Fall is in the air, which means fairs are in full swing, theatres are launching their 2025-26 seasons, community is being celebrated and nonprofits are hosting fundraising events. October’s events will be posted online later in September.

God of Carnage

September 4-14

Ephrata Performing Arts Center

EPAC’s 45th season continues with Yasmina Reza’s tale of how two sets of parents react when discussing the schoolyard incident that occurred between their two sons. Civility soon deteriorates into chaos, revealing the thin layer that exists between the two emotions. Times vary. 320 Cocalico St., Ephrata. Information: Epacteatre.org 

Reamstown Days

September 5-6

Reamstown Memorial Park

Friday’s schedule includes food, kid’s activities, games, musical entertainment and more. Saturday will feature more of the same plus a car show, a Candy Drop, a pet parade and in the evening, entertainment provided by The Fabulous Greaseband. Fri., 4-9 p.m. Sat., 8 a.m.-10 p.m. 23 E. Church St., Reamstown. Information: Facebook.com

Lancaster MusicFest

September 6

Buchanan Park

Lancaster MusicFest is the flagship fundraising event produced by the SmartHub Foundation, whose vision is to create a more engaged, healthy and vibrant Lancaster. The 6th annual event brings together live music (Kelly Bell Band, Bailey Run, The Ogham Stones, Sarah Fiore and the Young Musician Academy), local food, craft beer, wine and spirits, street performers and local artisans. Proceeds benefit Children’s Miracle Network and Schreiber Pediatric. 12-8 p.m. 901 Buchanan Ave., Lancaster. Information: Lancastermusicfest.com

Wags on Wright

September 7

John Wright Restaurant

Back for its 12^th year, the event will feature pet-friendly vendors, a pizza special on the Pizza Patio, dog-friendly burgers and more. Proceeds will benefit the Columbia Animal Shelter and Pitties Love Peace. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 234 N. Front St., Wrightsville. Information: Jwrpa.com

Schreiber Rubber Duckie Dash & Festival

September 7

Schreiber Center for Pediatric Development

Come out and dash for the benefit of children who utilize the services of Schreiber. Options include the Duckie Dash (1 mile, all ages, all abilities), and the Duckling Dash (100 meters for children under the age of 12). Everyone can show their support by purchasing a collectible rubber duckie. (Dash registration, duck purchases and festival tickets can be ordered online.) A carnival-style festival featuring pony rides, food trucks, games, prizes and more will follow. 2-5 p.m. 625 Community Way, Lancaster. Information: Schreiberpediatric.org.

The Denver Fair

September 9-13

Denver

Known for its competitions, food and emphasis on community, the fair is also heralded for its special events (this year’s include a hot wings eating contest for first responders on Tuesday; the Miss Denver Fair Queen contest on Wednesday; and a 5K race honoring Denver’s 125th anniversary on Saturday). Music will be provided by The Uptown Band, Jess Zimmerman Band, Mitch & the Mood Swings and Burn the Jukebox. There are fireworks, too! Times vary. 801 Main Street, Denver. Information: Thedenverfair.com.

AQS Quilt Week

September 10-13

Spooky Nook Sports Conference Center

Whether you’re an experienced quilter, a novice, or simply love quilts, the American Quilter’s Society has designed a show that will inspire and enthrall everyone. The show will feature workshops, lectures, exhibits, a vendor mall, tours and a quilting contest. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily (closing at 4 p.m. on Sat.). 75 Champ Blvd., Manheim. Information: Americanquilter.com

A Tale of Two Cities

September 11-28

Servant Stage

A Tale of Two Cities is a Broadway musical based on Charles Dickens’ classic novel set during the tumultuous French Revolution. With music, lyrics and a book by Jill Santoriello, the musical follows the intertwined lives of Charles Darnay, a French aristocrat, and Sydney Carton, a disillusioned English lawyer, as they navigate love, sacrifice and redemption in troubling times. Centered on the powerful themes of justice, class struggle and personal transformation, the epic story is brought to life with sweeping melodies and a richly emotional narrative. 7 p.m. with 2 p.m. matinees on Sat. & Sun. Warwick High School Performing Arts Center, 265 W. Orange St., Lititz. Information: Servantstage.org

Christiana Heritage Days

September 12-14

Christiana

In 1691, John Kemmerly arrived in the area that is now Christiana and was ultimately granted 1,000 acres of the Penn holdings. In 1894, Christiana, once a manufacturing and railroad hub, became Lancaster County’s smallest borough. But before that, Christiana played a pivotal role in events leading up to the Civil War. The Fugitive Slave Rebellion in Christiana was a major episode in African American history. Because of Christiana’s proximity to Maryland, and the prevalence of Quakers in the area, Christiana became an important route along the Underground Railroad. On September 11, 1851, a Maryland slave owner named Edward Gorsuch, a U.S. Marshall and others, made their way to the Christiana-area home of William Parker, where enslaved individuals were suspected to be hiding. Gorsuch was killed when a group of armed men resisted his efforts. The conflict and the trial that followed sent shock waves across the nation and laid the groundwork for the Civil War.

Heritage Days, which is organized by the Christiana Historical Society, begins Friday with a music event (Hilton & The Pickers), and continues Saturday with tours of the Historical Complex, William Brinton property and the Christiana Resistance Museum. Reenactors, kids’ activities, traditional craft demonstrations, vendors and a food court are also on the schedule. Sunday’s activities include a church service and a community picnic. 17 Green St., Christiana. Information: Christianahistoricalsociety.com

Driving Miss Daisy

September 12-28

Fulton Theatre

The Fulton kicks off it “Audience Choice” 2025-26 season with this warm-hearted, humorous and affecting study of the unlikely relationship that is forged between an aging, crotchety White Southern lady, and a proud, soft-spoken Black man. Driving Miss Daisy was a long-running Off-Broadway success and an Academy Award-winning film (including Best Picture) that stars Jessica Tandy (Best Actress winner) and Morgan Freeman (Best Actor nominee). Times vary. 12 N. Prince St., Lancaster. Information: Thefulton.org

Cars for Canines

September 13

Weaver Markets

Weaver Markets is the site for this third annual event that will benefit the Pennsylvania SPCA, Lancaster Center. Cars of all makes and models will be on view. Leashed dogs welcome. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 2610 N. Reading Rd., Denver. (Note: Rain Date is Oct. 4.) Information: Facebook.com

Hometown Heroes Festival

September 13

Cherry Crest Adventure Farm

Cherry Crest will once again host a day that pays tribute to the courageous individuals who serve our hometowns. From firefighters and police officers to healthcare workers, the festival is a heartfelt salute to those who keep our communities safe and thriving. A portion of ticket sales for this day will be donated to local volunteer fire departments. Festivities will include a Candy Drop, Touch-a-Truck & Meet & Greet with Local EMS, fire departments and police, a Heroes Parade and Patriotic Fireworks Show. Farm is open 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Festival hours are 12-6:30 p.m. 150 Cherry Hill Rd., Ronks. Information: Cherrycrestfarm.com

L’Italia Festival

September 13

Lititz Springs Park

Presented by the Keystone Italian Project, the festival (or, as they say in Italy, festa) celebrates all things Italian, including the language, culture, art, music, sense of community, games and, of course, the cuisine of the country’s various regions. Kids’ activities will also be offered. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 24 N. Broad St., Lititz. Information: Lititz.it   

Trail Fest

September 13

Wizard Ranch Nature Preserve

Sponsored by Lancaster Conservancy, the event is back for second year to celebrate the variety of ways we can connect with nature and experience the physical, mental and emotional health benefits that are gained from spending time outdoors. The 200-plus acre preserve is part of the more than 45 miles of trails and over 8,000 acres of natural lands that are managed by Lancaster Conservancy, which works to provide ample opportunities for everyone to explore the area’s beautiful forests, meadows, wetlands and streams. Event will feature live music from Mulligan Pauls & Rast and Hadassah Edith; beer from Collusion Tap Works; food from LetUsKnow, Stoney’s Burgers and Fries and Mezcla Ice Cream. The day will also offer self-guided hikes, trailside chats and the chance to test your outdoor skills. 1-7 p.m. Tickets required. Accomac Rd., Hellam, York County. Information: Lancasterconservancy.org/trailfest/

Celebrate 100 Years of Popcorn

September 13

Mount Joy

Reist Popcorn Company is marking its 100th birthday, and they’re inviting the entire community to help them celebrate. A free popcorn festival at the Reist Family Farm will feature an evening filled with free hot air balloon rides, a corn maze, hayrides, live music (Colebrook Road), fireworks, local food & drink vendors, and (of course), plenty of popcorn. Whether you’ve grown up with Reist’s popcorn or are just discovering the local treat, this milestone event is their way of saying “thank you” for your support. 4-9 p.m. 681 Longenecker Rd, Mount Joy. Information: Reistpopcorn.com

Lancaster County Field of Hope Benefit Dinner

September 13

Heth Farm

Celebrating its 10th year of helping individuals and families ease the burden of dealing with unexpected medical issues and the costs associated with them, this year’s benefit dinner will feature a reception (hors d’ouvres, wine and beer), live entertainment, introductions to this year’s recipients, and a multi-course farm-to-table-style dinner. 4-9 p.m. 4338 Fairview Rd., West Hempfield. Information: Lancofieldofhope.com

Uncork the 80s

September 13

Nissley Vineyards

A music legend will be making a special appearance at Nissley Vineyards! Pop sensation, Tiffany, who earned two number 1 hit singles with I Think We’re Alone Now and Could’ve Been, also set a record as the youngest female artist to top the Billboard charts with her debut album. In 2000, Billboard ranked Tiffany’s album, The Color of Silence, among the “Top Ten Best Albums of the Year.” In 2011, she released her country-pop LP, Rose Tattoo, embracing the music she grew up on. Her critically acclaimed A Million Miles (2016) marked the first time Tiffany had been a co-producer on her own record. As a writer and co-producer on her 10th studio album, Pieces of Me, Tiffany fused elements of rock and pop, while still showcasing her trademark tendency for big radio-friendly choruses. Her 11th studio album, Shadows, debuted in 2022. Food trucks will be onsite, Wine, craft beer will be available. 21+ only. 5:30 p.m. 140 Vintage Dr., Bainbridge. Information: Eventbrite.com

CASA Heroes Gala & Benefit Auction

September 13

Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square

Hosted by CASA for Children of Lancaster and Lebanon Counties, this year’s benefit – Crystal & Cowboys – will reflect on 15 years of advocacy and instilling hope in the lives of the children it serves. In keeping with the theme, the evening will include a mechanical bull, a casino, hors d’oeuvres, beer, wine, a complimentary cocktail, dinner, silent/live auctions, dancing and more. Dress in the spirit of the occasion! 5:30 p.m. Penn Square, Lancaster. Information: E.givessmart.com

Day Out With Thomas

September 13-21

Strasburg Railroad

Everyone’s favorite engine is visiting Strasburg this month. Thomas, who hails from the Island of Sodor, will be pulling trains during the 30-minute trips through the countryside. Don’t spin your wheels … tickets go fast! 301 Gap Rd., Ronks. Information: Strasburgrailroad.com.

Southern Lancaster County Fair

September 17-19

Solanco Fairgrounds

These fair honors the tradition in which it was founded in 1950: fellowship, food and friendly competition. There’s also an expo through which businesses, churches and organizations acquaint visitors with the services they offer. The food is amazing! Special events include tractor pulls, an Iron Man competition, music from the Jess Zimmerman Band and a celebrity milking contest. Oh, and there’s a parade. Hours vary. Park Avenue, Quarryville. Information: Solancofair.org.

Wild and Uncommon Weekend/York Pawpaw Festival

September 18-21

Horn Farm Center for Agricultural Education

The Horn Farm Center has expanded its popular Pawpaw Festival in order to celebrate the region’s food, art, natural beauty and, of course, pawpaws, which are regarded as the largest fruit that is native to the eastern U.S. The Pawpaw Festival, which is celebrating its 21st anniversary, will officially be held Saturday, September 20 (9 a.m.-5 p.m.). It will feature tree vendors, orchard tours, pawpaw-themed merchandise, educational exhibitors and food made with pawpaws. (Note: tickets for the festival must be pre-purchased.) Events on Thursday, Friday and Sunday include cooking classes, hikes, farm tours, live music and even a tasting of “pawpaw beer.” Hours vary. 4945 Horn Rd., York. Information: Hornfarmcenter.org

Disenchanted

October 19-October 5

Prima Theatre

Prima kicks off its 15th season with this fearless Off-Broadway hit that offers a PG-13 remix of royal stories that are packed with outrageous songs, irreverent humor and enough attitude to make a fairy godmother file for early retirement. Times vary. 941 Wheatland Ave., Lancaster. Information: Primatheatre.org

Fall Fest

September 20

St. John’s Herr Estate

This annual indoor yard and bake sale will offer household goods, hand-made items, gently used books, jewelry and much more. Food menu includes baked good, soup, sandwiches and beverages. Proceeds benefit local nonprofit organizations. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. 200 Luther Lane, Columbia. Information: Luthercare.org

Amos Herr Community Festival

September 21

Amos Herr Park

Sponsored by East Hempfield Township, the East Petersburg Lions Club and the Amos Herr House/Historical Society, the annual festival entails a car show, craft vendors, food, tours of the Herr homestead and music. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 1700 Nissley Rd., Landisville. Information: Easthempfield.org.

Ephrata Fair

September 23-27

Ephrata

In Ephrata, you get three extravaganzas in one: the festivities kick off with a massive parade, the downtown area is transformed into the largest street fair in Pennsylvania, and Thomas Grater Park becomes a tent city dedicated to all things agriculture. There’s plenty of competitions, a Family Fun Night, exhibits, live music (Jess Zimmerman Band, The Nomads and Easily Amused) and, of course, delicious food. Hours vary. Main Street and Thomas Grater Park. Information: Ephratafair.org.

Moravian Manor Communities Speaker Series

September 24

Ware Center

Moravian Manor’s annual speaker series welcomes actress, author and activist, Holly Robinson Peete, who will share her perspective on “Matters of Life: Supporting Family from Parenting to Caregiving.” Peete, who is the wife of former NFL QB (including the Eagles) Rodney Peete, will speak from experience, as she is the mother of an autistic son and a caregiver to her father who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. The evening will also feature a cocktail hour and buffet dinner prepared by Food for Thought Catering. 5:30 p.m. 42 N. Prince St., Lancaster. Information: Moravianmanorcommunities.org

West Lampeter Community Fair

September 24-26

West Lampeter Fairgrounds

During the fair, which emphasizes friendly competition and educational events, visitors can take in the All Western Horse Show and parades that feature the Fair Queen candidates, babies and tractors. Food is also a star of the fair. Hours vary. 851 Village Rd., Lampeter. Information: Westlampeterfair.com.

Lititz Craft Beer Fest

September 27

TAIT

Now in its 11th year, the festival is presented by the Lititz AMBUCS and the Warwick Community Ambulance Association. Since its inception, the festival has raised more than $700,000, which has supported the AMBUCS’ mission of inspiring individuals to overcome challenges related to mobility issues and in doing so, gain independence. The festival will feature live music, food trucks/vendors, samplings from 80-plus breweries and cideries and a homebrew competition. 3-6 p.m. 401 W. Lincoln Avenue, Lititz. (Note: Tickets must be purchased online, no sales at the door.) Information: Lititizcraftbeerfest.com.

World’s Premier Johnny Cash Show

September 27

Lititz Shirt Factory

With his six-foot-two-inch burly frame, sturdy jaw, icy stare and rich baritone voice, Terry Lee Goffee takes on the persona of the Man in Black in a performance that incorporates the guitar-slinging body movements that were a Johnny Cash trademark. Music critics consider Goffee’s performance to be the premier tribute to the country music legend. He has received rave reviews across both the U.S. and the UK. 8-10 p.m. 5 Juniper Lane, Lititz. Information: Lititzshirtfactory.com

One World Festival

September 28

Franklin & Marshall College

Organizations affiliated with Greek, Indian, Islamic, Jewish, Irish, Italian, African, Hispanic and other cultures are once again collaborating to celebrate the food, music, crafts, arts and dance traditions of the world. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 929 Harrisburg Ave., Lancaster (Alumni Sports & Fitness Center). Information: Oneworldfestivallancaster.org.