The shortest month of the year will keep you so busy that before you know it, March will have arrived!
Groundhog Day! February 2
It’s mid-winter. Cabin fever has set in. Across Lancaster County, fingers will be crossed that the local groundhogs won’t see their shadows, which signifies an early spring.
Lancaster County Central Park (February 1)
The park is paying homage to the state’s famous rodent meteorologist a day early, on February 1. Naturalist Kristen Rogers will provide visitors with the scoop on these furry prognosticators. Register online or call 717-295-2055 by noon on Friday, January 30. 1 p.m. Environmental Center, 1 Natures Way, Lancaster. Information: Co.lancaster.pa.us/151/Parks-Recreation
Manheim Township Groundhog Day Celebration
Stauffer Mansion
The Manheim Township Parks & Recreation Department is hosting its 6th-annual, family-friendly celebration that will feature arts and crafts, hot chocolate, light refreshments, music and an appearance and photo ops with the department’s groundhog mascot, M.T. Parker, who will issue his prognostication at sunrise. 7 a.m. 1241 Lititz Pike, Lancaster. Information: Facebook.com
Mount Joy Groundhog Day Celebration
Town Clock
Mount Joy Minnie will greet February 2 just as the sun rises (7 a.m.), hence there’s always plenty of hot beverages (courtesy of the American Legion Post 185) and donuts (courtesy of Voyage Mount Joy) on hand to wake up the humans who await her decree. New this year: all kids wearing fun hats will win prizes. The event is organized by the Mount joy Area Chamber of Commerce and is sponsored by Keystone Lawn Company. Marietta Ave. and E. Main St., Mount Joy. Information: MountJoyChamber.com
Octoraro Orphie OK
Slumbering Groundhog Lodge
It doesn’t get any more picturesque than this! A covered bridge, a babbling creek, woodland and a rustic lodge define this pinnacle of prognostication in the Southern End of the county. Octoraro Orphie has been on the job here for 118 years. For lodge members, Groundhog Day is their “moment in the sun” as they have fun and entertain the audience with reports of groundhog sightings from the various brigades, as well as perform skits and songs that often poke fun at the political landscape and pop culture. They also take great pleasure in dunking the newest recruits in the chilly waters of the Octoraro Creek. The merriment gets underway at 8 a.m. Donuts and coffee will be served! White Rock Rd. in Kirkwood. Information: Facebook
Acorn Acres Wildlife Rehabilitation
Groundhog Central for Acorn Acres will be Conestoga House & Gardens, where Elliott and his sister, Lilly, will demonstrate the “snack method” of predicting the forecast. In addition, Groundhog Day merch will be available, with all proceeds benefiting the rehab and educational work carried out by Acorn Acres Wildlife Rehabilitation. 9-11 a.m. 1608 Marietta Ave, Lancaster. Information: Acornacreswr.com
Food
Ice Cream for Breakfast Day
February 7
Lancaster County
The history of Ice Cream for Breakfast Day can be traced to the Rappaport family of Rochester, New York. In February 1966, a crippling snowstorm hit the city. Children can entertain themselves for just so long and the Rappaport kids were no exception. They complained to their mother that they were bored due to being cooped up inside. To cheer them up, Mrs. Rappaport decreed that they would have ice cream for breakfast. The tradition, which became a staple in the family, was later shared with friends, who shared it, as well. The rest is history. Today, Ice Cream for Breakfast Day is not only celebrated on the first Saturday in February across the United States, but also worldwide.
Get in on the fun at home or have breakfast out at your favorite ice cream parlor, soda fountain or cafe. Many such businesses across Lancaster County will open their doors early that day and have special breakfast menus. Check with your favorite to see if they will be participating. Four we are aware of include: Whisk Café in Elizabethtown, which will be serving special ice cream menu items on February 7 & 8; Splits & Giggles in Lancaster City (they even have a kit you can preorder for making breakfast at home); Fox Meadows in Ephrata and Leola (last year, doors opened at 7:30 a.m.!) and New Holland’s Lickity Split, who partnered with W Donuts last year to make a dish they called the Peanut Butter Dream Team (pictured).
Fasnacht Day!
February 17
Lancaster County
It’s that time of the year to indulge in that Lancaster County puff of dough that pays homage to the German tradition in which homes used up items like lard, sugar and butter ahead of the Lenten season. Today, these delectable treats can be eaten plain or covered in a glaze, cinnamon or powdered sugar. Churches (pictured are fasnachts from Holy Trinity in Columbia) and fire companies make and sell fasnachts as fundraisers. Stores, bakeries and markets are also sources for the treats. Because it always falls on a Tuesday, you can find a variety of fasnachts at Lancaster Central Market and Root’s Country Market.
Winter in the Alps
February 26
John Wright Restaurant
Embrace winter and enjoy dishes such as cheese fondue, sausage & cabbage soup, venison sliders and short rib Wellington. Beverages will include mulled wine, Aperol Spritz and smoked rosemary Old Fashioned. 6:30 p.m. 234 N. Front St., Wrightsville. Information: Jwrpa.com
Theatre
1776-1876: Murder at Mount Hope OK
February 6-April 26
Mount Hope Estate
While the modern world celebrates America’s 250th, Murder Mystery Dinner Theater at Mount Hope is going back in time to 1876 and celebrate America’s 100th birthday. The culinary whodunit will be held at the historic Mount Hope Mansion, where the menu will include a four-course meal and plenty of intrigue. Weekends/times vary. 2775 Lebanon Rd., Manheim. Information: Parenfaire.com
Hadestown: Teen Edition
February 13-22
EPAC
This acclaimed musical by singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell and director Rachel Chavkin is the winner of eight Tony Awards (including Best Musical), as well as the Grammy Award® for Best Musical Theater Album. It intertwines two mythical tales — that of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice, and that of King Hades and Queen Persephone — as it takes you on an unforgettable journey to the underworld and back. Times vary. 320 Cocalico St., Ephrata. Information: EPACtheatre.org
Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None
February 13-March 8
Fulton Theatre
A thrilling whodunit that involves 10 strangers, one island and a deadly secret. One of Agatha Christie’s most foreboding tales and a masterpiece of dramatic construction, this classic play’s growing sense of dread and unfaltering tension will keep you guessing to the very end. Times vary. 12 N. Prince St., Lancaster. Information: Thefulton.org
Little Shop of Horrors
February 13-March 21
Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre
Based on the 1960s film, this rock musical follows a hapless florist shop worker who stumbles across a new breed of plant he names “Audrey II” after his coworker crush. The foul-mouthed, R&B singing carnivore promises unending fame and fortune … but at what price? PG13. Lunch and dinner buffets precede the shows. 510 Centerville Rd., Lancaster. Information: Dutchapple.com
Music & Dance
We the People First Friday
February 6
Ware Center
Sangjara is a captivating Korean folk-fusion band that merges the energy of traditional Korean music with the infectious rhythms of gypsy swing, funk, rock and improvisation. The name “Sangjaru” derives from two Korean words, “sangja” (box) and “jaru” (sack). While a box has a fixed shape, a sack adapts to the contents it carries. The band draws inspiration from this concept, aiming to infuse new creativity into the rich traditions of Korean music. 7 p.m. 42 N. Prince St., Lancaster. Information: Artsmu.com
Winter Ballroom Soiree
February 7
Trust Performing Arts Center
Step into an elegant evening of music, movement and timeless charm. Whether you’re an experienced dancer or a novice, the night will offer the perfect blend of sophistication and fun. Guests will enjoy a welcoming atmosphere, guided instruction to help you feel confident on the dance floor, and plenty of opportunity to dance the night away. Come with a partner or arrive solo, everyone is welcome to experience an enchanting evening in the heart of Downtown Lancaster. 7 p.m. 37 N. Market St., Lancaster. Information: Lancastertrust.com
Lancaster Roots & Blues Festival
February 27-March 1
Downtown Lancaster
It’s back! The three-day music festival returns, offering multiple venues and stages (within walking distance) in Downtown Lancaster. Featuring 30+ nationally recognized acts, regional talents and local artists, the festival presents an eclectic mix of musical styles including rock, blues, soul, jazz and so much more. Information: Lancasterrootsandblues.com
Art
2 By 2
January 24-February 22
MH Art Gallery & Studio
Two artists, Marita Hines and Marianne Calenda, will present Paintings + Monotypes, an exhibit that shares the recent work of each, with an emphasis placed on paintings that reflect their far-flung travels and a fascination with landscapes. Opening reception, Jan. 24, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Regular hours, Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 42 W. Market St., Marietta. Information: Mhartgallery.com
Art & Coffee Crawl
February 14
Lancaster City
Lancaster’s galleries, creative spaces and specialty locations welcome you to stroll about the city and view great art, all the while you enjoy tasty treats, coffee, tea or other refreshing beverages at each of your stops. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Information: Lancastercityart.com
Home & Garden
Plant Styling Your Home with Hilton Carter
February 1
Longwood Gardens
He’s back!! Step into the lush world of plant styling with interior/plant stylist, artist and author Hilton Carter, who will share his approach to weaving greenery into everyday spaces, through which you can create rooms that feel alive, connected and deeply personal. Learn how thoughtful plant care and design can transform your home into a living sanctuary. Hilton practices what he preaches! Nearly 300 plants fill his home in Baltimore. 2 p.m. 1001 Longwood Rd., Kennett Square. Information: Longwoodgardens.com
Garden Glow
February 13-March 8
Longwood Gardens
Nature and light collide to create an enchanting after-hours journey through Longwood’s Conservatory and Main Fountain Garden districts. Inside the historic conservatories, explore floral masterworks created by Longwood artists, revealing plants’ hidden beauty as they’re bathed in colors that bring warmth to the winter night. Experience Seeking Light:Bonsai Illuminated, a striking blacklight installation in which the intricate details of bonsai take on an otherworldly dimension, glowing with a captivating intensity. The West Conservatory is being transformed by award-winning floral designer, Jennifer Reed. Outside, thousands of shimmering, biodegradable sparks will float gracefully skyward, thanks to a mesmerizing installation by the visionary artist, Daan Roosegaarde. This will not be just a garden at night. It will be a luminous dreamscape, where every corner promises discovery, and every turn unveils something beautiful. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 5-10 p.m. 1001 Longwood Rd., Kennett Square. Reservations required. Information: Longwoodgardens.org
Benefits
National Wear Red Day
February 6
February is Heart Month and in conjunction with the month-long initiative, it has become the mission of the American Heart Association to focus on the fact that cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women. On February 6, wear red to be seen, to be counted, to be heard, to make an impact. Information: Goredforwomen.org
A Taste of Western Lancaster County
February 6
Elizabethtown Public Library
Enjoy a night of great food, drinks and music! Now in its 18th year, the event highlights restaurants, food vendors and beverage purveyors that serve the greater Elizabethtown area. Last year’s winners included: Best Beverage: Tröegs Independent Brewing; Best Appetizer: McCleary’s Public House; Best Entree: Luongo Barbeque; Best Dessert: Spence Candies; and Best of Show: Luongo Barbeque. Live music is featured on two floors. All proceeds benefit Elizabethtown Public Library, as well as service projects of the Elizabethtown Rotary Club. Tickets can be purchased at the library or through Eventbrite. 4:30-9 p.m. 10 South Market St., Elizabethtown. Information: Etownpubliclibrary.com and Eventbrite.com
Full Moon Fundraiser
February 7
Wolf Sanctuary of PA
It may be cold outside, but you’ll feel invigorated by the Snow Moon and the wolves that call Speedwell home. The benefit event features a roaring bonfire, live entertainment and educational tours. Bring a chair, a blanket, a flashlight, non-alcoholic beverage, a snack and most of all, a sense of adventure. Attendance restricted to ages 16-plus. 6:30 p.m. 465 Speedwell Forge Rd., Lititz. Information: wolfsanctuarypa.org
Chicken Pot Pie Dinner
February 21
Hand-in-Hand Fire Company
There’s nothing quite like steaming hot chicken pot pie on a cold winter’s day! The fire company’s members and volunteers have the process down to a science, as they’ve been preparing the dinner for more than 30 years. The menu includes homemade chicken pot pie, peas, pepper cabbage, applesauce, rolls & apple butter, pie & ice cream, cold beverages and coffee. Eat-in or take-out. 10:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. (or til sellout). Take-outs begin at 9 a.m. Complimentary delivery is available within a 4-mile radius at 11 a.m. & 4 p.m. 313 Enterprise Dr., Bird-in-Hand. Information: Bihfire.com
Strasburg Spring Donation & Consignment Sale
February 27-28
Strasburg Fire Company
Strasburg’s event kicks off Mud Sale season, so named because the earth is typically muddy in late winter/early spring. Proceeds from the sales benefit the county’s suburban and rural volunteer fire companies. Friday’s focus will be crafts and small quilted items. Saturday will see quilts, small goods, new/used tools, antiques/collectibles, lawn furniture, lawn/garden items, farm machinery, carriages and more be auctioned/sold. Food is an integral part of Mud Sale season, with much of it prepared by Amish volunteers. In Strasburg, chicken corn soup is the big draw, with take-out available. Friday, 4-8 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. 203 Franklin St., Strasburg.Information: strasburgfire.com and discoverlancaster.com for the full schedule of mud sales.
Family Fare
Popovich Comedy Pet Theater
February 21
American Music Theatre
Voted “Best Family Show” in Vegas, Popovich Comedy Pet Theater features European-style circus acts, highly intelligent dogs and even house cats doing the craziest of tricks! All the pets in the show have been adopted from rescues and shelters across the country and are trained using positive reinforcement techniques to enhance their natural abilities. The show’s namesake, Gregory Popovich, has spent years as an advocate for homeless pets and is proud to be able to help improve the life of every animal he personally rescues. Gregory and his pets were finalists on America’s Got Talent, guested on TV shows hosted by Jay Leno, David Letterman and Craig Ferguson, and were featured on Animal Planet. 3 p.m. 2425 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster. Information: AMTshows.com
Maple Sugaring Time
February 21-22 & March 1
Lancaster County Central Park
A sure – and sweet – sign that spring is on the way occurs when the sap in maple trees begins to flow, an indication that temperatures are on the rise. At such time, the trees are tapped, and the sap is used to make maple syrup, candy and other sweet treats. Each year, staff at the park welcome visitors to Pavilion 11 to see the process and sample the resulting treats. In addition, Patterson Farms will be onsite selling syrup and many other maple products. Drop by 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday and 1-4 p.m. on Sundays. Information: co.lancaster.a.us/151/Parks-Recreation.
Get Creative!
Warm-Up Winter Tea Party
February 8
Gallery Grow
Gallery Grow is collaborating with its neighbor, The Spice & Tea Exchange, for an event in which guests will savor a hot cup of tea and enjoy pastries while creating a charming teacup garden using a teacup from the gallery’s vintage-inspired collection, two succulents and an assortment of decorative elements. 12-2 p.m. 320 N. Queen St., Lancaster. Reservations required. Information: Eventbrite.com
Valentine’s Fun
Lancaster Creative Factory Date Night
February
Lancaster Creative Factory
Take your pick and explore such mediums as using the wheel for pottery, glass blowing and painting. All classes are led by instructors. 6-8 p.m. on designated nights. 580 S. Prince St., Lancaster. Information: lancastercreativefactory.org
Inspire Pottery Date Night
February 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28
Inspire Pottery Studio
Try your hand at making pottery with a loved one or friend. This is a great activity for beginners or people who have no experience with pottery (who knows, you may want to sign up for a multi-week class). During the class, the instructor will demonstrate/walk you through the steps of throwing. Then, it’s your turn! The first piece will be a simple bowl. After a coffee/cookie a break, you’ll then get back on the wheel and create your second piece (your choice). Before you leave, you’ll pick your colors and after 3-4 weeks, your pieces will be ready for pickup. Friday, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Saturday, 2-4 p.m. and 6:30-8:30 p.m. (Note: this is an on-going event.) 393 Locust St., Denver. Information: Inspirepotterystudio.com
Sweetheart Soirée
February 13
Whisk Café
It’s date night family style! Bring that special little someone and enjoy a family-friendly meal and live music provided by local artist, Adam Gingrich. All ages are welcome! 4-7 p.m. 98 Masonic Dr., Suite 102, Elizabethtown. Reservations required. Information: Thewhiskcafe.com
Wine & Cheese Train
February 13-15 & 21
Strasburg Rail Road
Climb aboard one of the Strasburg Rail Road’s refurbished cars and spend the trip to Paradise enjoying select wine, cheese and crackers. Dinner trains are also offered or make an evening of it and dine at a local restaurant. Times vary. 301 Gap Rd., Ronks. Information: Strasburgrailroad.com
Spread the Love Tasting Tour
February 14
Kitchen Kettle Village
Participants will be treated to special tastings at eateries and food businesses that are located in the village. They will also receive Valentine’s Day-themed gift bags and be entered in a drawing for a gift basket. 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse. Tickets needed. Information: Kitchenkettlevillage.com
Make a Heart Mosaic
February 14
PA Guild of Craftsmen
InstructorAya Kinoshita will help students make 3.5-inch heart mosaics, using glass pieces to create the heart-shaped work of art! 10 a.m.-12 p.m.(Note: Other glass-related classes will be held throughout the month.) 335 N. Queen St., Lancaster. Information: Pacrafts.org
Valentine’s Dinner & Dance
February 14
Star Barn
Back for its 7th year, the event will feature a multi-course dinner prepared by Food for Thought Catering. Morgan Treni & The Golden Estate House Band, a small, yet mighty party band from New York City, will perform cool jazz standards intertwined with “make you wanna dance” favorites from the 70s, 80s, 90s and today. Guests are welcome to take a walk around the lake and explore the outbuildings on the grounds. 5:30 p.m. 1 Hollinger Lane, Elizabethtown. Information: Stonegablesestate.com
Showtunes with Reji Woods
February 14
Ware Center
Lancaster performer, actor and director, Reji Woods, and a talented cast of seasoned singers and musicians will perform the best love songs Broadway has to offer. Woods, who has enjoyed an extensive acting career (from Broadway to TV shows like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel), brings his unmatched warmth and buttery-smooth vocals to your favorite showtunes. 7:30 p.m. 42 N. Prince St., Lancaster. Information: Artsmu.com
Community
Fire & Ice Festival
February 13-22
Lititz
Winter’s “coolest” event transforms Lititz into a giant snow globe! Carved ice sculptures glisten along sidewalks, while shops and restaurants join in on the fun with special promotions (Lititz Springs Inn will have an Ice Bar!). Information: Lititzpa.com
Winter’s Coolest Night Out – A Ticketed Preview Party
Thursday, February 12
Winter’s Coolest Night Out is a special launch party for the Fire & Ice Festival. Tickets include live carving demos, live musical entertainment, a viewing of the Local Art Exhibit, hors d’oeuvres and one free drink at the Collusion Tap Works bar. (Additional food and drinks will be available to purchase.) 6-9 p.m. Lititz Shirt Factory, 5 Juniper Lane.
Official Event Kick Off!
Friday, February 13
Starting at 4 p.m., the downtown area will be glistening with freshly carved ice sculptures. Take a stroll and take in the creativity of the sculptures, do some shopping and dine at local restaurants. Big Boy Brass will provide street-side musical entertainment from 4:30-6:30 p.m.
Lititz Ice Cream Festival
Saturday, February 14
Celebrate the sweet side of America’s Coolest Small Town at this cool and tasty event that brings the community together for an unforgettable afternoon filled with family-friendly fun and the best scoops in town for a fundraiser supporting Water Street Mission and the Lititz Warwick Community Chest. Ice cream will be provided by such vendors as Kreider’s, Fox Meadows, Lickity Split, 32 Below and others. 12-4:30 p.m. Lincoln Shoe Co, 100 W. Lincoln Ave. Tickets needed.
Kid’s Fire & Ice Safety Showcase
Monday, February 16
The kids are off school, so they are being treated to a day that’s super cool! Activities will include fire- and ice-science demonstrations, safety demos, games and more! 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Lititz Elementary School, 20 S. Cedar St.
Lititz Lions Chili Cook-Off!
Saturday, February 21
Need to warm up? The Lititz Lions are providing all the fire your belly needs with the return of their Chili Cook-Off. Chili connoisseurs will want to indulge in this tasting event that brings the fire power to Lititz courtesy of local chefs/restaurants and cooking enthusiasts. Two tasting sessions: 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Lititz Elementary School, 20 S. Cedar St.
Entertainment in the Park
Friday & Saturday, February 20 & 21
Feel the heat and prepare to be amazed! This year’s fire show is turning up the excitement with an incredible blend of fire artistry and jaw-dropping acrobatics, featuring the talents of Molly Dazzle. Shows will be held at 6, 7 and 8 p.m. each evening in Lititz Springs Park.
Entertainment in the Park
Saturday, February 21
From high-energy dance troupes to rising rock stars, the stage will be buzzing with the energy of local talent all day! Performers will include: Paloma School of Irish Dance/Doherty Petri School of Irish Dance (11 a.m.); Synergy Dance Complex (12 p.m.); Rob’s Rock School (1 p.m.); Encore Dance Studio (2 p.m.); Young Musician Academy (3 p.m.); and Dance Dynamix (4 p.m.) Lititz Springs Park.
Lunar New Year Celebration
February 17
Ewell Plaza
Sponsored by the Lancaster Asian Americans & Pacific Islanders coalition, the event coincides with the Year of the horse celebrations and features Asian food, art, music, dance and other cultural offerings. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 100 block of N. Queen St., Lancaster. Information: Facebook.com/lancasteraapi.
Star Barn Winter Bridal Open House
February 28
Stone Gables Estate
Offering three venues (the Star Barn, Ironstone Ranch and St. Michael’s Vineyard) on 280+ acres, the Open House will feature the 5 Star Preferred Caterers, Food for Thought Catering and C&J Catering, and leading industry vendors. Guests can explore the private estate, check out the seven outdoor ceremony options, visit the petting zoo, and spend time talking to the Stone Gables Estate Wedding Team. This one-stop shop will make your to-do list become smaller! 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 1 Hollinger Lane, Elizabethtown. Information: Stonegablesestate.com
History/USA250
Lydia Hamilton Smith and the World of Entrepreneurial Black Women in the Nation’s Capital
Thursday, February 5
LancasterHistory Museum & Research Center
Lydia Hamilton Smith not only lived a remarkable life as the confidante of Thaddeus Stevens, but also as an accomplished woman in the years following his death. While many know Smith in relation to Stevens, she carefully crafted a life shaped by hard work, dignity and egalitarian values. An astute businesswoman and an important figure in social circles in both Gettysburg and Washington, D.C., this talk will explore how Lydia Hamilton Smith figured among the circles of Black entrepreneurs in the nation’s capital.
Dr. Tamika Nunley (pictured), who will be presenting the program, is the Research Professor of History at Duke University. Along with articles, essays and reviews, she is the author of At the Threshold of Liberty: Women, Slavery, and Shifting Identities in Washington, D.C., which received the Letitia Woods Brown Memorial Book Award, the Pauli Murray Book Prize and the Mary Kelley Book Prize. Her article, Thrice Condemned’: Enslaved Women, Violence, and the Practice of Leniency in Antebellum Courts, received the Letitia Woods Brown prize for best article in African American Women’s History and the Anne Braden Prize for best article in Southern Women’s History. Dr. Nunley recently released her new book, The Demands of Justice: Enslaved Women, Capital Crime and Clemency in Early Virginia with the University of North Carolina Press. Her work has been featured in The Washington Post, NewsOne, Smithsonian Magazine, Ms. Magazine, and Fortune Magazine. In 2023, the Librarian of Congress named her the Cary and Ann Maguire Chair in Ethics and American history. 5 p.m. reception. 5:30 p.m. program. 230 N. President Ave., Lancaster. Free program, but reservations are needed. Information: Lancasterhistory.org
Named and Unnamed Indigenous People of Lancaster County
February 5
Zimmerman Center for Heritage
In the 1700s, colonists and Indigenous peoples were neighbors in what is now present-day Lancaster County. Indigenous groups that are better known included the Conestogas, Conoys, Nanticokes and Shawnees. Numerous smaller settlements were populated by groups who remain unknown. Such settlements have been discovered by archaeologists, described in colonial documents, and featured in Mennonite family stories published in the 19th and 20th centuries that provide specifics on place and interactions with settlers. In addition, hundreds of Indigenous men, women and children congregated in Lancaster for weeks during treaties held there in 1744, 1757 and 1762. Others visited and traveled through the area, often trading with settlers. Dr. Tanya Kevorkian, a professor of history at Millersville University, will explore how the aforementioned sources shed light on the indigenous people of Lancaster County, both named and unnamed. 6 p.m. 1706 Long Level Rd., Wrightsville. Information: Susqnha.org
Philadelphia Flower Show
February 28-March 8
Pennsylvania Convention Center
Rooted: Origins of American Gardening, the theme of this year’s flower show, honors the fact that gardening know-how has been passed down through generations and carried across oceans, lifetimes and lands. The 2026 PHS Philadelphia Flower Show celebrates the stories that ground us in gardening, whether it’s the nostalgia of a grandparent’s garden, a beloved family recipe that begins with the bright scent of freshly picked herbs and vegetables, or the heritage traditions that shape how we plant, grow and gather. Through immersive garden exhibits and stunning floral displays, Rooted: Origins of American Gardening, brings to life the personal stories, cultural traditions and horticultural inspiration that connect us to plants and each other, shaping how we garden today. As Philadelphia celebrates the 250th anniversary of American independence, the 2026 Flower Show offers a chance to reflect on the gardening legacies we’ve inherited and the ones we’re growing for the future, shaped by people and plants from around the world. This year’s Show will combine legacy and belonging with breathtaking artistry and larger-than-life creations that will take guests on a journey through a vivid world full of memory and magnificence.
The show will offer it all: exhibits, competitions, tours, educational programs, special events and shopping. Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. each day, closing at 6 p.m. on March 8. 1101 Arch St., Philadelphia. Information: Phsonline.org
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