The Thaddeus Stevens & Lydia Hamilton Smith Center for History and Democracy
Visit Lancaster’s Newest MuseumDiscover the stories that shaped a nation at the new Stevens & Smith Center for History and Democracy. Located in the heart of downtown Lancaster, this immersive museum brings history to life through powerful storytelling, interactive exhibits, and inspiring stories of courage, perseverance, and the ongoing pursuit of equality in America.
Bring your leftover pumpkins to Cherry Crest Adventure Farm and see how many ways you can destroy at their Pumpkin Madness Festival Smash, throw, bowl, and carve pumpkins and enjoy pumpkin events including a pumpkin drop and fireworks.
Eastland Alpacas invites you to their Annual Fall Open House! “Get up Close and Personal” with over 80 alpacas. Feed the Alpacas, visit with a newborn cria, take a wagon ride, learn about alpacas, and more!
The Red Rose International Film Festival works with local organizations and creatives to showcase diverse filmmakers from around the world. Attendees will enjoy a variety of shorts, documentaries, and feature-length films, bringing global perspectives to the Lancaster community.
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Enjoy 10+ activities and 20+ rides at Dutch Winter Wonderland. Here's what's happening that make this holiday event more festive! Have cookies with Santa, explore Merlin’s Magical Forest, walk through illumination lane, dance around with Dutch WonderBand and Duke and sing a carol with Chris-Mouse!
Stop at our roadside stands and farmers markets to pick your very own, without having to go into the fields. While you're there grab some local produce, seasonal baked goods and homemade crafts & wares.
Craving the flavors of Lancaster County? Look no further! Our recipes will bring a taste of Pennsylvania to your kitchen. From Pennsylvania Dutch Chicken Pot Pie, Red Beet Eggs, Shoofly Pie, Whoopie Pies, and more!
LANCASTER COUNTY RECIPES
Not interested in testing out your culinary skills? Then head out to one of our many restaurants and bars. See where is open on Thanksgiving.
Find the perfect gift for all those in your life, from the adventurer to those that appreciate a hand-made gift.
From Secret Santa gifts to a special something for your special someone, it can be tough to find the item that will make the recipient smile. Never fear! We’re here to help. We’ve collected a few idea from across the county for you to consider.
Come to Lancaster for Black Friday and Holiday Shopping!
Make the most of the holiday season with festive fun, cozy charm, and magical moments throughout Lancaster County.
Whether you're visiting for a family-friendly getaway, a romantic retreat, or simply looking to escape for a weekend of holiday cheer, Lancaster County offers some of the most memorable seasonal experiences in Pennsylvania. From twinkling lights and nostalgic train rides to boutique shopping and hidden gem experiences, here are must-do activities to add to your holiday itinerary.
Join The Lancaster County Brew Trail for free to access a local's guide to Lancaster County brewery scene. Trail is active from September 1, 2026 - December 31, 2026.
Visit local favorites such as Lancaster Brewing Company, Mad Chef Craft Brewing,, and more!
If beer isn't your thing then maybe sweet treats and salty snacks is! Join our Sweet & Salty Trail this holiday season to stock up on party favors or indulge in a delicious treat for yourself. Trail is active from September 1, 2026 - December 31, 2026.
On our trail you'll find the famous Long John Donuts from Achenbach's Pastries, gourmet cheeses from Aged & Cured Cheese & Meat Shoppe and top-tier olive oils and vinegars from Seasons Olive Oil & Vinegar Taproom.
Once you've earned enough points, head over to the Discover Lancaster Visitors Center to pick up special prizes!
Discover the small towns of Lancaster County with experiential scavenger hunts! All scavenger hunts are completely free to download and focused on one town in Lancaster County.
More Experience Passes
Lancaster is home to many amazing theatres, check out some shows happening this month!
For over 150 years, audiences have been entertained from Broadway caliber shows at America's oldest, continuously operating theatre.
Dutch Apple features traditional classics and new critically-acclaimed shows, coupled with an all you can eat buffet meal that changes with every production.
Enjoy Prima’s experiential concerts and boutique musicals.
Bird-in-Hand Stage offers exceptional entertainment and has become one of Lancaster County’s must-see stops for live performances.
Story, song and spectacular staging bring the Bible to life on stage.
Master Illusionist Brett Myers delivers an exhilarating blend of grand-scale illusions, sleight-of-hand, family-friendly comedy, and dynamic circus arts in a 2 hour spectacle that captures hearts and the imagination.
Servant Stage Company exists to make the arts accessible to all, especially people with financial or physical limitations.
Ephrata Performing Arts Center is a non-profit, community-based performing arts center providing a unique theater experience for all.
Don't miss out on seeing a concert in Lancaster! American Music Theatre hosts a ton throughout the year, and Mickey's Black Box and Lititz Shirt Factory hosts a plethora of concerts.
Just outside of the county is Giant Center in Hershey, which hosts big-name acts.
Take the day and hang out and enjoy an intimate concert at The Barn at Paradise Station or see a traditional movie at Reel Cinemas Lancaster!
Since its founding in 1729, Lancaster has had a rich and varied history. On September 27, 1777 Lancaster hosted the Second Continental Congress and was even the U.S. capital for one day! Lancaster County even took part in the Underground Rail Road helping slaves escape to freedom. Here are historical events that are happening around the county this month:
History Events:
This free experience allows locals and visitors to step back in time and learn about the history of grain milling and early rural family life at the Mascot Roller Mills and Ressler Family Home. It's a great place to take the kids and have them get hands-on learning experience.
If you're adventurous at heart, and "the cold never bothered you anyway" then head out on a hike or bike ride! We have many trails open year-round, like the Northwest River Trail, perfect for biking and walking.
Lancaster is a kid's dream come true in terms of fun-filled activities and kid-friendly events.
Take the day and explore Traintown, U.S.A!
Things to do with friends, a date or by yourself! Here are some fun events that are happening this month and activities that you can do all year round.
If you're looking for more creative activities to do then you should check out Horst Arts where you get test out your imagination, Painting with a Twist where a professional painter will guide you through your own painting, or start felting at The Felted Fox.
Take a class at Lancaster Creative Factory, where you can take a variety of classes ranging from making mugs, bowls, and plates, to hand-building with clay, blowing glass, and even date night classes like glass blowing and wheel throwing.
Treat a whiskey lover to a guided tasting at Stoll & Wolfe Distillery with their Whiskey and History Tour. You will be able to enjoy tasting three local whiskeys. Throughout your tasting you will learn about the whiskey and distilling history of the Lititz area. Your evening will also include a guided walking tour of historic Main Street, Lititz.
Join local artist, Jo, at her Watercolor Club happening every Friday throughout the month of June.Come as you are, grab your favorite supplies, and explore color, gesture, and mood.
Unique Lancaster Experiences offers a variety of tours and experiences in Lancaster, PA! Book an International Food Tour, Lancaster History & Breakfast Walking Tour or head outside for an Electric Bicycle Tour. If you are looking for more kid-friendly experience try their Lancaster City Scavenger Hunt.
Head to Laserdome, a and let the summer fun begin with holographic theater adventures, laser tag and arcade games!
Brewery Tours believes that "craft beer was meant to be experienced." Their Walk-a-Bout tour will guide you through 3 amazing breweries with a tasting of 12 different craft beers.
The PotteryWorks is a creative studio located in Downtown Lancaster that offers artists a comfortable and well-equipped space to paint pottery.
If you prefer to create beaded jewelry instead, you can visit the nearby The BeadWorks and The Gem Den, where you'll find a wide selection of beautiful beads and gems to inspire your crafting projects.
There is no better way to bond than trying to problem solve case! There are many escape rooms across the county, pick one or multiple that you feel fun!
Whether you’re planning some free fun ahead of time or are looking for a quick way to fill a few hours while you’re here, we’ve rounded up a list of Lancaster’s free attractions, outdoor spots, and events for your weekend trip!
Free Afternoon Crafts and Free Storytime & Crafts at The Felted Fox! Visit their cozy craft shop offering a selection of craft kits, yarn, supplies, and charming handmade gifts.
Join the Artisan Mill Co. at The Shops @ Rockvale for their First Saturday events each month. Shop over 170 small businesses in their store!
Every Thursday afternoon, from May through October Lititz Farmer's Market brings seasonal produce, handcrafted goods, and delectable treats. Support local farmers and artisans, enjoy the live music and atmosphere, and bring home the flavors of our community.
Head into Lancaster City for First Friday, August 7! Peruse local shops and galleries, and be wowed by live music and entertainment. Below are businesses that have special offers for First Friday,
Head to the small towns in our countryside for their community nights:
Black Friday Shopping & Small Business Saturday in Lancaster, PA
Shop the latest styles, homemade crafts and unique gifts.
Lancaster County, PA Gift Guide
Find the perfect gift for all those in your life, from the adventurer to those that appreciate a hand-made gift.
Things to Do this Winter in Lancaster
Find things to do this winter in Lancaster County.
Essential Guide to Kitchen Kettle Village
Plan your visit to Kitchen Kettle Village in Intercourse, PA, a local favorite for Pennsylvania Dutch food, shopping, dining, seasonal events, and more.
Lancaster County Christmas & Holiday Events
The holiday season in Lancaster County is full of themed attractions and fun events for young or old to enjoy.
Top Holiday Light Shows in Lancaster, PA
Drive, walk, or zipline through the most dazzling holiday light displays in and around Lancaster County, PA! From immersive 3‑mile LED drives to festive stadium…
Scenic Drives in Lancaster, PA
Lancaster County is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in Pennsylvania, making it the perfect destination for a scenic road trip.
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Picking Pumpkins in Lancaster County, PA
Can you believe it is prime pumpkin picking season again?! We are loving the cooler temps and boots and scarves weather.
Lancaster Fall Bucket List
Looking for the best things to do in Lancaster County, PA, this fall? This fall bucket list features seasonal activities for couples, families, and leaf-peepers…
Apple Picking in Lancaster, PA
As summer comes to a close and the refreshing scent of cool autumn air fills the atmosphere, there couldn't be a more perfect time to…
Festivals and Fairs in Lancaster County, PA
Fairs and festivals are year-round in Lancaster, PA. With so many to choose from, there's one for every interest!
