Category: For Adults
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- 5/1/22 to 12/23/22
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The Gilded Age at Fort Hunter Fashion Exhibit
All that glitters is not gold, or is it? Extending from the 1870’s to 1900, between the Civil War and the turn of the Twentieth Century, the American Gilded Age was a time of rapid economic and industrial growth in the United States and a time of serious poverty and social problems as well. Glittering on the surface but corrupt underneath.
The current, popular HBO series “The Gilded Age” focuses on the intrigue and drama of the upper-class families of New York City, showing fabulous women’s attire of the time. Helen and John Reily lived at Fort Hunter Mansion during this time period, from their marriage in 1886 until their deaths in the 1927 and 1932. Eleven dresses worn by Helen Reily during this time period will be on display for this exhibit.
An added feature of interest – a prominent figure in the HBO show is Ward McAllister, played by Nathan Lane. Ward was a real-life person who was the arbiter of good taste in New York society, advisor to Lady Astor. In real life, Ward McAllister was a great, great nephew of Fort Hunter’s builder, Archibald McAllister. Fort Hunter’s claim to fame!
Exhibit mannequins are often featureless and without hair. Fort Hunter is fortunate to have real, human hair wigs depicting the latest fashions in hairstyles of the late 1800’s high society on the mannequin heads.
Thanks to Ashley Leitzel-Reichenbach, the Fort Hunter exhibit has professional wigs that truly reflect the hairstyles of the time and bring the exhibit to life. Ashley just finished the season as Head Hair Design for the TV show “Bull” and also currently works on the “The Gilded Age”. Fort Hunter is honored to have such television royalty contributing to the exhibit. Many thanks to Ashley for giving her time and tremendous talent to bring the Fort Hunter mannequins to life, the hair really does make the exhibit.
May – December Tuesday- Sunday – 10:00 am – 4:30 pm Sunday – 12:00 – 4:30 pm Museum admission charged or free to Friends of Fort Hunter members More »
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- 6/1/22 to 10/15/22
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Soft Plastic Collection Challenge
Can we save 500 pounds of soft plastic?
The Friends of Fort Hunter are participating in a recycling effort that will provide a bench for Fort Hunter Park and also rid the world of 500 pounds of unwanted soft plastic.
Under the leadership of Friends of Fort Hunter Board President, Rich Leitzel, Fort Hunter is partnering with the Trex Community Challenge to gather 500 pounds of plastics by the end of October to be eligible for a free bench made of the recycled plastic.
Can the Fort Hunter community meet the challenge? Start saving your plastics and drop them off at any time in the recycling boxes near each of the pavilions in the park or if you have a large collection, stop by the East Pavilion (barn side) on the dates below from 4 – 6 p.m. to meet Rich and drop off your collected plastics.
July 6 – 4 – 6 p.m. Aug 10 – 4 – 6 p.m. Sept 7 – 4 – 6 p.m.Not all plastics make a bench; save these kinds of plastics:
plastic bags pallet wrap/stretch film water bottle case wrap dry cleaning bags newspaper bags Ziploc and other resealable bags packing materials/bubblewrap cereal box linersVisit recycle.trex.com for additional information on plastic recycling and a complete list of all recyclable plastic films.
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- 7/1/22
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Sunset Series Performance: Big Wahu Caribbean Band
Enjoy a free concert by Big Wahu Caribbean Band.
Every Friday night in a 13 week series between June and August, Dauphin County Parks and Recreation is teaming up with Highmark Wholecare , t0 highlight local performing arts organizations and summer movie nights, outside, under the stars in beautiful Fort Hunter Park.
*pack a picnic basket *bring your blankets and lawn chairs * food trucks – Wich Way Sandwiches and Sarah’s Creamery – will begin serving at 6:00 p.m. *no alcohol is permitted at Fort Hunter Park Admission- Free
Presented By:
Note: In the event of inclement weather, we make the decision on whether or not to postpone the event on Friday afternoon around 1:00 p.m. Typically, the rain date will be on Sunday of the same weekend. Follow Dauphin County Parks & Recreation Facebook page for updates.
Visit the Dauphin County Parks and Recreation website for the complete listing of the summer’s free concerts and movies.
More »
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- 7/8/22
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Sunset Series - Movie Night: Luca
Enjoy a free showing of Luca, the movie.
Every Friday night in a 13 week series between June and August, Dauphin County Parks and Recreation is teaming up with Highmark Wholecare, t0 highlight local performing arts organizations and summer movie nights, outside, under the stars in beautiful Fort Hunter Park.
*pack a picnic basket *bring your blankets and lawn chairs *movie concession stand (popcorn, candy and beverages) sponsored by the Friends of Fort Hunter *no alcohol is permitted at Fort Hunter Park Admission- Free
Presented By:
Note: In the event of inclement weather, a decision on whether or not to postpone the event will be made on Friday afternoon around 1:00 p.m. Typically, the rain date will be on Sunday of the same weekend. Follow Dauphin County Parks & Recreation Facebook page for updates.
Visit the Dauphin County Parks and Recreation website for the complete listing of the summer’s free concerts and movies.
More »
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- 7/15/22
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Sunset Series Performance: Shawan (jazz/lounge)
Enjoy a free concert by Shawan.
Every Friday night in a 13 week series between June and August, Dauphin County Parks and Recreation is teaming up with Highmark Wholecare , t0 highlight local performing arts organizations and summer movie nights, outside, under the stars in beautiful Fort Hunter Park.
*pack a picnic basket *bring your blankets and lawn chairs * food trucks – Italian Job Food Truck and Whistle Stop on Wheels – will begin serving at 6:00 p.m. *no alcohol is permitted at Fort Hunter Park Admission- Free
Presented By:
Note: In the event of inclement weather, we make the decision on whether or not to postpone the event on Friday afternoon around 1:00 p.m. Typically, the rain date will be on Sunday of the same weekend. Follow Dauphin County Parks & Recreation Facebook page for updates.
Visit the Dauphin County Parks and Recreation website for the complete listing of the summer’s free concerts and movies.
More »
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- 7/16/22
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Dauphin County Brewfest
Join Dauphin County Parks and Recreation to welcome over 60 craft beers to the 10th Annual BrewFest! Taste craft beer, listen to great music, taste gourmet foods, and learn how to brew beer yourself! Set along the Susquehanna River in front of the Fort Hunter Mansion, this event is not to be missed!
(RAIN OR SHINE!)Get your tickets in advance, this event always sells out.
Click here for more information on participating breweries, food trucks, musicians, tickets and FAQs.
Get your tickets now, this popular event always sells out, designated driver tickets are available.
$40 in advance, $50 at the door, $15 designated driver
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- 7/22/22
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Sunset Series - Movie Night: Soul
Enjoy a free showing of Soul, the movie.
Every Friday night in a 13 week series between June and August, Dauphin County Parks and Recreation is teaming up with Highmark Wholecare, t0 highlight local performing arts organizations and summer movie nights, outside, under the stars in beautiful Fort Hunter Park.
*pack a picnic basket *bring your blankets and lawn chairs *movie concession stand (popcorn, candy and beverages) sponsored by the Friends of Fort Hunter *no alcohol is permitted at Fort Hunter Park Admission- Free
Presented By:
Note: In the event of inclement weather, a decision on whether or not to postpone the event will be made on Friday afternoon around 1:00 p.m. Typically, the rain date will be on Sunday of the same weekend. Follow Dauphin County Parks & Recreation Facebook page for updates.
Visit the Dauphin County Parks and Recreation website for the complete listing of the summer’s free concerts and movies.
More »
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- 7/29/22
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Sunset Series Performance: The Ogham Stones (Irish)
Enjoy a free concert by The Ogham Stones.
Every Friday night in a 13 week series between June and August, Dauphin County Parks and Recreation is teaming up with Highmark Wholecare , t0 highlight local performing arts organizations and summer movie nights, outside, under the stars in beautiful Fort Hunter Park.
*pack a picnic basket *bring your blankets and lawn chairs * food trucks – Wich Way Sandwiches Whistle Stop on Wheels – will begin serving at 6:00 p.m. *no alcohol is permitted at Fort Hunter Park Admission- Free
Presented By:
Note: In the event of inclement weather, we make the decision on whether or not to postpone the event on Friday afternoon around 1:00 p.m. Typically, the rain date will be on Sunday of the same weekend. Follow Dauphin County Parks & Recreation Facebook page for updates.
Visit the Dauphin County Parks and Recreation website for the complete listing of the summer’s free concerts and movies.
More »
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- 8/5/22
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Sunset Series - Movie Night: Encanto
Enjoy a free showing of Encanto, the movie.
Every Friday night in a 13 week series between June and August, Dauphin County Parks and Recreation is teaming up with Highmark Wholecare, t0 highlight local performing arts organizations and summer movie nights, outside, under the stars in beautiful Fort Hunter Park.
*pack a picnic basket *bring your blankets and lawn chairs *movie concession stand (popcorn, candy and beverages) sponsored by the Friends of Fort Hunter *no alcohol is permitted at Fort Hunter Park Admission- Free
Presented By:
Note: In the event of inclement weather, a decision on whether or not to postpone the event will be made on Friday afternoon around 1:00 p.m. Typically, the rain date will be on Sunday of the same weekend. Follow Dauphin County Parks & Recreation Facebook page for updates.
Visit the Dauphin County Parks and Recreation website for the complete listing of the summer’s free concerts and movies.
More »
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- 8/12/22
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Sunset Series Performance: Mariachi Villasenor – The Authentic Mariachi Experience
Enjoy a free concert by Mariachi Villasenor – The Authentic Mariachi Experience
Every Friday night in a 13 week series between June and August, Dauphin County Parks and Recreation is teaming up with Highmark Wholecare , t0 highlight local performing arts organizations and summer movie nights, outside, under the stars in beautiful Fort Hunter Park.
*pack a picnic basket *bring your blankets and lawn chairs * food trucks – ShreddRRZ and Sarah’s Creamery – will begin serving at 6:00 p.m. *no alcohol is permitted at Fort Hunter Park Admission- Free
Presented By:
Note: In the event of inclement weather, we make the decision on whether or not to postpone the event on Friday afternoon around 1:00 p.m. Typically, the rain date will be on Sunday of the same weekend. Follow Dauphin County Parks & Recreation Facebook page for updates.
Visit the Dauphin County Parks and Recreation website for the complete listing of the summer’s free concerts and movies.
More »
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- 8/14/22
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Farm to River V
Join the Friends of Fort Hunter for their much anticipated annual fundraising farm-to-river experience. Attendees will enjoy locally-sourced, homemade dinner offerings, along with local brews, wines and live acoustic music.
On the front lawn of the Fort Hunter Mansion overlooking the river, as the warm summer day winds down, dinners will be served individually boxed from Healthy You Cafe. Floral arrangements are provided by Jeffrey’s Flowers. Enjoy a cash bar (free to Patrons) with local brews from Boneshire Brew Works and wines from Nissley Vineyards. Enjoy acoustic music by RiverRat Jenkins
Patrons will be hosted, prior to the meal, at 4:30 p.m., enjoying hors d’oeuvres and a signature drink.A gift card raffle will be available for $20 per ticket.
Would you like to be a Sponsor of this event? Sponsors levels and benefits differ, learn more here.
Patrons are recognized in the invitation and at the event and may attend the exclusive reception prior to the dinner. Consider supporting the Fort by becoming a Patron.
In the event of inclement weather, all guests may gather their meals and depart to the safety of their vehicles.
Patrons: $150 Dinner Only – $75 Reservations are required. Click here for tickets. More »
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- 8/19/22
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Sunset Series - Movie Night: The Lorax
Enjoy a free showing of The Lorax, the movie.
Every Friday night in a 13 week series between June and August, Dauphin County Parks and Recreation is teaming up with Highmark Wholecare, t0 highlight local performing arts organizations and summer movie nights, outside, under the stars in beautiful Fort Hunter Park.
*pack a picnic basket *bring your blankets and lawn chairs *movie concession stand (popcorn, candy and beverages) sponsored by the Friends of Fort Hunter *no alcohol is permitted at Fort Hunter Park Admission- Free
Presented By:
Note: In the event of inclement weather, a decision on whether or not to postpone the event will be made on Friday afternoon around 1:00 p.m. Typically, the rain date will be on Sunday of the same weekend. Follow Dauphin County Parks & Recreation Facebook page for updates.
Visit the Dauphin County Parks and Recreation website for the complete listing of the summer’s free concerts and movies.
More »
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- 8/26/22
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Sunset Series Performance: Across the Pond (Irish)
Enjoy a free concert by Across the Pond.
Every Friday night in a 13 week series between June and August, Dauphin County Parks and Recreation is teaming up with Highmark Wholecare , t0 highlight local performing arts organizations and summer movie nights, outside, under the stars in beautiful Fort Hunter Park.
*pack a picnic basket *bring your blankets and lawn chairs * food trucks Mac’s Pit Stop and The Popcorn Loft will begin serving at 6:00 p.m. *no alcohol is permitted at Fort Hunter Park Admission- Free
Presented By:
Note: In the event of inclement weather, we make the decision on whether or not to postpone the event on Friday afternoon around 1:00 p.m. Typically, the rain date will be on Sunday of the same weekend. Follow Dauphin County Parks & Recreation Facebook page for updates.
Visit the Dauphin County Parks and Recreation website for the complete listing of the summer’s free concerts and movies.
More »
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- 10/29/22
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"Hit the Road Educational Tour" Haunting Halloween Adventure
Join the Friends of Fort Hunter for a trip to Philadelphia for three haunting visitations – the Eastern State Penitentiary; the home of Edgar Allan Poe and Continental Tavern. During the trip Dr. Donald Koones will provide an energetic historical review of both historical sites.
The first stop will feature the Eastern State Penitentiary which was operational from 1829 through 1971 where famous inmates Al Capone and bank robber, Willie Sutton were imprisoned.
The second stop was once the home of the master of suspense and horror, Edgar Allan Poe. This home witnessed his most prolific writing period producing “The Tell-Tale Heart”, “The Murder in the Rue Morgue”, and “The Gold Bug.” Special attention will be given to the basement which resembles a scene described in “The Black Cat”.
The final dinner stop will be in the historic and haunted Continental Tavern , dating from 1864. This tavern concealed a stop on the “Underground Railroad”, witnessed two (2) murders, and possessed 10,000 whiskey bottles from the Prohibition Era. Finally, the tavern is haunted and visitors discuss their paranormal experiences.
Bring a bag lunch, snacks and beverages (no cans, beverages must have lids)to eat on the bus between the Penitentiary and Poe House sites.
Park in the Centennial Barn parking lot. Please secure your vehicle and do not leave valuables visible in your car.
Participants that are not members of the Friends of Fort Hunter will automatically receive an “Individual” level membership ($25 value) in the Friends of Fort Hunter with the trip ticket. Cost:$150 non-members; $130 members Click here for tickets Trip itinerary:- Bus departs Fort Hunter Centennial Barn parking lot at 7:45 a.m. (please arrive for check-in by 7:30 a.m.)and returns by approximately 8:30p.m. (Please secure your vehicle)
- Guided audio tour of Eastern State Penitentiary
- Bring your own bag lunch
- Escorted tour at Edgar Allan Poe Historic Site
- All-Inclusive Buffet at Continental Tavern
Tickets include:
- Transportation by Cross Country Coach
- Admission to Eastern State Penitentiary, Edgar Allan Poe Historic Site, narration by Dr. Donald Koones and all-inclusive buffet at Continental Tavern
- Not included – Gratuity for the bus driver
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- 11/26/22 to 12/18/22
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Annual Festival of Trees - Saturdays and Sundays only
Co-sponsored by the Harrisburg Area Civic Garden Center, six themed Christmas trees are exhibited for viewing.
Beautifully decorated with handmade ornaments and trimmed by local garden clubs the trees are available for raffle. A selection of handmade ornaments will be available for purchase.
Open Saturdays and Sundays only 12:30 – 4:30 November 26 – December 18Free
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- 11/26/22 to 12/18/22
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Toy Train Exhibit - Saturdays and Sundays Only
All aboard! The magical HO gauge model trains start rolling November 26 – December 18every Saturday and Sunday from 12:30 – 4:30. Presented by the Keystone Model Railroad Historical Society. Lots of interactive elements and the walk-around setup make this a must-see attraction for the whole family!
Old and new trains will be displayed each week and for the annual visitor, exciting new additions are made each year.
Thanks to the Friends of Fort Hunter for underwriting this popular attraction.
Open November 26 – December 18 Saturdays and Sundays only 12:30 – 4:30Free admission
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- 12/3/22 to 12/18/22
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Fort Couture - Saturdays and Sundays Only
Adorned in holiday spirit, these dress forms decorated like a Christmas tree are a twist on holiday decoration.
Displayed in the Stone Stable, these festive wonders are created by volunteers, Friends of Fort Hunter and local businesses. Using fresh greens and other natural and imaginative materials, Fort Couture will amaze and inspire your holiday season.
Free Admission