Parks and Recreation Events

Come and see how John and Helen Reily, the last inhabitants of Fort Hunter Mansion, spent their time from their marriage in 1887 through the early 20th century. View John as an outdoorsman, Helen in her wedding dress, among other artifacts, clothing photos and even entries from Helen’s diary, plus much more. All mannequins will also feature period-accurate hairstyles courtesy of professional wig maker and stylist, Ashley Leitzel-Reichenbach. Please visit our website to schedule a tour time, or stop in the museum shop to purchase an exhibit-only ticket.

Enjoy the cherished nostalgia of the toy train in person. Presented and operated by the Keystone Model Railroad Historical Society, this massive display represents familiar scenes from central Pennsylvania on a bite-size scale. Admission is free for all park visitors. Visit https://forthunter.org/ for information on all events and programs.

Come enjoy the splendor that is the festival of trees and enter the raffle to take one home. Co-sponsored by the Harrisburg Area Garden Center, themed Christmas trees are on display in the Tavern House on Saturdays and Sundays during the holiday season. A selection of handmade ornaments will be available for purchase as well. Visit https://forthunter.org/ for information on all events and programs.

Catch the holiday spirit as you enjoy a guided tour of the historic Fort Hunter Mansion freshly trimmed in greens, fruits, flowers, and more. Many thanks to the Civic Committee of the Garden Club of Harrisburg for their inspired decorative talent. Reservations are suggested and can be made online at forthunter.org

In our “kids only” shop, children can safely shop for small gifts for their loved ones with the help of our volunteers. Most gifts are under $10 and includes items suitable for all ages. After shopping, all gifts will be wrapped, labeled, and ready for the holidays. Visit https://forthunter.org/ for information on all events and programs. Open on December 2, 3, 9, 10, 16 & 17 ONLY.

Adorned in the holiday spirit, these dress forms decorated like a Christmas tree are a twist on holiday decoration. Displayed in the Stone Stable, these festive wonders are created by volunteers, Friends of Fort Hunter, and local businesses and creative individuals. Using fresh greens and other natural and imaginative materials, Fort Couture will amaze and inspire your holiday season. Vote for your favorite while you visit. Open on December 2, 3, 9, 10, 16 & 17 ONLY. No tickets or advance registration required.

Children and adults are invited to make holiday ornaments using pinecones, milkweed pods and other natural materials. Everything but the creativity will be supplied to make works of art to decorate for the holidays. Pre-registration required. Space is limited.

Enjoy a moderately-paced walk around Wildwood lake while enjoying the trees and animals at the park. This will be a walk on paved or gravel surfaces. You can choose to walk only a portion, then turn around at any point if you would like to customize the length of your walk to your own individual fitness goals.

The St. Thomas Dulcimer Society is returning to the Fort Hunter Centennial Barn on Wednesday, December 6th for their annual holiday concert! The concert begins at 7pm. Doors open at 6:30pm and seats are first come, first served. Admission is free, no reservations required.

Come see the beautiful halls of Fort Hunter Mansion decked for the holidays on a candlelight tour! Guided tours will be offered at 4:30 pm, 5:30 pm, and 6:30 pm on select dates in December. All tours will last approximately 45 minutes with time for a visit to the mansion shop afterwards. Pre-registration is highly recommended as space is limited.