Walk Through the Past: Your America250PA Weekend in Cumberland Valley

Ease into a weekend where history comes to life in Cumberland Valley, a place where the stories of America’s past feel close enough to touch.

Begin your journey with an Early American Punch Tasting at Historic Heishman’s Mill in Newville, where the spirit of the 18th century is poured into every glass. Discover the craftsmanship behind colonial-era stills and the grains that fueled early American communities. As you sip recreations of beverages favored by the Founding Fathers, a costumed historian will guide you through the traditions, tastes, and social rituals of the time. (Advance registration required.)

If tickets are unavailable, step into a different kind of local tradition at the Iron Bridge Music Festival in New Cumberland Borough Park. Friday night’s Southern Rock tribute performances offer a lively, modern contrast to the region’s deep-rooted past while still reflecting the enduring spirit of community.

For dinner, explore Cumberland Valley’s welcoming culinary scene. Stroll through downtown Carlisle’s vibrant streets or dine along the Susquehanna River, where the setting sun pairs perfectly with a relaxing meal.

Start your morning slowly at one of the Valley’s cozy cafés. A warm cup of coffee and a fresh pastry set the tone for a day of discovery.

For a taste of European tradition, visit Talking Breads in Mechanicsburg, where Old World baking techniques bring centuries of flavor to life through handcrafted breads, scones, and pastries.

Today invites you to fully immerse yourself in the rich and layered history of Cumberland Valley. Whether you choose one experience or explore them all, each offers a meaningful connection to the past.

• 2nd Annual Spirit of Schimmel Wood Carving Expo (9 AM – 4 PM)
  Return to Historic Heishman’s Mill to honor Wilhelm Schimmel, a 19th-century folk artist whose story is deeply tied to this place. Watch artisans at work, learn about Schimmel’s life, and see how history continues through craftsmanship.

• Shippensburg Heritage Day (10 AM – 4 PM)
  At the Shippensburg History Center, step into daily life from centuries past. Through living history demonstrations, engaging speakers, and hands-on experiences, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the people and events that shaped the region.

• Shippensburg Ordinary Colonial Night (4 PM – 8 PM)
  As evening approaches, experience the atmosphere of a colonial “ordinary”—once a vital gathering place for travelers and locals alike. Enjoy period-inspired beverages, music (by Forbes Road Frolic, pictured above), and demonstrations while soaking in the social traditions of 1776-era America.

After a day steeped in history, unwind with old-fashioned fun. Whether it’s arcade games and go-karts at the Carlisle Sports Emporium, a nostalgic movie at the Cumberland Drive-In Theatre, or relaxed fun at Midway Bowling, the evening offers something for every pace.

For those who enjoy tracing history through craft, explore the Cumberland Valley Beer Trail. With more than 25 stops, many of today’s breweries and distilleries carry forward traditions rooted in early American production, offering a modern taste of a historic craft. In particular, Molly Pitcher Brewing Co. in downtown Carlisle offers a contemporary dining experience while paying homage to Revolutionary War heroine Molly Pitcher, buried in Carlisle’s Old Public Graveyard.

Start the day with fresh air and reflection. Walk the one-mile Army Heritage Trail at the US Army Heritage and Education Center to discover full-scale exhibits that interpret the history of the U.S. Army.

Make time to visit USAHEC’s satellite exhibit at The Hessian Powder Magazine on the grounds of the Carlisle Barracks, the second-oldest military post in the United States. The building, constructed in 1777 by German soldiers captured by Washington’s forces during the December 1776 Battle of Trenton, features an exhibit that tells the story of this iconic structure and provides a timeline of other historic buildings that remain central to the Carlisle Barracks community. (Guests without DoD identification must process through the visitors center for a background check. Valid ID is required.)

Continue your journey through history with the Carlisle History Walk. Each marker reveals stories of influential figures, pivotal events, and the town’s role in shaping the nation—perfect for those who love discovering history at their own pace.

On Flag Day, there’s no better way to conclude your weekend than with a classic small-town parade in downtown Shippensburg. With music, floats, and community pride on full display, it’s a fitting tribute to the nation’s past—and the people who continue to celebrate it.

If this weekend sparks your curiosity, Cumberland Valley’s story is far from finished. Throughout the year, additional America250PA events will continue to bring history to life in new and engaging ways.

Extend your connection to the past with a stay at Allenberry Resort, where the grounds themselves carry stories dating back generations. Nearby, the village of Boiling Springs invites you to explore its history through a peaceful self-guided walking tour.

For a stay in the heart of it all, Comfort Suites Downtown Carlisle places you steps from historic streets and landmarks. End your evening at 1794 The Whiskey Rebellion, where the menu and name both pay tribute to a defining moment in American history—one that unfolded right here in Pennsylvania.

As your weekend ends, you'll take with you more than memories; you'll take a deeper connection to the people, places, and stories that shaped a nation.

Cumberland Valley is where the week ends… with a walk through the past.