HARRISBURG, Pa. — The City of Harrisburg discussed its holiday plans today for this upcoming season to bring the holiday joy to the city.
Harrisburg's tree was delivered to City Hall today, and city event planners announced details on this year's holiday parade.
The parade will include giant parade balloons, marching band and dance team performances, decorated floats, characters, Santa Claus and more.
"It's a really great way for community members to come together and just collectively celebrate going into the holiday season everything that their groups have accomplished throughout the year, the holiday season itself, and what they look forward to in the year to come," said Cortney Ranck-Cameron, Harrisburg special events manager.
On Friday, Nov. 22, the tree lighting ceremony will take place from 6-8 p.m., at the MILK Jr City Government Center. There will be musical performances, an ugly sweater contest, a visit from Santa, free hot chocolate and cookies, an artist market, wooden ornament kids craft and performances from the Harrisburg School District students and the Imaginary Friends Puppet Theater.
Then, on Saturday, Nov. 23, the Harrisburg Holiday Parade starts at 10 a.m. down Front and 2nd Street. This year's parade theme is "Toon Town" and participants will present their best interpretations in decorated floats and costuming to win $100.
Six high school marching bands and 15 dance teams are also competing for $150 and $500 cash prizes.
The parade will conclude with a Santa appearance in Strawberry Square along with free hot chocolate and cookies, along with the parade winners.
Road closures for the parade will begin at 7 a.m. and end around 2 p.m. The closures will take place on the following streets:
- Market Street from the West Shore to 2nd Street
- 2nd and Front Streets from Market to Forster
- All side streets between 2nd and Front from Market to Forster
During the parade, visitors can use the ParkMobile App to get up to four hours of free street parking in the Downtown area using the code "LUVHBG." The Market Square Garage will also offer a $10 special event rate from 8 a.m.-8 p.m.