In celebration of Carlisle’s 275th anniversary, the Borough of Carlisle will host a Community Carnival from Friday, September 11, through Sunday, September 13, at Carlisle Fire and Rescue, 177 Carlisle Springs Road. The family-friendly event will feature rides, games, food, live entertainment, animal exhibits, craft and food vendors, and activities for residents and visitors of all ages.
As part of Friday evening’s events, the Borough will hold a special 9/11 memorial ceremony at 7:00 p.m., marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, attacks. The ceremony will provide an opportunity for the community to come together in remembrance and honor those who lost their lives, as well as the courage and sacrifice of first responders, service members, families, and communities affected by the attacks.
Mayor Sean Shultz will deliver remarks, present a memorial wreath, lead a moment of silence, and introduce a live performance of the National Anthem. Uniformed members of the Carlisle Fire Department, Carlisle Police Department, Cumberland County Honor Guard, and representatives of the military will also be in attendance.
“Carlisle’s 275th anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate both our history and the values that continue to unite our community,” said Mayor Sean Shultz. “As we pause to remember the 25th anniversary of September 11 and recognize the longstanding tradition of volunteer fire service in Carlisle, this carnival also provides a chance for families, friends, and neighbors to come together. The weekend will showcase the strong sense of community, service, and civic pride that has helped sustain our borough for generations.”
Event hours are:
• Friday, September 11: 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
• Saturday, September 12: 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
• Sunday, September 13: 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Admission is free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to bring canned food donations to support local food pantries and help meet community needs.
The event will feature a variety of carnival rides, inflatables, games, face painting, balloon artists, a goat petting station, and adoptable pets from local organizations, including Coaster Cats Cat Café. Food vendors will offer traditional carnival favorites. Ride tickets will be available for purchase, and food vendors will accept both cash and credit card payments.
The Borough is currently seeking craft vendors and non-competing food vendors to participate. Applications are available on the Borough’s website. Interested parties may also contact Patricia Blair at 717-240-6920 or pblair@carlislepa.org for additional information. Space is limited, and prospective vendors are encouraged to apply early. The $25 daily vendor fee, along with a portion of the event proceeds, will be donated to support the Carlisle Fire Department.
Additional information, including entertainment schedules, vendor listings, and other anniversary-related activities, will be announced as it becomes available.
