Summer arrives June 20! It’s the perfect time to celebrate the season with food, drink, music, outdoor activities, fundraisers, family fare and so much more.
Long’s Park Summer Music Series
Held Sunday evenings, June-late August, all concerts begin at 7:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted. Food trucks will be on-site. Beer gardens open for select events. 1441 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster. Information: Longspark.org
- June 1: David Uosikkinen’s In the Pocket, featuring members of The Hooters, Tommy Conwell, The A’s and others associated with the Philly sound.
- June 8: Della Mae (all-women string band)
- June 15: Alsarah and the Nubatons (East Africa Retro-Pop)
- June 22: Skerryvore (traditional Scottish music goes contemporary)
- June 29: U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” (patriotic). Note: 8 p.m. start time.
Music Fans: We’ve compiled a list of music-related events happening throughout the summer. Read it here.
Beer Gardens
June
Lancaster City
Traveling beer gardens are returning to Lancaster City this summer and fall. The series kicks off at Musser Park, June 5-7 and June 12-14. Visitors can partake of beer (draft, canned and bottled), as well as cocktails, wine and liquor. Food vendors will also be onsite. Proceeds benefit Lancaster Recreation Commission programs. 4-10 p.m. 135 N. Lime St., Lancaster. Information: Lancasterrec.org
The Warehouse District Beer Garden is also back for another summer. Operated by Rural City Beer Co., it’s located in a former lumber yard. The itinerary includes beer, food, live music, vendors, lawn games and more. Thursday & Friday, 5-11 p.m. Saturday, 12-11 p.m. Sunday, 12-9 p.m. 595 N. Charlotte St., Lancaster. Information: Warehousedistrict.com
Shakespeare in the Park
June 5-8 and 12-15
Musser Park
Lancaster Shakespeare Theatre presents The Tempest. Adapted and directed by Jonathan and Rachel Strayer, the results entail a whirlwind of slapstick, sass and absurdity. Bring a lawn chair, snacks (Beer Garden will be open), and prepare to giggle your way through this rowdy reinvention of Prospero’s Island. (Note: a $20 donation is suggested.) 6:30 p.m. 135 N. Lime St., Lancaster. Information: Lancastershakespeare.org
EPC Golf Outing
June 6
Crossgates Golf Club
Engle Printing & Publishing Co., Inc. will be hosting their 18th Annual EPC Golf Outing for the benefit of Good Samaritan Services. Tee times are available at 7:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Breakfast will be provided by Joe on the Go Coffee Co., while lunch will be provided by Bunkers, the on-site restaurant. Chicken barbecue will be served to the afternoon’s golfers. Raffle tickets can be purchased for a chance to win prizes. Registration is required. Information: epcgolfouting.com
Good Samaritan Services compassionately responds to homelessness and poverty through a unique and personalized approach to help their neighbors journey from crisis to stability. Serving over 500 men, women and children annually across Lancaster and Chester counties, their vision is to see and serve all who may be overlooked. Learn more at goodsamservices.org.
Taste of Lititz
June 6
Main Street
Venture Lititz is hosting a Block Party that celebrates Lititz’s growing food scene. The town’s restaurants and food and beverage vendors will set up shop along East Main Street, where visitors can sample bites and sips on a pay-as-you-go basis. 5-9 p.m. Information: Lititzpa.com
Michelle Johnsen photo
Lancaster Water Week
June 6-14
Various locations
Lancaster Water Week celebrates Lancaster County’s 1,400 miles of streams and rivers. These waterways are the source of drinking water, drive economic and agricultural growth and provide a way to enjoy nature through fishing, paddling and swimming. Now in its 9th year, the event’s sponsor, Lancaster Conservancy, has lined up dozens of events during Water Week that extend to river paddles (including one with Paul Nevin to see the petroglyphs in the Susquehanna River), hikes, maintenance and clean-up projects, tours (including the Safe Harbor Dam), a film festival, activities at the Lancaster Science Factory, lunch & learns, a community picnic and more. Information: lancasterconservancy.org/water-week
Red Rose Run
June 7
Downtown Lancaster
Now in its 49th year, the 5-mile course takes participants through Lancaster, around Lancaster County Central Park and back to the finish line in Ewell Plaza. Event also includes a Kid’s Fun Run and a wheelchair race. Register online through June 3. 8 a.m. start time. Information: visitlancasercity.com
Food Truck Fest
June 7
Stauffer Park
More than a dozen food trucks will be on hand for this annual benefit for the Occupational Development Center. In addition to a wide range of food and beverages, the event will feature DJs, a raffle, a touch-a-truck event with fire, police and construction personnel and more. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 1241 Lititz Pike, Lancaster. Information: Odcenter.org
First Saturdays in Ephrata
June 7
Ephrata
Back for another summer of “growing the economy and building community,” this event kicks off with a Wine Walk theme that will see wineries set up tasting rooms inside Main Street businesses from 2:30-4:30 p.m. Then, visit Whistle Stop Plaza (4:30-8 p.m.) to enjoy live music provided by the rock band, Caulfield’s Radio, food vendors and adult beverages (ID required). Sponsored by Mainspring of Ephrata, the event continues July 5, August 2 and September 6. 16 E. Main St., Ephrata. Information: Mainspringofephrata.org
Lancaster Vegfest
June 7 & 8
Buchanan Park
Vendors and food trucks will be on hand to share vegan meals, desserts, snacks, etc. A vegan farmers market will be in operation, as will a beer garden. Event will also feature farm sanctuary info, yoga, kid’s activities, chef demos, speakers and live music. Suggested admission ($5) will benefit Lancaster Farm Sanctuary. VIP (early admission) tickets available. 12-5 p.m. 901 Buchanan Ave., Lancaster. Information: Pavegfest.com
English Country Dance
June 8
Historic Rock Ford
Historic Rock Ford has launched a Social Dance series. June’s session focuses on the English Country Dance, which is probably most recognized as the style of dance seen in many Jane Austen film adaptations. This series is new to Historic Rock Ford’s special event calendar and the April event met with an enthusiastic sold-out response. A 30-minute optional orientation will be held prior to the event to review basic terms and figures. No prior dance experience is necessary, and new dancers are welcome anytime. Partners are not required, as you will change partners throughout the session, and there will be friendly people who will ask you to dance! Dancing will be to recorded music, and each dance will be taught and prompted by a caller. All ages welcome but recommended for ages 7 and up. 3:30 p.m. 881 Rock Ford Rd. (barn), Lancaster. Information: Historicrockford.org
Family Farm Days
June 10-12
Oregon Dairy
Oregon Dairy and The Lancaster County Agricultural Council host this annual family-friendly event that celebrates agriculture and promotes its value to the county. It’s part educational and total fun, as it features live animals, tractor and wagon rides, exhibits, displays of farm machinery, Barnyard Theatre, a petting zoo, a straw tunnel and other activities. Food is also part of the event and the PA’s Dairyman’s Association’s famous milkshakes will be available. Wednesday’s Maker’s Market will feature PA-made products. Tues. & Thurs., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wed., 10 a.m.-7 p.m. 2900 Oregon Pike, Lititz. Information: Oregondairy.com.
Lancaster & Lebanon Go Red for Women Luncheon
June 12
Brick Gables
Blooming for Life is the theme of the annual luncheon that will see supporters of the American Heart Association and Go Red for Women gather to honor survivors, celebrate advancements in heart health, and rally support to save and improve women’s lives by advancing equitable research and care, advocating for inclusive health policies and raising awareness of women’s number one health threat, cardiovascular disease. Event features speakers, buffet lunch, an auction and more Wear Red! 11 a.m. 800 E. Newport Rd., Lititz. Information: Heart.org
Serviceberry Festival
June 13 & 14
Felton, York County
Now in its 16th year, this family-friendly festival is dedicated to the beautiful native serviceberry tree. Come and learn about this little-known tree, tour the property, taste this delicious native fruit that will be used to create cake and wine and purchase native plants/trees. Dandelion Thyme and Sarah’s Creamery food trucks will be on-site. Event features music, a beekeeping demonstration and children’s activities. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. each day. Heartwood Nursery, 8957 Hickory Rd., Felton. Information: Heartwoodnursery.net
Strawberry Festival
June 14
Lancaster Central Market
Come and enjoy one of the most delish mornings at market. Standholders will be setting up shop outdoors to offer visitors a taste of every strawberry-themed food, treat and drink imaginable. Pay as you go. Event also features live music, face painting and more. 8 a.m.-12 p.m. 23 N. Market St., Lancaster. Information: Centralmarketlancaster.com.
Flower Sale + Food Trucks
June 14
New Holland
Lighthouse Vocational Services is hosting this event, with proceeds being used to empower individuals with disabilities. The flower sale will feature a wide range of plants, containers, baskets, etc. Food trucks will also be a part of the event. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. 144 Orlon Rd., New Holland. Information: Lighthousevoc.org
Pickleball Palooza
June 14
Millersville University
Show your skills and support Power Packs Project’s goal to provide schoolchildren with healthy and nutritious meals when school is not in session. The tournament will be conducted round-robin style and features two levels: intermediate and advanced. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Student Memorial Center, 21 S. George St., Millersville. Information: Powerpacksproject.org
Art in the Gardens
June 14
Columbia
If you love the architecture that defines Columbia, wait until you see the beautiful, sometimes whimsical and always creative gardens that complement it. Columbia’s garden tour is unique in that each stop features an artist at work. Sponsored by Create Columbia, tickets ($15) can be purchased at Columbia Market House (15 S. Third St.) on June 14 from 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Tour hours are 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Information: Createcolumbia.org.
Hip-Hop and R&B Crab Fest
June 14
Crispus Attucks Community Center
Celebrate Father’s Day with live music, crabs (and sides). A DJ will provide the music. Giveaways are on the agenda, as well. 4-8:30 p.m. 407 Howard Ave., Lancaster. Information: Eventbrite.com
Helen Norman Photo
Lavender Festival
June 14 & 15
Star Bright Farm
Looking for a fun day trip? Just over the PA/MD line, you’ll find the perfect destination: Star Bright Farm, which is owned by renowned lifestyle photographer, Helen Norman, and her family. Here you’ll find a period barn whose lower level is home to a shop stocked with products for the home and self-care that embody the all-natural movement, whether it’s something from the farm’s fields or local artisans. Outside, the barn is surrounded by gardens that are filled with old-fashioned varieties of plants. In mid-June, the fields are aglow with lavender. To celebrate, the farm hosts a festival that entails food, drink, music, farm tours and lavender products. It makes for a lovely way to spend a day! Reserve tickets via starbright-farm.com. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 2950 Garrett Rd., White Hall, MD. Information: Starbright-farm.com.
Parade of Homes
June 14-16 & 19-23
Lancaster & Lebanon Counties
Are you dreaming of a new home? If so, the Building Industry Association of Lancaster County can offer inspiration with the annual Parade of Homes. Entries include new and custom homes, townhomes/duplexes, apartments and even remodeling projects. Entries are judged by a panel of industry professionals prior to the Parade’s kick-off. Homes are open weekends, 12-6 p.m. and weekdays, 5-8 p.m. Information: Lancasterparadeofhomes.com
Still dreaming? The BIA is once again sponsoring a raffle – Build Your Dream Raffle – through which a lucky ticket holder will win $25,000 (or more) that can be used to help finance a renovation project or even the purchase of a new home. (The work must be completed by a BIA member or supplies/services must be provided by a BIA member.) Tickets are $75 and can be purchased through the BIA. Proceeds will benefit the BIA’s workforce development initiatives, including BIA Building Futures: Construction Career Day. Drawing is October 16. Details: Lancasterbuilders.org.
Day Out With Thomas
June 14-16 and 19-22
Strasburg Rail Road
Everyone’s favorite steam locomotive is returning to Strasburg for his 30th visit, during which he will be pulling 30-minute excursion rides through the countryside. 301 Gap Rd., Ronks. Information: Strasburgrailroad.com
Strawberry Festival
June 15
Elizabethtown
Celebrate Father’s Day at this free community picnic. Wear red and bring your own picnic fare or sample the offerings of food trucks and other vendors. Event will feature free strawberry treats, a makers market, live music and more. 1-6 p.m. Elizabethtown Borough Park, 1 Ken Lane. Information: Facebook.com
Juneteenth Celebration
June 19
Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
Organized in partnership with the Lancaster Chapter of the National Action Network (NAN), the event marks a historic first for Landis Valley, as it is dedicating its 100th anniversary in part to honoring community, heritage and the diverse stories that shape Pennsylvania’s past. Juneteenth in Lancaster has a legacy rooted in the Strawberry Street Festival, the earliest known (1905) African American celebration in the county. Revived in 1997 by Paul Culbreth and Darlene Colon as a Juneteenth event held at Thaddeus Stevens College, this celebration has grown into a cherished tradition honoring emancipation and African American culture. Now, for the first time, Landis Valley is honored to serve as the host site for this living-history experience. The event will feature historical reenactments and performances by the acclaimed PA Past Players; live gospel choirs performing spirituals and songs of the emancipation era; a diverse array of vendors and food trucks, spotlighting African American-owned businesses and traditional cuisine; and educational programming and exhibits that explore the legacy of Juneteenth and its impact in Pennsylvania. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 2451 Kissel Hill Rd., Lancaster. Information: Landisvalleymuseum.org
Intercourse Heritage Days
June 20-21
Intercourse Community Park
Intercourse is celebrating its history and sense of community through food, music, friendly competitions and family-friendly activities. Both days will feature a Food Showcase that will see local eateries create a Food Court. Event will also feature volleyball and cornhole tournaments, music and kids’ activities. Saturday kicks off with a Pancake Breakfast (6:30 a.m.) and concludes with a concert by The Churchmen, followed by fireworks. 3730 Old Philadelphia Pike, Gordonville. Information: Intercourseheritagedays.com
Thunder on the River
June 21
Columbia
The Columbia Lions Club presents its annual car show that features hundreds of vehicles, including antique and muscle cars, imports, trucks, hot rods and motorcycles. Proceeds will benefit such nonprofits/organizations as the Red Rose Veterans Honor Guard, Our Home of Hope, Columbia Borough Police Department drone program, Columbia Animal Shelter and the Lions vision/eyeglasses project. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Locust Street between Front and 6th streets. Information: Columbialions.org.
Terre Hill Days
June 26-29
Community Memorial Park
Celebrate the start of summer with live entertainment, great food, games and carnival rides and much more. Special events will include chainsaw carving, a magic show, face painting, tug-of-war and more! Thursday will feature Local Bands Night, while Saturday will host the annual Arts & Crafts Fair. Other special events on Saturday include an airplane candy scramble, children’s entertainment, fireworks, Bingo and more! Sunday’s activities include a community church service, covered dish community picnic and entertainment. (Note: Rides, games and concessions are closed on Sunday.) Thursday & Friday, 5-10 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday, 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. 210 Lancaster Ave., Terre Hill. Information: Terrehilldays.com
Riverfest
June 27-29
Columbia & Wrightsville
This event pays homage to the burning of the Columbia-Wrightsville Bridge in June 1863 that thwarted the Confederate Army’s plans to cross into Lancaster County and make its way to Harrisburg and Philadelphia. Events include 4th Friday activities in Columbia, trolly tours, heritage tours, the Bridge Burner Run & Paddle Challenge, an outdoor rec expo, a lawn concert at John Wright Restaurant and more. Information: Riverfestpa.com.
New Holland Summer Arts Craft Show
June 28
New Holland Community Park
A wide array of crafters and vendors will be on hand for this annual show. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 400 Block E. Jackson St., New Holland. Information: Newhollandsummerarts.com
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