Harrisburg Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Harrisburg and surrounding areas
Harrisburg lights up for the holiday season with Christmas markets and dazzling Holiday lights around the capitol and Riverside areas for an inviting festive atmosphere. Donβt miss the Pennsylvania Christmas + Gift Show, Handel's Messiah Christmas Movements Concert, or Santa & Friends on the Farm for a mix of holiday activities and seasonal performances. Explore winter markets, family-friendly attractions, and holiday shows that celebrate local traditions and seasonal cheer.
Find the best Harrisburg Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Markets
15 eventsOne of the largest Christmas gift shows in the country.
Christmas Lights
11 eventsFestival of Lights light display
Christmas Shows
5 eventsFree community performance of Handel's Messiah Christmas Movements
Christmas Activities
18 eventsPennsylvania's largest ice festival with live carving.
Editor's Picks (6)
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Pennsylvania Christmas + Gift Show
One of the largest Christmas gift shows in the country.
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Christmas Magic, A Festival of Lights
(York)
Festival of Lights light display
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Maryland Holiday Light Spectacular
(Timonium)
Half-mile light display with interactive scenes and carnival rides.
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Chambersburg IceFest
(Chambersburg)
Pennsylvania's largest ice festival with live carving.
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Handel's Messiah Christmas Movements Concert
(Carlisle)
Free community performance of Handel's Messiah Christmas Movements
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Strasburg Rail Road Christmas Trains
(Ronks)
Historic steam train rides with Santa during the Christmas season.
Events Happening Soon (6)
Christmas Parties Near Harrisburg
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Harrisburg.
Holiday Cheer Weekends at Nissley Vineyards
Experience a unique holiday season at Nissley Vineyards with their Holiday Cheer Weekends....
View full details βYachtzilla! The Monsters of Soft Rock - New Year's Eve Celebration
Ring in the New Year with Yachtzilla, 'The Monsters of Soft Rock,' for...
View full details βAmish Christmas Cookie Tour
Embark on a heartwarming journey this holiday season with the Amish Christmas Cookie...
View full details βLatest News & Updates
Stay informed about holiday events and activities in Harrisburg
- SoMa Christmas Market Returns to Downtown Harrisburg Published: Wed, Nov 26, 2025
- Pennsylvania Christmas and Gift Show in Harrisburg Published: Wed, Nov 26, 2025
Harrisburg Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Harrisburg
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Harrisburg!
Harrisburg Christmas FAQ
Harrisburg often hosts large-scale holiday events including tree lightings, festive parades, and major Christmas markets. The downtown area is typically a hub for many of these significant annual celebrations.
While many traditions are shared, Harrisburg often embraces its historical roots with events that highlight local heritage during the holidays. Look for events that incorporate the city's unique architecture and history into festive celebrations.
Residential neighborhoods known for their elaborate decorations are popular for Christmas lights in Harrisburg. Driving through areas with a strong community spirit often reveals the most dazzling displays.
You can find Christmas markets and local makers throughout Harrisburg, particularly in the downtown area and at various community centers. Keep an eye out for seasonal artisan fairs and holiday craft markets.
Exploring neighborhood light displays, attending free tree lighting ceremonies, and enjoying the festive window displays downtown are great free options. Many community events also offer low-cost or donation-based activities.
Families often enjoy visiting Santa, attending holiday shows at local theaters, and exploring festive markets with kid-friendly activities. Many community events and light displays are also designed with children in mind.