to return to Harrisburg this weekend

May 27, 2026 | by Rosena Campana

Moviate poster by Andrew Hearst.

Get your popcorn ready.

The 27th Annual Moviate Film Festival will take place on May 28 to 31 at Midtown Cinema and feature more than 60 films from 15 countries, with 13% of the movies being screened on real film.

Many of the selected films are new and classic documentaries. Caleb Smith, co-founder of Moviate highlighted several of the weekend’s showings as can’t miss events.

“You’re going to see someone’s personal creativity along with their vision, whether it’s a five-minute animation or a 90-minute documentary,” Smith said.

On Thursday, May 28, musicians Glenn Jones and Liam Grant will perform live original scores to two of their films, “The River” and “The Plow that Broke the Plains,” at 7 p.m. As they’ve been touring around the east coast, they will not be performing the original score to these films anywhere else but in here in Harrisburg, Smith noted.

The weekend continues Friday, May 29 with a 40th anniversary screening of the 1986 documentary “Heavy Metal Parking Lot,” featuring director Jeff Krulik in attendance. The screening is co-presented by local business Tattoo Punks.

“Jeff will present previously unseen footage, including interviews with the band Judas Priest related to the film,” Smith said.

On Saturday, May 30, Colombian filmmaker Chris Gude’s “Morichales” will screen in partnership with Harrisburg-based Elementary Coffee Co., whose coffee is largely sourced from Colombia.

“The film is a stunning portrait of the workers in Venezuela who are trying to mine for gold. It’s a really beautiful film,” Smith said.

The festival concludes Sunday, May 31, with a screening of “Barbara Forever,” accompanied by New York City filmmakers Lynne Sachs and Mark Street in partnership with the LGBT Center of Central PA.

“Lynne and Mark worked with Barbara for many years and were close friends with her,” Smith said. “She was very enigmatic and creative and had documented a lot of her life as she was making films. This film just came out this year, so I’m excited that Lynne and Mark will introduce it.”

In addition to spotlighting unique indie films, Smith also sees the festival as an avenue for connection.

“With the emergence of artificial intelligence and the silo effect of people being on their phones, there’s a feeling of isolation. When you go to Midtown Cinema, you can meet other people, chat and experience the film together,” he said.

Student rush tickets cost $5, matinee short film blocks cost $10, daytime passes cost $15, and evening films cost $12. For more information, visit Moviate’s website.

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

From Vision to Reality: Inside Harrisburg’s Whole-Home Renovation Process With Local Design-Build Experts

May 27, 2026 | by Admin

For many homeowners throughout the greater Harrisburg region, a whole-home renovation is more than a construction project — it is an investment in family, community and long-term quality of life. Finding a top-rated contractor with a strong local reputation is often the first and most important step.

It’s helpful to know how the design-build renovation process works and what homeowners should ask before hiring a contractor. Here’s why firms such as Creative Building Concepts have become trusted names for people seeking craftsmanship, communication and transparency throughout central Pennsylvania.

Why Are Harrisburg Families Reimagining Their Homes?

Across Dauphin, Cumberland, Lancaster and York counties, more homeowners are choosing to renovate instead of relocate. Rising home values, evolving family needs and the desire to preserve the character of established neighborhoods are all driving interest in whole-house renovations throughout central Pennsylvania.

In communities filled with historic charm and deeply rooted families, homeowners are increasingly looking for ways to modernize older properties while maintaining the architectural character that makes neighborhoods unique. Open concept kitchens, expanded family gathering spaces, finished basements and updated primary suites are among the most requested improvements.

According to Ross Garner, co-owner of Creative Building Concepts, “Feeling like your home no longer fits your lifestyle often signals a need for change. Maybe your kitchen seems outdated, or your basement feels like wasted space. The thought of transforming your home can be exciting, but it also comes with concerns about disruption, unpredictable timelines and unexpected costs.”

Those concerns are familiar to many homeowners in the Harrisburg region. Large-scale renovations often involve coordinating architects, designers, subcontractors, permits and timelines. Without the right partner, projects can quickly become stressful, expensive and difficult to manage.

That is one reason many local homeowners are turning to design-build firms that streamline the process from concept through construction.

Image: Creative Building Concepts’ whole house transformation project.

What Is the Design-Build Process for a Whole-Home Renovation?

The design-build model combines design, planning and construction under one team, creating a single point of accountability for homeowners. Instead of separately hiring an architect, interior designer and contractor, people work with one integrated company that manages every stage of the project from start to finish.

The approach has gained significant momentum nationally because it reduces communication gaps, improves collaboration and aligns budgets from the beginning. The Design-Build Institute of America reports that “design-build is now the fastest-growing and most commonly used project delivery method in the United States.” That’s because homeowners and property owners value efficiency, streamlined communication and shared accountability.

For Harrisburg-area homeowners, that can mean fewer surprises and a more organized experience during a complex renovation.

Creative Building Concepts uses a collaborative design-build approach that guides clients through discovery meetings, conceptual planning, material selections, budgeting and construction management. Ben Havens, co-owner and head of field operations at Creative Building Concepts, says, “Each space in your home is unique. Whether you’re dreaming of cooking in a modern kitchen or relaxing in a spa-like bathroom, understanding what to expect helps you plan properly.”

Rather than juggling multiple vendors and schedules independently, homeowners have one central team overseeing timelines, craftsmanship and communication.

This model is especially valuable for whole-home renovations where kitchens, bathrooms, additions and structural changes often overlap. Coordinating those moving parts through a unified team can help reduce delays and keep decisions aligned with the homeowner’s original vision.

What Questions Should Homeowners Ask a Potential Renovation Contractor?

Choosing a contractor for a whole-home renovation is one of the biggest decisions homeowners can make. Industry organizations such as the National Association of the Remodeling Industry encourage people to carefully evaluate contractors before signing an agreement.

Before reviewing specific qualifications, homeowners should understand how a contractor approaches communication, planning and long-term project management. Those details often shape the renovation experience as much as the finished work itself.

Here are several important questions Harrisburg-area homeowners should ask before beginning a major renovation.

Review Local Reputation and Testimonials

Homeowners should start by looking for contractors with consistent reviews from local clients. Testimonials that mention communication, professionalism, cleanliness and follow-through often provide insight into how a company operates during a lengthy renovation.

It’s also important to look beyond star ratings alone. Reading detailed reviews and asking for local references can help people better understand how contractors handle challenges, timelines and customer concerns.

Evaluate Completed Renovation Projects

Before hiring a renovation team, homeowners should review projects that closely match their goals and expectations.

A contractor’s portfolio can reveal far more than polished photography. It’s helpful to look for projects similar in size, style and scope to renovation plans.

Creative Building Concepts showcases a variety of projects through its online gallery, including custom kitchens, whole-home transformations and modernized living spaces throughout the region.

Reviewing completed work allows homeowners to evaluate craftsmanship and design consistency. It also helps them understand the contractor’s ability to blend modern functionality with the character of older homes commonly found throughout the Harrisburg area.

Image: Creative Building Concepts’ basement transformation project.

Verify Local Experience and Licensing

Building requirements can vary significantly between municipalities across Dauphin, Cumberland, Lancaster and surrounding counties. Experienced local contractors understand regional permitting processes, inspections and code requirements.

Homeowners should verify that contractors are properly licensed and insured in Pennsylvania and ask how the company manages permits and inspections during construction. Resources through the Pennsylvania Builders Association can help homeowners understand contractor standards and industry expectations within the state.

Understand Communication and Project Management

Strong communication often determines whether a renovation feels organized or overwhelming. Homeowners should ask how often updates will be provided, who the primary point of contact is and how project decisions are documented.

Strong project management helps reduce confusion when schedules shift or material selections change. Design-build firms often streamline communication because the design and construction teams work together throughout the process.

For families living in their homes during construction, that level of organization can significantly reduce stress.

What Does a Whole-Home Transformation in Harrisburg Look Like?

Image: Creative Building Concepts’ transformation project.

One example of the design-build process in action can be seen through Creative Building Concepts’ featured portfolio renovations, including projects such as The Westover and The Lampeter.

In one featured transformation, homeowners wanted to modernize an outdated layout while preserving the warmth and character of the original home. The existing space felt closed off, storage was limited, and the kitchen no longer functioned well for entertaining or daily family life.

Through the design-build process, the renovation team developed an updated floor plan that improved traffic flow, increased natural light and created more functional gathering spaces throughout the home. Material selections were coordinated early in the process to align with both the homeowners’ aesthetic goals and project budget.

The finished renovation blended craftsmanship with functionality, incorporating custom cabinetry, updated finishes and cohesive living spaces designed for long-term comfort.

The project also demonstrated the value of having one integrated team manage both design and construction. Rather than navigating multiple vendors independently, homeowners were able to move through planning, approvals and construction with a centralized process and clear communication.

Image: Creative Building Concepts’ home addition project.

How Do Homeowners Get a Quote From a Top-Rated Renovation Contractor?

For homeowners considering a whole-home renovation in the Harrisburg region, the process typically begins with an initial consultation. During that meeting, contractors often discuss project goals, lifestyle needs, timelines and preliminary budget expectations.

Homeowners should prepare inspiration photos, lists of priorities and questions about communication, scheduling and construction phases before the first meeting.

A design-build contractor will generally evaluate the existing home, discuss conceptual ideas and outline the next steps for planning and budgeting. The goal of the early consultation is much more than just providing a price. It also establishes whether the homeowner and contractor are the right fit for a long-term renovation partnership.

Frequently Asked Questions

Homeowners with more questions about whole-home remodeling in central Pennsylvania can find their answers here.

Who are the best contractors for a full-house remodel in Harrisburg?

Homeowners often look for contractors with strong local reviews, transparent communication, proven portfolios and experience managing large-scale renovations.

How can people verify a contractor is licensed and insured in Pennsylvania?

Homeowners can request proof of insurance directly from the contractor and verify registration information through state resources and professional organizations, such as the Pennsylvania Builders Association.

What is a realistic timeline for a whole-home renovation?

Timelines vary depending on the size and complexity of the renovation, permit approvals, material availability and structural changes. Whole-home renovations can take several months, particularly when kitchens, additions and major layout changes are involved. Working with an organized design-build team can help streamline scheduling and communication throughout the project.

Building a Home for the Future

Image: Creative Building Concepts’ maximize living space project.

A whole-home renovation gives Harrisburg-area homeowners the opportunity to create spaces that better reflect how they live today while preserving the character and connections they value in their communities. The right design-build partner enables them to approach the renovation process with greater confidence, clearer communication and a long-term vision for the future of their home.

About the Author

Eloise Badenhorst is a digital analyst at an award-winning agency with a journalism degree, two postgraduate degrees in translation and professional writing and visual studies, and a professional certification in digital marketing. With 18 years of writing experience and more than five years covering community news, local business, and regional culture, she brings a deep understanding of what makes vibrant local communities thrive.

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Broad Street Market hosts wedding; hopes events will boost revenue, community engagement

May 27, 2026 | by Maddie Gittens

Hannah Witwer and Brian Omino celebrated their wedding reception at the Broad Street Market. Photo by Sarah Beth Creative LLC.

Harrisburg residents Hannah Witwer and Brian Omino were already big fans of the Broad Street Market, but after this month, the market holds even more meaning.

The couple celebrated their wedding at the market in May, bringing their relationship, which began at the market, full circle.

“It was everything we wanted it to be,” Witwer said. “It felt like we were walking into a place we call home. It made me love the market even more.”

Witwer said the couple was first introduced through friends and soon after ran into each other at the market, a favorite lunch spot for both of them. That interaction sparked the beginning of what would eventually become a relationship, Witwer said.

With their history in mind, it only made sense to celebrate their marriage at the place it all began.

The Broad Street Market has recently ramped up hosting events, as a way to bring a new revenue source to the market, which has struggled financially, and to inspire community connection, according to market director Cherri Parks-Taylor.

Over the past few months, Parks-Taylor brought in community groups, nonprofits and residents for Christmas parties, annual meetings and other occasions, asking them to help her trial the market as an event space. So far, the response has been great. In just one week, the market hosted a comedy show, menu tasting and Witwer and Omino’s wedding.

While all the events had gone smoothly up until this point, throwing a wedding reception was a whole different experience.

Witwer and Parks-Taylor worked together, bouncing ideas off each other and practicing staging the market for the big day. Even market vendors volunteered—vendors who would not be open on the day of the wedding and were not getting paid to help. Tep’s Fresh Seafood owner Tito Tep and his wife Pam donated décor from their daughter’s recent wedding and helped on the day of, along with Tatiana Roberts of Marie’s Kitchen.

Brian and Hannah with guests during their wedding reception. Photo by Sarah Beth Creative LLC.

“I was so impressed with how it all came together in such a little amount of time,” Parks-Taylor said.

For the reception, the market was transformed, with elegantly dressed tables, floral arrangements, white draped linens, a photobooth and DJ booth.

“I walked in and my jaw just dropped,” Witwer said. “It was so magical.”

Market vendor Yum, Yum! served burritos, rice and beans, chips and other food to guests, while Zeroday poured drinks. Vendor Diaspora provided flower planters.

Parks-Taylor said that the market community pitching in to help is simply their nature. To Witwer, it made her special day even better.

“I felt loved by the community,” she said. “I can’t say enough about how wonderful it was.”

Parks-Taylor hopes that as people begin to see photos and hear stories from events, like Witwer and Omino’s wedding reception, the community will see the market as a venue.

Inside Broad Street Market decorated for wedding reception. Photo by Sarah Beth Creative LLC.

“My hope is that it will open people’s eyes to the market as an event space,” she said. “I think there’s a market for us to make additional revenue.”

Since the 2023 fire that closed the market’s brick building, the market has struggled financially due to decreased vendors and foot traffic. In recent months, they’ve relied on grant funding and this year have a budget deficit.

However, the Broad Street Market Alliance, the nonprofit board that runs the market, has been working to create new revenue streams. Creating financial sustainability has been especially important to Parks-Taylor, as well as several new board members. The alliance recently installed a TV screen in the market that displays paid advertising, and at monthly meetings, the board has discussed ideas for sponsorships, grants and soliciting city funds.

Most recently, the board expressed its intention to lobby Harrisburg to include a regular line item in its annual budget to support the market. The city is the owner of the market buildings, but the nonprofit board controls all operations. While the city is footing the cost of the brick building rehab after the fire, Harrisburg has not historically included an allotment for building maintenance in its yearly budget.

Events, however, have been the big push for now, something that is within the market’s control and that has shown early positive results.

At a May board meeting, Tep spoke passionately about the new events initiative.

“I just feel that it’s always been in front of us,” he said. “The biggest asset is the market itself.”

Witwer would agree.

“The building is beautiful, and you can do so much with the space,” she said.

Outside of the Broad Street Market on the day of the wedding.

The market has an event inquiry form on its website. People interested in hosting an event at the market, can visit their website.

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

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Why Are Harrisburg Families Reimagining Their Homes?

What Is the Design-Build Process for a Whole-Home Renovation?

What Questions Should Homeowners Ask a Potential Renovation Contractor?

Review Local Reputation and Testimonials

Evaluate Completed Renovation Projects

Verify Local Experience and Licensing

Understand Communication and Project Management

What Does a Whole-Home Transformation in Harrisburg Look Like?

How Do Homeowners Get a Quote From a Top-Rated Renovation Contractor?

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the best contractors for a full-house remodel in Harrisburg?

How can people verify a contractor is licensed and insured in Pennsylvania?

What is a realistic timeline for a whole-home renovation?

Building a Home for the Future

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