A Decade after Dark: Midtown Outdoor Film Series celebrates 10th anniversary

May 29, 2025 | by Stuart Landon

On summer nights in Harrisburg, the air often carries the scent of popcorn, the fizz of soda, and the buzz of anticipation.

As dusk settles, hundreds of neighbors gather next to Midtown Cinema to laugh, cheer and sing along beneath the stars. It’s a scene that’s become a seasonal tradition. This summer, the Friends of Midtown Outdoor Film Series is marking its 10th anniversary.

First launched in 2015, the series is presented by Friends of Midtown, a community-benefit nonprofit dedicated to the economic and cultural development of Harrisburg’s Midtown neighborhood. Composed of residents and business owners who take pride in the district, the organization works year-round to help Midtown thrive. With support from host Midtown Cinema, the series has grown from a grassroots effort to a beloved staple of the Harrisburg summer.

“From the beginning, it’s always been about bringing people together,” said Hannah Witwer, a longtime volunteer with Friends of Midtown. “The sense of connection and joy that this series brings to the neighborhood is what makes it so special. We’re proud to be celebrating 10 years of that tradition.”

Even in challenging times, the series has endured. In 2020, during the height of the pandemic, Friends of Midtown and Midtown Cinema pivoted to a drive-in experience in the Farm Show Complex parking lot, screening “Jurassic Park” and “E.T.” for audiences safely distanced in their cars.

Screenings begin at dusk, and, this year, the fun stretches further into the season with a September date added to the calendar.

The 2025 lineup includes “Dirty Dancing” (June 28), “Jumanji” (July 12), “Moana 2” (Aug. 23), and—weather willing—”Black Panther” (Sept. 13). It’s the fourth attempt to show “Black Panther” after past summers saw cancellations due to thunderstorms, wildfire smoke and other unpredictable weather events.

“I say, ‘weather permitting’ with crossed fingers,” Witwer said. “We’ve been waiting a long time to see this movie on the big screen with our neighbors.”

Held in the parking lot next to Midtown Cinema, the experience is festive and familiar. Families and friends gather on blankets and lawn chairs, and Zeroday Brewing Co. serves up beer alongside hot dogs, paninis and classic concessions like popcorn and candy.

“We hope every screening feels like an open invitation,” Witwer said. “Whether you’re coming for the first time or returning for another summer, it’s about creating a space where people can enjoy something together.”

Midtown Cinema is no stranger to creating community. Year-round, the venue presents a robust lineup of independent, foreign and documentary films—the heart of its mission—and hosts events like open mic nights, trivia and live music that extend that spirit of connection beyond the screen. The Outdoor Film Series is a natural extension of that welcoming ethos.

“Each summer, it’s incredible to watch our parking lot transform into a gathering place for hundreds of people,” said Rachel Landon, general manager of Midtown Cinema. “It’s a joyful reminder of how meaningful it is to create space for community—not just inside our cinema, but outside under the stars.”

Stuart Landon is the director of community engagement at Midtown Cinema.

Midtown Cinema is located at 250 Reily St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit www.midtowncinema.com.

June Events At Midtown Cinema

Potential First-Run Films
“Phoenician Scheme,” June 6
“Life of Chuck,” June 13
“Materialists,” June 13
“28 Years Later,” June 20

Late Night Frights

“The Evil Dead” (1981)
Friday, June 6, 9:30 p.m.

Funny Flix Series
“Best in Show” (2000)
Sunday, June 8, 6 p.m.
Tuesday, June 10, 7 p.m.

National Theatre Live
“Dr. Strangelove”
Sunday, June 8, 5 p.m.

“Hamlet”
Sunday, June 15, 5 p.m.

“Present Laughter”
Sunday, June 22, 5 p.m.

Sunday Docs Series

“Man on Wire” (2008)
Sunday, June 8, 12 p.m.

Down in Front!
Comedy Riffing
“Death Bed: The Bed That Eats” (1977)
Friday, June 13, 9:30 p.m.

3rd in the Burg Movie Night
“Planes, Trains & Automobiles” (1987)
Friday, June 20, 9:30 p.m.

Trivia Night
Tuesday, June 10, 7 p.m.
Tuesday, June 24, 7 p.m.

Open Mic Night
Tuesday, June 3, 7 p.m.
Tuesday, June 17, 7 p.m.

Live Music
Thursdays 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Friends of Midtown Outdoor Film Series
“Dirty Dancing” (1987), June 28
“Jumanji” (1995), July 12
“Moana 2” (2025), Aug. 23
“Black Panther” (2018), Sept. 13

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Happenings: Our June Calendar of events

May 29, 2025 | by Missy Smith

Museums & Art Spaces

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

“Tailgate Travelers—Station Wagons,” through Oct. 17

“Don Allen Chevrolet Dealership Retrospective,” through Oct. 17

“The Corvette Then and Now,” through Oct. 17

“Husavarna—Get Your Husky On,” through Oct. 25

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

97th Annual Juried Exhibition, through June 19

“Never Have I Ever,” student/teacher exhibit, June 27-July 24; reception: June 27, 5-8 p.m.

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

June 6-19: “The Master’s Medium—Our Instructor Collective Exhibit,” June 6-19; reception: June 6, 5:30-7 p.m.

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

“Our Core Values in Art—Visualizing Faith, Community, Compassion, Justice & Service,” art by Market Square members and friends that reflect the church’s core values, through June 1

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

“In a Different Light,” paintings by Jill Peckelun and photography by Louise Thomas, June 13-July 26: reception: July 13, 5:30-7 p.m.

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

June artist of the month

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

Featured artist of the month: Bryan Martz, Martz Metal Arts, June 4-28

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyart.org

HAAA Member Artwork at Hershey Public Library, hallway gallery, June 21-Aug. 9

HAAA Member Artwork at Hershey Public Library, community room, through Nov. 29

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

Eva Bender Unveils New Collection of Signature Watercolors, June 6-July 26; reception: June 6 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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

Annual Student Juried Exhibition, through Aug. 29

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

New works by Tina Berrier, The Huckle Buckle Boys, John Davis, Judy Kelly and Marsha Souders, through June 16

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

The wildlife art of Christina Bias, through June 20

The mixed media art of Caitlin Gill, through July 19

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

Art in the Stacks—Kathy Knaub, June 1-30

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

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

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

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

“Portraits of Identity—HAAPI Through The Lens”

“HORSE2AUTO: A Transportation Revolution”

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

“Housing—Pennsylvania Dwellings Observed, paintings by Lou Schellenberg,” through June 1

“Color Contradances,” vibrant, calculated paintings by Ai-Wen Wu Kratz that are influenced by theatre, classical music and dance, June 4-Aug. 24

“Tribute to the Civil Rights Movement—Quilted Swing Coats by Patricia A. Montgomery,” through July 26

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

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

“Imprint—Selected Gifts from Eric Denker ‘75,” celebrating donations from Dickinson College alumnus and art historian Eric Denker, June 13-Sept. 13

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

“Captivating Treasures of the Earth,” featuring local jewelry artists and their interpretation of wearable art using precious metals and gemstones, through June 14

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

“Art in the Wild,” a community outdoor environmental art exhibit with works composed of mostly natural materials to blend with Wildwood’s natural setting, through Sept. 30

Winters Heritage House Museum
41-47 E. High St., Elizabethtown
717-367-4672; elizabethtownhistory.org

34th Annual Quilt Show, through June 6

Read, Make, Learn

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

June 3, 10, 17, 24: Figure Drawing Studio (Adults) 6-8 p.m.
June 4, 18: Watercolor Painting Step-by-Step (Adults) 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
June 5, 12, 19, 26, July 10, 17: Vibrant Landscapes in Oil (Adults) 9:30 a.m.- 12 p.m.
June 5: Sunflowers Watercolor Workshop (Adults) 3-5 p.m.
June 5: Paint Your Home Watercolor Workshop (Adults) 6-9 p.m.
June 5, 12, 19, 26: Introduction to Figure Drawing Studio (Adults) 6-8:30 p.m.
June 12: Make Your Own Glass Marbles Workshop (Adults) 6-8 p.m.
June 14: Wire Tree Workshop (Ages 13-Adult) 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
June 19, 26, July 10, 17: Intermediate/Advanced Pastel Painting (Adults) 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 19, 26, July 10, 17: Pottery Wheel Throwing Morning–All Levels! (Adults) 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 19, 26, July 10, 17: Pottery Wheel Throwing Afternoon–All Levels! (Adults) 1-3:30 p.m.
June 23- 27: FUNdamental Drawing Camp (Ages 9-14) 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 23- 27: Drawing Landscapes in Colored Pencils & Pastels Camp (Ages 9-14) 1-3 p.m.
June 23, 25, July 11: 3-Day Closed Forms & Altered Shapes Camp (Ages 12- 17) 1-4 p.m.
June 24, 25, 26: “Playing with Fire” Camp (Ages 12-17) 1-4 p.m.
June 25: Date Night with Glassblowing (Adults) 6-8 p.m.

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

June 4, 11, 18, 25: Personal Growth Through Self-Awareness, 2-3:15 p.m.
June 10, 24: Preparing for Retirement: Are You Ready?, 6-7 p.m.
June 12: Cumberland County Waterways: Their Importance and Improvement, 6-7 p.m.
June 16: 13 Poirots and 7 Marples, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
June 21: Heart Health and You with the American Health Association, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Capital Blue Cross Connect
4500 Marketplace Way, Enola
www.capitalbluecrossconnect.com

June 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30: Virtual Pilates, 12 p.m.
June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Tai Chi at Enola Store, 4 p.m.
June 3: Chair Yoga at Enola Store, 11:30 a.m.
June 3: Virtual Women’s Series—Understanding Hormones and The Impact on Wellness, 12 p.m.
June 4, 11, 18, 25: Virtual INSPIRE, 9 a.m.
June 4, 11, 18, 25: Kickboxing & Strength at Enola and Virtual, 4:30 p.m.
June 5, 12, 19, 26: Ready, Steady, Action at Enola Store and Virtual, 4:15 p.m.
June 6, 13, 20, 27: Strong and Fit at Enola and Virtual, 10 a.m.
June 9: Connect Monthly Webinar—Men’s Health, 4 p.m.
June 17: Chair Yoga at York Store, 11:30 a.m.

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

June 5, 12, 19, 26: Watercolor Landscapes, 6-8 p.m.
June 7: Enamel on Copper, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 7: Create Amazing Picture with your iPhone, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 14: Father’s Day Felt Oven Mitt Workshop, 12:30-2:30 p.m.
June 17-July 8: Concrete Series, Tuesdays, 6-8 p.m.
June 18: The Muse, The Audience, and the Griot—The Expression and History of Blackness Through Art, 5-8 p.m.
June 18-July 9: Acrylic Mixing & Color Theory Bootcamp, Wednesdays, 6-8 p.m.
June 21: Abstract Painting Workshop, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

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

June 1-Aug. 15: Color Our World—All Ages Summer Reading, All Day
June 1-Aug. 15: Go Cumberland!
June 3: Read to Dogs, 6-7 p.m.
June 5: Story Time and Craft with Miss Kellie, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
June 10: Drop-In Paper Lantern Craft, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
June 12: Library Treasure Hunt, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
June 17: Ridiculous Nicholas, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
June 17: Aluminum Foil Boats, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
June 21: Baby Kangaroos with Aldinger Farms, 12-1 p.m.
June 25: Drop-In STEM Play, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
June 26: Bingo for Books, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

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

June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Growing Gardeners, 11-11:45 a.m.
June 2: The Stitch Sitch, 2-3:30 p.m.
June 5: Animal Art Forms with Forgotten Friend Reptile Sanctuary, 6-7 p.m.
June 12: Unplugged Adventure, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
June 13: Computer Classes—Computer Basics, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 18: East Shore Cinema—The Maltese Falcon, 2-4 p.m.
June 21: Bright Star Touring Theatre Presents Storybook Tales, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
June 21: Jigsaw Puzzle Competition, 1-4 p.m.
June 24: Bigfoot Experience—Do You Believe?, 5-5:45 p.m.
June 26: Creative Kids Art Class with Art Association of Harrisburg, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
June 26: Crafty Characters, 6-7 p.m.

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

June 3, 10, 17, 24: Card Making Group, 5-7 p.m.
June 4, 11, 18, 25: Homeschool Happening, 2-4 p.m.
June 5, 12, 19, 26: Fiber Artists, 3-6 p.m.
June 7: Knitter’s Group, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
June 14: Fiber Artists, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
June 21: Book Discussion Group, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 28: Board Game Meetup, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

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

June 3: Sound Meditation, 6-7 p.m.
June 4, 18: Children’s Mansion Tour, 11-11:30 a.m.
June 5: Pilates in the Park, 6-7 p.m.
June 11: Let Everything Go Gentle Yoga, 5:30-7 p.m.

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

June 1: Pokemon Club, 3-4:30 p.m.
June 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30: Baby & Toddler Story Time, 10-10:30 a.m.
June 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30: Children’s Story Time, 11-11:30 a.m.
June 2, 16: Business & Career Center—Open Classroom, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 3: Curl Up with the Classics, 10-11 a.m.
June 3, 17: Book Dragon Club—Plot Twisters, 6-7:30 p.m.
June 4, 11, 18, 25: Guidance Sessions, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
June 4: Embroiderer’s Stitch In, 1-4 p.m.
June 4, 18: Zen Meditation, 2-3 p.m.
June 5, 12, 26: Meditation to Calm the Mind, 12-12:30 p.m.
June 5, 12, 19, 26: Fredricksen Knits, 1-4 p.m.
June 5: Device Advice, 5-6:30 p.m.
June 6: Chess Club, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
June 9, 23: Mock Interview Sessions, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 9: Genealogy Club, 12-1 p.m.
June 10: Career Exploration Workshop, 10-11 a.m.
June 10: Computer Basics, 2-3 p.m.
June 10: Genealogy Club, 5-6 p.m.
June 10: Book Dragon Club—Teen Anthology Periodic Table of Life, 6-7:30 p.m.
June 10, 24: Bridge for the Fun of It!, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
June 10, 24: READ to Dogs, 6:30-8 p.m.
June 11: Tween LEGO STEM Lab, 2-3:30 p.m.
June 11: Teen Crafternoon, 4-5:30 p.m.
June 12, 19: Pop-Up Storytime, 11-11:30 a.m.
June 12: Gardening with Nature Series, 7-8:30 p.m.
June 13: Peaceful Poses Yoga Storytime for Preschoolers, 10-10:45 a.m.
June 13: Indie & Foreign Film Fridays, 2-4 p.m.
June 17: Resume Writing Workshop, 10-11 a.m.
June 17: Ridiculous Nicholas, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
June 18: Just Say It—Reclaiming Your Voice, 1-3 p.m.
June 20: STEAM Discovery Play (preschool), 10-11 a.m.
June 20: Book Dragon Club—Bookkeepers, 6-7 p.m.
June 20: Book Dragon Club—Meetup, 7-8:30 p.m.
June 23-27: Kindergarten Prep Camp
June 23: Fredricksen Reads—“The Light of the World,” 7-8 p.m.
June 24: Get That Job!, 10-11 a.m.
June 24: Tween LEGO Club, 6-7:30 p.m.
June 26: Disney Storytime, 9:30-10 a.m.
June 26: Teen Bingo, 6-7:30 p.m.
June 26: The Galapagos—Explore the Enchanted Isles, 6:30-8 p.m.
June 27: Solopreneur Roundtable—Open Discussion, 12-2 p.m.
June 27: Family Paint & Pix!, 6-8 p.m.
June 29: Game Day for All!, 1-4:30 p.m.

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

June 5: Painting Class, 6-8 p.m.
June 8: Dandelion Salve, 2-4 p.m.
June 12: Sea Glass Wall Art #2, 6-8 p.m.
June 14: Summer Flowers Painting Workshop, 1-3 p.m.
June 25: Tulips in Vase, 6-8 p.m.
June 28: Butterfly Wing on Copper, 1-3 p.m.

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

June 4: Crafty Characters, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
June 10, 24: Coloring for Adults, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
June 12: Outdoor Safety with AmeriHealth Caritas, 5-6 p.m.
June 13: Summer Swaps—Board Games & Puzzles, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
June 25: Unplugged Adventure, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
June 28—Jigsaw Puzzle Competition, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyart.org

June 9-July 14: Oils and Acrylics, Mondays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
June 11: Watercolor Pencil Workshop, 6-8:30 p.m.
June 20: Watercolor Workshop, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

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

June 2-30: Spice of the Month—Ancho Chili Powder
June 2: Blood Drive, 11 a.m.
June 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 19, 24, 26, 30: Penn State Hershey—Mothers & Babies, 10:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 3: “Mysteries, She Wrote” Mystery Book Group, 6:30 p.m.
June 4, 11, 18, 25: Community Crochet Night, 6 p.m.
June 4: Hershey Archives Scanning Event, 5 p.m.
June 5, 12, 19: Walking Hershey, 9:30 a.m.
June 5, 19: Hershey Quilters, 12:30 p.m.
June 5: Teen Time for the Summer Kick-Off, 3 p.m.
June 7, 14, 21, 27: Chess Club, 1 p.m.
June 7: LEGO Club, 1 p.m.
June 9: Play Day for Families, 10 a.m.
June 9: Library LoFi, 3 p.m.
June 11, 18, 25: Film Club for Teens, 3 p.m.
June 12: Mommy’s Khimar, 11 a.m.
June 12, 19, 26: Teen Time for the Summer, 3 p.m.
June 12: Fear of Commitment Book Group (Short Fiction Only), 6 p.m.
June 13: Craft & a Movie, 10 a.m.
June 13: Volunteer Book Buddy Training, 3 p.m.
June 14: Chess Tournament, 10 a.m.
June 20: Power Pointers, 5 p.m.
June 21: Fused Glass Class, 1 p.m.
June 24: Tween Tuesday, 3 p.m.
June 28: The Lion’s Whiskers, 2 p.m.

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

June 23: “Saving Your Neighborhood—Jane Jacobs vs. Robert Moses and the Beginning of Urban Historic Preservation,” 6 p.m.

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

June 7: Biochar—Building Healthy Soil and Crops, 1-4:30 p.m.
June 8: Blooms & Berries—Late Spring Foraging Walk, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 8: Bundle Dye with Botanicals, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
June 14: Family Foraging, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 19: Companion Planting, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
June 26: Weeds Identification, Management and Uses, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
June 28: Getting to Know Plants, Observation and Identification, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 29: Bountiful Berries—Early Summer Foraging Walk, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

June 5: LEGO Challenge, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
June 24: Summer Swaps—Cookbooks & Kitchen Supplies, 1-5 p.m.

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

June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Story Time, 10:15-11 a.m.
June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Toddler Time, 11:15-11:35 a.m.
June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Toddler Time, 11:40 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 3, 10, 17, 24: Rhyme Time in the Park, 9:30-9:50 a.m.
June 3, 10, 17, 24: Tea and Stitches, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 3, 10, 17, 24: Toddler Time in the Park, 10-10:20 a.m.
June 3, 10, 17, 24: Story Time in the Park, 10:30-10:50 a.m.
June 3, 10, 17, 24: Storybook STEAM, 6-7 p.m.
June 5, 12, 26: Mah Jongg, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
June 5, 12, 26: Rhyme Time, 10:15-10:35 a.m.
June 5, 12, 26: Toddler Time, 10:45-11:05 a.m.
June 5: Built to Last, 6-7 p.m.
June 9, 16, 23, 30: Lemon Volcanoes, 1:30-2:30 p.m. and 6-7 p.m.
June 9, 23: English Conversation Club, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
June 11: Women Want to Read Fun Books!, 6-8:30 p.m.
June 11: Mad About Mysteries, 7-8 p.m.
June 13, 27: Dungeons & Dragons, 6-8 p.m.
June 14, 28: Block Party!, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
June 14, 28: Puzzle Party, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 16, 23, 30: Color-Changing Slime, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
June 16: Monday Night Book Club, 7-8 p.m.
June 18: West Shore Wildlife Center, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
June 18: Watch the Skies Book Club, 7-9 p.m.
June 18: Plan for the Future, 10 p.m.
June 20: Thursday Morning Book Club, 10-11 a.m.
June 20: Apple Users Group, 1-2 p.m.
June 21: Craft-A-Palooza, 10:30 a.m.
June 25: Science Heroes, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
June 25: Teen Murder Mystery Party, 1:30-2:30 p.m. and 6:30-7:30 p.m.
June 26: Play Scrabble!, 1:15-3:15 p.m.
June 26: Tales for TAILS!, 6-7 p.m.
June 27: Science Heroes, Jr., 10:30-11:30 a.m.
June 27: Red Cross Blood Drive, 12-5 p.m.
June 28: Trivia at Home—Disney Music, 6-8 p.m.
June 30: Mixing Colors with Skittles, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
June 30: Mixing Colors with Skittles, 6-7 p.m.
June 30: Bingo for Books, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

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

June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Young Adult Group, 4 p.m.
June 4, 11, 18, 25: Common Roads (ages 12-17), 6-8 p.m.
June 7, 14, 21, 28: Passageways, 2 p.m.
June 14: QTPOC Advisory Group, 6-8 p.m.

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

June 4: Fun with the Sun! 2-3 p.m.
June 11: Animal Art Forms with Forgotten Friend Reptile Sanctuary, 2-3 p.m.
June 12, 26: My Society—Written Proof, 4:30-6 p.m.
June 18: ZooAmerica, 2-3 p.m.
June 24: Coloring for Adults! 3:30-4:30 p.m.
June 25: Crafting Free-For-All! 2-3 p.m.

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

June 9: Andrew’s Big Show, 2-2:45 p.m.
June 23: Colorful Magic with Mike Rose, 2-2:45 p.m.

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

June 3, 10, 17, 25: Storytime & Craft, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
June 3, 10, 17, 25: Tales with T.A.I.L.S., 6-7 p.m.
June 5, 12, 19, 26: LEGO Club, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
June 14: Family Board Game Day, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

June 5: An Evening with Rick Atkinson, 7-8 p.m.
June 14: Storytime at the Scholar, 10-11 a.m.
June 20: An Evening with Rob Franklin and John Vercher, 7-8 p.m.
June 28: An Evening with Mary Roach, 7-8 p.m.

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

June 8: Alcohol Ink, 1-4 p.m.

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

June 13: In-Person Book Talk—“Rebels at the Gates,” 6-7 p.m.
June 14: Free Civil War Book Talk—“Fear No Pharaoh,” 1-2 p.m.

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

June 4: Pre-K Storytime, 10:30 a.m.

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

June 1-30: Colorful Decades
June 2: Movers and Groovers, 10:30-11 a.m.
June 4: iPhone Class for Adults, 2-3:30 p.m.
June 4: Piece Seekers, 6-7:30 p.m.
June 5: Ruth’s Mystery Discussion Group, 10:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 6: Block Party, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
June 7, 21: Friends of New Cumberland Public Library Book & Media Sales, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
June 9: Musical Mornings, 10:30-11 a.m.
June 9: Summer Reading Kickoff! 4-6 p.m.
June 10: Outdoor Storytimes, 10:30 a.m. (ages 2-5), 11:15 a.m. (ages 0-2)
June 10: Tales for Tails, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
June 11: STEAM Scene, 3-4 p.m.
June 12: Family Entertainment Series—Ridiculous Nicholas, 10:30 a.m.
June 12: Creative Journaling, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
June 13: Outdoor Sensory Playtime, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
June 14, 28: Teen Craft Kits
June 16: Kids Yoga, 10:30 a.m. (ages 2-5), 11 a.m. (ages 6-10)
June 16, 23, 30: Disney “How to Draw” Series, 3-4 p.m.
June 17: Design Your Own Book Covers, 3-4 p.m.
June 18: Kid Builders, 3-4 p.m.
June 19: Family Entertainment Series: Forgotten Friends Reptile Sanctuary, 10:30 a.m.
June 20: Colorful Kids Cooking Class, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
June 24: Paint Party, 3-4 p.m.
June 25: Ready for Kindergarten, 10:15-11:45 a.m.
June 25: PennWriters Writing Group, 6- 9 p.m.
June 25: Make Your Own Puppets, 3-4 p.m.
June 26: Make Your Own Stickers & Buttons, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
June 27: PlayDoh Palooza, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
June 28: Crafty Crafters Club, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 30: Messy Art Monday, 10:30-11 a.m.

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

June 18: Mosaic Whale Class, 6-8 p.m.

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

June 1, 4, 5, 7, 8: Oasis in Space, 2-3 p.m.
June 1, 5, 8: Constellations, 3-3:30 p.m.
June 1, 5, 8: Passport to the Universe, 2-2:30 p.m.
June 5-8: Who Am I? 11 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
June 5-7: Seasons, 12-12:30 p.m.
June 7, 8: Who Am I? 1-1:30 p.m.
June 8: Exhibit Opening: Art of the State, 2-4:30 p.m.
June 11: Polymers: Making Slime, 11:30 a.m.
June 12: Native Flowers of Pennsylvania, 11:30 a.m.
June 13: Curiosity Kids—Wild Canines of PA, 11-11:30 a.m.
June 13: StarWatch Program—Fireflies and Lightning Bugs, 12:15-12:45 p.m.
June 18: Moses Williams Silhouettes, 11:30 a.m.
June 19: Museum Closure, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
June 20: Home Improvements, 11:30 a.m.
June 21: Storytime, 10:30-11 a.m.
June 25: Baseball History in PA, 11:30 a.m.
June 25-28: Earth, Moon & Sun, 11-11:30 a.m.
June 25-28: Stars, 1-1:30 p.m.
June 26: Leaf Printing, 11-11:30 a.m.
June 26-28: Violent Universe, 2-2:30 p.m.
June 27: Curiosity Kids: Spices, 11-11:30 a.m.
June 28: Violent Universe, 1-1:30 p.m.
June 29: Earth, Moon & Sun, 1-1:30 p.m.
June 29: Violent Universe, 2-2:30 p.m.

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

June 4, 11, 18, 25: Wednesday Night Workout Paddles, 6-8 p.m.
June 7, 8, 14, 15: Birding Float, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
June 11: Full Moon Float on the Susquehanna, 7-10 p.m.
June 13: Conodoguinet Creek Float, 12:30-3:30 p.m.
June 27: Brewery Float, 1:30-4:30 p.m.

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

June 4: Throw-a-Thon for Soup and a Bowl, a Benefit for Manna Food Pantry, 4-8 p.m.
June 13: Clay Faerie House Smokers, 6-8 p.m.
June 17: Mosaic Sun Catchers, 6-8 p.m.
June 21: Clay Butterfly Puddlers, 11 a.m.- 12:30 p.m.
June 24: Mosaic Blue Whales, 6-8 p.m.
June 27: Dirty Date Night on the Wheel, 7-9 p.m.

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

June 4, 11, 18, 25: Wednesday Wellness Walks, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
June 5: Bird Walk—Nesting Birds, 7:30-9:30 a.m.
June 14: Volunteer Work Day, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
June 21: Dragonfly Walk, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 22: Flower Walk—Peaks of Blooming, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
June 22: Sign Design Workshop, 1-3:30 p.m.
June 28: June Hike, 8-10 a.m.
June 28: Creature Feature: Bears (ages 4-8), 10-11 a.m.

Live Music

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

June 1: Twitty & Lynn
June 7: Daniel O’Donnell
June 11: Band of Horses
June 14: Invincible—A Glorious Tribute to Michael Jackson
June 20: Happy Together Tour 2025
June 21: The Screwtape Letters
June 22: Take Me Home—The Music of John Denver
June 23: Wynonna Judd
June 29: Diana Krall

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

June 5, 12, 19, 26: Open Mic Night
June 20: Joint Operation, Yutzi
June 21: Minka, Red Meat Conspiracy, Ralphreal and the Family Jam
June 27: “Love Unleashed” Pride Party Fundraiser for LGBT Center with Babel Map, Suzi Brown, Natalie Ness, DJ DaBooBoo

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

June 6: Jazz in the City – Percussion Blowout
June 28: The Bacon Brothers

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

June 4, 12: Chris Emkey
June 6, 20, 28: Roy Lefever
June 7, 14: Anthony Haubert
June 11, 25: Tristin Lynee
June 18, 26: Andrea Britton

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

June 26: The Best of Bon Jovi & Journey

Central PA Friends of Jazz
www.friendsofjazz.org

June 13: Rodney Whitaker

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

June 13: Rhett Miller

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

June 5: Summer Concert on the Lawn—The Maxwell Project
June 23: Summer Concert on the Lawn—West Shore Symphony Orchestra

Greater Harrisburg Concert Band
717-576-758; ghcb.org

June 29: Concert at Hampden Township Park, Mechanicsburg

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

June 5-8: The Seeker—A Dolly Parton Tribute Concert
June 20-21: Forever Everly—The Everly Brothers Rockumentary

Gretna Music
gretnamusic.org

June 8: Miguel Zenón & Luis Perdomo
June 15, 22: First Listen—free performance by talented youth
June 15, 21, 22: Telegraph Quartet
June 28: Allen Krantz

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

June 7: Insane Poetry
June 13: Borderline, Burden of Guilt, And Also Bye, Corey James
June 22: Blacktop Mojo
June 27: Ruiness

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

June 6: Sought Out City
June 7: Night Fever
June 13: Smooth Like Clyde
June 14: Dave Bray USA
June 20: Breck
June 21: Colt Wilbur Band
June 27: Katz 22
June 28: Cazhmiere

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

June 13: Matthew Dodd Stories & Songs
June 20: Mr. Music—Lenny Tepsich

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

June 1: Concert at Peace Church, Camp Hill
June 21: Concert at Essex House, Lemoyne

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

June 30: U.S. Army Field Band

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

June 7: Suzanne Vega

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

June 7: Philadelphia Freedom
June 28: Fleetwood Macked

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

June 20: Julie Moffitt

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

June 6: Jon & David Robinson

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

June 8: Open Mic Night
June 19: John Doyle & Michael McGoldrick

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

June 6: Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears, Kelly Bell Band Trio, Alex Lee Warner
June 12: Lords Of Acid, Little Miss Nasty, Lucia Cifarelli from KMFDM
June 13: Almost Queen—Tribute to Queen
June 14: The Band Who Sold The World—Shea Quinn’s Celebration of David Bowie
June 19: Shwayze, JARV
June 20: Savannah Dexter, Gator
June 21: Tophouse, Kindred Valley
June 28: Crack—A Tribute to Creed & Nickelback

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

June 6: Acts of Welcome—CWS Lancaster Benefit Concert

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

June 1: Voices of the Valley Presents “My Favorite Things”
June 5: Johnny Folson 4—Tribute to Johnny Cash

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

June 27: Killer Queen—A Tribute to Queen

The Stage Door

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

June 21: “C.S. Lewis—The Screwtape Letters”

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

June 28: Summer Night Laughs Stand Up Comedy Series

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

June 7, 8: Dance It Forward— “Unwritten”

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

June 13-22: “School of Rock”

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

June 1-21: “We Will Rock You”
June 27-Aug. 9: “The Wizard of Oz”

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

June 6: Zane Lamprey

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

June 10: Andrew’s Big Show!, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

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

June 1-14: Shakespeare in the Park—“Love’s Labour’s Lost”

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

June 26-29: “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare Abridged (Revised) (Revised Again)”

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

June 6, 7: Jon Reep

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

June 14: Free Kid Friendly Mixer
June 21: Kidprov Class Show

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

June 1-8: “Mary Poppins”

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

June 6: Silly Goose and Val
June 12: Ridiculous Nicholas

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 1-8: “The Great American Trailer Park Musical”
June 23, 24: “Broadway Bound”

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

June 1-19: “The Colored Museum”
June 26: EFF Live!

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

June 20-29: “The Da Vinci Code”

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

June 6: Oxymorons Improv Comedy

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

Musical Notes: June Jams

May 29, 2025 | by Skye Leppo

In April, I had the opportunity to join a few creative minds in the Harrisburg music scene as an extra in a music video for local R&B/neo-soul musician Kita P’s single, “Friends (Over & Over).” Her soulful voice and dreamy melodies are beautiful, and she’s got a real talent for creating soundscapes that will transport listeners to a moment of peace. Kita P’s next album should be dropping sometime this summer, so keep an eye out for more from this sensational Harrisburg talent.

SHOW OF THE YEAR?

6/8, Mannequin Pussy, XL Live

I do not say this lightly: Mannequin Pussy is one of the greatest living rock bands of our time. Between the band’s growth sonically and frontperson Missy Dabice’s command of the stage, Mannequin Pussy could teach a masterclass in transforming a room into both an arena and a sweaty basement show. A group of Philadelphia’s punk mainstays, Dabice, Kaleen Reading, Bear Regisford and Maxine Steen have enjoyed a meteoric rise that has been so fun to watch and hear over the last five years. The band really came into its own with the release of “Perfect” in 2021 and last year’s “I Got Heaven,” which was my top-ranked album of 2024. I’ll see you in the pit.

CAN’T MISS

6/16, Kendrick Lamar & SZA, Hersheypark Stadium

Who’s ready for Mustarrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrd?! K. Dot & SZA are bringing their incredible double-headlining “Grand National Tour” to the stage at Hersheypark Stadium in June, and I for one am super excited for this show after watching Kendrick’s explosive halftime show during Super Bowl LIX. Based on videos and photos from the tour’s Philly performance in May, concertgoers are sure to have the best time hearing hits like, “squabble up,” “Not Like Us,” “All the Stars” and “Kill Bill.” Ticketmaster is still showing tickets available for this show at the time of print, so good luck securing your spot if you decide to go!

PROM ROCK

6/20, Le Ghast, Strawberry Square Music Series

Local synth/indie project Le Ghast is such a treat to watch live. I’ve had the pleasure of catching them several times at the West Shore Theatre and working with them during last year’s New Cumberland Music + Film Festival. Steph Werner, Michael Stipe and Jordan Zabady work so well together, finding new and interesting ways to interpret beloved songs into funky and ethereal covers alike with beatboxing and synth touches on songs like “Jolene” and “Short Change Hero,” while also creating something completely unique on songs like “Anemone,” “How It Ends” and “Drive.” Check out the band’s 2024 release “Dead of Summer” for a taste. This show is free.

If your venue or friends have a show coming up that should be on our radar, drop me a line at [email protected].

HONORABLE MENTIONS

6/7, Avril Lavigne, Hersheypark Stadium

6/13, Rodney Whitaker, Messiah University Parmer Hall, CPFJ

6/13, Borderline, Burden of Guilt, And Also Bye, Corey James, H*MAC

6/21, Tophouse with Kindred Valley, XL Live

6/21, Minka & The Red Meat Conspiracy, The Abbey Bar

6/27, Ruiness, H*MAC

6/27, Love Unleashed! Pride Show feat. Babel Map, Suzi Brown, Natalie Ness, The Abbey Bar

6/27, Killer Queen, Whitaker Center

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

Community Corner: Notable June events

May 29, 2025 | by Missy Smith

Community Corner

Tour de Belt
June 1: Capital Area Greenbelt Association presents the 25th annual Tour de Belt bike ride, beginning at 8 a.m. at HACC, Harrisburg. Participants will follow the 20-mile Greenbelt trail. Proceeds support the restoration and maintenance of the Greenbelt. www.CAGA.org

Free Shakespeare
June 1-14: Gamut Theatre presents the 32nd annual “Free Shakespeare in the Park” with “Love’s Labour’s Lost.” The production runs from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. in Reservoir Park, Harrisburg. Admission is free, but donations are accepted. www.gamuttheatre.org

Peace Out(doors)
June 1, 8, 22, 29: The Intertwined Faith community will hold a time of centering, prayer and fellowship on Sundays at 5 p.m. on City Island, near the train station. www.intertwinedfc.org

Scavenger Hunt
June 1-30: Kids are invited to New Cumberland Public Library, 1 Benjamin Plaza, to search for colorful items around the library. Find all the scavenger hunt items around the Children’s Room and win a fun prize. www.newcumberlandlibrary.org

Pasa Fundraiser
June 4: Enjoy a rooftop evening at The Millworks, 340 Verbeke St., Harrisburg, supporting Pasa Sustainable Agriculture, which supports sustainable farms, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Half of sales will be donated to Pasa. www.themillworksharrisburg.com

Autoharp Gathering
June 4-8: 32nd Mountain Laurel Autoharp Gathering will take place at Shippensburg University with five days of workshops, concerts and jam sessions for autoharp players of all levels. The best autoharp players compete at the championship on June 7 at 7:30 pm. www.mlag.store

Wellness Walks
June 4, 11, 18, 25: Participate in free, moderately paced wellness walks around Wildwood Lake, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Walkers can customize the length of their walk. Comfortable shoes and water are recommended. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Bird Walk
June 5: A free bird walk focused on nesting birds will be held at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. Pre-registration is required as space is limited. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Calm the Mind
June 5, 12, 26: Practice short, easy 15-minute calming meditations on Thursdays from 12 to 12:30 p.m., at Fredricksen Library, 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill. The meditations are suitable for people of any background or religion. www.fredricksenlibrary.org

Sunset Series
June 6, 13, 20, 27: Dauphin County Parks and Recreation hosts an outdoor Sunset Music and Movie Series at Fort Hunter Park, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg. Bring a picnic or grab refreshments from the concession stand. www.forthunter.org

Church Block Party
June 7: Bethel AME Church will host a community Block Party from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 5th and Kelker streets, Harrisburg. Event includes a healthy living workshop, flea market vendors, children’s games and food vendors. Admission is free and open to the public. [email protected]

Harrisburg Hoopla
June 7: Seventh annual Harrisburg Hoopla will take place at Skyline Sports Beach Volleyball Courts, City Island, Harrisburg, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Teams will compete in physical and puzzle games to donate proceeds to local nonprofits. www.tfec.org

HBG Flea
June 7: Explore the HBG Flea for local art, vintage treasures, curated curios and unique gifts, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Midtown Cinema, 250 Reily St., Harrisburg. The mission of the HBG Flea is to create a platform for community growth by bringing artists, small businesses and patrons together. www.hbgflea.com

Barnyard Jazz
June 7: Hershey History Center features “Jazz at the Barnyard” outdoor summer concert series at Hershey History Center, 40 Northeast Dr., Hershey, each first Friday from June to September, 7 to 9 p.m. On June 7, enjoy a performance by the Little Brother Band. www.hersheyhistory.org

Community Flea
June 7: Pick up a unique treasure at the Community Flea Market, Christ Church UCC, 250 S. White Oak St., Annville, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Browse a variety of used household items, crafts and other items for sale by different vendors. Email [email protected].

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

Vocal Concert
June 8: Music at Messiah Lutheran Church presents “Phases of Love,” featuring mezzo-soprano Amy Yovanovich and tenor Christyan Seay at Messiah Lutheran Church, 901 N. 6th St., Harrisburg, 3 p.m. Admission is $30; children and students are free. www.messiahhbg.org

Chorale Auditions
June 9, 16: Experienced singers are invited to audition for the Susquehanna Chorale’s 2025-26 season from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 212 Cocoa Ave., Hershey. Auditionees should prepare two pieces and demonstrate sight-singing ability. Appointments required. www.susquehannachorale.org

Family CPR Class
June 12: West Shore Regional Police Department and Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center will offer a free CPR class at the police department, 510 Herman Ave., Lemoyne, 5 to 8 p.m. The class will teach CPR and AED skills. Registration required. www.news.pennstatehealth.org

Food Rally
June 12: Explore New Cumberland Food Truck & Restaurant Rally every second Thursday of the month, 5 to 8 p.m., to grab dinner from area food trucks or New Cumberland restaurants. Enjoy shopping and promotions at local businesses. www.newcumberlandpa.org

History Program
June 12: Attend a program, “The Story Behind the Story—Uncovering Secrets of the Past,” with historian Professor Robert P. Watson at 6 p.m. The event will take place at the Hershey History Center, 40 Northeast Dr., Hershey.www.hersheyhistory.org

Summer Concerts
June 12: Celebrate summer with free live music in Greenfield Park, Lancaster. Three concerts are scheduled on Thursdays from June through August. Twist on Taylor—A Tribute to Taylor Swift kicks off the first concert on June 12 at 7:30 p.m. Food trucks available. www.greenfieldlancaster.com

Gourd Fest
June 12-14: Pennsylvania Gourd Society hosts the 2025 PA Gourd Fest at the Lebanon Valley Expo Center and Fairgrounds, 80 Rocherty Rd. This year’s theme is “Mystical.” The event includes three days of classes by artists from across the country. www.pagourdsociety.org

Outfitters Float
June 13: Embark on a guided Conodoguinet Creek float with Susquehanna Outfitters from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. The paddling experience is perfect for beginners and families with children. www.susquehannaoutfitters.com

Watson Book Talk
June 13: Author Robert P. Watson will present his book, “Rebels at the Gates—The Confederacy’s Final Gamble and the Battle to Save Washington,” 6 to 7 p.m. at the National Civil War Museum, 1 Lincoln Circle, Harrisburg. Book signing will follow. www.nationalcivilwarmuseum.org

Annville Day
June 14: Friends of Old Annville present the 36th Historic Old Annville Day, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on streets adjacent to Lebanon Valley College, North College and East Sheridan avenues, Annville. Event features vendors, live music and a children’s scavenger hunt. www.fooa.org

Volunteer Day 
June 14: Get outside in nature at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, to help with park and habitat enhancement projects, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tools and work gloves provided, and refreshments available. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Arts Festival
June 14: Explore the world of flow arts at the Spinstock Flow Arts Festival in Coleman Memorial Park, Lebanon, 12 to 9 p.m. Participate in free workshops and kid-friendly activities, browse vendor marketplaces, grab food from food trucks and enjoy live DJ sets, flow art performances and a fire show finale. www.spinstock.org

Kreitner Book Talk
June 14: Author Richard Kreitner will discuss his book, “Fear No Pharaoh—American Jews, the Civil War, and the Fight to End Slavery,” 1 to 2 p.m. at the National Civil War Museum, 1 Lincoln Circle, Harrisburg. Book signing will follow. www.nationalcivilwarmuseum.org

Proudly PA
June 14: Proudly PA Festival at Fort Hunter Park, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg, will feature Pennsylvania-based bands, 1 to 8 p.m. Locally sourced food, wine, craft beer, spirits and craft items available for purchase. Tickets are $30 in advance and $40 at the door. www.dauphincounty.org

Army Birthday
June 14: Celebrate the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday with military traditions and exhibits at the U.S. Army Heritage and Education Center in Carlisle. The new exhibit, “This We’ll Defend,” opens at 3 p.m. Formal dinner begins at 6 p.m. www.armyheritage.org

Juneteenth Week
June 14-21: Juneteenth will be celebrated with a weeklong series of events in Harrisburg, organized by Juneteenth HBG and Young Professionals of Color-Greater Harrisburg. Events include a conference and keynote speech, social events, a concert and jubilee. www.ypoc-hbg.org

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

Wild Camps
June 16-Aug. 1: Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, offers a variety of summer day camps for children ages 4 to 14. Activities include nature exploration, animal identification, creek walks and wilderness skills. www.wildwoodlake.org

Brews & Pups
June 18: The Davis Dog Farm is partnering with Yah Brew in Hershey for a cool evening of brews and pups. Adoptable dogs will be at Yah Brew from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The event is open to the public.To celebrate the event, Yah Brew has created a special summer shandy. For each special brew sold during the event, $1 will be donated to The Davis Dog Farm. Founded in 2021, The Davis Dog Farm (DDF) is an all-breed dog rescue headquartered in Grantville that was created to provide a safe haven for dogs to find foster homes until they can find their forever homes. https://thedavisdogfarm.com

Jubilee Day
June 19: Downtown Mechanicsburg will host the 95th annual Jubilee Day, with more than 325 vendors with food, games, arts, crafts and retail products. The event, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., also includes carnival rides, a children’s area and live entertainment. www.mechanicsburgchamber.org

3rd in The Burg
June 20: Explore the best of Harrisburg during 3rd in the Burg, the monthly arts and culture event, where you can visit and enjoy galleries, restaurants and art spaces throughout downtown and Midtown, 6 to 9 p.m. www.thirdintheburg.org

Dragonfly Walk
June 21: Join Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., for a morning walk to view and learn about dragonflies along the Towpath Trail. Pre-registration required. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Nature & Art
June 21: Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art’s free annual celebration takes place 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at MYO Park in Millersburg. The Nature & Arts Festival includes live animal demonstrations, local food, artisans and bluebird box making. www.nedsmithcenter.org

Flower Walk
June 22: Enjoy a summer walk at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., to view fragrant water lilies, yarrow, white beardtongue, blue-eyed grass and common milkweed. Learn how these flowers were used by early settlers and Native Americans. www.explorewildwoodpark.org

Kids Workshop
June 26: The Bower, 1190 Bower Rd., Shermans Dale, hosts free children’s summer workshops that combine literature, nature walk, science and art. The June 26 workshop will focus on birds. Families can bring a picnic lunch. www.thegardenbower.com

Horror Convention
June 27-29: The Horror on Main convention takes place at Sheraton Harrisburg Hershey Hotel, 4650 Lindle Rd., Harrisburg. Attendees can meet actors, directors and other creators from the genre. Event includes Q&A sessions, panels, vendors, contests and games. www.horroronmain.com

Musical Havdalah
June 28: Welcome the new week with a musical Havdalah at Beth El Temple, 2637 N. Front St., Harrisburg. Guitarist Josh Krevsky will perform outdoors, starting at 7:30 p.m. RSVP by 2 p.m. on June 27 to [email protected]. www.bethelhbg.org.

Mansion Concert
June 28: Manor on Front, 2917 N. Front St., Harrisburg, will host a Mansion Concert with Jay Nash at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. Admission is a $35 recommended donation, and guests are asked to register online. Seating is limited. www.mansionconcert.com

Me2/Music
June 29: Jewish Family Service hosts Me2/Music, an orchestra for people living with mental illness, at Rose Lehrman Arts Center, 1 HACC Dr., Harrisburg, at 12 p.m. The event includes performances, documentary clips and a Q&A with conductor Ronald Braunstein and the musicians. www.jfsharrisburg.org

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A Guide to Biosimilars: What you need to know

May 29, 2025 | by Capital Blue Cross

It’s no secret that prescription drugs can take a toll on your wallet. One classification of medication in particular—biologics—has had an oversized impact on the rising cost of prescription drugs.

Biologics make up only 2% of prescriptions in the U.S. but account for 37% of net drug spending, according to a report in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). The good news: With patents on many of the biologics developed in the 1990s and early 2000s starting to expire, the U.S. saw a record number of biosimilars introduced in 2024 as a lower-cost alternative.

For patients, using biologics to treat immune diseases, inflammatory conditions, cancer or diabetes, switching to a biosimilar may be worth exploring with your doctor. But it is important to understand how biosimilars work and why they are different than “generic” drugs.

How Biosimilars Are Different from Biologics

Biosimilars are similar but not identical to its original biologic. Both biologics and biosimilars are manufactured from complex living cells, which set them apart from other types of medications that are made using simple chemicals.

Like their biologic counterparts, biosimilars need to go through clinical trials and be approved by the FDA before becoming available in the U.S. In clinical trials, biosimilars are compared to their original biologic and need to demonstrate that they:

Are made from the same source.
Have the same dose and strength.
Are given to patients in the same way (for example, by mouth).
Have the same benefits in treating a disease.
Have the same possible side effects.

How Biosimilars Are Different from Generics

Biosimilars are meant to be an alternative option to an original biologic and are required by the FDA to show the same effectiveness and side effects. While that sounds like a generic drug, there are important differences.

Not all biosimilars can be substituted by a pharmacist like generics can, because not all biosimilar manufacturers undergo the time-consuming process that is required by the FDA to gain what’s called “interchangeable” status. In fact, only 13 of the 71 biosimilars on the market (as of early 2025) have gained the FDA’s “interchangeable” designation.

How Biosimilars Work

Biologics and biosimilars target certain cells in your immune system, while more traditional drugs activate the entire immune system. For this reason, some biologics and biosimilars produce less predictable results and effectiveness may change over time.

Surveys from doctors show that the medical community continues to have concerns about the disruption that being forced to switch to a certain biosimilar may have on certain patients.

For that reason, Capital Blue Cross updated its drug formularies in 2025 to include both biosimilars and their biologic counterpart. For example, Capital is offering Humira (an original biologic) and four biosimilars to treat inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn’s disease.

“This approach gives our members the flexibility to work with their providers to determine the best treatment options for them,” said Jamie Mazzocco, Director of Pharmacy Trade and Pricing at Capital Blue Cross. “We will continue to evaluate the best approach and adjust when we feel that it can provide maximum value and minimal disruption for our members.”

For a list of FDA-approved biosimilars, visit www.fda.gov/drugs/biosimilars/biosimilar-product-information. For more information on Capital Blue Cross, visit www.capitalbluecross.com.

This story is sponsored content.

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TheBurg Pride Guide 2025

May 29, 2025 | by Admin

Happy Pride, Central PA!

Thank you to our incredible Sponsors!

Official Sponsor: Riverside Pet Club & Resort

Harrisburg

6/1: Eric’s Old School Revival

6/4: Pride Night with the Senators Baseball

6/7: – Once Upon A Rainbow Story Time

6/14: – Reading the Rainbow Book Club

6/12: Pride Night Dinner at Sammy’s Restaurant

6/20: 3^rd in the Burg at The LGBT Center

6/19: Harrisburg’s Gayest Happy Hour

6/21: Dame Glenda Memorial Pride Show

6/24: Pride Night at Outback Steakhouse

6/27: Pride Ambassador Pageant

Hershey/Hummlestown

6/29: Pride in the Park

York

6/8: Golden Girls Musical Drag Brunch

6/13^: Pride Pop Off Party

6/14: York County Pride Celebration

6/14: Out Loud: A Queer Open Mic

Hershey/Hummlestown

June 29 – Pride in the Park

Lancaster

6/1: Queer Self Defense

6/2: Pride Flag Raise

6/7: Lititz Pride Festival

6/8: But I’m A Cheerleader at Zoetropolis Cinema

6/21: Pride Bar Crawl

6/28: Lancaster Pride Festival

Carlisle

6/14: Pride Month Proclamation, Big Gay Walk and Picnic

6/14: Drag Queen Family Story Time

6/15: Glitter and Grace: Worship in Full Color

6/17: Big Gay Pool Party

6/18: Outdoor Movie Night: Strange World

6/19: Happy Hour at Market Cross Pub

6/20: Drag Show

Sponsor: Central PA Pride

Dan Miller wins GOP nomination for Harrisburg mayor as write-in, weighs general election bid

May 28, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

Dan Miller (center) at his election night party at The Millworks on May 20.

The runner-up Democratic challenger for Harrisburg mayor in last week’s municipal primary election may run on the Republican ticket in November.

City Treasurer Dan Miller lost the Democratic nomination against incumbent Mayor Wanda Williams on May 20, but received enough write-in votes for the Republican nomination—which he says he will consider.

“Before making any decisions, I must assess community support for a fall campaign,” Miller said in a statement issued on Wednesday. “The election would be a runoff between the top two candidates. One candidate of the status quo, and my candidacy of change and progress. If sufficient support exists along with a reasonable winning strategy, my candidacy will continue. I will look to everyone for support.”

Miller, one of five mayoral candidates, won 1,642 votes in the primary, narrowly losing to Williams who won 1,725 votes. However, Miller also received more than the 100 votes as a Republican write in needed to secure that party’s nomination. No Republican candidate ran on the primary ballot.

“Thank you to all city Republicans who gave me their write-in vote. Although I am a long-time registered Democrat, I am now the qualified Republican nominee,” Miller said in his statement. “Considering both D and R city votes, this race is a dead heat. Even though 65% of Democrats voted for change, winning on the Republican ticket will be a difficult task. It will require a considerable amount of fundraising, volunteer effort, and increased professional strategy.”

Miller will eventually need to decide if he will accept the Republican nomination to have his name on the November municipal general election ballot.

In 2013, Miller likewise lost the mayoral primary, but captured the Republican nomination through write-in votes. In the November general election, he lost to the Democratic nominee, former Mayor Eric Papenfuse.

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Former Harrisburg judge sentenced to over a decade in prison for attempted murder

May 28, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

Dauphin County Courthouse

A former Harrisburg judge found guilty of attempted murder has been sentenced to over a decade in prison.

On Wednesday in the Dauphin County Courthouse, Sonya McKnight, 57, was sentenced to 13.5 to 30 years in jail for shooting her ex-boyfriend Michael McCoy in the head while he slept.

At the sentencing McKnight also resigned her position as a Magisterial District Judge in Harrisburg and was barred from serving in the future. McKnight had been suspended from her role since November 2023 based on misconduct allegations from the Judicial Conduct Board of Pennsylvania.

Out-of-county Judge Howard Knisley, of Lancaster County, imposed the prison sentence over a month after McKnight was declared guilty on one count of attempted first-degree murder and one count of aggravated assault by a jury. McKnight was originally arrested in February 2024 in relation to the shooting.

“It’s the sentence we were basically hoping for and asked for,” Cumberland County District Attorney Sean McCormack told TheBurg. McCormack’s office took on prosecution of the case, due to McKnight holding a position as judge in Dauphin County.

Before the judge’s decision, McCormack argued that McKnight has shown no remorse for her actions, has permanently disabled McCoy and has tried to direct blame towards others. He said that, during the pre-sentencing investigation, McKnight stated that she believed local officials were conspiring on a way to get her out of her judge seat.

Knisley, upon his sentencing, echoed several of McCormack’s statements.

“The defendant is totally without remorse for her actions,” he said. “These are the actions of a calculating individual.”

Just before that, McKnight herself spoke for the first time during the courtroom hearings, dressed in jail clothes and hands chained, and said that her “character stands firm.”

“I just want you to know who I am, who I truly am. There’s not two sides to me,” she said in response to a claim made by McCormack. “I have not a monstrous side at all.”

Several family members and friends also spoke on McKnight’s behalf, painting a picture of a teen mom who faced challenges in life, but rose to become a judge, woman of faith and respected, well-known member of the community.

“Sacrificing and serving was the theme of her life,” McKnight’s eldest son, who will act as her power of attorney, said. “At the end of the day, I couldn’t ask for a better mother.”

McKnight’s attorney, Cory Leshner, maintained that McKnight was innocent and said that “the appeal process will be ongoing.”

In the end, McKnight was sentenced according to the sentencing guidelines, not receiving a lower sentence within the mitigated range, despite her the statements from her family and friends. Knisley stated that he believed McKnight had a full understanding of her actions and the consequences, is intelligent and has a work history that shows her knowledge of the criminal justice system.

“This is an unbelievable and sad day for all involved,” Knisley said.

The 13.5-year sentence will serve as the minimum amount of time that McKnight will be in prison before she is eligible for parole. Thirty years is the maximum amount of time she can serve. The time McKnight has already spent in prison will count toward her total sentence.

McKnight cried, hugging family and friends following the sentencing.

McCoy attended the hearing, but chose not to speak, leaving it to a few friends and family members to share how the shooting has impacted his life.

“Mike didn’t deserve this,” one woman shared.

McCoy underwent several surgeries following the shooting and remains legally blind in one eye as a result of his injuries.

“She betrayed the community that she served,” McCormack said during the hearing. “She can’t take back the absolute terror that she sent through Mike McCoy’s family.”

Throughout the early April trial, testimony by McCoy and the prosecution maintained that he did not shoot himself, despite insinuations by the defense that he may have. McCoy never said that McKnight shot him, but that he didn’t know because he was asleep when he was shot and blinded when he awoke. However, he did say that he and McKnight were the only ones in his house where he was shot.

In the end, the jury took less than two hours to deliberate and unanimously find McKnight guilty.

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Midtown apartment proposal gets zoning change; council makes appointments to water utility, law enforcement boards

May 27, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

Proposed apartment project site (file photo)

A project to construct a large apartment building in Midtown has faced several delays and setbacks, but took a step forward on Tuesday.

Harrisburg City Council approved a zoning change for a swath of land around 320 Reily St., 1511 N. 3rd St. and 329 Harris St., a necessary step before developers can move forward with a proposed 144-unit apartment building.

The zoning modification changes the land from institutional zoning to commercial neighborhood zoning.

The project, proposed by Harrisburg-based GreenWorks Development, originally received zoning variances and special exceptions in 2021, but a land development plan was never filed. Then in February 2024, GreenWorks received new zoning approval, but the Zoning Hearing Board excluded parking relief from the approval.

Currently, the proposed project site is occupied by parking and vacant lots. The area was long zoned institutional as HACC was slated to use the space as part of its Midtown campus in the early 2000s, but later abandoned the plan.

The proposed apartment building also would include first-floor commercial space and amenities for residents.

Also on Tuesday, council made several board appointments.

Council appointed Shea Zwerver, by a vote of 5-2, and Pierre MaCoy, by a vote of 4-3, to serve on the Capital Region Water board.

Several council members voted against the appointments, saying that they seemed qualified, but they wanted to give other community members a chance to volunteer for the board. They cited the fact that Zwerver currently works part-time for the city’s forestry program and that MaCoy sits on the Harrisburg Parking Authority board.

“I do believe that there should be more opportunity for other residents who have extensive backgrounds in the same field, in the same area, that would be assets to the board of directors of Capital Region Water, and offer some diversity within the board,” council President Danielle (Bowers) Hill said.

Zwerver will serve a term until 2027 and MaCoy will fill a seat until 2028. They will fill one vacant board seat and replace board member Nate Davidson, who resigned on Tuesday. Davidson (D-103) also serves as a member of Harrisburg’s state legislative delegation.

Council also appointed Leon Hueston Sr. and Amechie Walker Sr. to the city’s newly formed Citizen’s Law Enforcement Advisory Board.

In other business, council approved a professional services agreement with Batta Environmental Associates to provide environmental and geotechnical consultant services on the Hall Manor Aquatic Facility project. The project will use funds made available to the city under the federal American Rescue Plan Act to replace and upgrade the Hall Manor pool.

Finally, council approved a grant application to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All Grant Program for up to $5 million to make safety improvements along Division Street.

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Proposed pay-what-you-can restaurant concept for Midtown revived under new owner

May 27, 2025 | by Maddie Gittens

The future site of the Thrive restaurant, housing and resource center.

A Harrisburg housing organization plans to expand their mission to include another basic necessity—food.

Thrive Housing Services told TheBurg that they will open a pay-what-you-can restaurant in Midtown Harrisburg in hopes of addressing local food insecurity and giving youth a place to get work experience.

The nonprofit was gifted the building at 1120 and 1122 N. 3^rd St. in March from the former owners of Heartshine, which renovated the property and had also planned to open a pay-what-you-can restaurant, but did not. Thrive Executive Director Dee Allen said that Thrive paid Heartshine a sum of money to help them dissolve the company in exchange for the building. Allen said that the previous owners requested that Thrive stick with the restaurant concept.

Thrive currently provides housing for young adults experiencing homelessness and has opened and planned several new housing developments recently. This would be their first entrance into the food service world, but Allen believes the concept fits with their mission by filling hungry bellies and giving youth job training.

“It’s basically going to be a place where anybody can eat,” she said. “It will be an opportunity to serve the community.”

The building, which sits on two land parcels, will house the restaurant, as well as five apartments for young adults and a drop-in resource center for young people. The center will allow people to get mail, wash clothes and connect with agencies and assistance.

Allen also views the restaurant as a resource for Thrive’s clients, as it gives young people a place to work that will train them and help them build a resume, while being understanding of their life circumstances and struggles.

“A lot of kids don’t have the marketable things that people are looking for,” she said. “Now we are helping to accommodate them […] so they can successfully transition out of homelessness.”

Additionally, Allen believes that the unique restaurant model will help Thrive serve the community in a new way by providing hot meals and de-stigmatizing food insecurity. Patrons will be seated, given menus to order from and served like any other restaurant, regardless of their income level and ability to pay. Breadcoin, food voucher tokens, will be accepted.

However, she’s hopeful that community members of all economic statuses will come to dine.

According to Allen, the exterior of the building is in decent shape, but the interior of much of the structure is essentially “a shell.” Thrive will need to work to renovate the restaurant and apartment spaces.

She estimated that the restaurant may be ready to open in fall 2026.

Thrive has already received some grant funding, but is currently seeking additional grants and donations for the project.

To donate to Thrive’s project or for more information, visit their website.

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