There’s nothing quite like October’s crisp weather and colorful scenery. Put them together and you have the perfect backdrop for harvest celebrations, fairs, festivals, fundraisers and, of course, Halloween festivities.
Photos are from Social Media and LCM files
Fall/Harvest
New Holland Farmers Fair
September 30-October 3
New Holland
The 94th edition of the fair includes a parade, midway, competitions, exhibits, livestock shows, kid’s events and plenty of tasty food. Hours vary. Fair is held along Main Street and intersecting streets. Information: Newhollandfair.org.
Maize & Snitz Fest
October 3
1719 Museum
The festival brings Lancaster County’s early Indigenous and European cultures to life with historical demonstrations, local vendors and tours of the Herr House and Lancaster Longhouse. Artisans will showcase traditional crafts originating from Europe and the Indigenous Peoples of the Eastern Woodlands. Crafts such as apple butter making, blacksmithing, beadwork and music helped to shape Lancaster County’s history and now tell its story. Throughout the day, interpreters will lead demonstrations near the Herr House and the Lancaster Longhouse, offering insight into historic art forms, industries, and traditional cooking. Guests can also bid on silent auction items, courtesy of local donors, artists and businesses. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 1849 Hans Herr Dr., Willow Street. Information: Mennonitelife.org
Manheim Community Farm Show
October 5-9
Manheim
This family-friendly fair features a parade, shows, competitions, demonstrations, kid’s activities, food vendors (all food stands are operated by nonprofit organizations) and more. Hours vary. 502 Adele Ave., Manheim. Information: Manheimfarmshow.org
Wolf Sanctuary Events
October 10 & 24
Wolf Sanctuary of PA
On October 10 (11 a.m.-2 p.m.), Wolf Awareness Day will feature self-guided tours, educational games, children’s activities, live music and more. On October 24 (6:30-9 p.m.), the Full Moon Fundraiser will feature a bonfire, live music and educational tours that focus on the wolves and their stories. (Note: No children under 16 on the 24th.) 465 Speedwell Forge Rd., Lititz. Information: Wolfsantctuarypa.org.
Harvest Days
October 10-11
Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
This annual event offers visitors of all ages an immersive experience of 19th-century rural life. Stroll through the historic village and watch skilled artisans demonstrate traditional crafts like blacksmithing, weaving, tinsmithing and more. Enjoy hands-on activities, live music (including Hammer Creek), wagon rides and delicious seasonal foods prepared using heirloom recipes. Activities for children will include harvest-themed games, pumpkin painting and opportunities to meet farm animals. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. each day. 2451 Kissel Hill Rd., Lancaster. Information: Landisvalleymuseum.org
Fall Farm Days
October 11-13
The Amish House & Farm
Come to the farm and take part in pumpkin chuckin’, a scavenger hunt and other games. Event will also feature face painting, apple cider tasting, a corm maze, a petting zoo, food vendors and artisans. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 2395 Covered Bridge Dr., Lancaster. Information: Amishfarmandhouse.com
AppleUmpkin Fall Festival
October 17
Adamstown
Celebrate the fall season at this community event that includes chili and pie-baking competitions, an apple-peeling contest, a costume parade, hayrides, pumpkin decorating, scarecrow making and more. Craft vendors will be on hand. Food selection will include the festival’s famous apple dumplings. The festivities get underway at 10 a.m. Adamstown Community Park, 33 W. Main St., Adamstown. Information:Appleumpkinpa.com
Community
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
October 3
Binns Park & Ewell Plaza
Event will feature live music, dancing, food trucks and vendors, and a marketplace, where unique crafts, arts and products that highlight the beauty and creativity of Hispanic heritage will be on display. 3-8 p.m. 2nd block of North Queen St., Lancaster. Information: Visitlancastercity.com
Tours
Garden Railways Tour
October 4
Various locations
Back for its 19th year, this self-guided tour of operating model trains takes you to six outdoor and garden settings. The tour makes for a fun outing for train enthusiasts of all ages. Sponsored by the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania. (Note: This is a ticketed event.) 1-5 p.m. Information: RRmuseumpa.org
Lancaster County Best Kept Secrets Tour
October 8-24
Lancaster County
This shopping, food and fun adventure tour will feature more than 40 unique and off-the-beaten-path businesses. Set up like a home or garden tour, you’ll travel at your own pace to discover places you’ve always meant to visit or make discoveries that become your favorite places to shop or dine. Early birds get the goody bags that are filled with coupons, freebies and more. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Lighthouse Vocational Services. Information: Bestkeptsecretstour.com
Explore Retirement Living
October 17
Lancaster County
Now in its 14th year, this county-wide event, which is hosted by 17 continuing care retirement communities, provides an opportunity for prospective residents to explore multiple communities in one day! 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Information: Exploreretirementliving.org
Music, Dance
An Evening with Itzhak Perlman
October 3
American Music Theatre
Renowned as one of the greatest violinists of all time, Itzhak Perlman has brought extraordinary artistry, warmth and joy to audiences around the world. A true icon of classical music, Perlman has performed with every major orchestra and in the world’s most celebrated concert halls, earning 16 GRAMMY® Awards, multiple Emmy Awards, a Kennedy Center Honor and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. In addition to his celebrated orchestral appearances, Perlman continues to captivate audiences through special programs and intimate recitals alongside longtime collaborator, pianist Rohan De Silva, whose resume is equally as impressive. 7:30 p.m. 2425 Lincoln Hwy East, Lancaster. Information: ATMshows.com
I-105 Fallfest
October 5
Overlook Community Park
WIOV’s annual country music extravaganza will feature such artists as Tyler Hubbard, Nate Smith, Josh Ross, Harper Grace and Trent Becker & The Collective. Food trucks and beverage vendors will be onsite. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 605 Granite Run Dr., Lancaster. (Note: This is a ticketed event.) Information: Fallfestconcert.com
Festivals & Folklore
October 9-11
Gardner Theatre
The Lancaster Symphony Orchestra launches its 80th Anniversary Season with a vibrant celebration of folk traditions from across Europe. Anna Clyne’s PIVOT opens the concert with Scottish fiddle tunes and festival energy, followed by Grieg’s beloved Piano Concerto in A minor (featuring Van Cliburn Gold Medalist Jon Nakamatsu), with its Norwegian folk-inspired melodies and foot-stomping finale. The evening culminates with Stravinsky’s dazzling Petrushka, a Russian street fair brought to life with colorful orchestration and folk dances. Pre-concert lectures will be held 45 minutes before the start of the concerts. Fri., 7:30 p.m. Sat., 2:30 & 7:30 p.m. Sun., 2:30 p.m. 725 Hamilton Rd., Lancaster. Information: Lancastersymphony.org
Blues, Brews & “Boos” Music Festival
October 10
Marietta
The open-air festival will feature live music on four stages, artisans, food trucks, adult beverage stations (must be 21+) and a costume contest. Free admission, but a $5 donation will support Marietta’s Front Street Cherry Tree Restoration & Monarch Habitat and provide you with a wristband that unlocks discounts on drinks. 1-6 p.m. Front Street. (Note: rain date is October 11.) Information: Discovermariettapa.org.
Sock Hop
October 17
Columbia
Create Columbia is hosting an event that will take you back in time! A 50s Sock Hop will be the catalyst for music, dancing and more. Hip music, keen finger food and outa sight beverages are included in the price of your ticket. Wear your saddle shoes, penny loafers or your favorite pair of crazy socks and dance the night away. 6-9 p.m. 15 S. Third St., Columbia. Information: Createcolumbia.org
Chanticleer: Our American Journey
October 29
The Trust performing Arts Center
Lancaster Art Song Society presents Chanticleer, the Grammy® Award-winning vocal ensemble that is known worldwide as “an orchestra of voices,” due to its dazzling virtuosity and richly diverse repertoire. Founded in San Francisco in 1978, Chanticleer has become one of the world’s most acclaimed touring and recording ensembles. Our American Journey celebrates America’s 250th anniversary. 7:30 p.m. 37 N. Market St., Lancaster. Information: Lancastertrust.com
Line Dancin with DJ Nancy
October 31
Columbia
Did you know country line dancing is hotter than ever? If you’d like to give it a try, DJ Nancy will be on hand to offer lessons and music. No matter your level of dancing ability, you’re welcome to kick up your boots and support the Columbia Animal Shelter. 7-10 p.m. (Note: this event is held monthly.) Warehouse at 129 S. 9th St., Columbia. Information: Columbiaanimalshelter.com
Theatre
Beautiful, The Carole King Musical
September 30-November 7
Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre
This inspiring true story about Carole King spans from her early days as a Brooklyn teenager struggling to enter the record business to her years spent as a chart-topping music legend and one of the most successful singer-songwriters in music history. Before she was a star, Carole King was crafting chart-toppers for artists like The Shirelles, The Drifters, and Aretha Franklin. As her personal life shifted, so did her voice, culminating in the groundbreaking Tapestry album and a sound all her own. With unforgettable hits like It’s Too Late, You’ve Got a Friend, So Far Away, and (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman, Beautiful is a moving, music-filled portrait of resilience, self-discovery and the healing power of song. This show is rated PG13. Days and times vary; lunch and dinner options available. 510 Centerville Rd., Lancaster. Information: Dutchapple.com
Spring Awakening
October 15-25
EPAC
In a world where curiosity is punished and innocence collides with expectation, a group of young people struggles to navigate the exhilarating and terrifying journey into adulthood. As they confront first love, awakening desire and the consequences of a society that refuses to answer their questions, they discover both the beauty and heartbreak of growing up. Featuring Duncan Sheik’s soaring, Tony Award-winning score, Spring Awakening is a breathtaking and deeply moving musical about finding your voice in a world determined to silence it. This is the show that made Jonathan Groff a star! Times vary. 320 Cocalico St., Ephrata. Information: Epactheatre.org
Art/Shows
Lititz Outdoor Fine Art Show
October 3
Moravian Church Square
Despite the change in scenery and season, the Lititz Art Association’s commitment to “Fine Art” remains unchanged. This show continues its legacy as one of the few strictly fine art exhibitions in the area, featuring original works and high-quality reproductions from over 130 local and out-of-state artists. The show features a diverse range of mediums. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Moravian Church Square along Main St. Information: Lititzpa.com
Rivertown Retro Fest
October 17
Bainbridge
Enjoy vintage shopping along the river! Browse a variety of vintage vendors gathered in one place. From nostalgic treasures and unique collectibles to vintage décor, clothing, memorabilia, and one-of-a-kind finds, there’s something waiting to be discovered on every table. 1-6 p.m. Koser Riverfront Park, 107 Race St., Bainbridge. Information: Discovercolumbia.com
Lancaster ARTWalk
October 17-18
Lancaster City
This annual event is a celebration of creativity, culture and community. Immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of artistic expression, from contemporary masterpieces to traditional craftsmanship. With a rich tapestry of galleries, studios and open-air exhibits, there’s something for every art enthusiast. Engage with local artists, take in live demonstrations and discover the stories behind each stroke of creativity. Whether you’re an art connoisseur or simply curious, ARTWalk provides inspiration and discovery. Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, 12-4 p.m. Information: Lancastercityart.com.
Benefits
Art & Wine Heist
October 2
John Wright Restaurant
Columbia Animal Shelter’s annual benefit returns for a ninth year. An evening of art, wine, mystery and meaningful impact will feature a Wine Pull for Purchase (will the mystery bottle be a fun everyday wine or a top-shelf treasure); art displays (and the Heist Countdown in which guests race to “heist” their chosen artwork!); and a live auction that will include once-in-a-lifetime experiences, including trips to destinations like Key West, exclusive private dinners and chef experiences, luxury items, etc. Finally, Fund the Need enables guests to make direct contributions that go straight to lifesaving medical care, food, equipment, and shelter for animals. 6 p.m. 234 N. Front St., Wrightsville. Information: Columbiaanimalshelter.com
Dine on Harvest Moon
October 2
Lancaster County Convention Center
The Lancaster Conservancy is hosting this all-important benefit that invites you to be transported to the treetops of our woodlands and the open skies of our meadows. The night will come alive with the vibrant beauty of nature in a space transformed to honor the feathered friends that grace our forests and fields. Protecting and restoring our natural lands is key to the Conservancy’s mission and to ensuring that our community and wildlife can thrive. The loss of birds has long been seen as a warning that something is not right in our natural world. But their return can offer an equally strong message, one of resilience and hope. The evening will include a reception, raffles, an auction, dinner and a program. 5:30 p.m. 25 S. Queen St., Lancaster. Information: Lancasterconservancy.org
Gifts That Give Hope Fair
October 10
Farm & Home Center
Back for its 19th year, this fair is unique in that its organizers partner with nonprofits (locally and globally) to create a marketplace of charitable gift options. Guests can choose a nonprofit or a gift category (like education, health care, or housing), make a donation, and receive a gift card or printable certificate to present to their recipient. Or shop for fair trade and sustainable gifts from makers whose lives have changed thanks to people appreciating and purchasing their products. Food trucks and vendors, kids’ activities and live music are also part of the event. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 1383 Arcadia Rd., Lancaster. Information: Giftsthatgivehopelancaster.org
Lancaster Conservancy Trail Fest
October 17
Hellam
Join Lancaster Conservancy for the third-annual Trail Fest to celebrate the variety of ways we can connect with nature and experience the physical, mental and emotional health benefits gained from spending time outdoors. Music, food, and community await as you explore one of the Conservancy’s newest nature preserves, the Ingrid Graham Historic Hellam Nature Preserve, before it opens to the public. Event will feature music (bluegrass from Cumberland Honey); beer and cider from Collusion Tap Works; food from Traveling J’s, Tipsy Boar BBQ and Mezcla; a Nature Discovery Walk; and Trailside Talks. View the Susquehanna River Art Collection curated by Rob Evans at the preserve’s farmhouse gallery and check out incredibly preserved and restored historic structures that demonstrate the longstanding relationship between humans and our environment. (Note: This is a ticketed event.) 1-6 p.m. Hillview Rd., Hellam. Information:Lancasterconservancy.org
Taste of Science
October 22
Lancaster Science Factory
It’s an evening of entertainment, food, drinks and science – all to benefit the nonprofit Lancaster Science Factory and its goal to ensure that STEM experiences are accessible to all students across Lancaster County. Event will feature dinner provided by Frisco’s Peruvian Chicken, science-themed cocktails with Thistle Finch Distillery, beer tastings provided by the Lancaster Brewers Club, a Live Science trivia contest, raffles and silent auction and more. Must be 21+ to attend. (Note: This is a ticketed event.) 6 p.m. 454 New Holland Ave., Lancaster. Information: Lancastersciencefactory.org
An Evening with Steven Schwartz: A Benefit for Prima
October 24
Rock Lititz
Prima Theatre welcomes Broadway legend Stephen Schwartz, the Grammy, Oscar and Tony awards-winning composer of Wicked, Pippin, Godspell, Pocahontas, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, The Prince of Egypt and Enchanted, who will perform (piano) his most beloved works and share stories from a career that has shaped Broadway and Disney alike. He will be joined by powerhouse Prima performers. This benefit will help Prima to continue its goal to launch bold new theatrical works born in Lancaster, bring national artists and creative voices to our community and give audiences world-class experiences here at home. 8 p.m. 100 Rock Lititz Blvd., Lititz. Information: Primatheatre.org
Food & Drink
Harvest Breakfast
October 3
Lancaster Central Market
The market’s standholders will have special harvest-themed, pay-as-you-go food stands set up outside the market house. Event also features live music, face painting, pumpkin painting and more! 8 a.m.-noon. 23 N. Market St., Lancaster. Information: Centralmarketlancaster.com
Apple Dumpling Days
October 9 & 10
Historic Ephrata Cloister
Apple dumplings, those tasty apples wrapped in pastry and covered in sweet cinnamon syrup, are a fall tradition. Sales will help raise funds for the Back to the Cloister Fund that enables the Cloister to compete with private collectors and other institutions on the open market for original items made there. Over the years, sales of apple dumplings have been used to purchase one-of-a-kind furniture, rare music manuscripts, and the original 1739 deed to the historic site. In all, more than 100 items have been returned to the Cloister since the fund was established more than 40 years ago. Purchases can be made at the drive-thru tent on the property (no online orders). Fri., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat., 9 a.m. till sold out. 632 W. Main St., Ephrata. Information: Ephratacloister.org
Kiwanis Chocolate Walk
October 10
Lititz
Regarded as trick-or-treating for grownups, chocoholics have converged on Lititz for the past 25 years to indulge in a day of chocolate bliss! With more than 25 locations, participants visit the shops and other venues in downtown Lititz in search of chocolate treats that have been donated by some of the region’s top chefs, bakers, ice cream shops, chocolatiers and candy makers. New this year is the addition of an Artisan Maker’s Market at Historic Rudy’s Hall. The money raised from ticket sales support children-focused charities in the Lancaster County region. (Note: This is a ticketed event.) 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Information:Lititzchocolatewalk.com.
Harvest Celebration of PA Wines
October 9
Stone Gables Estate
The Pennsylvania Wine Association is celebrating the state’s wine industry and PA Wine Month with an event that will feature 15 wineries from across the state. The event will also feature cheesemakers, food trucks, live music, tasting and pairing sessions, vineyard tours, educational seminars and more. (Note: This is a ticketed event.) 3-8 p.m. 1 Hollinger Lane, Elizabethtown. Information: Pennsylvaniawine.com
A Night of Smoke and Silk
October 30
Strasburg Rail Road & The Barn at Paradise Station
Travel back to the year 1871, when a tragic fire impacted the Strasburg Rail Road. You’ll board a First-Class rail car, which will transport you to The Barn at Paradise Station, where a gala will include cocktails, live music, a murder mystery, dinner (prepared by Café 1832) and more. Guests are encouraged to get into the “spirit” of the occasion and dress in Victorian-inspired attire. 5 p.m. 300 Gap Rd., Ronks. Information: Strasburgrailroad.com
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