717 Arts community center opens in Harrisburg’s SoMa district

717 Arts Community Center will open its doors during the 4th annual Harrisburg Fringe Festival, which will be held July 16 to 19. Located at 25 S. 3rd St., Harrisburg, the center is a partnership between 717 Arts and Harristown Development Corp., according to a media release. The center is located in Harrisburg’s SoMa or South of Market, district.

717 Arts Community Center will feature live performances, workshops and visual art exhibitions, according to the media release. It will also be available for use as a dynamic multi-use space.

“The arts community in Harrisburg is thriving, and artists and performers are continually seeking out places to make art happen. With the 717 Arts Community Center, our goal is to meet the community where they are, providing a safe, supportive and welcoming space,” said Brianna Dow, Harrisburg Fringe Festival producer and president of 717 Arts, in the media release.

During the Harrisburg Fringe Festival, 717 Arts Community Center will serve as the Fringe Hub, providing information and support to festival attendees and performers. The Visual Fringe, the festival’s visual arts exhibition, will be held at the center.

“We are thrilled to welcome the 717 Arts Community Center to SoMa. Having artists visiting and using this unique space adds energy to this area and increases the vibrant character of the SoMa neighborhood,” said Brad Jones, President of Dewberry LLC., in the media release. Dewberry LLC is an affiliate of Harristown Development Corporation, the owner of the building.

According to the media release, Harristown Development has invested over $20 million in the SoMa district over the past 20 years. The district is now home to Boneshire Taps @ SoMa, JoJo’s Barbershop, SCC Tattoos, Veterans Multi-Service Outreach offices, Agape Elixir Bar, the new UPMC Health Sciences Tower at Harrisburg University and over 160 residential units.

Founded in 2021, 717 Arts is a 501c(3) nonprofit organization. According to the media release, the organization has made collaboration and community partnerships central to its mission of being a resource for artists and arts organizations throughout central Pennsylvania. Through its partnership with Harristown Development Corporation, 717 Arts was able to construct a physical space for the community to create and enjoy the arts.