It’s that glorious time of the year! The weather is perfect, gardens are blooming with spring flowers, rhubarb and strawberries are in season, the school year is in its final stretch and Memorial Day is just around the corner. If that’s not enough to keep you busy, events fill the calendar, June’s events will appear online later in May.
Forever Plaid
April 25-May 18
Fulton Theatre
Four guys by the names of Sparky, Smudge, Jinx and Frankie discover they share a love for music, notably groups such as The Four Freshman, The Hi-Lo’s and The Crew Cuts. Through rehearsing in the basement of Smudge’s family’s plumbing supply company, they became Forever Plaid. On the way to their first big gig, the Plaids are broadsided by a school bus and killed instantly. When their careers and lives end, the story of Forever Plaid begins. Dates/times vary. 12 N. Prince St., Lancaster. Information: Thefulton.org
We Love Our Pets
Opens May 2
Mulberry Art Studios
In celebration of National Pet Month, Mulberry Art Studios will exhibit art that honors the animals that enrich our lives. The 7th annual show will feature artwork from local artists (of all ages) in a variety of mediums. The show opens with a First Friday Reception on May 2 from 5-8 p.m. The public is invited to view the art and meet the artists. In addition, several local pet-related vendors will be onsite. Rescue dogs from The Sebastian Foundation for Animal Rescue will also be in attendance. The event is free to visit, but donations to The Sebastian Foundation are encouraged. The exhibit will be available for viewing throughout the month of May by appointment only. 21 N. Mulberry St., Lancaster. Information: Facebook.com
Manheim Central Ag Plant Sale
May 9-10
Manheim
Students participating in Manheim Central High School’s greenhouse-management and life-skills classes will be selling heirloom tomatoes, peppers, herbs, vegetables and flowers they started from seed earlier in the year. Fridays, 1-6 p.m., Saturdays, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Look for the greenhouse across from the Manheim Farm Show complex, 400 E. Adele Ave., Manheim. Information: Facebook.com
United Disability Services Diamond Jubilee Gala
May 8
Lancaster County Convention Center
The UDS Annual Gala raises critically needed funds to support UDS’s mission to provide personal care and support services for people with physical and age-related disabilities and mobility issues. Services enhance clients’ independence and enrich their lives, along with the lives of their families, caregivers and the community. The event will include a cocktail reception, a Fireside Chat with special guests Saquon Barkley and Dave Spadero of the Philadelphia Eagles, a seated dinner, auctions and a wine pull. 5:30 p.m. 25 S. Queen St., Lancaster. Information: UDservices.org
Nature & Forest Therapy Walks
May 9, 10, 23, 24
Various Locations
Have you lost your connection with the wonders of the Earth? If so, it’s time to reconnect. Certified nature- and forest-therapy guide, Elizabeth Mills, who is the founder of Willow Street-based One With Nature will help you slow down, relax and reconnect with nature. Such therapy benefits the body, mind and spirit, which is why nature is being prescribed by the Mayo Clinic and other physicians around the world. It is not about hiking a long distance or exercising. It’s about reconnecting through walking in nature. The walk concludes with a traditional tea ceremony and light refreshments. 9:30 a.m. Destinations vary. Private sessions available, as well, as are other activities. Information: Restawhile.us
Bird Walk for Beginners
May 10
Flory Park
The Lancaster County Bird Club invites fledgling bird watchers to learn about bird identification and using binoculars and mobile apps as you delve into one of the most popular hobbies in America. 8 a.m. Clark Pavilion off Greenland Dr., Lancaster.
Other birding opportunities include: Warbler Walks (open to the public) on May 3 at Chickies Rock County Park, 7 a.m.; Middle Creek, 7 a.m., and Pumping Station Rd., 8 a.m. May 4 at Northwest River Trail, 7:30 a.m. Field Trips will be offered May 10 at Muddy Run, 7 a.m. May 11 at Millport Conservancy, 7 a.m. May 17 at Susquehannock State Park, 7 a.m. Information: Facebook.com
Herb & Garden Faire
May 9 & 10
Landis Valley Village & Museum
The Herb & Garden Faire, now in its 37th year, will feature plants from the museum’s Heirloom Seed Project, as well as heirloom, native, perennial vegetable and other hard-to-find varieties from 80+ vendors. Vendors will also be selling herbal skin care products, garden art, jewelry and more. The event will also feature demonstrations and workshops. Food and drink will be available onsite. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (rain/shine). 2451 Kissel Hill Rd., Lancaster. Information: Landisvalleymuseum.org
SECA Plant Sale
May 10
Quarryville
Southern End Community Association’s plant sale will feature annuals, perennials, shrubs, trees, grasses, herbs, vegetables and more. Proceeds benefit SECA’s recreational programs and other events. 8 a.m.-12 p.m. 299 Park Ave., Quarryville. Information: Facebook.com
Make-A-Wish Mother’s Day Truck Convoy
May 10
Manheim Pennsylvania Auto Auction
Celebrating its 36th anniversary this year, the beloved event, which grew out of a single wish, draws hundreds of big-rig trucks and thousands of spectators, both at the family carnival and along the convoy route. The free family carnival (9 a.m.-2 p.m.) features games, entertainment and local food trucks. The official start of the convoy begins at 1:30 p.m. The event celebrates current and former wish kids, while raising money to grant more wishes to children with critical illnesses. 1190 Lancaster Rd., Manheim. Note: this year’s event moves to Saturday of Mother’s Day weekend. Information: Wishconvoy.org
Native Plant Sale & Raffles
May 10 & 11
Manheim
The Manheim Historical Society is sponsoring a sale of native plants in support of its Acquisitions Fund. Raffles will be held for sun- and shade-loving baskets filled with plants. Tours of the Keath and Fasig log houses will be available, as well. 1-4 p.m. (rain/shine). 30-32 E. High St., Manheim. Information: Manheimhistoricalsociety.org
Feast of the Senses
May 15
Excelsior
The Touchstone Foundation, which focuses on mental health wellness for youth and families, is hosting a unique and interactive dining event through which patrons will connect with the five senses – see, feel, hear, smell and taste – through food and beverage pairings, all while learning about the mission of the foundation’s programs. Silent and live auctions will also be held. 5:30 p.m. 125 E. King St., Lancaster. Information: Touchstonefound.org
Mountville Public Library Plant Sale
May 16 & 17
Mountville
The sale will feature annuals, perennials, houseplants, garden tools and more. Pre-order forms can be picked up at the library or online. Proceeds benefit the Mountville branch of Lancaster Public Library. Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Mountville Church of the Brethren, 60 Clay St., Mountville. Information: Facebook.com
Rhubarb Festival
May 16 & 17
Kitchen Kettle Village
Rhubarb represents the arrival of spring and with it, the start of the growing season. Kitchen Kettle Village pays homage to this spring crop with a festival devoted to all-things rhubarb. The highlight of the festival is the Rhubarb Dessert Baking Contest that is held Saturday morning and invites participants to submit their favorite rhubarb-based desserts for judging and prizes. Proceeds from the contest and sale of desserts benefit The Lancaster Farmland Trust. Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse. Information: Kitchenkettle.com
Gyrofest
May 17
Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church
This spring event features authentic Greek food and pastries. The menu includes gyros, a platter (a gyro, two pieces of spanakopita and a Greek salad), Greek pastries and desserts. Preorder online and pick up your order in the drive-through lanes from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. A third of proceeds will be donated to various philanthropic organizations that benefit the Lancaster community. 64 Hershey Ave., Lancaster. Information: Annunciationorthodox.org
Heart of Lancaster Arts & Craft Show
May 17
Root’s Country Market & Auction
The spring edition of one of Lancaster’s favorite shows will welcome a selection of juried artists, craftspeople and vendors from Pennsylvania and the Mid-Atlantic. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (rain/shine). 705 Greystone Rd., Manheim. Information: Facebook.com
LOVEBUG
May 17
Mickey’s Black Box
FRWRD Dance Company, which was founded and is directed by Lauren Tait, is buzzing back to the stage with its latest iteration of LOVEBUG, bringing along a swarm of fresh bugs, delightful poetry and a fabulous cast of new faces and familiar favorites. A riveting blend of dance and theatre showcasing a vivid array of costumes and props, LOVEBUG transports viewers into the weird and wondrous world of insects. Join the expedition as FRWRD’s masterful performers spin, weave, creep, fly and hatch a captivating cast of creatures to life, from the web of the bella tarantella to the bustling beehive to the fields of singing cicadas. 2 p.m. 101 Rock Lititz Blvd., Lititz. Information: Mickeysblackbox.com
Baron Brew Fest
May 17
Manheim
Back for its third year, this event offers something for every palate – beer, wine, mead, cider, spirits and more. Dozens of breweries, wineries and distilleries will be represented. Products can be purchased to go. Food trucks will be participating, as well. Live music will be provided. Tickets required. Must be 21+ to attend, ID required. 3-6 p.m. (rain/shine). Market Square. Information: Lovemanheim.com/brewfest
An Intimate Evening with David Foster and Katherine McPhee
May 18
American Music Theatre
The winner of 16 Grammy Awards, musician, composer and producer, David Foster, and acclaimed singer and television and Broadway star, Katharine McPhee, will perform Foster’s hits that were made famous by Chicago, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, Josh Groban, Michael Buble and many others. McPhee’s biggest songs from American Idol, her hit TV show, Smash, and Broadway’s Waitress, will also be performed. Plus, the two, who have been married since 2019, will present some of the favorite pieces that they just love! 7 p.m. 2425 Lincoln Hwy. East., Lancaster. Information: AMTshows.com
Chicken BBQ
May 24
Bird-in-Hand
Cooked slowly and deliciously seasoned, this moist and tender chicken has a taste of its own! This is a take-out only event. Menu includes half a BBQ chicken with Meadowcreek seasoning, applesauce, chips, pickles, roll/butter, drink and homemade whoopie pie. Chicken-only is also an option. All proceeds benefit the Hand-in-Hand Fire Company, an all-volunteer fire company that serves East Lampeter Township. 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. (or sold out). 313 Enterprise Dr., Bird-in-Hand. Information: Bihfire.com
Memorial Day Flea Market
May 26
Amos Herr Park
On Memorial Day, Landisville is the place to be if you love flea markets and thrifting. Featuring over 100 vendors, the flea market offers everything from antiques and collectibles to handmade crafts, vintage clothing and more. Food trucks will also be onsite. Proceeds from this event are used to fund Hempfield RecCenter’s “Everyone Belongs” financial-assistance program, as well as other community endeavors. 7 a.m.-2 p.m. 1700 Nissley Rd., Landisville. Information: Hempfieldrec.com
Lancaster’s Best Food Truck Competition
May 31
Greenfield Lancaster
Event will feature 40+ food trucks competing for the title, “Lancaster’s Best.” There will also be a maker’s mart, beer garden, inflatables for the kids, a live DJ, food voting and much more. Bring a chair/blanket. Proceeds benefit Joyful Doberman Rescue of PA. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 521 Greenfield Rd., Lancaster. Information: Joyfuldoberman.org
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