Thanks to Halloween-related events, the town’s Victorian architecture, a very old cemetery and the fact that spookiness seems to be synonymous with Columbia, it only makes sense that this river town is putting its trademark on the entire month of October. In Lancaster County, there’s nowhere quite like Columbia to embrace the “spirit” of Halloween.
Columbia Market House Dungeon Tours
Saturdays
Columbia Market House
According to Columbia Market House’s website, in the late 1800s, six cells were constructed beneath the markethouse, which dates to 1869 and replaced the open-air market that began operating in 1814. With nearly two dozen bars and an equal number of hotels in the town, a lockup of that size was needed, although most of the infractions were due to over-indulging alcohol and fighting.
Legend has it that a few famous people spent the night in Columbia’s lockup, including John L. Sullivan, the Boston Strong Boy who held the Heavyweight title for bared-knuckle fighting from 1882-1892. Sullivan visited Columbia several times to take part in boxing exhibitions. It is said that in 1893, during a brief stay, he over-indulged and had to spend the night in the jail.
Another famous visitor spent the night there because of speeding. In the early days of auto travel, speeding was regarded as anything over 20 miles per hour, which prompted the town’s constable stop one offender and incarcerate him. During his interrogation, it was discovered that the indignant prisoner was none other than Thomas Alva Edison, the famed inventor of electric lighting, the electric car and the phonograph.
Closed by the Board of Health in the early 1900s, the cells were then used by farmers to store the produce they would be selling on market days.
Over the years, stories of the cell block being haunted only added to its legendary status in Columbia. It’s become a beacon for paranormal enthusiasts and ghost hunters. Guided tours are offered Saturdays at 10 and 11 a.m. and 12 noon. Go early for breakfast or stick around and have a post-tour lunch; hours are 7 a.m.-3 p.m. 15 S. Third St. Information: Columbiamarkethouse.org.
Albatwitch Day
October 5
Columbia River Park
What is an Albatwitch you ask? Rooted in Native American legend, the furry creature is said to roam the river hills in search of apples. Like its cousin, Big Foot, the Albatwitch eludes capture. Now in its 10th year, Albatwitch Day pays homage to one of Columbia’s most infamous “residents.” The day will feature lectures, appearances by well-known authors, music, vendors, trolly tours and more. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. River Park, 41 Walnut St. Information: Albatwitchday.com
All Hallows Oddities Market
October 5
Mount Bethel Cemetery
It’s time to decorate for Halloween! Who knows what treasure – or oddity – you’ll find at this market. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 700 Locust St. Information: Facebook.com
Columbia Animal Shelter Concert Series
October 12
The Jess Zimmerman Band (country-rock) will be performing in support of the shelter. Admission by donation; food and beverages available for purchase. This is an outdoor event that will pivot to a nearby warehouse in case of rain. 7 p.m. 265 S. 10th St. Information: Columbiaanimalshelter.com
Chief Uncas Boat Tours
October 18-27
Zimmerman Center for Heritage
Haunted Heritage is the theme of this one-hour excursion that will delve into the strange happenings, creature sightings and tragic endings that are connected to the river area. Then, continue the evening at a local restaurant (some of which are purported to be haunted!). Dates/times vary. 1706 Long Level Rd., Wrightsville. Information: Susqnha.org.
Columbia’s Haunted Lantern Tours
October 18-20, 25-26
This annual theater-in-the-streets production, which is presented by a cast of volunteers, explores the history and lore of Columbia. This year’s theme, The Afflicted, will introduce visitors to Victorian mysticism and the search for the answer to what awaits after death. The tour will be centered in Mount Bethel Cemetery, where visitors will be greeted by “ghosts from the past,” who will share stories of unimaginable loss. Groups depart from St. John’s Evangelical Church. Tours are conducted every half hour, beginning at 6:30 p.m., with the last being at 9:30 p.m. 616 Locust St. Information: Tickets are required, call 717-587-5368. Columbiahlt.com
Fall Plant Class
October 19
Columbia Public Library
Shelby and Neveah from Succulents by ShelNe will guide participants in making a harvest/Halloween decoration that entails a ceramic pumpkin, plants and decorative stones. Geared to ages 15+. 9 a.m. 24 S. 6th St. Reservations needed. Information: Columbiapubliclibrary.org
Roaring 20’s Masquerade Party
October 19
Columbia Market House
The Roaring 20’s – the age of flappers, prohibition and jazz – will be commemorated with dancing, frivolity, food and drink. Come dressed for the occasion! 6-10 p.m. 15 S. Third St. Information: Tickets are required, call 717-449-0231. Facebook.com
Halloween Scooptacular
October 20
Turkey Hill Experience
Now in its fourth year, the event features Halloween-themed ice cream floats, trick-or-treating, pumpkin decorating, games and other activities. Costumes encouraged! Reservations required. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 301 Linden St. Information: Turkeyhillexperience.com
Columbia Mardi Gras Parade
October 24
The annual parade, which is sponsored by the Columbia Lions Club and the Sunsnappers, features high school and community bands, floats, baton groups, fire departments, community organizations, local businesses and more. By all means, wear a costume! This year’s theme is Food Fiesta. 7 p.m. The route follows along major streets, including Manor, Locust, Union and Cherry. Information: Facebook.com
Fourth Friday
October 25
Sponsored by the Merchant’s Association of Columbia, the organization invites you to visit the borough’s restaurants, breweries, art enclaves, shops and antiques/vintage venues, many of which offer discounts/promotions during the evening. With it being Halloween, who knows what treats they may have in store! 6-10 p.m. Information: Columbiamerchants.com and discovercolumbia.com.
Pumpkins & Pendulums
October 26
National Watch & Clock Museum
The museum will be the scene of games, music, storytelling, crafts, food trucks, trick-or-treating, prizes and more. 12-3 p.m. 514 Poplar St., Columbia. Information: Nawcc.org.
Halloween Party in the Park
October 26
Locust Street Park
Sponsored by the Movers and Shakers Society, this family-friendly event features vendors, music, local businesses and trick-or-treating. A costume contest begins at 6 p.m. A portion of the proceeds benefits the Raven Ridge Wildlife Center. 3-7 p.m. Locust & 6th streets. Afterward, adults are invited to attend a Halloween Party at Columbia Kettleworks (7-10 p.m.). Information: Facebook.com
Columbia Halloween House Tour
October 27
Residents of Columbia will be sharing their creativity where decorating for Halloween is concerned, and you won’t believe the extent some of them go to! The tour will take you to homes, the Mount Bethel Cemetery and other points of interest in the borough. 2-7 p.m. Information: Tickets can be purchased at the Columbia Market House on Oct. 24, 26 and 27. Createcolumbia.org
SHARE
PRINT