Lebanon

Lebanon is a city and county seat in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania. The place sits in the southeastern part of the state at 338 meters (1,109 feet) elevation in the Lebanon Valley, roughly 37 kilometers (23 miles) east of Harrisburg.

German settlers founded the settlement in 1720 when the region was still part of the frontier. George Steitz laid out the town plan around 1750 and initially gave it his own name before the current one was chosen.

The town's name comes from the Lebanon Mountains in the Middle East, a reference to the wooded hills surrounding the area. This biblical allusion reflects the religious roots of many early German settlers.

School education is provided by several Lebanon School District facilities, from elementary through high school level. Those seeking further education can use the local campus of Harrisburg Area Community College.

Every December 31st, the town holds a New Year celebration that lowers a 68-kilogram (150-pound) Lebanon bologna from a rooftop. After the countdown, the sausage goes to a local rescue mission for those in need.

Location: Lebanon County

Inception: 1720

Founders: George Steitz

Elevation above the sea: 338 m

Shares border with: Pleasant Hill, Avon, Lebanon South, Sand Hill

Website: http://lebanonpa.org/Pages/Home%20Page.aspx

GPS coordinates: 40.34170,-76.42080

Latest update: December 13, 2025 19:49