Step-by-Step Guide to Navigating the Mortgage Application Process in Dauphin County

May 22, 2026 | by Admin

When taking out a mortgage, first-time borrowers need to familiarize themselves with the required documents and how to secure the best rate. Knowing where to begin can make the mortgage application process in Dauphin County easier to follow.

Find a Suitable Lender

Search for mortgage lenders that operate in the county. They tend to cater to specific types of borrowers, such as high-net-worth individuals, low-income earners, military veterans, medical practitioners and freelancers.

Finding a trustworthy lender that fits your needs is easier when your goals are clear and realistic. Identify the kind of house you can afford based on your credentials.

Get Prequalified

Go through general prequalification to receive a ballpark estimate of the loan amount you can borrow, based on self-reported data you share with a lender. While this figure does not guarantee approval, it can narrow down your housing options.

Start House Hunting

Review all active listings based on the amount you prequalify for. Consider hiring a real estate agent to represent you and handle all essential paperwork. This professional can communicate your offers to prospective sellers and explain the potential risks of any counteroffer you receive.

Apply for a Mortgage With Members 1st Federal Credit Union

Reach out to Members 1st to apply for a mortgage in Dauphin County. It accepts online mortgage applications to make the process seamless and convenient. The federal credit union provides seminars to teach interested borrowers about all things home loans.

Alternatively, you can speak with one of the credit union’s experts to select from its products, including first-time homebuyer programs, conventional fixed- and adjustable-rate loans and mortgages backed by the Federal Housing Association or the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Review the Loan Estimate

Check the details of the Loan Estimate, which the lender must provide within three business days from the date you submitted your name, income, Social Security number, the address of the house you want to buy, its estimated value and the amount you wish to borrow. This three-page document is your lender’s summary of potential loan terms and costs.

Express Desire to Move Forward

Decide whether you want to accept the Loan Estimate within 10 business days of the lender’s delivery or mailing it to you. Otherwise, the mortgage lender may revise the offer or close your application.

Wait for Approval

Submit any documents that the lender needs to verify all of the information you provided, and assess your risk level as a borrower. It can take up to 120 days to close on a house from the date the purchase agreement is signed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to common questions about mortgage rates.

What are the current mortgage rates in Dauphin County?

According to Freddie Mac’s Primary Mortgage Market Survey^®, the average mortgage rate for 30-year and 15-year fixed-rate loans by May 14, 2026, had been 6.36% and 5.71%, respectively. Lenders in Dauphin County may offer higher or lower rates, depending on prevailing market conditions.

Will interest rates drop to 3% again?

Mortgage rates are unlikely to drop to 3% in 2026 and in the foreseeable future. They were record lows during the pandemic to prevent economic collapse. It would take an event that paints a similarly bleak economic outlook for the Federal Reserve to cut the federal funds rate that much again.

Can you negotiate a mortgage rate?

Mortgage rates and other fees are negotiable, and lenders often have room to lower the overall cost of borrowing to earn your business. Excellent financial health and competition from other lenders are effective bargaining chips.

Take out a Home Loan That Suits Your Needs

The mortgage application process is more accessible once you understand the requirements and steps. Remember these steps to stay on track from the beginning and finance your dream home in Dauphin County.

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Harrisburg’s Favorite Spots for Cardio and Weight Workouts

May 21, 2026 | by Admin

Group of young people fit friends doing exercises in gym

Finding a gym that excels at both cardio and weight training offers a range of exercises that can enhance your well-being. Harrisburg offers several gyms designed to meet both needs, each with its own strengths in equipment quality, amenities and atmosphere.

1. 5 Bridges Health & Fitness

5 Bridges Health & Fitness stands out as the top choice if you’re seeking a balanced, results-driven fitness experience. This facility takes a holistic approach through its “5 Bridges” philosophy, which centers on Nutrition, Fitness, Recovery, Education and Community. It is one of the best gyms in Harrisburg, featuring the latest equipment to help you achieve measurable results.

The gym’s modern cardio machines make workouts more fun, including treadmills, ellipticals, stationary bikes and rowing machines. The weight training area has free weights, multiple squat racks and modern strength machines that cater to all experience levels. This combination of equipment quality, professional guidance and recovery options makes 5 Bridges an ideal choice for anyone committed to seeing real progress in both endurance and strength.

Key Features

Cardio Equipment: State-of-the-art machines with a variety of options to prevent workout boredom
Weight Training: Extensive selection of free weights, squat racks and modern strength machines
Amenities: The area’s best group fitness program, childcare services and hydromassage for recovery
Atmosphere: Clean, professional and results-oriented environment

2. Platinum Fitness

Platinum Fitness provides a high-quality, 24/7 fitness experience with a focus on personalized training and modern equipment. The gym is designed to accommodate various fitness levels and styles, including casual cardio and rigorous strength training.

You can try an extensive selection of state-of-the-art cardio and strength machines, a large free weights area and a training space with TRX bands, kettlebells and Rogue equipment. Platinum Fitness also offers a schedule of group fitness classes and certified personal training. These offerings are ideal if you want flexibility without sacrificing training options.

Key Features

Cardio Equipment: Modern cardio machines to support various workout routines
Weight Training: Extensive free weights, kettlebells, TRX and Rogue equipment
Amenities: 24/7 member access, group fitness classes and certified personal training
Atmosphere: Spacious, well-maintained and suitable for all fitness levels

3. Planet Fitness

Planet Fitness has built its brand around the “Judgment Free Zone” concept, creating a welcoming environment for beginners and casual exercisers. The facility excels in affordability and the availability of cardio equipment, making it accessible to people just starting their fitness journey.

You’ll find an enormous selection of treadmills, ellipticals and stationary bikes spread across the cardio floor. The weight-training area provides ample resistance machines, along with lighter free weights at some locations. The low monthly cost and beginner-friendly approach make Planet Fitness a solid option if you prefer a less intense gym environment.

Key Features

Cardio equipment: Extensive array of treadmills, ellipticals and bikes
Weight training: Good selection of resistance machines with some free weight options
Amenities: PF Black Card® membership adds access to tanning, massage chairs and other perks
Atmosphere: Casual, relaxed and nonintimidating for newcomers

4. Orangetheory Fitness

Orangetheory Fitness operates differently from traditional gyms by offering a data-driven, group class structure. Each 60-minute session combines cardio and strength training through high-intensity interval formats, with coaches guiding participants through every movement.

Workouts center around treadmills and water rowers for cardiovascular training, while floor exercises incorporate dumbbells and benches for full-body strength work. Heart rate monitors track your effort in real time, ensuring you stay in optimal training zones. Orangetheory works well if you prefer structured classes over self-directed workouts and thrive in group settings.

Key Features

Cardio focus: Treadmill and water rower intervals form the cardiovascular foundation
Weight training: Floor exercises with dumbbells and benches help build strength
Amenities: The Orangetheory app, changing lockers and some complimentary toiletries
Atmosphere: High-energy, community-driven and intensely motivating

5. Central Penn Fitness & Aquatics

Central Penn Fitness & Aquatics distinguishes itself through its aquatics facility and community-focused approach. The gym emphasizes a no-pressure sales philosophy and aims to help members look good, feel good and gain more energy. It functions as a comprehensive wellness center with a strong social network among members.

Standard cardio machines support general fitness goals, while the weight-training area includes equipment for the “Power Up” program and junior strength-training options. The welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere appeals to people who value a supportive social environment alongside their fitness routine.

Key Features

Cardio equipment: Range of standard machines for cardiovascular fitness
Weight training: Strength equipment, including specialized “Power Up” program options
Amenities: Workout equipment, pool and recovery room
Atmosphere: Friendly, clean and no-pressure environment

A Side-by-Side Look at Harrisburg’s Top Gyms

Comparing facilities helps you evaluate which gym best matches your priorities.

Gym	Cardio Quality	Weight Training	Cleanliness	Cost	Location Accessibility	Peak Hour Crowdedness
5 Bridges Health & Fitness	State-of-the-art variety	Extensive free weights, squat racks and modern machines	Professional and well-maintained	Midrange	Convenient	Moderate
Platinum Fitness	Modern machines	Extensive free-weight section and functional training area	Well-maintained	Midrange	Convenient	Spacious, but expect waits
Planet Fitness	Enormous selection	Resistance machines and lighter free weights	Clean	Budget-friendly	Widespread	Very crowded at peak times
Orangetheory Fitness	Treadmills and rowers (class-based)	Dumbbells and floor exercises (class-based)	Maintained	Premium pricing	Limited locations	Class-based, with reservations required
Central Penn Fitness & Aquatics	Standard machines	Good variety with specialized programs	Clean	Midrange	Single location	Moderate

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Harrisburg gyms can help narrow your search and identify the best fit for your needs.

What is the cost of a membership at the top gyms in Harrisburg?

Membership costs vary by facility and plan type. You should consider a gym’s comprehensive amenities, including certified trainers, recovery stations and childcare, to make a decision. Contact each facility directly for current rates and promotions.

Do any Harrisburg gyms offer a free trial pass?

Most Harrisburg gyms offer a trial pass or period, giving you a chance to experience the amenities and training approaches firsthand. Check with each facility about current trial offers, as these programs change seasonally.

Which gyms in Harrisburg have the newest equipment?

Several local gyms boast modern equipment. For example, 5 Bridges Health & Fitness prioritizes modern facilities and regularly updates both its cardio and strength equipment to maintain state-of-the-art standards. Orangetheory Fitness also stands out for its tech-integrated equipment, including heart rate monitoring systems and data tracking.

Find the Perfect Fit for Your Fitness Goals

The best gym depends entirely on your individual goals, budget and preferred workout style. Visit your top contenders and experience each facility firsthand before making your final decision. Your ideal fitness studio is waiting in the Harrisburg area.

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Grass Campus will soon be up for sale, as Jewish Federation begins recalibration

May 20, 2026 | by Alexandra Jones

alexander grass jewish federation of harrisburg

The Alexander Grass Campus for Jewish Life

The Alexander Grass Campus for Jewish Life will soon be up for sale.

The Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg is planning to list the 6.4-acre campus as early as June, according to Sam Levine, a member of the federation’s transition committee.

This move, in addition to others, will help the nonprofit avoid filing for bankruptcy, which is “the last thing” that the federation wants to do,” Levine said.

“We are working very hard to cover our obligations,” he said.

The federation appointed the transition committee last month to make “difficult” decisions as the organization moves away from the Grass campus, which it purchased in 2022 for $4.56 million. It announced at that time that the campus business model (housing Jewish agencies that were both part of the federation and independent of it) was unsustainable.

“The expenses were considerably higher than anticipated to run the campus,” Levine explained. “We also were depending on some donations, which unfortunately did not materialize.”

According to Levine, the federation has an outstanding mortgage of around $9 million for the campus, which includes the cost of substantial renovations made to the campus for the federation’s needs. The scope of work included outfitting the campus to house the Silver Academy and Early Learning Center, as well as a workout facility.

“Expenses far exceeded what was anticipated for the renovations,” Levine said. “We were given quotes, and it just turned out that some of the architectural plans that were initially drawn up weren’t accurate, which ended up costing a lot of money to correct…considerably higher than what was budgeted for.”

The expanded renovation budget is part of what caused the federation’s debt to grow larger than anticipated, he added. On top of the mortgage, the federation holds an additional $500,000 debt—money Levine said was used for renovations, maintenance and operating expenses.

He added that the need for security for the campus has surged in the last few years following the Oct. 7 attacks on Israel in 2023, ballooning operation costs further.

In addition to selling the campus, the federation is also looking to liquidate internal assets, such as gym and audio visual equipment, which could help pay off the deb, Levine said.

“We have not actively started to market those items. Our first order of business is to get the real estate on the market, and perhaps we’ll find a purchaser who would be interested in a lot of that equipment,” he said.

The Alexander Grass Campus for Jewish Life

The committee held a meeting on Sunday with the Jewish community to provide status updates on the federation’s move away from the campus and give more information on the organization’s financial situation. Levine said the community’s leaders expressed at the meeting that they are “extremely sorry this has happened.”

“A lot of things were out of our control. I think some were in our control that we could have possibly controlled better,” he said.

In terms of the organization’s future, Levine said the federation plans to relocate staff within one of the four synagogues it’s associated with in the Harrisburg area, rather than taking on a new space.

“Our eventual objective is to rebuild and reimagine the whole Jewish community center concept and try to reimagine some common space that we can have for the community,” Levine said.

But it will take time to rebuild both the organization’s structure and confidence among members, he acknowledged.

“It’s a very difficult time for our community, but we have a strong community, and fortunately our agencies remain strong, our synagogues remain strong, and those agencies and our synagogues will get us through this,” Levine said.

The Silver Academy will remain in operation on the Grass campus until the end of the school year thanks to a generous donor who stepped up to pay the utilities through that time.

Entities on the Grass campus included the Silver Academy (a Jewish school ranging from pre-K to 8th grade); the Early Learning Center (for kids 6 weeks to 5 years old); Jewish Family Services (a counseling center); and the Jewish Community Foundation (which manages endowments and donor advised funds for community members). Some entities have already found new spaces for operation.

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Riding in Remembrance: Event, bike display to honor cyclists tragically killed while riding

May 20, 2026 | by Rosena Campana

Ghost Bike display on Harrisburg Capitol Steps

Members of the community will gather tonight to pay their respects to bikers lost in the past year.

In honor of cyclists who have been tragically killed or suffered injuries while riding, the annual Ride of Silence bike ride will take place on May 20 at 7 p.m.

Additionally, 28 white “ghost bikes” have been placed on the state Capitol steps, each representing an individual who died while riding a bike in Pennsylvania in 2025. One red bike represents riders who were injured last year.

The Ride of Silence takes place nationwide, but was first introduced in Harrisburg 16 years ago by Recycle Bicycle founder Ross Willard, a longtime community advocate who passed away earlier this month.

Despite his passing, the event will go on, and organizers will wait to pay tribute to Willard until his memorial service in June.

“We know Ross, and he’d want nothing to take away from the victims. Not even his death,” said Diane Dankman-Riley, the event’s coordinator.

When asked how tonight’s ride will differ following Willard’s passing, Dankman-Riley said, “We anticipate more riders from outside the community joining us in remembrance of him.”

Ride of Silence participants will gather at 6:30 p.m. and leave at 7 p.m. from the Armed Forces Reserve Center on the 2900 block of Green Street. The group will then ride 2.5 miles in silence to the steps of the state Capitol. A second ride from the West Shore will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Camp Hill Borough Building and make its way to the Capitol.

After the ride, Pat Krebs, a co-founder of the Lebanon Valley Bicycle Coalition, is scheduled to speak at the Capitol event about Harry Fenton, a co-founder of the organization who was killed in 2025 by a hit-and-run driver.

Finally, the event is free for participants and it is recommended for riders to wear a red or black armband in remembrance.

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Songs Under the Stars: Ned Smith Center announces lineup for summer concert series

May 19, 2026 | by Rosena Campana

A past DeSoto Outdoor Concert Series. Photo courtesy of the Ned Smith Center.

Featuring classic hits to crowd favorites, the DeSoto Outdoor Concert Series will return to Millersburg for its 12th summer of live music.

Located at the Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art, families are invited to gather together on select Saturdays from May 23 through Aug. 29 to enjoy an atmosphere filled with community, connection and music.

All concerts take place beginning at 6 p.m., with performances scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m. unless stated otherwise. Make sure to bring your umbrellas just in case, because concerts are held rain or shine.

“This year’s lineup truly has something for everyone,” said Lara Maupin, executive director of the Ned Smith Center. “Whether you love classic rock, pop, funk, punk, or live theater, coming to a show at the DeSoto Amphitheater is a fun, unique, and affordable experience.”

2026 DeSoto Concert Series Lineup is listed below:

May 23 – Free Admission Pennsylvania Regional Ballet – Encore Spring Gala Performance
June 6 – Green River – The Ultimate Creedence Clearwater Revival Tribute Show
June 27 – Taylor’s Story – A Tribute to Taylor Swift
July 11 – Let’s Groove Tonight – Earth, Wind, & Fire Tribute Band
July 25 – Nimrod – A Tribute to Green Day
Aug. 7 – Free Admission Gamut Theatre’s Shakespeare in the Woods: Hamlet
Aug. 29 – Don Jovi – The Ultimate Bon Jovi Tribute

Ticket prices begin at $25 for presale members, $35 for presale non-members, and $40 if purchased at the door. If purchasing season passes, members can attend all concerts for a $110 flat rate, while non-members will pay $155.

Additionally, the art galleries at the center are free of charge to explore before each performance.

“There’s nothing quite like enjoying live music outdoors surrounded by nature, friends, family, and our incredible community,” Maupin said.

Visit The Ned Smith Center’s website to purchase tickets or learn more about the 2026 DeSoto Concert Series.

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Harrisburg celebrates renovated parks; officials give updates on others, noting more funds needed

May 19, 2026 | by Maddie Gittens

Harrisburg Mayor Wanda Williams, along with students of the Nativity School, cut the ribbon on Gorgas Park.

Local students enjoyed a picnic lunch and played at the newly renovated Gorgas Park in Uptown Harrisburg on Tuesday.

At the same time, Mayor Wanda Williams and city officials ceremonially cut the ribbon on the park, one of several parks in a multimillion-dollar project to upgrade outdoor play spaces for local youth.

“Today is an exciting day for the city of Harrisburg because we are not simply reopening a park, we are reopening a gathering place for families, for children and especially for this Uptown neighborhood,” Williams said.

Gorgas Park is now open to the public and boasts new playground equipment, a large pavilion with picnic tables, grills and fitness equipment. The adjacent 7^th & Radnor Sports Field across the street is nearing completion and includes a new sports field, basketball courts, a picnic area, bathrooms, a concession stand and more. The field portion will be open in the coming weeks once the grass has grown more, explained Parks and Recreation Manager Kevin Sanders.

These two parks, along with Wilson park, located off Rumson Drive, and Reservoir Park in Allison Hill, were part of a $13 million grant-funded initiative. Renovations across parks included updated equipment, lighting, restrooms, walkways and more.

In October 2022, the city was awarded a $13 million reimbursement grant for COVID relief by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) for improvements at the parks. Harrisburg began construction on Gorgas, 7^th & Radnor and Wilson parks about a year ago and on Reservoir late last year. Since the grant was awarded, Harrisburg has requested and received four extensions for the grant, which expired at the beginning of March. According to the state, Harrisburg could submit invoices for reimbursement until the end of April.

Out of the $13 million, the city was reimbursed for nearly $10.2 million, according to DCED’s press secretary. Because they did not submit additional invoices in time, the city will not get the remaining about $2.8 million of the grant.

Sanders and Deputy Director of Parks and Rec Sasha Ross said that the harsh winter weather, unforeseen construction snafus and complicated planning process contributed to the delay, but mainly attributed delays to the large scope of the project and “aggressive” project timeline.

The project budget has also exceeded the initial $13 million budget, Sanders said.

While three of the parks are open or close to being open, Reservoir has proven challenging, Sanders and Ross said. The project includes creating a splash pad/spray park with water features and renovating the pavilion and bathrooms. Ross said the splash pad construction has been challenging and crews have faced unforeseen structural issues with the pavilion construction that has put the project on hold at Reservoir. With that in mind, Ross did not offer an estimated completion date.

Work that has been completed already has been paid for by the $10.2 million in received grant money. Anything spent over that amount will need to come from another source.

Gorgas Park

According to city Business Administrator Antonio Megna, the city is still considering options to cover the extra costs. The city may apply for additional grants, or may need to use city funds, he said, noting that the parks were a “priority.”

Despite the challenges and financial decisions that will need to be made, city officials were excited for what had been accomplished this far.

“It feels so good. I’m so excited to see all the kids here,” Ross said.

The parks included in the renovations were identified by the parks and rec team as the highest need, and planning was informed by community surveys.

Ross highlighted the city’s free summer camp programming that will take place across several Harrisburg parks in the coming weeks. Both Gorgas and Wilson parks will serve as summer camp locations. She is expecting even more youth to attend this year, she said.

Williams highlighted the dual role of city parks as offering a “safer place for the city kids to play and have fun.”

“I know what it means for children to have a safe place to run, to laugh, play ball, ride bikes and simply, just be kids,” she said.

For more information, visit Harrisburg’s Parks and Recreation Department’s website.

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Batter Up: PA’s best high school baseball players to show off skills in Harrisburg game

May 19, 2026 | by Rosena Campana

Pennsylvania and Maryland’s best high school baseball players are preparing to face off in the Big 26 Baseball Classic, which will bring sports fanatics to Harrisburg from across the state.

From July 30 through Aug. 2, hundreds of players, coaches, scouts and fans will pack Harrisburg’s FNB Field for one of the summer’s biggest baseball showcases.

Spring tryouts were conducted at locations across Pennsylvania and Maryland and were open to all incoming juniors and seniors in the classes of 2027 and 2028. Nearly 100 individuals tried out, but only 26 players made the Pennsylvania team.

With the teams lodging, dining, and traveling together over the course of four days, the competition will be similar to the typical minor league baseball series, according to event organizers.

“The Big 26 Classic was one of my highlights of my summer,” said Big 26 alum Ryland Yinger (Northern York High School Class of 2025), who will be joining East Stroudsburg University’s DII baseball team in the fall. “It felt like a big-league experience…if you are considering doing it I would 100% tell you to do it.”

Aside from the competition, each player will partake in the Buddy Program, where they will be involved in playing baseball games with special needs individuals ranging from 5 to 21 years old. The Buddy Game is scheduled on Thursday evening, while Pennsylvania and Maryland go head-to-head on Friday night, Saturday afternoon and Sunday afternoon.

Pennsylvania’s Big26 Baseball Roster is as follows:

Trey Brennan, North Penn 2027, outfield
Ryan Bukowski, Council Rock North 2027, outfield
Luke Caron, Upper Dublin 2028, pitcher
Avery Chenoweth, Kennard-Dale 2027, 1st base
Calvin Collier, Mechanicsburg 2028, infield
Mason Eagland, Plymouth Whitemarsh 2027, outfield
Grant Enders, Cedar Cliff 2027, catcher
Jaxton Henry, Brandywine Heights 2028, infield
Salinger Kehs-Rossi, Schuylkill Valley 2027, infield
Tim Lengle, Wilson 2027, outfield
Ryan Marmolejos, Wilson 2027, infield
Cameron McClair, Columbia 2027, pitcher
Bud Murphy, North Penn 2027, catcher
Gavin Myers, Trinity 2027, catcher
Colin Roeser, Perkiomen Valley 2027, pitcher
Zack Ruple, Council Rock North 2028, infield
Grayson Sabo, Upper Perkiomen 2027, pitcher
Blake Secrest, Cedar Cliff 2027, pitcher/outfield
Giovanni Sisti, Kennard-Dale 2027, infield
Bradyn Sober, Carlisle 2027, outfield
Brody Stump, Plymouth Whitemarsh 2027, 1st base
Landon Trout, Pottsville 2028, pitcher/outfield
Rylan Ulrich, Lower Dauphin 2027, pitcher/infield
Carter Wagaman, New Oxford 2027, pitcher
Matt Woram, Exeter 2027, outfield
Landon Zaring, Newport 2027, pitcher

To learn more about the event, follow @Big26Baseball on social media platforms or visit their website at www.big26.com.

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Tri-County Housing celebrates completion of Uptown affordable housing project

May 18, 2026 | by Alexandra Jones

Gary Lenker, executive director of Tri-County Housing in front of the Uptown project

Harrisburg is celebrating the addition of five new affordable housing units Uptown.

The nonprofit developer Tri-County Housing joined state, city and county representatives to cut the ribbon on five new affordable townhouses along the 2100 block of N. 4th Street Monday.

Gary Lenker, executive director of Tri-County Housing, the owner/developer of the project, thanked Mayor Wanda Williams for encouraging his organization to pursue affordable housing projects in Uptown.

“This is our living proof we have delivered,” he said, of Tri-County’s first city project outside of South Allison Hill.

The townhomes were built on vacant lots acquired from the Harrisburg Redevelopment Authority. Each has three bedrooms and one-and-a-half bathrooms. They will be sold to eligible low- to moderate-income homeowners, giving veterans a preference.

Williams spoke to the importance of such projects at the event.

“What we are celebrating may look like five town homes, but for five families, this represents something much greater,” she said. “It represents stability, dignity, and the opportunity to build a future here in the city of Harrisburg.”

Mayor Wanda Williams

Williams emphasized that housing remains one of her top priorities as mayor because she believes safe and affordable homeownership changes lives.

“It strengthens families, it stabilizes neighborhoods, and creates long-term investment in our communities,” Williams said.

The Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) Pittsburgh AHP Program provided a $750,000 grant for the project, which also received $400,000 in Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement funds from the PA Housing Finance Agency.

The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development provided funds from the Neighborhood Assistance Program and a Keystone Communities Program Grant.

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The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

May 15, 2026 | by TheBurg Staff

Jameson Christopher and Sachiko Baez in front of the future location of Slice.

It’s shaping up to be a beautiful evening for 3rd in the Burg—the sun’s finally come out after a long, cloudy week!

We hope you’ll take the opportunity to visit Harrisburg’s small businesses tonight—there’s a lot of crafty spring happenings going on. JB Lovedrafts is hosting a crafty paint and craft happy hour downtown, Sprocket Mural Works is offering Midtown mural tours, and the Susquehanna Art Museum, which just stocked up on a fresh stack of TheBurg’s May magazines, is offering FREE admission.

Check out TheBurg’s weekly news haul below:

Artsfest will take place in a week, over Memorial Day weekend, with vendors, food, music and more, city officials shared at a press conference Friday.

City Council approved $3.2 million in change orders for the brick building rebuild after city officials explained unforeseen costs have brought the total project cost from $20.8 million to $23.7 million.

Civic Club of Harrisburg will host local artists in its riverfront building during Artsfest over Memorial Day weekend.

Coda Rouge’s owners have announced they plan to open an “upscale” sports bar in a spot on N. 6th Street that last housed Crawdaddy’s restaurant.

Harrisburg School Board tapped a new principal for its flagship middle school campus, Camp Curtin, on Tuesday. Ryan Jones, currently principal at Marshall Math and Science Academy, will start the role in July.

PA Greek Fest returns at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral this weekend for its 54th year of food, music, and more.

Pride of the Susquehanna returned to the water for 2026 this week, following a two-year hiatus.

Recycle Bicycle founder Ross Willard, one of Harrisburg’s most dedicated and charismatic public advocates, passed away this past weekend. We honored the committed bike riding and bike safety advocate with a written tribute.

Shepherd’s Driver Consulting, the first Black-owned driving school in central Pennsylvania, is a father-son success story.

The Pretzel Company began in downtown York as a small bakery and has risen to national prominence.

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Art vendors to again flood Harrisburg’s Riverfront for Memorial Day weekend

May 15, 2026 | by Maddie Gittens

Artsfest 2025

One of the most anticipated festivals of the year is set to return to Harrisburg, according to Mayor Wanda Williams.

Artsfest will take place this Memorial Day weekend, with vendors, food, music and more, Williams and city officials shared at a press conference Friday.

“For 58 years, this event has brought life, color, music and creativity to our riverfront, and each year, it reminds us just how special this city truly is,” Williams said.

On May 23 to 25, over 170 juried artists will set up along Riverfront Park and N. Front Street, selling paintings, ceramics, furniture, jewelry, photography and more.

The event will also include live music and dance, with a special JazzFest stage and The Wednesday Club concert series.

Event attendees can experience art hands-on by participating in a mural painting with artist Katie Trainer. The mural, which will feature Harrisburg scenery, will be painted on parachute cloth and later hung in downtown Harrisburg.

Families can enjoy special KidsFest activities, including free face painting, balloon animals, DIY sidewalk chalk creations, crafts and more.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a riverfront festival without the food. There will be 25 food trucks on site offering cheesesteaks, dumplings, gyros, milkshakes and plenty of other options. Adults can also enjoy beverages in the beer and wine gardens.

The festival will run from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday.

Mayor Wanda Williams shared details of the 2026 Artsfest at a press conference in city hall.

“As mayor, I often speak about the importance of investing in community, supporting local business, and creating opportunities for residents and visitors to experience all that Harrisburg has to offer,” Williams said. “Artsfest has all of that in one incredible weekend.”

Front Street will be closed to traffic between Forster & Walnut Street from 9 a.m. on Friday, May 22, until 11:59 p.m. on Monday, May 25.

Downtown metered street parking is free on Sunday and Monday, for the holiday. Street parking on Saturday is free after 5 p.m. The River Street Garage will offer $5 parking on May 24 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. (must enter & exit within this time frame for discounted rate). Parking on City Island is $5, and the Market Square Garage will have $10 parking from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., courtesy of Park Harrisburg.

For more information about Artsfest, visit Harrisburg’s website.

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Apply for a Mortgage With Members 1st Federal Credit Union

Review the Loan Estimate

Express Desire to Move Forward

Wait for Approval

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the current mortgage rates in Dauphin County?

Will interest rates drop to 3% again?

Can you negotiate a mortgage rate?

Take out a Home Loan That Suits Your Needs

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1. 5 Bridges Health & Fitness

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2. Platinum Fitness

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3. Planet Fitness

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4. Orangetheory Fitness

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5. Central Penn Fitness & Aquatics

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A Side-by-Side Look at Harrisburg’s Top Gyms

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of a membership at the top gyms in Harrisburg?

Do any Harrisburg gyms offer a free trial pass?

Which gyms in Harrisburg have the newest equipment?

Find the Perfect Fit for Your Fitness Goals

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