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Step into Holiday Magic at the Lower Paxton Christkindlmarkt!

6th Annual Lower Paxton Christkindlmarkt Promises Holiday Delight for the Whole Family

By Rachael Benion, Publisher, Macaroni KID Harrisburg and West Shore November 18, 2024

Imagine this: it’s a crisp December day, and you’re transported to a festive world that feels straight out of a Hallmark movie. The air is filled with the scent of holiday blend coffee, roasted nuts, German treats, and traditional festival food. More than 110 festive handcrafted vendors, 3 stages of live music, and the jolly laughter of Santa and Mrs. Claus complete the scene as you wander through a charming Christmas market nestled in the heart of Linglestown, PA.

On Saturday, December 14, 2024, bring the whole family to the 6th annual Lower Paxton Christkindlmarkt for a day of holiday wonder. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine, experience an outdoor German Christmas market designed to keep kids entertained and parents relaxed. It's family-friendly, festive, and best of all – FREE!


A Kid-Friendly Wonderland

No more shushing or distracting little ones as you browse—Christkindlmarkt has thought of everything to keep the kiddos happily engaged. Kids can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus and even receive magical reindeer food for Christmas Eve. There are festive crafts, and holiday activities galore, including interactive storytelling by the Dauphin County Library, fun educational learning with the Whitaker Center on Wheels, a holiday themed puppet show from Imaginary Friends Theater, and storytelling and holiday music with Matthew Todd. A living nativity scene will captivate young imaginations while offering a glimpse into the heart of the season.

Shop, Sip, and Savor Holiday Cheer

Need to find the perfect gift for the “hardest-to-shop-for” person in your life? You’re in luck! Over 110 handcrafted vendors will line the village street, offering unique, handcrafted treasures that practically scream, “I’m the perfect present!” With everything from artisan crafts to one-of-a-kind artwork, you’ll find gifts for everyone on your list—and maybe a little something for yourself, too.

And, of course, no holiday market experience would be complete without food. Satisfy your cravings with delicious German treats, savory festival foods, and sweet confections, from classic bratwurst to spiced cookies. Whether it’s hot cocoa  and lunch for the kids or a snack for yourself, you’ll find plenty to fuel your holiday spirit!

Beat the Parking Hustle – Free Shuttles Available!

Parking in Linglestown is limited, but don’t let that stop you! Free shuttles will be running from Central Dauphin High School and New Hope Church from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on a continuous rotation. Leave the hassle behind and let the shuttle whisk you and your family right to the festive heart of the market.

Why Christkindlmarkt Should Be Your New Holiday Tradition

The Lower Paxton Christkindlmarkt is more than a Christmas market; it’s an experience that combines family fun, holiday shopping, and magical memories—all in one cozy, charming village setting. Kids will leave starry-eyed and excited, clutching their reindeer food and crafts. You’ll head home with thoughtful gifts, a heart full of holiday cheer, and precious family memories.

Mark your calendar for this can’t-miss event, and bring your loved ones along for a day filled with laughter, love, and the true spirit of the season. See you there, rain or shine!

Quick Details:

  • Date: Saturday, December 14, 2024
  • Time: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
  • Location: Village of Linglestown, Harrisburg, PA
  • Cost: FREE
  • Shuttle Locations: Central Dauphin High School & New Hope Church


For more information on all the family fun and to view the event map, visit LPCKM.com


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Disclaimer: While the ideas and the bulk of the brilliance are all mine, I confess that I enlisted the help of ChatGPT for minor edits and revisions. Why? Because AI is the friendliest grammarian I know—no red pen, no judgment, just pure, unadulterated love for a well-placed comma. So if you find any rogue semicolons or unnaturally perfect phrasing, you can thank my digital editor for that.