As the holiday season approaches, Franklin County, in Pennsylvania, and neighboring Washington County, in Maryland, are preparing for a series of festive events that promise to bring joy and cheer to residents and visitors alike.
The celebrations kick off with tree lighting ceremonies across the region. Greencastle will hold its annual ceremony on Friday, Nov. 22, at 7 p.m. in Center Square, featuring carols, bell-ringing and brief statements from local officials. On the same evening, Waynesboro will host its tree lighting event from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the town square on Main Street, with the actual lighting taking place at 7 p.m.
In conjunction with Waynesboro’s tree lighting, Mainstreet Waynesboro will host the Holiday Sweets and Treats Market from 4:30 to 8 p.m. in the square. This market will offer a variety of Christmas goodies and unique gifts, providing an excellent opportunity for early holiday shopping.
The following day, Saturday, Nov. 23, will see a flurry of holiday parades across Franklin County. Greencastle’s parade will start at 9 a.m. on East Baltimore Street, followed by Waynesboro’s at 2 p.m. on Main Street. Chambersburg will round out the day with its parade at 6 p.m. along North and South Main streets. These parades will feature school marching bands, community organizations, youth sports teams and, of course, Santa Claus himself.
Chambersburg’s tree lighting will coincide with its Christmas parade, with Santa Claus illuminating the tree as he passes through Memorial Square.
The holiday spirit continues into the following week with the Waynesboro Small Business Saturday Holiday Market on Nov. 30. This event will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Main Street Park. Visitors can expect live music, dancing demonstrations, sidewalk sales, children’s activities and a variety of craft, specialty and food vendors.
Across the state line in Washington County, Hagerstown will celebrate with its own series of events. Hollyfest, scheduled for Friday, Nov. 22 at 7 p.m., will showcase the city’s vibrant arts and entertainment culture through youth performances from various organizations.
Hagerstown’s tree lighting ceremony will take place on Nov. 23 at 5 p.m. in Public Square, offering free hot cocoa, coffee, a Santa sighting and plenty of holiday cheer. The festivities continue with a Holiday Market in Public Square from 2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., featuring live music and a bounce house for children.
These events mark the beginning of a joyous holiday season in the region, offering numerous opportunities for community gathering, festive shopping and creating lasting memories.
