With its small-town charm, vibrant fall foliage, and festive flair, Cumberland Valley makes for a quintessential Thanksgiving setting. Whether you're looking to unwind before the big feast or enjoy a post-pie stroll, the Valley offers seasonal fun that everyone, from out-of-town guests to locals, can enjoy together. 

Here’s how to turn your long weekend into the ultimate Thanksgiving celebration and usher in the Christmas season while you’re at it.

Pre-Turkey Adventures

Pole Steeple Trail at Pine Grove Furnace State Park

  • Enjoy the crisp fall air with a scenic family hike in the morning. Pole Steeple Trail in Pine Grove Furnace State Park offers sweeping views of South Mountain and Laurel Lake once you reach the summit. If you’re looking for a more leisurely and accessible hike, try Forest Pools Trail in Kings Gap State Park, which takes hikers on a 1.2-mile loop through mixed forest and by several vernal ponds.

  • Pick up a morning coffee from a cozy local spot. We love Cornerstone Coffeehouse in Camp Hill and The Cracked Pot in Mechanicsburg for their impressive espresso pours and inviting atmospheres. While many locations are not open on Thanksgiving Day, these are the perfect spots to fuel up on the days leading up to the turkey celebration.

Post-Dinner Plans

Carlisle Theatre

  • Walk off the feast with an evening stroll through historic downtown Carlisle, where you soak in the small-town charm and admire festive window displays and storefronts. If you are looking to add fun to your walk around town, we suggest signing up for the free digital Carlisle History Walk passport.

  • Friday's post-holiday activities should include sipping wine around the cozy hearth at Castlerigg Wine Shop or stopping by the warm and inviting tasting room at The Winery at the Long Shot Farm. 

  • Catch an evening movie at a local theater. The Carlisle Theater boasts art deco vibes and runs everything from live theatrical productions to family programming to foreign films. (photo credit: Ashley Byerts)

Weekend Fun

Village Artisans Gallery

  • Get a head start on your holiday shopping during Small Business Saturday. A few of our favorite shops and boutiques around the Valley are The Cumberland Shop, Creative Spark Arts, and Village Artisans Gallery — all featuring items crafted by local artisans.

  • Go for a peaceful lakeside stroll at Children’s Lake in Boiling Springs, where the whole family can enjoy the fresh air and fall foliage and spot geese, ducks, and other wildlife around the lake.

  • Peruse a local farmers' market for unique bites and locally made wares. The West Shore Farmers Market is an indoor market open Fridays and Saturdays, offering everything from seasonal produce to designer jewelry. The Farmers Flea Market on the grounds of the Williams Grove Historical Steam Engine Association in Mechanicsburg is open every Sunday morning, weather permitting, and is the perfect place to hunt for hidden treasures.

  • Explore the Cumberland Valley Rail Trail, a 13-mile path that follows the abandoned Cumberland Valley railroad corridor from Shippensburg to Newville. Whether you’re a birder, biker, or just looking to get some fresh air, the Rail Trail has something to offer, including two railroad museums located inside renovated boxcars at the Shippensburg Station trailhead.

  • Experience a hands-on history lesson. The Army Heritage Trail at the U.S. Army Heritage and Education Center immerses visitors with artifacts from nearly every era of Army history — from a Civil War encampment to a WWII company area. The Cumberland County Historical Society includes a library, museum, photo archives, and education center with enough historical gems to keep the family engaged all day. 

  • For the adult crowd, sample distinctive local flavors along the Cumberland Valley Beer Trail, which features more than 25 breweries, cideries, distilleries, and wineries. Sign up for the digital passport, and check in to earn points and prizes.

  • Enjoy family fun at Midway Bowl, offering extended hours during the holiday week, including opening on Thanksgiving Day from 2 pm to 10 pm. (Monday 4 pm-10 pm, Tuesday/Wednesday/Sunday 11 am-10 pm, Thursday 2 pm to 10 pm, Friday & Saturday 11 am-12 am)

Highlighted Thanksgiving Weekend Events

Enjoy the long weekend at some of the family-friendly events. Stay up to date on all weekend markets and holiday light displays by checking back often on the events calendar.

A Few Tips

  • If you’re looking to make the most of the long holiday weekend with a getaway, explore more trip ideas and itineraries. 

  • Be sure to check operating hours for businesses and attractions, as some places may open later or have different holiday schedules.