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For Immediate Release
January 12, 2012
CONTACT:
Colleen Greer
Phone: 717-787-6801
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Weekly Column: Local Activities & Events in Central PA Can Stave off Winter
Doldrums
Now that the holiday season is behind us, many families are looking for
inexpensive ways to spend time together and stave off the annual bout of
wintertime cabin fever, all the while supporting our local economy and tourism
industry. A number of opportunities are situated right here in Central
Pennsylvania and require minimal, if any, cost for travel.
The Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex & Expo Center is the hub for a host of
events from the agricultural shows which gave the building its name, to the car
shows, sports competitions, dog and horse shows, and other activities.
Featuring more than 200 shows and events each year and utilizing nearly one
million square feet of indoor space, the complex is one of the premier event
locations in our Commonwealth.
Following the annual State Farm Show, area residents and visitors can expect
a line-up of additional attractions in the coming weeks such as the Auto and
Boat Show, Garden Expo, and the Home Builder’s Show to name a few. Details on
these events and others can be found at
www.pafarmshowcomplex.com.
For those interested in visiting the heart of downtown Harrisburg, a cultural
center welcomes people of all ages for a unique experience in education and
entertainment. The Whitaker Center for the Science and the Arts is one of the
city’s most distinctive destinations, the first complex of its kind in the
country to use science as an entry to the arts. The center exhibits science,
the performing arts, and an IMAX theater all under one roof. With three
fun-filled floors and traveling exhibits in Harsco Science Center, breathtaking
films and Hollywood blockbusters in the IMAX Theater, and nationally touring
acts in the Sunoco Performance Theater, the Whitaker Center offers something for everyone.
Information regarding hours of operation, tickets, and a schedule of events can
be obtained by visiting
www.whitakercenter.org.
Another cultural, but more historical jewel located only a few short blocks
away is the State Museum of Pennsylvania. The State Museum covers all aspects
of Pennsylvania history and holds significant collections that relate to some of
America’s most seminal, well-known events as well as important, historical
individuals. It is the only museum in the Commonwealth where visitors can
experience the full expanse of the state’s heritage and its connections to the
national experience. Additionally, the museum offers educational programs
designed to encourage individuals, both young and old, to explore, discover, and
experience the stories of Pennsylvania’s rich and exciting past. Those looking
to plan a visit to the museum can find additional information at
www.statemuseumpa.org.
A wealth of tourism opportunities is also available to local residents and
visitors who are interested in an excursion to Hershey. Families will find top
name entertainment and Broadway shows performed regularly in the historic
Hershey Theatre and see beautifully restored and original automobiles from eight
decades in unique scenes and settings at the Antique Auto Museum. For those
wanting to learn more about how Milton Hershey’s legacy as an innovator,
businessman, and philanthropist comes to life, they can visit the museum: The
Hershey Story, located in the heart of downtown Hershey. Finally for chocolate
lovers, a month-long celebration is about to begin during "Chocolate-Covered
February” at Hershey’s Chocolate World. Details on each of these attractions
can be found at www.hersheypa.com.
This is just a small sampling of the many tourism attractions located in our
Capital Region for families to enjoy at little cost over the winter months. Not
only will individuals be entertained and educated, but the local economy will be
bolstered by their attendance. |
