With Labor Day falling at the start of many school calendars, it's debatable whether the education system is aiming to disrupt recently changed schedules or to provide a break after building new routines. Whatever the intention (if there is one), Labor Day offers an opportunity for adventure, a brief release from the afternoon and two-day weekend, allowing families to enjoy September in central Pennsylvania earlier this month.
When the heat persists, visit Lake Laurel in Cumberland County, which has a sandy beach and swimming areas. Kayaking is permitted, and paddling around the lotus-filled lake is fun, especially when you see turtles playing hide-and-seek with their heads. Fishing is also encouraged, and the lake is stocked with perch, pike, bass, and stocked trout. Laurel Lake is part of Pine Grove Furnace State Park, which boasts about 1,000 acres of forested land at the northern end of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Pine Grove's Pole Steeple Trail is a short but steep 0.75-mile hike that leads to breathtaking views of the mountains and the surrounding Michaux State Forest. Hikers have the opportunity to join the Appalachian Trail near the lookout. Pine Grove Furnace State Park is the midpoint of the AT, making it an interesting spot for fans of the longest dedicated hiking trail in the world.
Join York-based Horn Farm for a riparian tree care volunteer day on September 14 and 15 to help restore former farmland. Volunteer work at Horn Farm helps restore the Chesapeake Bay watershed and, ultimately, the bay itself. Horn Farm offers opportunities for people to get involved in agriculture, learn about sustainability and enjoy the benefits of country living. Programs include elderberry foraging, nature journaling and bird song identification. Horn Farm offers programs for all ages, including regular critter crawls for young children and internships for teens. The event is diverse and educational, featuring local experts and enthusiasts.
Keystone Kids' Space is an interactive indoor option for an afternoon of fun, where kids ages 6 and up can engage in hands-on learning. Located in York, this is the place for kids to fully engage and immerse themselves in creative STEAM activities in a space made for kids. A highlight for parents is The Hangout, located on a corner overlooking Codorus Creek. There's Wi-Fi and beverages available, so we can relax and make our own art while the kids safely stretch the limits of their imaginations. Keystone Kids' Space participates in the “Museums for All” initiative, offering free or discounted tickets to families who receive SNAP/EBT benefits.
When the adventure ends, a new week begins, and during that week new divisions are created.School Year: Spirit Days. Whether you love or hate these themed days, embrace the chaos and use them to deepen your connection with your family. Hold a family spirit day to coincide with your child's school spirit day. Wear something that matches the theme of the day or write down something your family is proud of. Make time to share your family's spirit day contributions and get excited about each other's creativity. In the ever-changing landscape of school and life, there are always ways to celebrate the spirit that keeps us going.
Pine Grove Furnace State Park 1100 Pine Grove Rd., Gardners. For more information,www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateParks/FindAPark/PineGroveFurnaceStatePark/Pages/default.aspx.
Keystone Kids Space is located at 10 Hamilton Avenue, York. For more information, Learn more.
Horn Farm 4945 Horn Rd., York. For more information, www.Horn Farm Center.
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