South Central PA Residents Invited to Spark Change Through Community Contest

September 24, 2025 | by Admin

Residents of South Central Pennsylvania now have the chance to turn their passion into lasting impact through SPARK!, a community contest from The Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC) that proves everyone can be a changemaker.

“Philanthropy isn’t just for a select few. It belongs to everyone who cares about their community,” said Jennifer Doyle, President and CEO of TFEC. “SPARK! is about turning passion into action. By sharing your idea, you can spark change that grows far beyond one person. With the power of collective giving, your vision can become a permanent $10,000 fund supporting nonprofits right here in our region. Together, we create something bigger than any one person could achieve.”

SPARK! invites individuals across Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Lebanon and Perry counties, along with the Dillsburg area, to submit an idea for a cause they are passionate about. Unlike traditional grant programs, SPARK! is not about organizations applying for funding. It is about people stepping forward to define the issues that matter most in their community.

The winning idea will become a permanent $10,000 area of interest fund at The Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC). This endowment will provide grants to nonprofits that address the chosen cause, ensuring that one person’s vision creates lasting change in the community.

Past SPARK! winners show how one idea can grow into lasting impact. The previous winning cause focused on youth ballet, recognizing that children in South Central Pennsylvania needed more access to the arts. From that idea, and with the support of the community, youth ballet now has another financial advocate in the region.

This year, participants can bring forward new causes they care about. From after-school programs to early learning literacy initiatives, animal welfare to entrepreneurial tools, the stage is set for someone to spark change.

Timeline to Participate

Sept. 15 through Oct. 8: Individuals submit their cause at www.tfec.org/spark
Oct. 13 through Oct. 26: Public voting on all eligible ideas
Nov. 3 through Nov. 16: Final voting on the top five causes
December: Winner announced

SPARK! encourages broad participation by giving every resident the chance to submit, vote and rally support. By focusing on causes rather than nonprofits, the contest demonstrates that philanthropy is accessible to everyone and that collective giving has the power to create lasting impact.

For more information and to submit an idea, visit www.tfec.org/spark.

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

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

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New transit center, downtown apartment conversion get city stamp of approval

September 23, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

Rendering of the planned SRTA (Rabbittransit) facility

One very large and one smaller development project can take the next step forward, following final city approval.

Harrisburg City Council on Tuesday approved the construction of a new Cameron Street headquarters building for Rabbittransit, as well as an office-to-residential conversion downtown.

The Susquehanna Regional Transportation Authority (SRTA), which runs Rabbittransit, will demolish its aging facility on Cameron Street and construct a new Capital Region Operations & Maintenance Facility and Transfer Center in the same area.

Executive Director Rich Farr previously told TheBurg that the new facility would be more efficient and present cost savings, as the current building requires costly utilities and maintenance.

Construction will cost around $150 million and will include eight buildings built on 15 acres of land. The project requires that the Harrisburg’s Parks and Recreation facility move and that the current building be demolished. A new parks facility is to be constructed at 1002 N.12th St.

The project is projected to be completed in 2029.

Also on Tuesday, Harrisburg-based WCI Partners got the green light to begin renovations at 508 and 510 N. 2^nd St. The buildings were formerly offices, but have since been vacant. WCI plans to construct 11 one-bedroom apartments, ranging from 435 to 538 square feet.

Council approved the project by a vote of 6-1, with council President Danielle Hill voting against it, citing the project’s lack of affordable units, by U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development standards.

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Community Comment: Building for the Future at Crane Clean Energy Center

September 23, 2025 | by Dave Marcheskie

Dave Marcheskie

As we mark the one-year anniversary of Constellation’s announcement to launch the Crane Clean Energy Center, I can’t help but reflect on the hundreds of conversations I’ve had in the community and the variety of views on this historic project.

For some people, Three Mile Island’s cooling towers are an ominous reminder of what almost happened on the island more than 40 years ago. But for many others, like me, the towers stand as a proud monument to the resilient spirit of our community, and a vivid, enduring reminder of how the work performed here after 1979 helped usher in today’s historic resurgence of support for nuclear power.

After my time as a local journalist here, I joined the TMI Unit 1 team as site communications manager in 2017. With no nuclear technology experience, I was a little concerned about how I would be received, but the men and women who operated the plant were warm, friendly and I quickly began to learn the culture. I was very proud to be part of the team and I was there when the plant shut down in 2019. It was a difficult time for all of us. Many of my colleagues were forced to move their families elsewhere. Today, as Constellation works to launch the Crane Clean Energy Center (Crane for short), hundreds of families are coming back to the area, buying homes and enrolling their children in local schools. It’s been a blast to reunite with those people and get to meet those new to the job.

Here’s what I want people to know – Unit 1 and Unit 2 have vastly different legacies. Unit 1, the reactor we’re restarting, had a long history of outstanding safety and performance that transcended the accident in Unit 2. For 45 years, Unit 1 generated clean, safe and reliable power and earned high marks from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, while incorporating lessons learned from 1979. Unit 1’s legacy proved that with the right safeguards and an unyielding commitment to operational excellence, nuclear energy is indeed the safest, cleanest and most reliable energy source on the planet. Our standards and technology have only strengthened in recent decades, and they are guiding our restart today.

I’ve also noticed some confusion around the restart and data centers. A year ago, we announced a Power Purchase Agreement, or PPA. In simple terms, a PPA is a long-term contract where a customer, such as a business, university or municipality agrees to buy electricity from a power plant at a set price. Crane’s 800+ megawatts will NOT be directly hooked up to a data center. The electricity generated by the plant will flow to the PJM grid and help ensure reliability for all. Without this landmark agreement, those megawatts would not be returning. And the jobs, taxes and economic impacts will remain here in the midstate.

For me, restarting Crane is not only an energy story, but a community story. Hundreds of local women and men are already on the job, with hundreds more to come. Local businesses are serving more customers. Tax revenues from the site will support schools, emergency responders and public services. And Constellation is investing directly in the region, with hundreds of thousands of dollars each year going to local charities, education and workforce development programs – that’s the fun part of my job!

I’m sensitive to the fact that some folks still carry memories and concerns from TMI’s past. That’s why my new job as Crane’s community engagement manager will remain rooted in openness, transparency and community partnership. We have a rare opportunity at Crane to leverage this revival, rebuild our local economy, build the tax base, improve community services and put more people to work. Let’s build our future together.

Dave Marcheskie is the Community Engagement Manager for Constellation’s Crane Clean Energy Center in Londonderry Township. Follow @CraneUnit1 on Instagram and visit the Crane web page to learn more.

TheBurg welcomes op-eds from the greater Harrisburg community.

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On move-out day for Harrisburg homeless encampment, those remaining pack up as police visit site

September 22, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

The homeless encampment on S. Front Street in Harrisburg clears out as PennDOT’s eviction date arrives.

Monday marked the move-out day for Harrisburg’s largest homeless encampment, and by mid-morning, officials and residents said the area was mostly vacant.

However, a few people did remain in the area, along S. Front Street, which is slated to become a construction site for PennDOT’s I-83 widening project.

For months, officials and community members have known that occupants of the encampment would need to move out, and city, county and state officials said they’ve had meetings to come up with a way to help.

In July, Dauphin County announced that nonprofit Amiracle4sure would oversee a new tent community, called “A Miracle Community,” off Cameron Street in South Harrisburg, providing an option for former tent city residents.

But on Monday, several people who had just gathered their belongings to move said that they were not interested in the new encampment. Most said they were not sure where they would go next.

“It’s a parking lot; let’s call it what it is,” said John, a longtime tent city occupant who lived in a large shelter that he constructed of tents and tarps. Moving to the new community, “will never happen,” he said.

John said that police came to the “tent city” encampment early in the morning to instruct people that it was time to leave and that they would be trespassing if they stayed.

The city and volunteers estimated that around 10 or fewer people still remained at the encampment on Monday morning. In the past, the encampment had, at times, housed over 100 people.

According to Harrisburg’s communications director Mischelle Moyer, PA Capitol Police are handling enforcement, and city police will only assist if asked. Moyer said that the directive came from the mayor, who requested state police to take over.

Moyer also said that today the city removed porta-potties that were deployed at the location and turned off the water supplied to the area. In the near future, the Harrisburg Fire Bureau will work with PennDOT to dismantle remaining structures and clear the area, Moyer said.

Moyer said that, if occupants refuse to leave the property, the police may make arrests. The area will be permanently off-limits, she said.

While John said that he had already left the encampment earlier in the morning, he returned mid-morning to help others pack up.

“These are my friends and my family,” he said.

Another man, Kevin, sat on the curb across the street from the encampment on Monday. He wasn’t sure where he would go next, but, like John, he had no interest in going to the new “Miracle Community,” saying that the way tents were arranged didn’t provide privacy.

“At the end of the day, you need to have space,” he said.

Michon Zalewski, who runs Harrisburg nonprofit The Eclipse Project, was on site on Monday with her van, ready to help with the move out. She said that she has been encouraging people to give the new encampment community a try.

“It’s grown on me,” she said of the Miracle Community. “We’ve been encouraging people to try it. I look forward to seeing it grow.”

Several other volunteers, who have regularly visited the encampment over the years, hugged people and cried, calling it an “emotional day.”

“You become close with these people. They become your family,” said one man who asked not to be identified.

For those who do not move to the new encampment and do not seek housing or shelter, Moyer said the city won’t allow people to set up new encampments. She said the city will continue to move them.

“I don’t know where to go,” said Shannon, a two-year tent city occupant. “Not everyone wants to have a house. I have nothing.”

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The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

September 19, 2025 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

Stealey’s Tavern

Another week has come to a close here in Harrisburg, making it time for us to round up our reporting for you. In case you missed any of our stories, you can find them all below.

Adventure Together as a family and try some fall activities centered around recycling and erosion. Our columnist shares her ideas for activities to entertain you and your littles, here.

African Cultural Festival is this weekend and will aim to celebrate the continent’s culture and countries, our online story reported. The event will include music, food, fashion and educational experiences

Berry Bash is coming to Strawberry Square in downtown Harrisburg next month, our online story reported. The event will feature a costume contest, music and food and will benefit Harrisburg River Rescue & Emergency Services.

The Harrisburg Area Riverboat Society announced that it would host a concert to benefit the Pride of the Susquehanna, our online story reported. The show will feature music by the Steve Rudolph Trio at the Harrisburg Beach Club.

Harrisburg Improv Theatre has a new group called Los Complicados, an all Latino comedy crew. In our magazine story, read about how the group goes off-script with performances.

Horizons Creative Studio is an artist’s oasis in Lemoyne. The shop offers a variety of classes with something for everyone. Read more in our magazine story

Midtown Cinema is showing “The Baltimorons” this month, offering viewers a new holiday movie to add to their annual watchlist, our writer said.

PennDOT announced that the public can now view online plans for the Cameron Street Bridge replacement. In our online story, find more information about the project.

Sara Bozich has a list of all of this weekends can’t-miss events, here.

Stealey’s Tavern opened in Midtown Harrisburg last weekend, our online story reported. The restaurant took over the former Shady McGrady’s space and offers a large menu of pizzas, sandwiches and burgers.

Theatre Harrisburg kicked off its 100^th season with the award-winning show, “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder.” Find out more about the show, in our review.

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Out Fest Pennsylvania to Debut in Harrisburg with Multi-Day Celebration of Music, Culture, and Community

September 18, 2025 | by Admin

Central Pennsylvania is about to welcome a vibrant new tradition. Out Fest Pennsylvania will make its debut September 19–21, 2025, bringing an unforgettable weekend filled with music, food, and culture to the heart of Harrisburg.

The event is powered by Karma Entertainment Complex and Color & Culture and supported by Dauphin County’s Tourism Grant Program. Visitors from near and far are invited to join in and experience a celebration that has something for everyone.

“This is more than just a festival; it’s a statement of pride, love, and unity like Central PA has never seen before. It’s a vibrant movement of the LGBTQ+ community and our allies, coming together to celebrate our identities: We’re loud, proud, and here to stay,” said Nelson Fernandez, owner of Karma Entertainment Complex. “Out Fest Pennsylvania is about creating an inclusive space where everyone feels welcome to celebrate who they are, enjoy incredible entertainment, and connect with a community that values diversity and unity.”

Out Fest Pennsylvania will showcase an incredible variety of talent and activities throughout the weekend, ensuring there’s something for every interest and age group. Guests can enjoy performances from national headliners, live music acts, drag shows, comedy, dance, spoken word, and even theater productions. Beyond the stage, the festival will feature a bustling vendor marketplace, local art displays, and a health and wellness pavilion. Families can take part in kid-friendly activities, while pet lovers can join in the lively pet parade. The weekend will also include interactive experiences, vibrant nightlife events, and plenty of opportunities to connect with the community in meaningful and memorable ways. For full details, visit www.outfestpa.com.

A Highlight of Each Day

Friday, September 19 – Le Dîner en Rose
The weekend begins at 6:00 p.m. with Le Dîner en Rose, an elegant, pink-themed dining experience held at Karma Entertainment Complex, 706 N. Third Steet in Harrisburg. Guests can enjoy an evening of gourmet cuisine, curated cocktails, live entertainment, and a glamorous atmosphere where style and community come together. This ticketed event offers an intimate kickoff to the weekend, encouraging guests to dress in their finest pink attire and mingle with friends old and new.
Get tickets here »

Saturday, September 20 – Block Party + Music Festival
The celebration continues in downtown Harrisburg at N. 3rd Street and North Street, starting with the Out Fest Block Party from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., which is free and open to the public. Guests can enjoy an afternoon filled with food trucks, local vendors, DJs, and daytime fun for all ages. As the sun sets, the energy shifts to the Out Fest Music Festival from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., a ticketed 21+ event featuring an exciting lineup of live music and performances from regional and national artists. The night doesn’t end there. Festivalgoers can keep the party going at the Karma Entertainment Complex After Party from 10:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., a 21+ event with a cover charge at one of Harrisburg’s hottest nightlife destinations.
Get tickets here »

Sunday, September 21 – Sunday Funday Brunch
The celebration wraps up in delicious style with the Sunday Funday and Brunch beginning at 12:00 p.m. at Karma Entertainment Complex. Guests will enjoy a decadent brunch menu, bottomless mimosas, and lively entertainment, including performances from local drag talent and live DJs. This closing event offers the perfect opportunity to relax, connect, and savor the final moments of the Out Fest experience.
Get tickets here »

Out Fest Pennsylvania is made possible thanks to the dedication of volunteers who help bring this vibrant weekend to life. Organizers are currently seeking enthusiastic individuals to assist with event setup, guest services, vendor support, hospitality, and more. For full details, visit www.outfestpa.com/volunteer.

About Out Fest Pennsylvania: Out Fest Pennsylvania is the state’s first LGBTQIA multi-day music and culture festival. It was created to celebrate diversity, foster community connections, and showcase the best of Central Pennsylvania’s talent, food, and entertainment. The event is powered by Karma Entertainment Complex and Color & Culture and proudly supported by Dauphin County’s Tourism Grant Program.

Stealey’s Tavern opens in Midtown with big menu, “good vibes”

September 18, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

Stealey’s Tavern

“Good vibes, good food, good service.”

That’s what’s on the menu at new Midtown restaurant, Stealey’s Tavern, according to manager Shayne Hummer.

Stealey’s opened this past weekend at 204 Verbeke St. in Harrisburg, formerly Shady McGrady’s, which closed around a year ago.

The tavern will give patrons of the previous bar a new experience, as Hummer said that they made significant renovations to the space. Most notably, they wanted to lean more into the restaurant side of things, as opposed to being focused on the bar.

“We wanted to re-establish ourselves,” Hummer said. “We want the people who come here to have a good place to eat.”

Stealey’s has a large menu featuring tavern food like sandwiches, cheesesteaks, smash burgers, tacos and thin-crust pizzas made by head chef Zach Ottens, who has a background in fine dining. Hummer described the selections as “incredible.”

The restaurant has added a lot of seating, with both booths, tables and high tops available. The large bar also has plenty of stools to pull up for a drink.

Inside Stealey’s Tavern

Customers may notice the nod to a Grateful Dead theme by Stealey’s funky artwork, purple walls and tie-dye staff shirts. There are also a few arcade and skill game machines in the back section of the restaurant.

Hummer shared that they want Stealey’s to be a “community-oriented” place and will take precautions to ensure safety during late-night hours. They will have hosts checking IDs and bouncers as well.

The bar inside the tavern

Stealey’s is open seven days a week, with daily hours from noon to midnight.

“We love this area, and we are glad to add to it,” Hummer said.

For more information on Stealey’s Tavern, visit their website.

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Plans for Cameron Street Bridge replacement available online

September 18, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

Cameron Street Bridge replacement project site map. Courtesy of PennDOT.

The community can now easily see what changes will be made to a portion of the Cameron Street Bridge.

PennDOT shared on Wednesday that plans for the replacement of the bridge, over Asylum Run and between Maclay Street/Arsenal Road and Muench Street, are now available to view online.

The project includes replacing the bridge that is in poor condition over Asylum Run, a two-lane, two-way section of Cameron Street. The bridge will be replaced with a new box culvert and will tie into a private bridge to the east.

The new structure will be built in stages to allow at least one lane of traffic to remain open at all times. PennDOT will also put protective barriers in place to guide pedestrians as sidewalk construction occurs.

There may be additional updates to signage, pavement markings and drainage, as well.

The project is currently in the design phase and PennDOT expects work to happen during 2028-29.

PennDOT will accept public comments on the project through Oct. 18.

To view the project plans, visit PennDOT’s website. For a physical copy, visit the Martin Luther King, Jr. City Government Center, 10 N. 2nd St., Harrisburg.

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Weekend Roundup with Sara Bozich

September 18, 2025 | by Sara Bozich

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

What you’ll find ⤵️

For something new: Whitaker Center’s new signature event, The Art of Science Benefit, is Saturday; Out Fest PA runs all weekend. Plus, a jazz-themed fundraiser for The Pride of the Susquehanna at Harrisburg Beach Club.

Worth noting: 3rd in the Burg Friday!! It’s the last days of Harrisburg Restaurant Week! Oktoberfest is hitting local breweries, and the PawPaw Festival returns to York.

Things on my agenda this weekend: The Shoe Strut, Hozier at Hersheypark Stadium, youth baseball (see this theme continue through October), either Serb Fest or Dumplin’ Days, The Art of Science Benefit at Whitaker, and football Sunday.

🆕 Quick Weekend Links: Thursday • Friday • Saturday • Sunday

New + Noteworthy

you know, ICYMI

A night out – and overnight, plus brunch – for 2 for less than $300!
The fanciest night of the year is coming soon …
Bourbon cocktails to celebrate fall
See what else you missed on the blog
and check out the new “Extras” section at the very bottom

Sara’s Top Picks

for the group chat

El Sol has a Tequila Tasting with Jacob on Friday with free samples of Exotico tequila courtesy of Jacob and RNDC, plus $10 Margaritas all night for 3rd in the Burg
Win a “Bark-to-School” Bundle for your pup from Greenlin Pet Resorts
💜 Join me for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Nov. 1!
📤 Share this with the friend who always asks, ‘What’s going on this weekend?’
👨‍💻 Submit your events for the Weekend Roundup

Thursday

Harrisburg Restaurant Week 2025
Taco Thursday! at Boneshire Brew Works | Free | Harrisburg
Fredricksen Library Fall Book/Media Sale | Free | Camp Hill
Oktoberfest @ Tröegs Brewery | Free | Hershey
Wild & Uncommon Weekend | $/Free | Various Locations
Sawyers Social with Harrisburg Young Professionals | Free | Harrisburg
Live Music at the Cinema with Tony Wayne at Midtown Cinema | Free | Harrisburg
Out Fest Pennsylvania! Presented by Karma and Color & Culture | $ | Harrisburg
Open Mic and Jam at The Abbey Bar | Free | Harrisburg
Bold Steps Behavioral Health FREE virtual Family Support Group: Myths vs. Facts about Mental Health | Free | Virtual
Fall Candle Making Session at The Gleeful Candle Co. | $ | Mechanicsburg
Clint Black: Back on the Blacktop Tour with special guest Gillian Smith at American Music Theatre | $ | Lancaster

Friday

3rd in the Burg
The Jeremy Edge Project | Strawberry Square Music Series | 3rd in the Burg | Free | Harrisburg
3rd in the Burg Mural Mile Tours | $ | Harrisburg
The Rummagers 2nd Anniversary Party w/ Eryn Michael LIVE! | Free | Harrisburg
Brazilian Vibes on 3rd in the Burg – at the Millworks | Free | Harrisburg
3rd in the Burg Book Signing, Historic Photo Exhibit, and Conversation with Author Jimmy Rosen at Historic Harrisburg Association | Free | Harrisburg
TFEC Nonprofit Day at Broad Street Market | Free | Harrisburg
ROMY AND MICHELE’S HIGH SCHOOL REUNION | 3rd in the Burg Movie Night at Midtown Cinema | $ | Harrisburg
Salvation Army’s Shoe Strut | $ | Hershey
2nd Annual PUCHOG Golf Tournament at Dauphin Highlands | $ | Harrisburg
Le Dîner en Rose- Out Fest Pennsylvania! | $ | Harrisburg
Harrisburg Restaurant Week 2025
Oktoberfest @ Tröegs Brewery | Free | Hershey
Fall Candle Making Session at The Gleeful Candle Co. | $ | Mechanicsburg
Oktoberfest kicks off at Appalachian Brewing Co. | Free | All locations
Wild & Uncommon Weekend | $/Free | Various Locations
Fredricksen Library Fall Book/Media Sale | Free | Camp Hill
Learn at Lunchtime: Discover Dairy Beyond the Fridge with The State Museum of Pennsylvania | Free | Virtual
HYP Craft Night at Pursuit Coworking | $ | Harrisburg
Decked Out Live with Shaken at The Vineyard at Hershey | $ | Hershey
Brahman Noodles LIVE at the Barn at Allenberry | Free | Boiling Springs
Cycle Express Theme: TGIF – Marshmello Mashup at H2L Studio | $ | Mechanicsburg
Lancaster Liederkranz Oktoberfest | $ | Manheim
UNCAGED: Zac Brown Tribute Live at The Abbey Bar | $ | Harrisburg
Jazzin’ with Steve Rudolph Trio Fundraiser at Harrisburg Beach Club | $ | Harrisburg
Smooth Like Clyde @ XL LIVE | $ | Harrisburg
Hozier at Hersheypark Stadium | $ | Hershey
The Texas Tenors at American Music Theatre | $ | Lancaster
Oyster Mill Playhouse presents Misery | $ | Camp Hill
Season 100 Opener – A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder at Theatre Harrisburg | $ | Harrisburg
Gamut Theatre Group presents Three Queens | $ | Harrisburg
Latin Fuzion Fridayz at Level 2 | Harrisburg

Saturday

Saturday Morning Yoga at Boneshire Brew Works | $ | Harrisburg
Zumba at Burn30 | $ | Lemoyne
Yoga at Italian Lake | Free | Harrisburg
Tröegs + NSCNA Rugged Trail 5K Run at Ned Smith Center | $ | Millersburg
Special Walking Tour: “Lost Gas Stations of Midtown” with Historic Harrisburg Association | $ | Harrisburg
Friends of New Cumberland Public Library Book & Media Sale | Free | New Cumberland
Women in the Wild at Kings Gap | $ | Carlisle
Pioneer Day 2025 | Free | Duncannon
Tri Event: Cycle- Run – Yoga Benefiting Operation Wildcat at H2L Studio | $ | Mechanicsburg
Fredricksen Library Fall Book/Media Sale | Free | Camp Hill
Savor: A Strolling Supper at LEAF Farm | $ | Landisburg
Fall Festival on the Farm at Oak Grove Farms | Free | Mechanicsburg
Apple Weekend at Gruver Farms | Free | New Cumberland
Crab Fest at The Vineyard at Hershey! | $ | Hershey
Dumplin’ Days at Paddletown St. Paul’s UMC | Free | Etters
2025 Serb Fest at St. Nicholas Serbian Orthodox Church | Free | Harrisburg
Oktoberfest @ Tröegs Brewery | Free | Hershey
Fall Candle Making Session at The Gleeful Candle Co. | $ | Mechanicsburg
Oktoberfest at Appalachian Brewing Co. | Free | All locations
Wild & Uncommon Weekend | $/Free | Various Locations
PawPaw Festival at the Horn Center | $ | York
An Evening with Jill Lepore and Malcolm Kenyatta: We the People at Midtown Scholar Bookstore | $ | Harrisburg
The Art of Science Benefit at Whitaker Center | $| Harrisburg
Outfest Musicfest festival | $ | Harrisburg
4th Annual Steinholding Competition & Disposable Keg Games at Wolf Brewing Co. | $ | Mechanicsburg
Josh Dominick LIVE at The Barn at Allenberry | Free | Boiling Springs
Lancaster Liederkranz Oktoberfest | $ | Manheim
YWCA Fall Fest at The Manor on Front | $ | Harrisburg
Kevin Gobrecht Classic! 410s & Super Sportsman! at BAPS Motor Speedway | $ | York Haven
The Wild Hymns at Millworks | Free | Harrisburg
Englewood Hershey Summer Patio Series | Free | Hershey
Nirvani- A Nirvana Tribute Experience at XL Live | $ | Harrisburg
InnaVibe at Sawyers | Free | Harrisburg
Slayer at Hersheypark Stadium | $ | Hershey
Come Together: A Celebration of The Beatles at Open Stage | $ | Harrisburg
Oyster Mill Playhouse presents Misery | $ | Camp Hill
Season 100 Opener – A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder at Theatre Harrisburg | $ | Harrisburg
Gamut Theatre Group presents Three Queens | $ | Harrisburg
Popcorn Hat Players presents Little Red Riding Hood at Gamut Theatre | $ | Harrisburg
Shamrocks & Shenanigans at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire | $ | Manheim
Ciroc Saturdays at Level 2 | Harrisburg
Brewery Tours: York City Walking Tour | $ | York
Brewery Tours: Cruise York County | $ | York
Brewery Tours: Lancaster City Walking Tour | $ | Lancaster
Brewery Tours: Lancaster City Walk-a-Bout! | $ | Lancaster

Sunday

Sunday Tea at the Willows | $ | Mechanicsburg
Harrisburg Cemetery Walking Tours | $ | Harrisburg
Cultural Series: “Our Beginnings” with Charles Stone at New Cumberland Public Library | Free | New Cumberland
Fredricksen Library Fall Book/Media Sale | Free | Camp Hill
Makers at the Museum presented by Stay Apparel Co. | Free | Hershey
Apple Weekend at Gruver Farms | Free | New Cumberland
Women in the Wild at Kings Gap | $ | Carlisle
Fort Hunter Day 2025 at Fort Hunter Park | Free | Harrisburg
Fall Open Mic with Susquehanna Folk Music Society at West Shore Theatre | $ | New Cumberland
Fall Fest at Allenberry Resort | Free | Boiling Springs
Outdoor Fall Equinox Yoga at Stock’s Manor with H2L Studio | $ | Mechanicsburg
Breathwork Class at H2L Studio | $ | Mechanicsburg
Wild & Uncommon Weekend | $/Free | Various Locations
ReikiSpace Sampler Day at Reiki by Rickie | Free | Harrisburg
Lancaster Liederkranz Oktoberfest | $ | Manheim
Oktoberfest @ Tröegs Brewery | Free | Hershey
Oktoberfest at Appalachian Brewing Co. | Free | All locations
Waltz Vineyards Harvest Festival | $ | Manheim
Music in the Park -Lemoyne | Free | Lemoyne
The Blues Society of Central PA presents The Nick Moss Band at Champions | $ | Highspire
Queens of Karma: Gaga Vs Britney Drag Brunch | $ | Harrisburg
“SANATORIUM Under The Sign Of The HOURGLASS” THE QUAY BROTHERS feature film at Midtown Cinema | $ | Harrisburg
Come Together: A Celebration of The Beatles at Open Stage | $ | Harrisburg
Season 100 Opener – A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder at Theatre Harrisburg | $ | Harrisburg
Gamut Theatre Group presents Three Queens | $ | Harrisburg
The Australian Pink Floyd Show: Wish You Were Here 50th Anniversary Tour at American Music Theatre | $ | Lancaster
Shamrocks & Shenanigans at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire | $ | Manheim

Extras

Be the taste everyone talks about! We’re looking for partners to support Berry Bash as “Food Station Sponsor” – great opportunity for fun, engaging activation! Email me with interest!
Vendor applications are open for the (outdoor) SoMa Christmas Market on Nov. 30! Sign-up here! Deadline to apply is Sept. 15.
Save the date for Plants + Pints 2026! Sunday, April 12 at Strawberry Square
Want to share an ‘extra’? Email Sara with interest!

If you like what we do, please support our work.

Become a Friend of TheBurg!

Pennsylvania’s Top Hardware Stores for DIYers in 2025

September 16, 2025 | by Admin

A good DIY project can be challenging, but it is a lot easier to finish with the right tools, materials and equipment by your side. Pennsylvania residents are fortunate enough to have a great selection of hardware stores to support their project needs.

Top-Rated Hardware Stores in Pennsylvania for DIY Tools

These four hardware stores represent the best of the best for DIYers in Pennsylvania:

1. Busy Beaver Building Centers

Busy Beaver Building Centers tops this list with its massive yet accessible inventory, rivaling big-box shops and making it one of the top-rated hardware stores in Pennsylvania for DIY tools. It sells everything related to home improvement, including flooring, lawn supplies, tools, paint, and appliances. You can get all the supplies you need for your project in just one trip.

The company began operating in 1962 and has since refined its approach, combining big-box store variety with quality small-town customer service.

Key Features

Regular sales, discounts and special offers for better savings
Free rewards program for all customers, allowing them to earn points that translate to discounts and other perks
14 locations across Pennsylvania for better accessibility

2. Wehrung’s

Wehrung’s is one of Pennsylvania’s leading family-owned hardware stores and home improvement centers, with five branches scattered across the state. It offers an excellent selection of equipment, tools and materials for nearly every DIY home improvement project. It also has a drive-thru lumberyard and dedicated centers for kitchen, bath and flooring design.

The business has expanded over the past 75 years and now serves DIYers and contractors across southeastern Pennsylvania and Central New Jersey.

Key Features

Vast selection of lumber and hardware supplies
Regular sales and community events
Expert staff and quality customer service

3. Keystone Hardware

Keystone Hardware is a family-owned and operated local hardware store in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania. While it is not a big-box hardware store, it still carries the essentials and more — you can find the tools and supplies necessary for plumbing, electrical or lawn projects. It also does special orders if it does not have something you need.

Established in 1932, Keystone Hardware has over 90 years of experience. Many customers have noted that it offers excellent customer service in addition to its material selections.

Key Features

Helpful staff and excellent customer service
Offers installation services for water heaters, toilets, faucets, pressure regulators and window screens
Weekly specials and seasonal deals

4. A & R Building Supply

A & R Building Supply is a local hardware store in Mountain Top, Pennsylvania. It has an excellent selection of tools, materials and machinery for nearly every DIY project, whether it is a lawn and garden upgrade, plumbing repair, or a new paint job.

This store has been family-owned and operated for over 50 years, so you can expect expert advice and quality service for reasonable prices.

Key Features

Tool and equipment rentals for quick projects
Offers numerous hardware and household maintenance services like propane refills, tool repairs, screen repairs, key cutting and paint color matching
Seasonal bargains and discounts for better savings

Factors to Consider When Evaluating Hardware Stores in Pennsylvania for DIY Tools

A good hardware store can provide assistance, expertise and peace of mind, allowing you to accomplish your DIY projects confidently and on schedule. These factors shaped this list and can help you pick the right shop for your needs.

Variety in stock: A well-stocked store lets you get everything you need in one trip, helping you save time and money.
Accessibility and location: Some projects require large, heavy materials and equipment. A nearby store can help you save time and energy when transporting the items you need.
Competitive pricing: DIY and renovation costs can add up. Affordable prices and regular discounts help you save money.
Knowledgeable and helpful staff: DIYers have different skill levels. Knowledgeable staff can help your project in various ways, from finding the right materials to teaching you essential completion techniques.

Find the Best Hardware Stores in Pennsylvania

The best hardware stores make DIY projects easier to accomplish. More than providing essential materials and equipment, these stores are cornerstones of their communities, providing critical services, expertise and support to make ideas come to life.

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Top-Rated Hardware Stores in Pennsylvania for DIY Tools

1. Busy Beaver Building Centers

Key Features

2. Wehrung’s

Key Features

3. Keystone Hardware

Key Features

4. A & R Building Supply

Key Features

Factors to Consider When Evaluating Hardware Stores in Pennsylvania for DIY Tools

Find the Best Hardware Stores in Pennsylvania

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