No Fooling Foodies, April is Here!

Spring has sprung! It’s time to get out and enjoy all that the season has to offer including Lancaster City Restaurant Week, garden events, fundraisers, mud sales, cooking classes, Easter events and more.

Photo Credits: Facebook

Lancaster City Restaurant Week

Through April 6

Dozens of restaurants, cafés, bakeries, bars and pubs will be participating in this spring edition of the event that celebrates the city’s culinary diversity, with most offering promotions throughout the week. Here’s your chance to support a favorite eatery or discover a new one. Information: lancastercityrestaurantweek.com.

Zest Cooking School

April

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.

• April 1: Cast Iron Cooking with Hannah Smith
• April 5: Sous Vide Cooking Secrets with Helen Chudakova-Sanya (10 a.m.)
• April 5: Vegetarian Zen: Exploring Asian Cuisine with Cat Alwine
• April 12: Scones & Biscuits with Helen Chudakova-Sanya (10 a.m.)
• April 16: Cake Decorating: Easter Bunny with Stephanie Willette
• April 17: Bright & Fresh: Parmesan Chicken with Joe Hall
• April 19: Kids & Teens: Easter Brunch with Gwen Eberly (10 a.m.)
• April 24: Flavors of Greece with Linda Leeking
• April 26: Ukrainian Traditional Dinner with Helen Chudakova-Sanya
• April 30: Sakura Picnic: A Taste of Japan with Cat Alwine

Pennsylvania Herb and Garden Festival

April 4-5

York Expo Center

It’s time to think about gardens! The show will feature speakers, workshops, demonstrations and plant-related vendors. Admission is $10 (kids 12 and under are free). Free parking is provided. Friday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 334 Carlisle Ave., York. Information: paherbfest.com

Mud Sales

April

Peach Bottom, Rawlinsville and Schoeneck 

If you’ve never experienced one of Lancaster’s Mud Sales, make this the year to do so. This month there are three Mud Sales to check out, where everything, including the kitchen sink, could hit the auction block, with proceeds benefiting area volunteer fire companies. The food is yummy, too. The April dates are as follows:

• April 5: Robert Fulton Spring Mud Sale. 8:15 a.m. 2271 Robert Fulton Highway, Peach Bottom. Information: Facebook.com/rffc89
• April 11-12: Rawlinsville Mud Sale. Friday, 5 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. 33 Martic Heights Dr., Holtwood. Information: Facebook.com/RVFC58
• April 19: Schoeneck Fire Company Mud Sale & Quilt Auction. 8:30 a.m., with bidding for quilts starting at 11 a.m. 125 N. King St., Denver. Information: Facebook.com/schoeneckfire

Rails & Ales

April 5

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania

Sample craft beer among the museum’s collection of historic trains. This 8th annual event coincides with the museum’s 50th anniversary and will feature an array of craft breweries, both local and regional. Food can be purchased from on-site vendors. Proceeds benefit the nonprofit, Friends of the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Must be 21+ to attend and a photo ID is required. General admission begins at 6:30 p.m. Tickets for the VIP hour (5:30-6:30 p.m.) are also available. 300 Gap Rd., Strasburg. Information: rrmuseumpa.org

Nourish Your Noodle

April 8

Southern Market

Learn how the work of Mental Health America of Lancaster County, the event’s sponsor, is impacting lives. Sample unique dishes from around the world and participate in live and silent auctions. 5:30 p.m. 100 S. Queen St., Lancaster. Ticket Information: mhalancaster.org.

Spring Plant Swap

April 11

Historic Poole Forge

Bring your excess plants to Historic Poole Forge and leave with new varieties for your garden. Arrive at the picnic pavilion with labeled containers at 6 p.m. The swap gets underway at 6:30 p.m. 1940 Main St., Narvon. Information: Historicpooleforge.org

Fiddler on the Roof

April 11-May 17

Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre

This beloved and Tony Award-winning musical is set in a small Russian village where Tevye, his wife Golde, and their five daughters are led through the wonders of life and have their faith tested along the way. This timeless score includes If I Were a Rich Man, Tradition Matchmaker, Matchmaker, To Life (L’Chaim), and Sunrise, Sunset. Matinee and evening performances are offered. A buffet lunch or dinner is held before the show, except on Thursday evenings, when dinner service is provided. 510 Centerville Rd., Lancaster. Information: dutchapple.com.

Breakfast With the Easter Bunny

April 12, 13, 18, 19

Country Barn

The Easter Bunny is hopping into town and making a special stop at the Country Barn Farm for a delightful Farm-to-Fork breakfast. Guests can get photos taken with the Easter Bunny and participate in fun-filled activities including coloring contests, egg hunts and exclusive access to Bunny Village. Times vary. 211 S. Donnerville Rd., Lancaster. Information: Countrybarnmarket.com

Lititz Lions Easter Egg Hunt

April 12

John Bonfield Elementary School

Children will be divided into age and special needs groups to search for candy- and toy-filled plastic eggs and other treasures provided by sponsoring organization, Lititz Lions Club. 10:30 a.m. 101 N. Oak St., Lititz. Information: Lititzlions.org

Marietta Cherry Blossom Benefit Music Festival

April 12

Marietta

Take in the awe-inspiring beauty of the cherry trees that bloom along Front Street in Marietta each spring. Proceeds from the festival help to ensure the longevity of the trees. Those over the age of 21 can stop by a “mug” stand to make your $5 event donation and receive your wristband, which will be needed to drink on the street and make you eligible for $5 specialty drinks. Event will feature live music, food and artisans. 1-6 p.m. Front Street in Marietta. (Rain “wash-out” date is April 13.) Information: Facebook.com

Spring Thaw Beer Fest

April 12

Kissel Valley Farm

Brought to you by the Lancaster County Brewers Guild, an array of craft breweries will be on hand to get you stoked for warmer weather and all that it entails. In addition to tasty brews, delicious food, live music and yard games are on the menu. Come dressed to impress in your favorite 80’s-inspired outfits and listen to cover songs from the decade! 2-6 p.m. 645 E. Oregon Rd., Lititz. Information: Eventbrite.com

Night of Hope

April 12

Columbia Markethouse

Lancaster County Field of Hope is a nonprofit organization that assists families facing financial difficulties due to extraordinary and unexpected medical expenses. The organization’s spring benefit will feature lite fare from Columbia-area restaurants, beer and wine, live music (courtesy of James Wolpert, a former contestant on The Voice), and a silent auction. Plus, this year’s recipients will be introduced. WGAL’s Lori Burkholder will serve as the emcee. 7-9:30 p.m. 15 S. Third St., Columbia. Information: Fieldofhope.com

Egg-stra Special Easter Event

April 12, 18, 19

Kitchen Kettle Village

The Village has planned an action-packed day for families to enjoy. Tickets include a meal voucher (breakfast or lunch) at the Harvest Café, an egg hunt (9:30 or 10:30 a.m.) for kids 10 and under, photo opps with Yummie and the Easter Bunny, and an Easter-themed scavenger hunt for kids. Village hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse. Information: Kitchenkettle.com

Lititz History & Whiskey Tours

April 12 & 19

Lititz

Sponsored by the Lititz Historical Foundation, the guided tours are designed to acquaint participants with the history of Main Street, which is lined with buildings that date as far back as the 1700s and include America’s first commercial pretzel bakery, Lancaster County’s first pharmacy, Lititz’s first bank and a Revolutionary War hospital. Guests will then visit Stoll & Wolfe Distillery, where they will enjoy a guided tasting of three local whiskeys and learn about the whiskey and distilling history of the Lititz area. Tours are limited to 16 participants, ages 21+. 4-6 p.m. Tours depart from the Square in Lititz. Information: Lititzhistoricalfoundation.com

19th Century Gardens in Pennsylvania Dutch Country

April 13

Fasig House

Michael Cassidy, a Master Gardener with Penn State Extension, will discuss gardening in the 19th century and the contrasts that existed between Victorian-style gardens and the common “working” gardens, with special attention paid to those in PA Dutch Country. Lessons for today’s gardeners will also be discussed. Admission is free, but registration is required due to limited space. Call the Manheim Historical Society at 717-665-7981 to reserve your spot. In addition to the program, the Fasig and Keath houses, both of which are German Colonial homes, will be open from 1-3 p.m. for free tours. The program begins at 3 p.m. Free parking is at the rear of the houses. 30-32 East High St., Manheim. Information: Manheimhistoricalsociety.org

Easter Egg Hunt

April 17

Conestoga House & Gardens

A hoppin’ good time is promised to all, thanks to a special guest appearance by the Easter Bunny himself! Celebrate the arrival of spring with a fun-filled evening in the gardens. There’s no need to bring anything; everything will be provided to the egg hunters. Guests are welcome to bring food and drinks to enjoy in the gardens. Two times: 4 & 6 p.m. 1608 Marietta Ave., Lancaster. Information: Conestogagardens.com

Easter Bunny Trains

April 18-20

Strasburg Rail Road

Welcome to the Strasburg Rail Road Easter Bunny Train, a unique and memorable way to celebrate the holiday with family and friends. This train is extra special because the conductor is none other than Peter Cottontail! As you travel, the Easter Bunny will hop from car to car spreading Easter happiness to the little ones on board. New this year is Candy Drops, which is hosted by the Easter Bunny and his friends and will occur on the hour between 12 and 5 p.m. at a designated location along the pedestrian mall area. Children can head to the candy drop area after their train ride and try to collect as much Easter candy as possible! 301 Gap Rd., Ronks. Information: Strasburgrailroad.com

Easter Celebration

April 19

Star Barn

Event features egg hunts, a special performance by Steven Courtney, petting zoo, face painting, kid’s crafts, yard games, food and artisan vendors, endless photo opps, and more! The Sower & Seed Gift Shoppe will be open for shopping. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 1 Hollinger Lane, Elizabethtown. Information: Stonegablesestate.com   

Fundraiser for Corinna

April 22

John Wright Restaurant

John Wright is hosting a 5-course dinner with beverage pairings in support of Corinna Killian, a well-known local chef who was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in November 2024. It’s Corinna’s wish to dedicate the evening to her late mother, Sandi Killian, and Virginia Connelly, both of whom lost their fights with cancer. The evening will also include music (Hunter Root) and a silent auction, All proceeds will benefit Corinna and her family, which includes her two sons, Josh and Jake. 6 p.m. 234 N. Front St., Wrightsville. Information: Facebook.com

Tröegs Grow with Ken’s Gardens

April 23

Funck’s Restaurant

Tröegs, Funck’s and Ken’s Gardens are putting a different spin on the term “beer garden,” as they are planning an evening dedicated to brews and blooms. Guests will be invited to sip on Tröegs favorites, enjoy samples, snag a complimentary tomato plant (while supplies last), and shop plants from Ken’s Gardens. 5-8 p.m. 341 W. Main St., Leola. Information: Facebook.com

Whiskey & Wagyu Themed Dinner

April 24

John Wright Restaurant

The menu will feature such dishes as shaved carpaccio, brisket burger sliders, smoked striploin and mushroom toast (accompanied by a Rittenhouse Rye Manhattan); grilled Coulotte with local blue cheese graten (paired with a House Elijah Old Fashioned); and, for dessert, a Chocolate Trio (accompanied by Woodford Masters Collection). 6:30 p.m. 234 N. Front St., Wrightsville. Information: Jwrpa.com

MT Earth Fest

April 26

Overlook Park

Habitat MT and Manheim Township Department of Parks and Recreation will host this annual festival that will include a wide range of nonprofit organizations whose focus is on the environment, native plant vendors and presentations. Event also features a native plant sale, kid’s activities, food trucks, maker’s market and more. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. 595 Granite Run Dr., Lancaster. Information: Facebook.com

Lititz Pretzel Fest

April 26

Downtown Lititz

Sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Lititz Area, this celebration pays homage to one of the major food groups in Lititz – the beloved Julius Sturgis Pretzel! Enjoy both sweet and savory samplings (all provided by Sturgis) as you take in the sights and sounds of springtime in Lititz. Event will also feature beverage tastings and live music. Proceeds from this event will fund a Kids Free Fun Day at the Park, to be held on Saturday, May 17 (11 a.m.-2 p.m.) at Lititz Springs Park. Tickets will only be sold online and can be picked up at the train station in front of Lititz Springs Park on April 26. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. (rain/shine). Downtown Lititz. Information: Lititzkiwanis.org

The Fresh Brews of Mount Joy

April 26

Mount Joy

Mount Joy’s inaugural beerfest is being sponsored by Voyage Mount Joy in conjunction with YAH Brew. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Donegal Athletic Club, which helps to support the needs of local athletes. The fest will feature 50+ breweries and wineries, dining at local restaurants, food trucks and 90’s-themed music. VIP tickets available; designated drivers admitted free. 21+ only/IDs required. 2-5 p.m. East Main Street, Mount Joy. Information: Voyagemountjoy.com

Plant Exchange

April 27

Lititz Historical Foundation

This annual event, which is held in conjunction with the Lititz Garden Club, invites gardeners to exchange excess perennials for other plants. How it works is you bring potted and tagged plants (perennials only) to the exchange and receive a ticket for each donation. The donated plants are then organized into categories at which time you can use your tickets to select new varieties. 1:30 p.m. Mary Oehme Gardens, rear of 137-145 E. Main St., Lititz. Information: lititzhistoricalfoundation.com

Empty Bowls

April 27

Lancaster Creative Factory

A fun-filled evening of food, music and art will benefit Meals on Wheels of Lancaster. Guests can choose from a selection of over 400 unique ceramic bowls crafted by local artists of the Lancaster Creative Factory. Then, fill your empty bowl with soups, baked goods, and fresh breads from an array of local restaurants. The event will also feature a live auction of beautiful art pieces, live glass blowing, a wheel throwing demonstration and music from the band, Easily Amused. 4-7 p.m. 580 S. Prince St. (Rear), Lancaster. Information: Eventbrite.com