Fall officially starts this week and with it comes community celebrations and farmers fairs, the return of a hot air balloon festival, the launch of a new season of music and theatre, and a salute to the day on which Lancaster served as the nation’s capital.
Ephrata Fair
September 22-26
Ephrata
In Ephrata, you get three extravaganzas in one: the festivities kick off with a massive parade, the downtown area is transformed into the largest street fair in Pennsylvania, and Thomas Grater Park becomes a tent city dedicated to all things agriculture. There’s plenty of competitions, a Family Fun Night, exhibits, live music (Jess Zimmerman Band, Bad Sneakers and Easily Amused) and, of course, delicious food. Hours vary. Main Street and Thomas Grater Park. Information: Ephratafair.org
West Lampeter Community Fair
September 23-25
West Lampeter Fairgrounds
During the fair, which emphasizes friendly competition and educational events, visitors can take in the All Western Horse Show and parades that feature the Fair Queen candidates, babies and tractors. Food is also a star of the fair. Hours vary. 851 Village Rd., Lampeter. Information: Westlampeterfair.com
Fall Antiques Extravaganza
September 23-27
Adamstown
Explore dozens of antique shops, outdoor markets, and the offerings of thousands of dealers, including antiques, vintage pieces, collectibles, furniture, home décor, architectural salvage and specialty finds. Hours vary by shop and market. Route 272, Adamstown. Information: Antiquescapital.com
The Music of Queen
September 24
Lancaster County Convention Center
LSO kicks off its 80th anniversary season with the music of Queen like it’s never been heard before — bold, electrifying and larger than life! This symphonic rock spectacular brings iconic hits like Bohemian Rhapsody, We Will Rock You, and Don’t Stop Me Now to the stage with full orchestra, rock band and powerhouse vocals. From soaring anthems to intimate ballads, this concert is pure adrenaline and joy. 7 p.m. 25 S. Queen St., Lancaster. Information: Lancastersymphony.org
Lecture Series: Aly Raisman
September 24
Elizabethtown College
Aly Raisman is one of the most decorated American gymnasts of all time and a two-time USA gymnastics team captain. Now a bestselling author and ESPN analyst, she uses her platform to help normalize the conversation around mental health, encourage positive body image and promote the importance of self-care. 7 p.m. Loeffler Chapel & Performance Center, 1 Alpha Dr., Elizabethtown. Information: Etown.edu
Bird-in-Hand Hot Air Balloon Festival
September 25 & 26
Bird-in-Hand
The Bird-in-Hand Corporation is partnering with Balloon Shows USA to bring an all-new balloon festival to Lancaster. Enjoy a weekend of spectacular hot air balloon glows and laser light shows, music, family activities, food trucks, craft vendors and more. At 8:30 each evening, massive tethered hot air balloons will illuminate the night, while state-of-the-art laser displays will paint the sky with brilliant colors. Note: This is a ticketed event. 3-10 p.m. each day. 320 N. Ronks Rd., Bird-in-Hand. Information: Bird-in-hand.com
Ragtime The Musical
September 25-October 18
Fulton Theatre
The Fulton kicks off its 2026-27 season with the sweeping musical adaptation of E.L. Doctorow’s novel that follows three fictional families in pursuit of the American Dream at the dawn of the 20th Century: Black pianist Coalhouse Walker, Jr. and his beloved Sarah; Jewish immigrant Tateh and his little girl; and a wealthy white family led by matriarch Mother. All grasping for the same dream, if only they can hold on to it. Times vary. 12 N. Prince St., Lancaster. Information: Thefulton.org
Lancaster Capital Day
September 26
Penn Square
On September 27, 1777, Lancaster served as the nation’s capital. In recognition of the role the city played in the quest for independence, a festive event will take over Downtown Lancaster that will include food/drink vendors, local artisans, music, dance, historical reenactments, architectural and history tours, family-friendly activities and more. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Penn Square area. Information: Lancastercapitalday.org
Lititz Craft Beer Fest
September 26
TAIT
Now in its 12th year, the festival is presented by the Lititz AMBUCS. Since its inception, the festival has raised more than $800,000, which has supported the AMBUCS’ mission of inspiring individuals to overcome challenges related to mobility issues and in doing so, gain independence. The festival will feature live music, food trucks/vendors, samplings from 80-plus breweries and cideries and a homebrew competition. 3-6 p.m. 401 W. Lincoln Avenue, Lititz. (Note: It’s recommended that tickets be purchased online; if the event is sold out prior to September 26, sales at the door will not be available.) 21+ only. Information:Lititizcraftbeerfest.com
Cider Donut Fall Festival
September 26
Cherry Crest Adventure Farm
The Cider Donut Fall Festival promises a day packed with laughter, adventure and, mouthwatering delights that range from classic cider donuts to innovative donut creations that will tempt your taste buds. The festival will feature a Cider Donut Eating Contest, donut games and activities, live music and fireworks. A local brewery and winery will be onsite. Cherrycrestfarm.com
Pumpkins in Paradise
September 26
Strasburg Rail Road
Get in the mood for fall by boarding the train and traveling to Groff’s Picnic Grove, where live music, games and complimentary pumpkins for the kids will await. 4 p.m. 300 Gap Rd., Ronks. Information: Strasburgrailroad.com
Celebrate Columbia
September 26
Columbia
Columbia is winding down its 300th anniversary celebration with a day-long series of events. A trolly will be operating throughout the day to shuttle visitors around town.
Art in the Park will showcase the work of regional fine artists in historic Locust Street Park. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 550 Locust St.
The Columbia Albatwitch Harvest Festival will feature craft vendors, music, food, speakers and more in honor of the apple-loving and elusive “resident” who roams the river hills. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Columbia River Park and Columbia Crossing, Front St.
Fall Crawl, which is sponsored by the Merchants Association, provides participants with an afternoon of local wine, spirits, craft beer and great food. 2-5 p.m.
Fright Night at the Market House will feature ghost stories and dungeon tours hosted by Rick Fisher. 6-8 p.m. 31 N. Third St.
Finally, the postponed Fourth of July Fireworks Show will be held at McGuiness Park at 8 p.m., with seating available behind the fire company on Manor St.
Information: Createcolumbia.org Discovercolumbia.com Facebook.com
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