There’s nothing quite like October’s crisp weather and colorful scenery. They create a wonderful backdrop for harvest celebrations, fairs, festivals, fundraisers and, of course, Halloween festivities.
Cherry Crest Adventure Farm
October
Ronks
Through October 26, you can enjoy the displays of sunflower (22 varieties) and zinnia (12 varieties. Buy a stem or a bucketful to take home. The pumpkin patch will be open, as well. The popcorn field is also ripe for picking. Choose some ears, take them home for popping and tune into a scary movie.
The corn maze is also open, offering 2.5 miles of pathways. This year’s theme is “Cattle on the Farm.” During October, the Flashlight Maze is offered Friday and Saturday nights until 10 p.m. Also on October weekends, guest breweries and wineries will be onsite. Fireworks will also be held Saturday nights. Dates/times vary. 150 Cherry Hill Rd., Ronks. Information: Cherrycrestfarm.com.
Haunted Rails & Tales
October
Strasburg Rail Road
Local folklore, fables and phenomena come alive for a unique steam-train experience. Based on the published works of author (Weird Pennsylvania and Weird Maryland), storyteller and actor Matt Lake, Haunted Rails & Tales features a professional cast of actors who have performed around the world, as well as on local stages. Mr. Lake will personally be at Strasburg Rail Road as your host on the following dates: October 5-6, 11–12, 24 and 31. He will also be on hand for a Meet & Greet on October 4 (4-6 p.m.) Purchase one of his books or bring your copy along for him to sign. Other dates are available outside of Mr. Lake’s appearances. Note: Not recommended for children under the age of 8. 6:15 p.m. 301 Gap Rd., Ronks. Information: Strasburgrailroad.com
Artisan Days
October Saturdays
The Shoppes at Miller’s
Miller’s Smorgasbord, which is celebrating its 95th anniversary in 2024, is hosting Artisan Days at The Shoppes at Miller’s every Saturday in October. Local artisans will be on hand to showcase their work and chat with guests. Also, The Quilt Shop at Miller’s will have a local quilter doing hand quilting demonstrations. 1-4 p.m. 2811 Lincoln Highway East, Ronks. Information: Millerssmorgasbord.com.
The schedule is as follows:
October 5:
- Hand Painted Original by Tina Knox(hand-painted Amish scenes on glass and wood)
- Olio Olive Oils & Balsamics(artisanal olive oils and balsamics)
October 12:
- Anthony Iezzi(photography of Lancaster)
- Jimmy Rosen (book signing by this writer of local history)
October 19
- Lancaster Shirt Company(unique locally themed apparel)
- Lingerlong Woodworking(handcrafted/sustainable wood cutting boards, trivets, etc.)
- Sweet Candy Creations(handcrafted/freeze-dried confections from the Beiler family)
October 26
- Painted Pine Jewelry(hand-painted jewelry)
- Lone Pine Road Designs by Sarah (handcrafted jewelry)
- Jimmy Rosen (book signing)
Jason’s Woods
Through November 2
Conestoga
Now in its 39th year, Jason’s Woods features five “mind-blowing” attractions that are guaranteed to offer thrill seekers an evening to remember. Those who prefer to “chill” can take in the midway and enjoy the musical entertainment and food selection. Dates vary/gates open at 7 p.m. 179 Stehman Rd., Conestoga. Information: Jasonswoods.com.
Corn Cob Acres
Through November 3
Mountville
Regarded as a “field of fun,” Corn Cob Acres, which opened in 2009, is owned and operated by Gene and Jim Schopf, the founders of Field of Screams. Here, you’ll find 50 family-friendly activities, including a hayride, as well as entertainment. Food vendors are onsite. There’s even a saloon for adults. Special dates for group visits and field trips are available. Dates/times vary. 191 College Ave., Mountville. Information: Corncobacres.com.
Field of Screams
Through November 15
Mountville
Now in its 32nd season, this highly rated Halloween attraction offers visitors terrifying thrills and spine-tingling chills. Venture into four haunted experiences (if you dare) or enjoy the midway, musical entertainment and an array of food vendors. Open weekends through October 13, adding Thursdays through October 31, and then reverting to weekends for the rest of the schedule. Gates open at varying times. 191 College Ave., Mountville. Information: Fieldofscreams.com.
Let’s Plant & Enjoy
October 1
Eicher Arts Center
Get into the spirit of the fall season with Connie Higgins, a graphic designer and artist who will lead the group through an evening of creativity that entails pumpkins and plants such as succulents. Tickets include the class, wine and appetizers. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., class begins at 6. 409 Cocalico St., Ephrata. Information: Paintandenjoyparties.wordpress.com.
New Holland Farmers Fair
October 2-5
New Holland
The 92nd 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.
Spooky Scoot
October 4-26
Strasburg
Strasburg Scooters Tours is offering a different view of Lancaster County’s winding backroads, as it “treats” visitors to a nighttime tour of the area that includes stops to hear tales of local folklore. Fridays and Saturdays, 6:45 p.m. 246 N. Decatur St., Strasburg. Information: Strasburgscooters.com.
Hairspray
October 4-November 2
Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre
It’s 1962 and Tracy Turnblad, a girl from Baltimore, has won a coveted spot on a popular TV dance program. As a result, Tracy goes from being a social outcast to a teen celebrity. A relevant storyline and great music have made Hairspray a beloved musical. Times vary. 510 Centerville Rd., Lancaster. Information:Dutchapple.com.
Neon Moon Country Line Dancing
October 4
Mickey’s Black Box
Have you ever wanted to give country line dancing a try? If so, git on over to Mickey’s, where the hottest classic and current country tunes will have you line dancing in no time. Newbies take heed: lessons are offered throughout the evening. Must be 18+ to attend. 7 p.m. 101 Rock Lititz Blvd., Lititz. Information: Mickeysblackbox.com.
Dine on Harvest Moon
October 4
Lancaster County Convention Center
Celebrating its 15th year, this Lancaster Conservancy-sponsored dinner will benefit the organization’s mission to conserve, protect and care for the area’s natural areas, including Kelly’s Run Nature Preserve, which will provide the inspiration for the evening’s décor. Event features a reception, dinner and program, a raffle, live auction and afterparty. 5 p.m. 25 S. Queen St., Lancaster. Information:Lancasterconservancy.org/harvestmoon/.
Harvest Breakfast
October 5
Lancaster Central Market
Celebrate the harvest with the market’s standholders, who will have special harvest-themed, pay-as-you-go food stands set up outside the markethouse. Event also features live music, face painting, pumpkin painting and more! 8 a.m.-noon. 23 N. Market St., Lancaster. Information: Centralmarketlancaster.com
Maize & Snitz Fest
October 5
1719 Museum
Tour the home built in 1719 for the Hans Herr family and learn about local Indigenous life at the Lancaster Longhouse. Interpreters and craftspeople will conduct demonstrations throughout the day near the two dwellings, offering insight into historic cultures, industries and art forms. Artisans who specialize in traditional crafts that have both shaped and told the stories of local cultures will also be on hand. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 1849 Hans Herr Dr., Willow Street. Information: Mennonitelife.org.
Lancaster ARTWalk
October 5-6
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. Lancaster City. Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, 12-4 p.m. Information: Lancastercityart.com.
Walk-A-Bout Brewery Tour
October 5, 12, 19, 26
Lancaster City
Presented by Brewery Tours, LLC, this tour takes attendees to three breweries in the city, through which you’ll enjoy a guided tasting tour of 12 craft beers, meet the brew masters, experience behind-the-scenes access and hear local and historical anecdotes. Must be 21+. Advanced reservations needed. 12 p.m. Information: Ultimatecraftbeerexperience.com.
I-105 Fallfest
October 6
Overlook Community Park
WIOV’s annual county music extravaganza will feature such artists as Cole Swindell, Parmalee, Cody Tyler and more. Food trucks and beverage vendors will be onsite. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 605 Granite Run Dr., Lancaster. Tickets needed. Information: Wiov.com
Garden Railways Tour
October 6
Various locations
Back for its 17th year, this self-guided tour of operating model trains takes you to five outdoor and garden settings. The tour makes for a fun outing for train enthusiasts of all ages. Sponsored by the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania. 1-5 p.m. Information: Rrmuseumpa.org.
Manheim Community Farm Show
October 7-11
Manheim
This family-friendly fair is celebrating 70 years in 2024. The fair features a parade, shows, competitions, demonstrations, kid’s activities, food vendors and more. Hours vary. 502 Adele Ave., Manheim. Information:Manheimfarmshow.org
Gypsy
October 10-26
Ephrata Performing Arts Center
Based on the memoirs of Gypsy Rose Lee, the show transports the audience back to the 1920s, where we meet Rose, the ultimate stage mom whose sole ambition is to involve her two daughters in show business in the hopes that “Everything Will Come up Roses.” Times vary. 320 Cocalico St., Ephrata. Information:Epactheatre.org.
Date Night Glass Blowing
October 11
Lancaster Creative Factory
You and your partner can team up to create a glass flower, with guidance provided by Kevin Lehman. Then, take advantage of the proximity to downtown and visit a restaurant or brew pub. 6 p.m. 580 S. Prince St. (rear), Lancaster. Information: Lancastercreativefactory.org.
Mean Girls
October 11
Pullo Center
Direct from Broadway, the award-winning musical (Tina Fey was one of the writers) revisits the story of Cady Heron, who grew up in the African savannah and now resides in suburban Illinois, where she must negotiate teen life, American-style. 7:30 p.m. Penn State York, 1031 Edgecomb Ave., York. Information:Pullocenter.york.psu.edu.
An Evening with Lee Asher
October 11
American Music Theatre
Lee Asher, founder of The Asher House, will talk about his journey to saving animals and finding his true purpose in life. A prominent figure in the animal rescue community — with a massive social media following of more than 12 million people across platforms — he has used his influence to raise awareness about animal welfare and inspire countless individuals to make a difference in the lives of animals in need. His tireless dedication to rescuing dogs, cats, horses and other animals has earned him a reputation as a true champion for the voiceless. 7:30 p.m. 2425 Lincoln Hwy. East, Lancaster. Information: AMTshows.com.
Mozart’s Twin Titans
October 11-13
Gardner Theatre
Lancaster Symphony Orchestra will perform two of Mozart’s most enduring and recognizable works: Symphony No. 40 in G minor and Requiem in D minor. The Lancaster Symphony Chorus will take part, as well. Times vary. 725 Hamilton Rd., Lancaster. Information: Lancastersymphony.org.
Lancaster Fine Art & Craft Show
October 12
Solanco Fairgrounds
Sponsored by the Lancaster County Art Association, the show will feature the work of nearly 40 artists specializing in photography, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry, fiber, wood and all paint mediums. Food trucks will be onsite. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 101 Park Ave., Quarryville. Information: LCAAonline.org
Kiwanis Chocolate Walk
October 12
Lititz
Regarded as trick-or-treating for grownups, each year chocoholics converge on Lititz for a day of chocolate bliss! With more than 25 locations, participants visit the shops and other venues in downtown Lititz in search of mouth-watering chocolate treats that have been donated by some of the region’s top chefs, bakers, ice cream shops, chocolatiers and candy makers. All the money raised from ticket sales goes to support children-focused charities in the Lancaster County region. Tickets required. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Information:Lititzchocolatewalk.com.
Blues, Brews & “Boos”
October 12
Marietta
Marietta is the place to be as the open air festival will feature seven musical acts on four stages, 20+ artisans/makers/vendors, a family-friendly carnival, 10 food trucks, four adult beverage stations (must be 21+) and a ghost-themed costume contest. In addition, many restaurants and bars will have special festival-themed beverages and promotions. Free admission, but a $5 donation will support Marietta’s beautification efforts/projects. 1-6 p.m. Front Street. (Note: rain date is October 13.) Information: Discovermariettapa.org.
Harvest Days
October 12-13
Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
The property’s oldest and largest family-friendly event features demonstrations and exhibits relating to farm life, as well as live music, kid’s activities, food, a pumpkin patch and more. Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 2451 Kissel Hill Rd., Lancaster. Information: Landisvalleymuseum.org
Halloween Days & Spooky Knights
October 12-13, 19-20, 26-27
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.
Pumpkin Patch Express
October 12, 19, 26
Stone Gables Estate
Take a ride on a train pulled by a replica 1868 steam locomotive as you make your way to the pumpkin patch for fall fun. Then, visit the petting zoo, play games and enjoy a snack. 9 a.m.-12:45 p.m. 1160 N. Market St., Elizabethtown. Information: Stonegablesestate.com
Taste of Science
October 17
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 Hess’s Barbecue, science-themes cocktails, wine and other beverages, a Science of Beer Competition by the Lancaster Brewers Club, a Live Science trivia contest, raffles and silent auction and so much more. Must be 21+ to attend. (Note: This is a ticketed event.) 6 p.m. 454 New Holland Ave., Lancaster. Information: Lancastersciencefactory.org
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. Feel free to wear a costume. Then, continue the evening in a local restaurant (some of which are purported to be haunted!). Dates/times vary. (Note: other themed tours are offered, as well.) 1706 Long Level Rd., Wrightsville. Information:Susqnha.org.
Wolf Sanctuary Fundraisers
October 19 & 26
Wolf Sanctuary of PA
On October 19, the Full Moon Fundraiser features a bonfire, live music and educational tours that focus on the wolves and their stories. (Note: No children under 16.) 7-10 p.m.
On October 26, Wolf Awareness Day will feature self-guided tours, educational games, children’s activities, live music and more. 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
465 Speedwell Forge Rd., Lititz. Information: Wolfsantctuarypa.org.
Yummie’s Halloween Boo Bash
October 26
Kitchen Kettle Village
Ticketholders for this family-friendly event will receive a lunch voucher, can participate in a costume contest, visit the Whoopie Pie Experience and Hot Chocolate bar, pose for photos with the village’s mascots, take part in a scavenger hunt (kids) and a treasure hunt (adults). There will also be a pet parade and more. 9:30-10 a.m. check-in. 3029 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse. Information: Kitchenkettle.com
Lancaster Halloween Parade
October 26
Lancaster City
The parade will kick off at Clipper Magazine Stadium and make its way though Lancaster with family-friendly performers, themed floats, local organizations and more. 7 p.m. Information: Lancasterstormers.com.
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