Family events in Franklin County, PA

Created for little ones ages 0 to 2, this Baby & Me playtime includes a short board book reading, songs, and play time. Parents and caregivers take part in the activities alongside their children.

This storytime features one or two brief picture-book stories and concludes with fun, hands-on activities. It is structured for parents and caregivers to participate alongside their children throughout the activities.

This cruise-in welcomes cars, trucks and motorcycles. Registration costs $10 and is handled on site, so no pre-registration is required. Enjoy options from a food truck along with ice cream while checking out the vehicles. A Chinese auction will take place, and there will be more than ten awards.

Kids settle in for a relaxed, screen-free painting session in a welcoming environment that nurtures creativity and confidence. They explore color and imagination as they craft a one-of-a-kind canvas to bring home, leaving with pride, joy, and the boost that comes from trying something new. Meanwhile, parents can enjoy peace of mind and perhaps a little time to themselves. Advance registration is required, either online or in person, before the event.

Make a splash at Chambersburg Aquatic Center with a free movie and swim night featuring SpongeBob The Search for SquarePants. Swim while the film plays, enjoy complimentary snacks, and every attendee can take home a SpongeBob themed book. Guests also receive a special bookmark that can be redeemed for a second free book at any Franklin County Library location after the event. Admission is free with no membership required. Entry is available until the venue reaches its limit of 500 people. Children below fifth grade must be accompanied by an adult. Presented by Novel Reels, a community partnership of the Franklin County Library System, Ghost Writer LLC, and Mission Solved.

New this year, a yard sale will benefit the Jr Sportsmen, and spaces are available for those interested in setting up. Arrange a spot only through the official Greencastle Sportsman’s Association page and avoid sharing personal details or payments with anyone else. The day features plenty of food, games, and live music from Chris Woodward and Shindiggin.

Chess enthusiasts gather at AHMFL for a welcoming club geared to ages 9 and up. Children younger than 12 must attend with a parent. All experience levels are encouraged, from first-timers to seasoned players. A club leader offers beginner-friendly instruction on how the pieces move and basic strategy, while experienced participants can sharpen their skills through friendly play. Chess nurtures creativity, highlights cause and effect, and provides an easy way to connect with others. Personal sets are welcome, and extra boards and pieces are available. During summer, the club follows a special schedule that may include make-up sessions.

Back to School Family Fun Day brings families together at Shippensburg Fair Ground for a free community event featuring hands-on exhibits, complimentary school supplies, pizza, haircuts, and entertainment. Attendees can discover resources and gather information about programs designed for children and youth of all ages, creating an easy way to get ready for the new school year while enjoying activities together.

Enjoy a two hour, hands-on crafting session where parents and children paint rocks together and explore several craft stations with guided projects. Activities tailored for younger kids are available so everyone can participate comfortably. The cost is $10 per person, and each group must include at least one adult who is 21 or older. Light snacks and all supplies are provided. Advance registration with payment is required to reserve a spot.

SD Saturday Nightz rolls into Motomember Chambersburg for an evening that celebrates all things motorized. The meetup welcomes anything with a motor, embracing every kind of ride as long as it is loved and driven. Expect food vendors on site, with details to be announced. An SD tent will feature new season merchandise and a music setup to set the mood. The night also includes an Exhaust Wars round that will qualify four additional participants for the finals. Families, kids, and pets are welcome. To keep the atmosphere enjoyable for everyone, please respect the venue by avoiding speeding, constant loud music, and unnecessary revving, and remember to clean up after yourself. Burnouts are not permitted. Local police support will be in the area if needed. It is a relaxed chance to hang out and connect with fellow enthusiasts.

Play plant-themed bingo for a chance at greenery and useful accessories. Every ticket includes a 3 inch houseplant, so each ticket holder leaves with a plant. There will be 15 games with prizes that span small to large plants, some already potted, and some rounds may award items like pots, fertilizers, or macrame hangers. Attendees may bring their own snacks and refreshments to enjoy during play. Tickets are $38 per person. Only ticket holders receive bingo cards and are eligible to win. Tickets can be purchased online, in person at Sweet Bloom’s flower shop or market booth, or by calling 717-414-0276.

Enjoy a live performance by Nevin Crum Family at the Kiwanis Bandshell in Memorial Park.

Settle in for one or two brief picture book readings, followed by fun, hands-on activities. These toddler-focused storytimes are planned for parents and caregivers to participate alongside their children.

Enjoy a read-aloud, then get hands-on by building something connected to the story with blocks or other materials. Each week follows this simple format, pairing a story with a creative building activity.

A chess club open to ages 8 to 18, welcoming both newcomers who want to learn and players who already know the game.

Presented by the Boys & Girls Club and the Franklin County Housing Authority, the inaugural Meadow Creek Fun Fest: Back to School Edition offers family-friendly activities. Families can explore activity stations, connect with local organizations, receive complimentary back-to-school supplies, and enjoy free food.

Join the student-led Teen Chess Club at Alexander Hamilton Memorial Free Library. It’s open to both beginners and experienced players, and is for teens ages 11 to 18. Sessions run on Tuesdays from 4:00 to 5:30 PM.

Celebrate with an awards gathering and complimentary pizza. The Tokens to Trophies Prize Shop will be open for participants to redeem their tokens for prizes.

The Mercersburg Lions Club Fair features rides, food, and live music, with The Flashbacks performing two sets during the event. Attendees are welcome to bring lawn chairs for comfortable seating.

Preschool Storytime is a Wednesday morning program for preschool-aged children, focused on sharing, growing, playing, and learning through books and nursery rhymes. The session includes stories, craft time, activities and playtime, and snack time, offering a fun, engaging way for kids to enjoy a learning routine together.

Enjoy an evening featuring street rods, classic cars, and modern muscle. A dash plaque is available for the first 100 cars. Hot dogs and bottled water will be on hand.

Wind down at Library Square with live music, a variety of food trucks, and a friendly community vibe. Bring a blanket or lawn chair so you can settle in and relax. No registration is required.

Enjoy an evening of connection and family fun at Cluggy's Amusement Center, combined with the Monthly Pride Mixer. Connect with LGBTQ+ neighbors, families, and allies, get to know the community, and let the kids play. Cluggy's attractions are available for $6 per person per activity, including mini golf, go karts, laser tag, and tunnels and bounce. Pizza and fountain drinks will be provided, and additional food will be available for purchase.

Blaskepelle performs live at the Kiwanis Bandshell in Memorial Park.