Our Mission

In 2013, Polly Murphy and Pam Jones began organizing a celebration for the Village of Linglestown’s 250th birthday. By 2014, John Hanks, Jr. and Chris Lunden of Make It Happen Events joined the team, and in 2015, over two dozen citizen volunteers came together to host a two-day celebration and parade for the community. The event brought people together, fostering new friendships and renewing old connections.

In 2017, the same group led a 250th anniversary celebration for the entire Township of Lower Paxton at George Park in Paxtonia, designed to build a greater sense of community.

By 2018, the momentum led to the creation of the Lower Paxton Community Foundation, with Representative (ret.) Ron Marsico as Chairman. That year, a special preview of the upcoming Christkindlmarkt was featured during the Linglestown LACA Tree Lighting, offering a glimpse of what would become a cherished community tradition.

2019 marked the debut of the Lower Paxton Christkindlmarkt, featuring 44 handmade vendors, live performances, and a living nativity.

In 2020, despite the challenges of the pandemic, the Christkindlmarkt continued with a modified version that included a drive-thru Santa experience, online vendor market, and a community door decorating contest.

By 2021, the annual Independence Weekend Celebration was introduced, bringing the community together to honor our nation.

In 2022, the Foundation supported Miles Connelly’s Eagle Scout project in Centennial Acres Park, the first of many community-led initiatives.

2023 saw the launch of the Polly Murphy Spirit of Volunteerism Awards, honoring individuals who make a significant impact in Lower Paxton.

Today, the Lower Paxton Community Foundation continues to strengthen community spirit through building, educational events, and supporting local projects, advancing our mission while adhering to all local, state, and federal laws.

Lower Paxton Christkindlmarkt

An outdoor, free German Christmas Market where we invite families, friends, and neighbors to come together and celebrate the holiday season as a community.

• 130+ Handmade Craft Vendors
• German and Festival Food
• Living Nativity
• Three Stages of Live Music and Dance
• Kids Area
• Free Shuttle Buses
• Free Admission

We bring the magic of traditional German Christmas culture to the Village of Linglestown, creating an unforgettable holiday experience for all. 

Independence Weekend Family Celebration

Celebrate the birth of our nation with a family-friendly event designed to strengthen our community, teach history, and honor our veterans, first responders, and citizen heroes.

• Salute to the Flag Ceremony
• Veterans from Each Branch
• Emergency Services
• Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts
• Volunteerism Recognition
• Community Family Festival
• Historical Demonstrations and Reenactments
• Children’s Crafts and Games
• Community Picnic with Food Trucks

This patriotic celebration brings the community together at Colonial Park for a day filled with tradition, learning, and fun.

Polly Murphy Spirit of Volunteerism Award

This award recognizes individuals of all ages and backgrounds who embody the spirit of volunteerism and have made a significant impact on making Lower Paxton a great place to live, work, and play.