For many visitors, the Hospice & Community Care Labor Day Auction is as much of a food tradition as it is a community event. Held Saturday, September 5, and Monday, September 7, at the Solanco Fairgrounds in Quarryville, the Auction draws thousands of guests eager to enjoy homemade Lancaster County favorites while supporting compassionate care for patients and families throughout the region.

From warm apple fritters and sticky buns to smoky barbecue chicken, tender ribs and the beloved Cheesy Pretzel Breakfast Log, the food has become one of the Auction’s most anticipated attractions.

What makes these specialties even more remarkable is the story behind them.

Decades ago, after receiving care and support from Hospice & Community Care during a family illness, Omar “Junior” Glick, a member of Lancaster County’s Amish community, wanted to find a meaningful way to give back. While attending the Labor Day Auction, he noticed there were only a few food offerings available and saw an opportunity to help.

“We are trying to return the favor of the caring service we receive from Hospice,” Glick said. “It’s a great community organization.”

The following year, the Glick family brought homemade baked goods to the event.

What began as a simple gesture of gratitude quickly grew into one of the Auction’s most beloved traditions. Over the years, more families, vendors and volunteers joined in the effort, expanding the menu and creating the food experience visitors enjoy today.

Many of the Auction’s homemade specialties reflect Lancaster County’s rich food heritage, where recipes are shared across generations and hospitality is expressed through the simple act of preparing a meal for others. The result is a collection of food traditions that have become as memorable as the Auction itself.

Today, the aroma of freshly baked pastries, sizzling barbecue and homemade favorites fills the fairgrounds throughout the weekend. Twenty-three food vendors and approximately 100 to 150 volunteers work together to prepare and serve thousands of meals, baked goods and treats, transforming the Auction into a destination for food lovers from across Lancaster County and beyond.

The food reflects many of the values that define the region’s culinary heritage: quality ingredients, time-honored recipes, hard work and hospitality. Whether it’s a hand-spun milkshake enjoyed on a warm afternoon, a basket of French fries shared with friends or a fresh apple fritter eaten while strolling the grounds, every item is made with care and intended to bring people together.

Visitors can purchase food throughout the event with cash or choose from additional options designed to make enjoying the Auction even easier. Food bands allow guests to purchase food in advance, while The Thomas S. Buter Auction Club offers members unlimited food during the two-day Auction. From breakfast favorites and fruit smoothies to barbecue, shrimp and fries, homemade baked goods and desserts, there are plenty of delicious reasons to come hungry.

Perhaps that’s why so many people return year after year. The food is undeniably memorable, but it’s also part of something larger. Every purchase helps support Hospice & Community Care’s mission of providing comfort, dignity and compassionate care when it matters most.

At the Hospice & Community Care Labor Day Auction, a meal isn’t just a meal. It’s a tradition, a gathering place and a reminder of the generosity that has sustained this community event for more than four decades.

For more information, to purchase food bands or to join The Auction Club, visit www.LaborDayAuction.org or call the Development Office at (717) 295-3900.