Hey, it’s Arpan. Yep, the only Arpan Tiwari in the world.
And here are the 13 things about Central PA I learned only after living here.
In today’s newsletter:
The hidden value behind a decades-old Harrisburg farmers market
Events worth attending August 8–10
A new Midtown ice cream shop that’s got folks talking
Sunset kayaking, tomato tastings, and everything else this weekend
THE PA FARMERS OPEN AIR MARKET IS STILL FARM-TO-FORK MAGIC
Some places don’t need a rebrand. No neon signs. No fancy digital checkouts. Just fresh produce, straight talk, and generations of farming pride.
That’s the PA Farmers Open Air Market, quietly tucked in the north parking lot of the PA Farm Show Complex, doing its thing every Tuesday and Friday from 9 AM to 4 PM, May through November—rain or shine.
This is a “producers only” market, which means when you pick up a pint of strawberries or a loaf of rye, you’re usually buying directly from the person who grew or baked it. Many vendors here are second or third-generation farmers, with stands passed down like family heirlooms.
It’s not just fruits and veggies either. You’ll find European-style breads, hand-churned ice cream, local wines, fresh cheeses, pasture-raised meats, and baked goods that have regulars showing up early with tote bags and coffee in hand.
Over 20 Pennsylvania-based farmers and producers
Fresh, seasonal produce, baked goods, meats, cheeses, and more
Free parking + open rain or shine at 2300 N. Cameron St, Harrisburg
In a city buzzing with development, this market keeps Harrisburg grounded in its agricultural heritage. It’s part grocery, part gathering place, and fully Central PA.
Tomatoes, Tunes, and Trails This Weekend
Here’s what’s going on across Central PA from Friday, August 8 to Sunday, August 10:
Tomato Fest | Broad Street Market, Harrisburg | Fri, Aug 8, 11 AM–6 PM
🍅 Heirlooms, sauces, tastings & tomato-themed everything.
Free Friday Flick: “Ratatouille” | Reservoir Park, Harrisburg | Fri, Aug 8, 8 PM
🎬 Outdoor movie night, bring a blanket.
Sunflower Festival | Maple Lawn Farms, York County | Sat–Sun, Aug 9–10, 10 AM–5 PM
🌻 Fields of sunflowers, photo ops, and fresh lemonade.
Open Air Yoga | Fort Hunter Park, Harrisburg | Sat, Aug 9, 9 AM
🧘♀️ Stretch with a view of the river.
Mechanicsburg Art Walk | Downtown Mechanicsburg | Sat, Aug 9, 11 AM–4 PM
🎨 Local artists, live demos, and sidewalk sales.
Wine & Cheese Cruise | Pride of the Susquehanna, Harrisburg | Sat, Aug 9, 6 PM
🚢 Cruise with sips and snacks on the water.
Jazz in the Park | Italian Lake Park, Harrisburg | Sat, Aug 9, 7 PM
🎷 Free jazz concert—bring lawn chairs and your evening vibe.
Ice Cream Sundae Social | Hershey History Center | Sun, Aug 10, 12 PM–3 PM
🍨 A sweet way to explore local history.
Sunset Paddle Tour | Wildwood Lake, Harrisburg | Sun, Aug 10, 7 PM
🛶 Nature, calm water, and golden-hour views.
Second Sunday Market | Midtown Harrisburg | Sun, Aug 10, 10 AM–2 PM
🛍️ Pop-up makers, vintage finds, live music.
New Places to Try in Central PA This Week
Fat Cat Creamery – Midtown Harrisburg
A retro-inspired ice cream bar dishing out small-batch scoops with wild flavors like lavender-honey and miso caramel.
Palmyra Pasta Co. – Broad Street Market
Hand-rolled tagliatelle and vodka sauce that tastes like Nonna made it.
Brew Bros. – Reily Street, Harrisburg
Local siblings launching their first public taproom. IPA lovers, take note.
Whether you’re cooling off, carb-loading, or meeting friends for a pint, these new spots feel right at home in Central PA’s evolving food scene.
Homeowners:
Live nearby? Markets like this don’t just feed families—they increase foot traffic and keep neighborhoods connected.
Homebuyers:
Looking for that “walkable but still local” vibe? Consider homes near Midtown or Olde Uptown. You’ll be near culture and comfort.
Bottom line:
Whether you’re grabbing peaches or building roots, the PA Farmers Market and surrounding community remind us why Central PA is more than just a stop on the map—it’s a lifestyle.
Thinking about making a move? Let’s chat—connect with me through my partners!
👉 https://meetings.hubspot.com/arpan-tiwari
See you,
— Arpan Tiwari