SUMMERTIME VIBES & EVENTS IN LANCASTER COUNTY, PA

When summertime rolls around, Pennsylvania residents love to fill their calendars with fun outdoor adventures. From taking in history and culture to enjoying music and craft beers, there’s no shortage of things to do this summer in Lancaster County.
Following are a few of our favorite local summertime events and activities. 

The Amish Village
There’s no better way to experience authentic Amish culture up-close and personal than by spending a day at The Amish Village. Visitors can choose from three different tours of the 12-acre property. Highlights include the 1840s Amish farmhouse, one-room schoolhouse, barn, farm animals, and blacksmith shop. Before you leave, you’ll want to stop by the Smokehouse Market and Amish Village Store.  

Lancaster Craft Beerfest
On August 24th, residents and visitors will flock to the heart of downtown Lancaster for the 7th annual Lancaster Craft Beerfest. The event will include a beer garden with plenty of craft beers, a food court, and live music. The event will take place in two sessions, the first from noon until 3 p.m. and the second from 4 until 7 p.m.

Dutch Wonderland
One of the area’s best theme parks, Dutch Wonderland features over 35 rides, shows, and attractions. From rollercoasters and sky rides to water slides and bumper cars, there’s something here to please every member of the family. Extend your summertime fun by reserving a spot at Old Mill Steam Campground, located just next door. 

Country Barn Sunflower Festival
Country Barn is a real working farm that grows produce, potatoes, pumpkins, and more. They also plant tons of sunflowers to attract pollinating bees. On the weekends of August 17th and 18th and 24th and 25th, they invite visitors to join them in celebrating their Sunflower Festival. Here you’ll find wagon tours, a corn maze, jump pad, barnyard animals, pig races, giant slides, pedal karts, live music, and more! Each guest will receive one cut-your-own sunflower and there will be more for sale. 

Strasburg Rail Road
Did you know the country’s oldest railroad is located right in our hometown? The Strasburg Rail Road dates all the way back to 1832. Best of all, they have fully restored passenger trains and offer 45-minute rides through the Amish countryside. Book a regular ride, or dine aboard the trains with a wine and cheese ride, murder mystery dinner, or enjoy wing night aboard the steam train. They also offer special themed events throughout the year. 

Long’s Park Art Festival
This Labor Day weekend (August 30th, 31st, and September 1st), over 11,000 art enthusiasts will flock to the Long’s Park Art Festival to shop for unique and high-quality artwork and crafts. In 2018, this festival was voted the best art festival in Lancaster County and one of the top 50 art fairs in the country. Whether you need some new artwork for your home or want to enjoy the beautiful outdoor gallery, the art festival is a great way to spend a day (or two) outdoors. 

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
When you’re ready to beat the heat and spend some time inside, head over to the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania. History buffs, children, and kids-at-heart all love checking out the over 1,000 locomotives and railroad cars. Here you’ll find fun and interactive displays that bring history to life. There are also special events that take place throughout the year. On August 17th and 18th, you won’t want to miss Model Railroading Days where you’ll find impressive model train displays and demonstrations. 

Enjoy Your Summer Before it’s Too Late
Summer in Pennsylvania goes by way too fast. Before you know it, the kids will be heading back to school and the temperatures will start to drop. Make sure you make the most of your summer before it’s too late!