The holiday season is finally here, and with it comes the long-awaited end-of-December break.

It’s the perfect time to slow down, take a breath, and enjoy some well-deserved rest after a busy year.

But instead of spending your days stuck at home, why not use this time to get out and enjoy some fun local events?

Cumberland Valley has so much happening this season, and it’s all right here waiting for you.

This kind of holiday fun helps you make memories without needing to travel far.

And since Cumberland Valley is full of activities for all ages, you can spend your holiday break doing something you’ll enjoy.

So, let’s take a closer look at what’s happening and get you ready to enjoy every moment of your well-earned break.

1. Disney’s Beauty and the Beast

• Where: The Playhouse @ Allenberry, 1559 Boiling Springs Road, Boiling Springs, PA 17007
• When:
  • December 27 & 28, 2024: 7:30 PM
  • December 28 & 29, 2024: 2:00 PM
• Contact: (717) 462-4401
• Website: https://keystonetheatrics.com/beautybeast/
• Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes (with a 15-minute intermission)
• Recommended For: All ages

Catch the enchanting live stage performance of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.

This is perhaps the best holiday event for families or anyone who loves classic stories.

With music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman and Tim Rice, the musical brings the beloved animated film to life.

Expect gorgeous costumes, magical sets, and all your favorite characters, like Belle, Beast, and Lumière.

Even if you’re revisiting your childhood favorite or seeing it for the first time, this is one show you don’t want to miss!

2. Live Entertainment at Back Porch Brewing

• Where: 133 N. Hanover St., Carlisle, PA 17013
• When: Every Friday and Saturday, 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
• Contact: (717) 254-6134
• Website: http://www.backporchbrewinginc.com/events.aspx
• Cost: Free

End your week on a high note at Back Porch Brewing, where live performances light up the stage every weekend.

Bring some friends, grab a pint, and enjoy music from local bands and performers.

The vibe is casual, the tunes are free, and the atmosphere is perfect for kicking back.

Don’t forget to check their events page for updates on who’s performing.

3. Noon Year’s Celebration

• Where: State Museum of Pennsylvania, 300 North Street, Harrisburg, PA 17120
• When: December 28, 2024, 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM
• Website: https://statemuseumpa.org/event/noon-years/
• Cost: Included with general admission
• Extras: Planetarium shows ($4 per person)

Ring in the “Noon Year” with a family-friendly celebration at the State Museum of Pennsylvania!

This event is designed for kids and includes fun crafts, games, music, and the famous firefly and streamer drop at noon.

For a little extra, you can enjoy a planetarium show, Exploration Sky, which runs at 10:15, 10:45, and 11:15 AM.

Is there a better way to celebrate early and still have time for evening plans?

4. Saturday Evening Live Entertainment at Whiskers Brewing

• Where: 9 South High St., Newville, PA 17241
• When: Every Saturday, 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
• Contact: (717) 776-1273
• Website: http://www.whiskersbrewing.com/page.php?title=events
• Cost: Free

Whiskers Brewing serves up free live music every Saturday night.

Each week features different performers playing a mix of soft rock, country, classic rock, and blues.

The lineup changes weekly, so you can enjoy a new vibe every visit.

It’s a great place to relax, listen to good music, and enjoy your evening with friends.

5. Saturday Morning Trail Runs

• Where: Appalachian Trail, 290 East Pomfret Street, Carlisle, PA 17013
• When: Every Saturday, 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM
• Contact: (717) 241-5674
• Website:https://www.visitcumberlandvalley.com/event/saturday-morning-trail-runs/49333/
• Cost: Free

Start your Saturday with an invigorating trail run on the Appalachian Trail.

Organized by the Appalachian Running Company, this weekly event is perfect for runners of all experience levels.

It doesn’t matter if you’re just starting or you’ve been running for years—everyone is welcome, and you’ll feel right at home with this friendly group.

The meeting spots change weekly, so check their social media or call the store quickly to get the latest details.

6. Farmers Flea Market

• Where: Williams Grove Historical Steam Engine Association, 1 Steam Engine Hill, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
• When: Every Sunday, 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM
• Contact: (717) 766-4001
• Website: https://www.wghsea.org/
• Cost: Free admission and parking

This isn’t your average flea market—it’s massive!

With over 500 vendors, the Williams Grove Farmers Flea Market has everything from fresh produce and antiques to handmade goods and unique finds.

It’s held outdoors, so weather permitting, you can shop to your heart’s content.

But there are a few rules: no pets (except service animals) and no motorized vehicles during market hours, except for handicap access.

Now that you’ve seen all the amazing things happening in Cumberland Valley, it’s time to start planning your holiday fun.

There’s something for everyone to enjoy—whether you’re in the mood for an enchanting musical, a fun family celebration, a refreshing morning run, live music with friends, or even a treasure hunt at the flea market.

The events we’ve covered today are a chance to make memories, connect with your loved ones, and enjoy something different during your holiday break.

So, don’t let your time off slip away without enjoying all the fun waiting for you.

Step out, explore your community, and create moments you’ll remember long after the season ends.

Cumberland Valley is ready to welcome you with open arms, so get out there and make this holiday one to remember!