Yikes! It’s already mid-October … Halloween events, fall festivals, art and history are on this week’s agenda.
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
Haunted Lantern Tours
October 16, 17, 18, 23, 24
Columbia
This annual theater-in-the-streets production, which is presented by Rivertown Theatre Productions and a cast of volunteers, explores the history and lore of Columbia. Wright’s Ferry’s Legendaries will introduce you to the remarkable men and women whose vision, courage, sacrifice and determination shaped the community that would become Columbia, Pennsylvania. Meet founders and reformers, poets and physicians, entrepreneurs and abolitionists. Listen as forgotten stories emerge from weathered stone, and history comes alive through moments of humor, heartbreak and humanity. Groups depart from St. John’s Evangelical Church every half hour, beginning at 6:30 p.m. 616 Locust St., Columbia. Information: Columbiahlt.com
Millersville Parade
October 17
Millersville
Now in its 19th year, the parade features marching bands, antique cars, animals, floats, dignitaries and more. This year’s theme is “Decades of Discover” America at 25.” The parade steps off from Penn Manor High School (100 E. Cottage Ave.) and winds its way through town. 8:30 a.m. Information: Millersville.edu
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
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
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 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
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
Halloween Days & Spooky Knights
October 17-18, 24-25
PA Renaissance Faire
It’s that time of the year: ghosts, goblins, fairies, vampires and creatures make their presence known at the Shire at Mt. Hope. Don your costumes, take part in a treasure hunt, go trick-or-treating and have fun. Gates open at 11 a.m. 2775 Lebanon Rd., Manheim. Information: Parenfaire.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.
History, Lore & Trivia
October 18
Historic Rock Ford
Historic Rock Ford will welcome Adam Zurn and Benton Webber for a fun afternoon of “History, Lore & Trivia.” First, Adam Zurn of Uncharted Lancaster will present “Legendary Tales from the Mighty Susquehanna River.” Then, Benton Webber will host his “Revolutionary Lancaster Quiz Bowl.” Tables of four will comprise teams for the Quiz Bowl. 2 p.m. 881 Rockford Rd., Lancaster. Information: Historicrockford.org
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