Winter Wonderland Destinations in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, United States
1. City Island Beach Park Ice Rink
A seasonal ice rink located on City Island offering skate rentals and a cozy warming hut.
- Ice Skating: Opportunity to enjoy ice skating in the heart of Harrisburg during winter.
- Seasonal Attraction: A unique experience only available from mid-December to early March.
- Warming Hut: Conveniently located warming hut for skaters to take a break from the cold.
2. Hershey Gardens Holiday Lights
A nighttime spectacle featuring over half a million twinkling holiday lights at Hershey Gardens.
- Holiday Light Display: An enchanting display of festive holiday lights in beautiful garden settings.
- Hershey's Chocolate World: A chance to visit the famous Hershey's Chocolate World nearby.
- Outdoor Activity: Walk through the gardens under twinkling lights for a magical winter experience.
3. Harrisburg Mall's Holiday Spectacular
A dazzling display of holiday decorations and activities at the Harrisburg Mall.
- Holiday Decorations: Immerse in the festive spirit with stunning holiday decorations.
- Shopping Experience: Combine shopping and entertainment with a holiday twist.
- Santa Meet & Greet: Meet Santa Claus in person during select days and times.
4. Fogwatt's Ice Cream Christmas Tree
A giant Christmas tree made entirely out of ice cream scoops at Fogwatt's Ice Cream.
- Ice Cream Art: Unique ice cream sculpture perfect for holiday photos.
- Famous Ice Cream: Enjoy delicious ice cream treats while visiting the Christmas tree.
- Holiday Tradition: A beloved Harrisburg holiday tradition since 1975.
5. Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra's Holiday Pops
Holiday-themed concerts by the Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra.
- Holiday Concert: Enjoy festive music performances from a professional orchestra.
- Variety of Performances: Choose from multiple concert dates and times during the holiday season.
- Festive Atmosphere: Experience a lively, festive atmosphere in a beautiful concert setting.
6. Wildwood Park Ice Castles
Ice castles and frozen waterfalls at Wildwood Park create a winter wonderland.
- Natural Ice Formations: Marvel at nature's ice sculptures created by the park's creek.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture breathtaking winter landscapes for memories or social media posts.
- Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for birds and other winter wildlife while exploring the park.
7. Harrisburg Senators Winterfest
A day of winter-themed activities at FNB Field during a Harrisburg Senators game.
- Baseball Game: Enjoy a break from the cold with a warm baseball game indoors.
- Holiday Activities: Participate in holiday-themed games, crafts, and other activities.
- Warm Concessions: Stay cozy with hot cocoa, coffee, and food concessions.
8. Historic Fort Hunter's Yuletide Tour
Step back in time to a Victorian Christmas at Historic Fort Hunter.
- Historical Experience: Learn about holiday traditions during the Victorian era.
- Guided Tours: Join guided tours to explore the fort and its decorated rooms.
- Holiday Market: Shop handcrafted gifts, decorations, and treats at the holiday market.
9. Millworks Winter Artisan Market
A winter market featuring local artisans, food vendors, and live music.
- Artisan Goods: Discover unique handmade gifts from local artists.
- Food Vendors: Savor delicious food and treats from various local vendors.
- Live Music: Enjoy live music performances throughout the market.
10. Hershey Sweet Lights at Chocolate World
A dazzling drive-through light display at Hershey's Chocolate World.
- Drive-Through Display: Experience a festive light show from the comfort of your car.
- Sweet Treats: Pick up Hershey's treats at nearby Chocolate World.
- Holiday Music: Listen to holiday tunes during the light display.
11. Downtown Harrisburg's Holiday Light Show
A nightly synchronized light show at Harrisburg's City Hall and surrounding buildings.
- Synchronized Light Show: Watch the colorful lights dance in perfect harmony.
- Festive Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with music and lights.
- Nearby Restaurants: Enjoy dinner at nearby restaurants before or after the show.
12. The Forum's Festival of Trees
A festive display of decorated trees and holiday decor at The Forum.
- Decorated Trees: Admire the creativity and craftsmanship in each tree.
- Fundraiser Event: Support local charities by attending this fundraising event.
- Holiday Market: Shop for holiday gifts and treats at the accompanying market.
13. Capital City Railroad's North Pole Express
A magical train ride to the North Pole with Santa Claus on board.
- Train Ride: Experience a unique winter adventure by train.
- Meet Santa: Visit with Santa Claus during the North Pole Express journey.
- Hot Cocoa and Cookies: Enjoy hot cocoa and cookies on board the train ride.
14. The Giant Center's Ice Jam Festival
A winter festival featuring ice carving competitions and live music at The Giant Center.
- Ice Carving Competition: Watch skilled artists create stunning ice sculptures.
- Live Music: Enjoy live music performances throughout the festival.
- Ice Sculpture Display: Admire the finished ice sculptures on display.
15. Harrisburg's Winter Lantern Festival
A nighttime festival featuring lantern displays, food, and performances at City Island.
- Lantern Displays: Be amazed by the beautiful, intricate lantern designs.
- Food Vendors: Indulge in a variety of delicious food options from local vendors.
- Live Performances: Enjoy cultural performances, music, and dance shows during the festival.