For our final Strawberry Square Music Series (R.I.P.), we’re doing something a little different. There’s just something about a holiday variety show — a mix of music, laughter, surprises, and local talent — that fills you with festive energy.
On Friday, Dec. 19, join us downtown for the Strawberry Square Music Series Holiday Variety Show — a three-hour showcase of Harrisburg’s best and brightest performers, featuring music, comedy, theatre, dance, magic, and more.
Hosted by DJ EMD, who’ll keep the tunes flowing between acts, this free event brings the community together for one big, joyful celebration of the season — and of the arts scene that makes Central PA so special.
The Lineup
Here’s how the night unfolds — grab a drink, settle in, and enjoy a nonstop evening of holiday fun:
6:00 p.m. – DJ EMD
Kick things off with festive beats and good vibes to set the mood.
6:10 p.m. – Paul Hood: “I Hate Your Body: A Dystopian Holiday”
A clever, darkly funny radio play with a holiday twist that’ll make you think and laugh.
6:31 p.m. – Open Stage
Performances from the casts of Who’s Holiday!, Court Street Cabaret, and Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas — a mix of musical theatre and holiday flair.
6:50 p.m. – Hyena Skits: “The Improv Naughty List”
This local comedy troupe brings quick wit and festive mischief to the stage.
7:05 p.m. – The Rhythm Lounge
A dance demonstration of West Coast Swing and Lindy Hop that’ll have you tapping your toes (or maybe joining in!).
7:20 p.m. – River the Bubble Magician
You’ve never seen holiday magic like this — an interactive set full of wonder, laughter, and yes, bubbles.
7:50 p.m. – Theatre Harrisburg
A special showcase featuring the musical stylings of performers from Theatre Harrisburg’s New Year’s Eve Party: Countdown to 100
8:10 p.m. – TMI Improv Comedy Troupe
From Gamut Theatre Group, this high-energy crew brings an improv comedy set that’s guaranteed to keep you laughing.
8:30 p.m. – “An Oversoon Christmas“
Closing out the night with a live performance by local pop band, Oversoon, featuring original holiday tunes and pop hits — the perfect soundtrack to wrap up a festive evening.
Pop-Up Vendors
Come hungry (and thirsty)! We’ll have local favorites serving up sips and sweets all night long:
Hemauer Brewing Co., HOLLA Spirits, Agape Elixir Bar, and KelSa’s Sweetbox.
Heaven Too Charm Bar also set up their mobile charm bar for the evening!
Event Details
6-9 p.m., Friday, Dec. 19
UPMC Stage at Strawberry Square, Harrisburg, PA
Free to attend!
We’ll also be collecting new or gently used coats, hats, gloves, or scarves for Coats in the Cart! If you have extras at home, please consider bringing a donation for those in need.
Why You’ll Love It
This isn’t just another holiday concert. It’s a community showcase and a reminder of just how much talent we have right here in Harrisburg.
Every act, every laugh, every song is homegrown. So grab your friends, make it a date night, or bring the whole family — and let’s celebrate the season together with music, magic, and a little holiday mischief.
