Trash(Can) to Treasure 

Trash(can) to Treasure is an annual event that happens every spring.  

Become a public artist and help beautify Lower Paxton parks by transforming a Trash(can) to Treasure! 

How It Works

Lower Paxton will provide plain metal barrels which you will create into a special work of art.

1. Choose a family-friendly, park or recreation-oriented theme for your trash can free of political or ideological overtones (overt or not). The theme should reflect public activities in Lower Paxton Township.
   Disclaimer - Any cans that are painted with themes not consistent with the Township's standards will not be displayed.
2. Online registration begins Feb. 2, 2026 and closes Feb. 13, 2026. Trash can availability is first come, first serve.
3. You will be able to pick up your can(s) outside the Parks and Recreation Office in the adjacent garden at 425 Prince Street; Harrisburg, PA 17109 anytime on Friday, Feb. 27, 2026.  Drop the completed cans off anytime at the same location as pick up on Friday, March 13, 2026.
4. You supply your own paint and brushes.
5. Please email the Program Manager, Justine, jwalters@lowerpaxton-pa.gov to coordinate a time to pick up your can on Friday, Feb. 27, 2026 and drop off by Friday, March 13, 2026. Please label the underside of your can and the underside of your lid with your name and/or organization.  Please also include your park choice of where you would like it placed under both can and lid.   If you are painting multiple cans, please number the cans and lids as well so they can stay together as one unit (first can would be #1 on underside of can and lid, second can would be #2 on underside of can and lid, etc.)
6. Please have painters sign a photo release waiver, which you can download here. Please send your pictures to jwalters@lowerpaxton-pa.gov along with the signed waivers in order to be recognized on social media.