Guide to Labor Day Weekend in Lancaster, PA

For many folks, Labor Day Weekend is the unofficially end of the summer. However, there is still plenty to do in Lancaster, PA before you pack your white pants away and dive into the school year. From Friday through Monday, look forward to everything from fine wine and original art, to waterparks and live music.

Special Events:

August 31 - September 2
Long’s Park Art Festival | US Rt. 30 & Harrisburg Pk., Lancaster
Rated as one of the top five East Coast art fairs, the Long’s Park Art Festival will be celebrating their 40th festival in beautiful Long’s Park. Many artists from all over the United States will be exhibiting their art including photography, painting, jewelry, sculpture, digital, fiber, metal, and wood art, as well as furniture. A bistro area in the park will be serving up local food, wine and craft beer.

August 31
First Friday in Lancaster | Downtown Lancaster
There’s nothing like a First Friday in Lancaster! Join in Lancaster’s highly popular arts extravaganza from 5 to 9 pm. Discover innovative exhibitions, performances and perhaps a few surprises as you explore Downtown Lancaster.

September 1-2
Mt. Gretna Playhouse | 200 Pennsylvania Ave., Mount Gretna
Catch a show at the Mt. Gretna Chautauqua over this Labor Day weekend. The world-renowned Canadian Brass Quintet will perform on September 1. Jazz lovers will enjoy seeing 12-time Grammy nominee Fred Hersch and classically-trained, Aaron Diehl perform together on September 2.

Family Fun:

August 31- September 3
Duke’s Lagoon at Dutch Wonderland | 2249 Lincoln Hwy E., Lancaster
End the summer with a splash! Duke’s Lagoon at Dutch Wonderland closes for the season after Labor Day weekend, so don your swimsuit one last time and head on over while you can. If you are looking for other “cool” ideas- be sure to check out our list of activities to beat the heat!

September 1
Covered Bridge Tour | 242 Gap Rd., Strasburg
Enjoy a leisurely 50cc scooter ride through the back roads of Amish country with Strasburg Scooters. Ride past Amish farms and schoolhouses, and possibly pass a few buggies along the way, and discover historic covered bridges throughout the county.

September 1
Shank’s Mare Outfitters | 2092 Long Level Rd., Wrightsville
Try a new adventure and take a kayaking class at Shank’s Mare Outfitters. This 5-hour class offers complete instructions for touring kayaking including paddling strokes, wet exits and safety skills.

September 2
Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum | 2451 Kissel Hill Rd., Lancaster
September “Ice Cream” Sunday will be held at the Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum from noon to3 PM. Families can partake in wagon rides, live music, children’s activities, and free ice cream sundaes on the property.

Sip and Savor:

September 1
Nissley Lawn Concert: The Uptown Band | 140 Vintage Dr., Bainbridge
The Music in the Vineyards is an open-air lawn concert held at the Nissley Winery. Bring a picnic and some lawn chairs or a blanket, and enjoy an evening of local music and wine. Must be 21 to attend, bring photo I.D.

August 31 - September 3
Get your Grill On! | 23 N. Market St., Lancaster
Everyone loves a good cook-out for Labor Day, try serving some of our locally produced meats and vegetables at your party. Fresh foods can be picked up at Central Market on Friday August 31 from 6 AM - 4 PM, and Saturday September 1 from 6 AM – 2 PM, or at many of the various farm stands around the county. If you aren’t sure where to visit, we have a roadside stands round-up for you to review.

For more things to do and details on upcoming events be sure to sign up for our e-newsletter or request a free copy of our getaway guide!