5 Things To Do This Weekend In Cumberland County PA (April 24-26, 2026)

Spring has officially arrived in Cumberland County, and the calendar is packed with something for everyone - from roaring car shows to art gallery openings. Here's your guide to the best events happening this weekend.

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1. Spring Carlisle — Carlisle Fairgrounds

Through Sunday, April 26 | Price varies by day

Gear heads and casual fans alike, this one's for you. Spring Carlisle is one of the premier collector and classic car events in the world, set against the backdrop of the 80-acre Carlisle Fairgrounds. Thousands of automotive enthusiasts descend on Carlisle each April for this legendary flea market, car corral, and auction — featuring over 2,000 vehicles for sale and 8,100 vending spaces to explore. Whether you're hunting for a rare part, looking to buy a classic, or just want to admire some seriously impressive machines, Spring Carlisle is an unforgettable family outing. It's not just a car show — it's an event that kicks off the entire Carlisle show season with a bang.

📍 Carlisle Fairgrounds, 1000 Bryn Mawr Rd., Carlisle, PA 17013

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2. *Assassins* at Carlisle Theatre

Friday, April 24 – Sunday, April 26 | Carlisle, PA

If you're looking for bold, thought-provoking theater this weekend, look no further than the Carlisle Theatre's production of *Assassins*. This multiple Tony Award-winning Sondheim musical takes audiences on a darkly fascinating journey through the lives of nine individuals who assassinated or attempted to assassinate U.S. presidents — from John Wilkes Booth to Lee Harvey Oswald. Equal parts disturbing and darkly comic, this "revusical" is considered one of the most controversial musicals ever written, and it's playing right here in downtown Carlisle. Rated R for strong language and mature themes.

📍 Carlisle Theatre, 40 West High Street, Carlisle PA 17013

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3. Annual Container Garden Workshop — Ashcombe Farm & Greenhouses

Saturday, April 25 | $5 registration fee + plants

Welcome spring the hands-on way at Ashcombe Farm & Greenhouses in Mechanicsburg! This beloved annual workshop invites you to build a beautiful container garden using homegrown annuals — just bring your own pot or pick one up on-site. The $5 fee covers soil and expert guidance, and you only pay for the plants you choose. It's a relaxing, creative activity that's perfect for gardeners of all skill levels, and you get to take your masterpiece home. Pre-registration is required, so sign up in advance at ashcombe.com.

📍 Ashcombe Farm & Greenhouses, 906 West Grantham Road, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055

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4. Bored Teachers Comedy Tour: "Is It Friday Yet?!"

Friday, April 24 | 7:30 PM | Tickets: $36–$66

Teachers, parents, and anyone who's ever sat in a classroom — this one's going to have you in stitches. Bored Teachers, the internet's #1 voice of teacher humor with over 1 billion views and 10 million followers, brings their brand-new "Is It Friday Yet?!" tour to the H. Ric Luhrs Performing Arts Center at Shippensburg University. These comedians have sold out theaters across 49 states and are bringing their freshest material yet: classroom confessions, savage truths, and the most relatable humor you'll find on any stage. It's a Friday night out you won't soon forget. PG-13 language.

📍 H. Ric Luhrs Performing Arts Center, 475 Lancaster Drive, Shippensburg, PA 17257

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5. Opening Reception: *Garden of Entropy* with Victoria Paez — Brain Vessel Gallery

Friday, April 24 & Saturday, April 25 | Matinee 3–5 PM / Evening 7–9 PM | Free

For a more contemplative weekend experience, head to Brain Vessel Gallery in Mechanicsburg for the opening reception of *Garden of Entropy*, a stunning new exhibition by wildlife artist Victoria Paez. The show explores the haunting beauty of decay and the devastating loss of species driven to extinction by human impact. Original paintings and prints will be on display and available for purchase, with drinks and snacks provided. In honor of Arbor Day 2026, 15% of all sales on Friday, April 24 will be donated to the PA Parks & Forests Foundation. With both afternoon and evening sessions available both days, it's easy to fit into your weekend plans.

📍 Brain Vessel (The Gallery), 4702–4704 Carlisle Pike, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050

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Cumberland County has no shortage of ways to spend a great weekend — whether you're into cars, comedy, culture, or creativity. Check the full events calendar at visitcumberlandvalley.com for more details and ticket links.

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Josh Schoenly is a licensed REALTOR® with EXP Realty, LLC, specializing in residential and land sales throughout Cumberland County and the greater Central Pennsylvania region. If you have questions about vacant land values, are considering selling a parcel, or want guidance on finding the right lot to build your next home, reach out directly at (717) 510-1452 or josh.schoenly@exprealty.com.