Savor September! Foodie Events for September 2024

It’s fair season in Lancaster County, which means yummy food and a celebration of the area’s agricultural prowess. September also gets us thinking about the holidays and after a summer’s worth of casual fare, you might want to hone your cooking skills with a class or two. Food also is at the center of several fundraisers that take place this month.

Lancaster Distillery/The Boring Bar

Ongoing
Columbia

Did you know that Lancaster Distilleries now has an outpost in Columbia? The LD Tasting Room/The Boring Bar offers craft cocktails (made with LD spirits and house-made ingredients), spirits to go, snack food, games such as pool, darts and shuffleboard, and occasional live music. Nate Boring (hence The Boring Bar), presents weekly trivia and karaoke nights. Open Thursday-Saturday with varying hours. 230 N. 4th St., Columbia. Information: Lancasterdistilleries.com.

Lancaster City International Food Tour

Select dates in September
Downtown Lancaster

Hosted by Unique Lancaster Experiences, the tour entails stops at a minimum of six culturally diverse restaurants. Sample food, meet the chefs/owners and more. Times vary. Information: Experiencelancasterpa.com.

Amish Fall Farmhouse

Select dates September-November
Old Windmill Farm

Step into an Amish kitchen and learn to bake bread, churn butter (using cream from the farm’s cows) and press apples to make your own cider. Mon., Tues., Thur. and Fri. at 1 p.m. 262 Paradise Lane, Ronks. Reservations needed. Information: Oldwindmillfarm.com.

Half-Stitched … the Musical

Through October 24
Bird-in-Hand Stage

Dinner and a show! Emma Yoder, a recent widow, plans a peaceful weekend quilting class. As her students — a biker, an estranged couple, a pastor’s wounded wife, a young military veteran and a rebellious young girl — spend the weekend learning Amish quilt patterns, seams and secrets come unraveled, tears and truths emerge, and Emma must navigate her way through the upheaval that ensues. Based on a story written by Wanda Brunstetter, the show is from Blue Gate Musicals, with the script by Martha Bolton and original songs by Wally Nason. Lunch and dinner options are available. 3063 Lincoln Highway East, Paradise. Information: Bird-in-hand.com.

Jersey Boys

Through September 28
Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre

Enjoy lunch or dinner before you go on this musical thrill ride with Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons as they make their way from their native New Jersey to the world’s most heralded stages. Learn how the band members forged a friendship that has lasted for more than 40 years and produced such hits as Sherry, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Dawn, My Eyes Adored You and the list goes on. (Note: this is a PG-13 show.) Information: Dutchapple.com.

Zest Cooking School

September
Lititz

In the words of Julia Child, everyone should learn how to cook and, in the process, try new recipes, learn from your mistakes, be fearless, and above all, have fun. The professional instructors who lead the classes at Zest! aim to have you do all the above, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned cook. Most classes begin at 6 p.m. or as otherwise noted. 1180 Erbs Quarry Rd., Lititz. Information: Zestchef.com.

• September 4: Cake Decorating with pastry chef Stephanie Willette.
• September 7: Parent/Grandparent & Child: Back to School Lunch Boxes with chef Cat Alwine. 11 a.m.
• September 11: Apple Treats, Cider Donuts & Hand Pies with chef Stephanie Willette.
• September 13: Kids Cooking Club with Gwen Eberly. 4:30 p.m.
• September 18: Veggie Comfort Foods with chef Cat Alwine.
• September 19: Gluten-Free Baking: Fall Pies with chef Hannah Smith.
• September 21: Parent/Grandparent & Child: Crepes with Gwen Eberly. 10 a.m.
• September 25: Mastering Pumpkin Rolls with chef Stephanie Willette.

Hospice Labor Day Auction

September 2
Solanco Fairgrounds

Don’t miss Hospice & Community Care’s Labor Day Auction, where every bid supports a worthy cause: helping Hospice patients and their families cope with life-limiting illnesses or loss. The vast array of items that are available range from quilts and sports memorabilia to collectibles, tools and so much more. The event also features specialty auctions and a raffle that will see a lucky ticket holder win a Chevy Trax. Another don’t miss is the Amish-made food that includes s breakfast logs, baked goods, chicken barbecue and milkshakes among many others. 7:30 a.m.-approx. 5 p.m. 101 Park Ave., Quarryville. Information: Labordayauction.org.

Chief Uncas Brews Cruise

September 6
Susquehanna National Heritage Area

Cruise the Susquehanna aboard the restored electric-powered boat, Chief Uncas, which once was owned by Adolphus Busch, “the king of beers,” who used the boat during his summer getaways to Otsego Lake in New York, which just happens to be the headwaters for the Susquehanna. Now owned by the Susquehanna National Heritage Area (SNHA), it is used for educational and entertaining excursions such as the beer cruise. SNHA partners with Starview Brewery in Columbia to provide the beverages. Guests can also pre-order the brewery’s crabcakes to enjoy during the 90-minute trip. 7 p.m. 1706 Long Level Rd., Wrightsville. Information: Susqnha.org.

First Saturday Ephrata

September 7
Ephrata

First Saturday events end for the season with the theme, Explore Ephrata. From 2:30-4:30 p.m., the second annual Scavenger Hunt will see visitors put their knowledge of Ephrata to the test. Then, from 4:30-8 p.m., Whistle Stop Plaza will be the scene of live music, dancing, food and drink (ID required to purchase adult beverages). 16 E. Main St., Ephrata. Information: Mainspringofephrata.org.

CASA Heroes Gala & Benefit Auction

September 7
Foundry 48

Hosted by CASA for Children of Lancaster and Lebanon Counties, this year’s benefit – A Storybook Soiree – will honor the real-life heroes who help to change the stories of children. It will also celebrate the storybook heroes, literary characters and authors who have inspired us. Guests are encouraged to dress the part: think fairy tales, mystery, romance, superhero, a favorite author and even villains. Tickets include hors d’oeuvres, beer, wine, a complimentary cocktail, buffet dinner, silent/live auctions and dancing. 6 p.m. 100 Millport Rd., Lititz. Information: e.givesmart.com.

 

Field of Hope Farm-to-Table Dinner

September 7
Heth Farm, West Hempfield Township

Carol and Pete Heth are hosting Field of Hope’s 9th annual farm-to-table dinner that benefits individuals and families coping with extraordinary and unexpected medical expenses. The event kicks off with hors d’oeuvres and beverages, as well as remarks from the recipients. It then moves to the field, where dinner is served. Live music will be provided by Not Quite Rite. Food purveyors contributing to the event include Breakaway Farms, S. Mandros Imported Foods, Bistro Barberet and Bakery, Mad Chef Craft Brewing, Trio Bar & Grill and Stoltzfus Farms. 4 p.m. 4338 Fairview Rd., West Hempfield. Information: Lancofieldofhope.com.

Odessa Brewfest

September 7
Odessa, Delaware

Feel like taking a tasty day trip? The Odessa Brewfest is a fundraising event for the Historic Odessa Foundation, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to ensure the legacy of the Historic Houses of Odessa for future generations, through commitment to the preservation of Odessa’s unique historic, architectural and cultural heritage. Located in New Castle County, Odessa dates to the early 1700s and is known for its cobblestone streets and period architecture.

Now in its 11th year, the annual Odessa Brewfest provides ticketholders with access to food and merchandise vendors, live music, sponsor tables and unlimited sampling of beer from 50 of the best regional and national craft brewers, as well as locally produced wines and spirits. Adults only. 12-5:30 p.m. 202 Main St., Odessa. Information: Odessabrewfest.com.

Lancaster City Restaurant Week

September 9-15
Lancaster City

The city’s restaurants, cafes, pubs, bars and bakeries will be offering all sorts of culinary delights in celebration of the event’s 10th anniversary. It’s the perfect opportunity to visit your favorite eatery or discover new destinations. Information: Lancastercityrestaurantweek.com.

One World Festival

September 8
Franklin & Marshall College

Organizations affiliated with Greek, Indian, Islamic, Jewish, Irish, Italian, African and Hispanic cultures are collaborating to celebrate the food, music, crafts, arts and dance traditions of the world. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 929 Harrisburg Ave., Lancaster (Alumni Sports & Fitness Center). Information: Oneworldfestivallancaster.org.

Brunch & Bloom

September 10
Flourish

Savor brunch and then get creative and make a dried wreath just in time for fall decorating. 10 a.m. 1518 Main St., East Earl. Information: flourish.flowers.

 

The Denver Fair

September 10-14
Denver

Known for its competitions, food and emphasis on community, the fair is also heralded for its special events (this year’s include the Space Adventure Thrill Show, Wolves of the Wild and the Rustic Runnel’s Chainsaw Carving demos). Music will be provided by The Uptown Band, Jess Zimmerman Band and Flamin’ Dick & the Hot Rods. There are fireworks, too! Times vary. 801 Main St., Denver. Information: Thedenverfair.com.

Wine & Wheels Car Show

September 14
Nissley Vineyards

This 3rd annual event is held in collaboration with the Lancaster County Corvette Club and features wine, craft beer, food trucks, live music and lots of cars. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Clare House Lancaster. 12-6 p.m. 140 Vintage Dr., Bainbridge. Information: Nissleywine.com

Southern Lancaster County Fair

September 18-20
Solanco Fairgrounds

This fair honors the tradition in which it was founded in 1950: fellowship, food and friendly competition. There’s also an expo through which businesses and nonprofit organizations acquaint visitors with the services they offer. The food is amazing! Special events include tractor pulls, an Iron Man competition, music from the Jess Zimmerman Band and a celebrity milking contest. Oh, and there’s a parade. Hours vary. Park Ave., Quarryville. Information: Solancofair.org.

Date Night in the Garden

September 19
Conestoga House & Gardens

Surprise and impress the love of your life with an evening at this beautiful property. The gardens will be in full bloom, musicians will be strolling the grounds, and you can bring your own wine and picnic dinner or pre-order one. 5-8 p.m. 1608 Marietta Ave., Lancaster. Information: Conestogahouse.com.

 

Oktoberfest

September 20-22
Lancaster Liederkranz

Lancaster’s German cultural club, which was established in 1880, hosts the area’s oldest and most traditional Oktoberfest celebration. Event features German music, food, drink, song and dance, including performances by the Alpenrose Schuhplattler Dancers who specialize in German and Austrian folk dances. Fri., 5:30-11 p.m. Sat., 12:30-11 p.m. Sun., 12-6 p.m. (rain/shine). 722 S. Chiques Rd., Manheim. Information: Lancasterliederkranz.com.

L’Italia Festival

September 21
Lititz Springs Park

Presented by the Keystone Italian Project, the festival (or, as they say in Italy, festa) celebrates all things Italian, including the language, culture, art, music, sense of community, games and, of course, the cuisine of the country’s various regions. You can even convert your dollars into Lititz Euros, which will be accepted by all the vendors. Kids’ activities will also be offered. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 24 N. Broad St., Lititz. Information: Lititz.it.

Lititz Craft Beer Fest

September 21
TAIT

Now in its 10th year, the festival is presented by the Lititz AMBUCS and the Warwick Community Ambulance Association. Since its inception, the festival has raised more than $700,000, 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 Ave., Lititz. Information: Lititizcraftbeerfest.com.

Ephrata Fair

September 24-28
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 and Easily Amused) and, of course, delicious food. Hours vary. Main Street and Thomas Grater Park. Information: Ephratafair.org.

West Lampeter Community Fair

September 25-27
West Lampeter Fairgrounds

Achieving 100 years is something to celebrate and West Lampeter will be doing exactly that. In fact, the celebration starts early (September 22-24) with events held each evening, including the naming of the fair queen, a huge tractor pull, a baby parade and a Lancaster’s Got Talent show. During the fair, which emphasizes friendly competition and educational events, visitors can take in the All Western Horse Show and a tractor parade. Food is also a star of the fair. Hours vary. 851 Village Rd., Lampeter. Information: Westlampeterfair.com.

Dinner in the Wine Garden

September 26
Glasshouse Wineworks

Chef Heather Landis will be preparing a six-course tasting menu that will be paired with Glasshouse’s finest wines. 6:30 p.m. 8 South Charlotte St., Manheim, Information: glasshousewineworks.com

Wild and Uncommon Weekend/Pawpaw Festival

September 26-29
Horn Farm Center for Agricultural Education

The Horn Farm Center is expanding its popular Pawpaw Festival in order to celebrate the region’s food, art, natural beauty and, of course, pawpaws, which is regarded as the largest fruit that is native to the eastern U.S. The Pawpaw Festival, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary, will officially be held Saturday, September 28 (9 a.m.-5 p.m.). It will feature tree vendors, orchard tours, pawpaw-themed merchandise, educational exhibitors and food made with pawpaws. Events on Thursday, Friday and Sunday include cooking classes, hikes, boat tours of the Susquehanna, farm tours, live music and even a tasting of “pawpaw cocktails, lavender indulgences and locally made wine.” Hours vary. 4945 Horn Rd., York. Information: Hornfarmcenter.org.

Whiskey on the Rails

September 28
Strasburg Railroad

Stoll & Wolfe will host a whiskey tasting aboard the First-Class Dining Car No 93 as the train travels through the countryside. Food will be provided by Café 1832. 21+ ID required. 5:45 p.m. 301 Gap Rd., Ronks. Information: Strasburgrailroad.com.

Fête en Noire

September 28
Grandview Vineyard

An evening of elegance, sophistication and mystery awaits! Come dressed in black and accessorize with red accents and a mask and prepare to mix, mingle and dance the night away. Tickets required; food and beverages will be available for purchase. 6-9 p.m. 1489 Grandview Rd., Mount Joy. Information: Grandviewwines.com

Oktoberfest

September 28 & 29
PA Renaissance Faire

Celebrate this fall tradition in Manheim, where Swashbuckler Beer will be the star attraction. Event also features German-themed games, music, dancing and more, including a Men in Lederhosen contest and Bar Olympics. Gates open at 11 a.m. 2775 Lebanon Rd., Manheim. Information: Parenfaire.com