Summer in South Mountain
Welcome to summer in South Mountain! Here at the Partnership we know there is much to celebrate about the season. We work to protect our shared landscape and home so that is available for generations to come; whether for a quick walk after dinner, or for an exploration in vernal pools, or as the backdrop for some amazing music and food!
Summer often means more time with friends and family and exploring our region. Our region is teeming with activities for all of us to get out and enjoy and we wanted to share some of the activities of our Partners and likeminded organizations. Browse our list of activities that include fun for the whole family. We would love to expand this list and we collate all sorts of events on our partner events calendar! Please email jchain@appalachiantrail.org to add events and programs we should highlight or you can add them directly to our calendar here.
ADAMS COUNTY
SummerQuest at Adams County Library
SummerQuest provides participants the opportunity to experience everything the library has to offer through leisure reading, virtual programs, and participation in a variety of activities. Adams County Libraries partner with Wellspan to provide a physical activity program called GO (Get Outdoors) Adams! which places 15 landmarks (wooden marker posts with a unique etching attached) in various local parks.
National Apple Museum 2023 Concert Series
Ploughman Cider and local artists organize an amazing concert series for the summer. Bring your chairs, an appetite, and a thirsty soul, because they are bringing it to you every Friday from May-September in Biglerville. Enjoy your time at the one-and-only National Apple Museum!
Historic Gettysburg Adams County Summer at Spangler Series
Each weekend at the Farm features different reenactors or living historians depicting various facets of the times: military units; medical services; civilian life during the period, etc. The Foundation docents also address many aspects of the Farm from family history to life on a 19th Century farm to the impact of the battle on this critically placed farm. There are three “Family Days” when admission is free and a visitor can drive directly onto the farm without the shuttle. These special days this year will be on the following Saturdays: Opening Day on May 27, September 2 and October 7.
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
Camp Craighead: Family Events at the Craighead House
The Craighead House organizes events celebrating conservation at their historic space and native gardens. Many of these events are perfect for kids and adults alike! Check out the full calendar events for fun activities like: “Nature Craft Night: Gnome & Fairy Garden Houses” and The Summer of the Falcon Tour.
Big Hill Cider Taphouse Concerts
Open weekends with great cider & fire pits, Big Hill Cider brings in local music, food trucks and great scenery in the heart of Apple Country!
History Summer Camps at Cumberland County Historical Society
For over fifteen years, the Cumberland County Historical Society has offered students the opportunity to immerse themselves in hands-on experiences through the Adventures in History Summer Camps.
FRANKLIN COUNTY
“Summer Institute” by the Institute
Gorgeous warm days draw old and young alike to enjoy nature and the outdoors. Summer Institute, with a variety of activities for children, is a great way for kids to enjoy the outdoors while learning something new and exciting. Click the link above to see the full offerings!
Franklin County Visitors Bureau
The Franklin County Visitors Bureau started 2022 by launching the Franklin County Pour Trail to highlight beer, cider, wine, and distilled spirits in and around Franklin County PA. The trail features sixteen breweries, wineries, and distilleries. FCVB also offers an events page for all sorts of events across the county.
Music in the Park at Monterey Pass Battlefield Park & Museum
Come on down for music in the park several times this summer with Monterey Pass Battlefield. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and / or blankets as this is an outdoor event. Food and beverages available for sale!
YORK COUNTY
NYCHAPS History Camp at Dill’s Tavern
Experience a taste of early American life at Dill’s Tavern with the NYCHAPS History Camp. Students have the opportunity to participate in hands-on activities lead by our experienced volunteers. Activities will include: games, fiber arts, metal working, wood working, candle making, colonial clothing, food preparation, and more!
Summer Concert Series at Tucker & Co
Tucker&Co Bakery Cafe is hosting a summer concert series on the last Friday of each month, May – September. The shows are free to attend with live music from 6pm to 8pm outside in their backyard. Please feel free to bring a lawn chair or blanket. The Tucker&Co. kitchen will be open for food and drinks during the shows but you are welcome to bring your own snacks as well. Their next show is June 30th with West & Ward, opener to be announced.
York County Nature Discovery Camp
The York County Department of Parks and Recreation offers a wide variety of programming throughout the year and hosts “Nature Discovery Camp” in the summer. Through daily hikes, water exploration, wildlife observation, nature journaling, and games, we seek to build positive outdoor memories, grow friendships, and enhance natural curiosity.
STATE PARKS
When planning your summer activities don’t skip over the South Mountain Region’s State Parks. Our region is proud to have great environmental educators planning content. (pictured left) Check the DCNR events calendar for programming for families and day trips.
AND SO MUCH MORE…
Check your local park, library and Parks and Recreation departments for even more activities throughout the summer. Have fun out there!