Festivals, Fairs, Fundraisers…September is a Taste Fest!
Fall is in the air, which means fair season goes into full swing in Lancaster County. Community events and festivals dedicated to food, craft beer, music and culture are also on the agenda, as are benefits for nonprofit organizations.
Photos: Facebook pages and LCM files
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.
Available classes include:
- September 4: Date Night: Harvest by the Shore with Chef Joe Hall
- September 9: Latin BBQ with Chef Flora Gonzalez
- September 10: Chefs Autumn Menu with Chef Joe Hall
- September 11: Parent & Child: From Garden to Table with Chef Gwen Eberly (5:30 p.m.)
- September 12: Curries Around the World with Chef Cat Alwine
- September 13: Apples, Apples Everywhere with Chef Linda Leeking
- September 17: Steakhouse Classics: Autumn Flavors with Chef Joe Hall
- September 18: Fall Harvest Bounty with Chef Linda Leeking
- September 20: Kids & Teens: Pumpkin Spice & Everything Nice with Chef Gwen Eberly (10 a.m.)
- September 20: Empanadas Across Latin America with Chef Flora Gonzalez
- September 24: Oktoberfest with Chef Helen Chudakova-Sanya (5 p.m.)
- September 25: French Classics with Chef Linda Leeking
- September 26: Date Night: Dumplings Around the World with Chef Cat Alwine
- September 27: Pumpkin Pie Workshop with Chef Rhet Beiler (10 a.m.)
Just an FYI: October 3 is Date Night, and the theme is Oktoberfest.
Reamstown Days
September 5-6
Reamstown Memorial Park
Friday’s schedule includes food, kid’s activities, games, musical entertainment and more. Saturday will feature more of the same plus a car show, a Candy Drop, a pet parade and in the evening, entertainment provided by The Fabulous Greaseband. Fri., 4-9 p.m. Sat., 8 a.m.-10 p.m. 23 E. Church St., Reamstown. Information: Facebook.com
Whoopie Pie Festival
September 6
Hershey Farms
Back from the ashes, the festival is making a triumphant return! The menu will feature more than 400 flavors including this year’s additions: Magical Unicorn, Matcha, Espresso Martini, Pistachio, Shirley Temple and Spicy Margarita. Park at Tanger Outlets or Journey Church and take a shuttle bus to Hershey Farms. VIP passes are available, which provides early entrance and lots of perks. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (Rain date is September 7.) 240 Hartman Bridge Rd., Ronks. Information: Whoopiepiefestival.com
Lancaster MusicFest
September 6
Buchanan Park
Lancaster MusicFest is the flagship fundraising event produced by the SmartHub Foundation, whose vision is to create a more engaged, healthy and vibrant Lancaster. The 6th annual event brings together live music (Kelly Bell Band, Bailey Run, The Ogham Stones, Sarah Fiore and the Young Musician Academy), local food, craft beer, wine and spirits, street performers and local artisans. Proceeds benefit Children’s Miracle Network and Schreiber Pediatric. 12-8 p.m. 901 Buchanan Ave., Lancaster. Information:Lancastermusicfest.com
Historic Odessa Brewfest
September 6
Odessa, Delaware
Feel like taking a road trip? The Historic Odessa Foundation and Cantwell’s Tavern are hosting Delaware Valley’s premier beer festival. Held on the historic grounds of the foundation’s Wilson-Warner House (1769), the Brewfest is a signature fundraising event that blends Delaware’s rich colonial history with the vibrant culture of craft brewing. Craft beer lovers can look forward to sampling from 50-plus breweries, including 15 Delaware favorites, offering everything from hop-forward IPAs and silky stouts to crisp lagers and inventive small-batch creations. Event also features live music, gourmet bites, games, Stein-holding competitions and artisan vendors, as well as colonial brewing and camp cooking demos. 12-5:30 p.m. 202 Main St., Odessa, Delaware. Information: Odessabrewfest.com
Brewery Tours: Lancaster City Walk-a-Bout!
September 6, 13, 20, 27
Lancaster City
Craft beer was meant to be experienced! Knowledgeable and experienced Beer Guides will lead you on an exclusive, educational and entertaining Walk-a-Bout to three of Lancaster City’s anchor breweries, where you’ll enjoy guided tastings of 12 different craft beers with behind-the-scenes access, local and historical anecdotes and more. This craft beer experience runs on most Saturdays, year-round. Advanced booking is required online. Whether you’re a craft beer aficionado, a novice, or someone who just wants to learn more about craft beer, Brewery Tours is for you! 12-4 p.m. Information: Ultimatecraftbeerexperience.com
Wags on Wright
September 7
John Wright Restaurant
Back for its 12thh year, the event will feature pet-friendly vendors, a pizza special on the Pizza Patio, dog-friendly burgers and more. Proceeds will benefit the Columbia Animal Shelter and Pitties Love Peace. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 234 N. Front St., Wrightsville. Information: Jwrpa.com
Schreiber Rubber Duckie Dash & Festival
September 7
Schreiber Center for Pediatric Development
Come out and dash for the benefit of children who utilize the services of Schreiber. Options include the Duckie Dash (1 mile, all ages, all abilities), and the Duckling Dash (100 meters for children under the age of 12). Everyone can show their support by purchasing a collectible rubber duckie. (Dash registration, duck purchases and festival tickets can be ordered online.) A carnival-style festival featuring pony rides, food trucks, games, prizes and more will follow. 2-5 p.m. 625 Community Way, Lancaster. Information:Schreiberpediatric.org.
The Denver Fair
September 9-13
Denver
Known for its competitions, food and emphasis on community, the fair is also heralded for its special events (this year’s include a hot wings-eating contest for first responders on Tuesday; the Miss Denver Fair Queen contest on Wednesday; and a 5K race honoring Denver’s 125th anniversary on Saturday). Music will be provided by The Uptown Band, Jess Zimmerman Band, Mitch & the Mood Swings and Burn the Jukebox. There are fireworks, too! Times vary. 801 Main Street, Denver. Information: Thedenverfair.com.
Fete en Noir
September 12
Columbia
The historic Mount Bethel Cemetery provides the setting for this picnic that requests guests to dress in black and bring along dinner and beverages to enjoy. The Friends of Mount Bethel will provide tables, chairs and table coverings. Live music will also be part of the event. Proceeds benefit the cemetery. 5:30 p.m. 700 Locust St., Columbia. Information: Mtbethelcemetery.org
Christiana Heritage Days
September 12-14
Christiana
In 1691, John Kemmerly arrived in the area that is now Christiana and was ultimately granted 1,000 acres of the Penn holdings. In 1894, Christiana, once a manufacturing and railroad hub, became Lancaster County’s smallest borough. But before that, Christiana played a pivotal role in events leading up to the Civil War. The Fugitive Slave Rebellion in Christiana was a major episode in African American history. Because of Christiana’s proximity to Maryland, and the prevalence of Quakers in the area, Christiana became an important route along the Underground Railroad. On September 11, 1851, a Maryland slave owner named Edward Gorsuch, a U.S. Marshall and others, made their way to the Christiana-area home of William Parker, where enslaved individuals were suspected to be hiding. Gorsuch was killed when a group of armed men resisted his efforts. The conflict and the trial that followed sent shock waves across the nation and laid the groundwork for the Civil War.
Heritage Days, which is organized by the Christiana Historical Society, begins Friday with a music event (Hilton & The Pickers), and continues Saturday with tours of the Historical Complex, William Brinton property and the Christiana Resistance Museum. Reenactors, kid’s activities, traditional craft demonstrations, vendors and a food court are also on the schedule. Sunday’s activities include a church service and a community picnic. 17 Green St., Christiana. Information: Christianahistoricalsociety.com
Foodees Food & Culture Festival
September 12-14
Tanger Outlet Center
Foodees, a traveling festival whose goal is to unite communities through food, is making a stop in Lancaster as part of their tour of the Northeast. Event will feature more than 40 food trucks. A fair comprised of crafters, artisans and makers will also be held. Fri., 1-9 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Route 30 & Stanley K. Tanger Blvd. Information: Foodeesfest.com
L’Italia Festival
September 13
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. Kids’ activities will also be offered. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 24 N. Broad St., Lititz. Information: Lititz.it.
Trail Fest
September 13
Wizard Ranch Nature Preserve
Sponsored by Lancaster Conservancy, the event is back for second year to celebrate the variety of ways we can connect with nature and experience the physical, mental and emotional health benefits that are gained from spending time outdoors. The 200-plus acre preserve is part of the more than 45 miles of trails and over 8,000 acres of natural lands that are managed by Lancaster Conservancy, which works to provide ample opportunities for everyone to explore the area’s beautiful forests, meadows, wetlands and streams. Event will feature live music from Mulligan Pauls & Rast and Hadassah Edith; beer from Collusion Tap Works; food from LetUsKnow, Stoney’s Burgers and Fries and Mezcla Ice Cream. The day will also offer self-guided hikes, trailside chats and the chance to test your outdoor skills. 1-7 p.m. Tickets required. Accomac Rd., Hellam, York County. Information: Lancasterconservancy.org/trailfest/
Celebrate 100 Years of Popcorn
September 13
Mount Joy
Reist Popcorn Company is marking its 100th birthday, and they’re inviting the entire community to help them celebrate. A free popcorn festival at the Reist Family Farm will feature an evening filled with free hot air balloon rides, a corn maze, hayrides, live music (Colebrook Road), fireworks, local food & drink vendors, and (of course), plenty of popcorn. Whether you’ve grown up with Reist’s popcorn or are just discovering the local treat, this milestone event is their way of saying “thank you” for your support. 4-9 p.m. 681 Longenecker Rd, Mount Joy. Information: Reistpopcorn.com
Lancaster County Field of Hope Benefit Dinner
September 13
Heth Farm
Celebrating its 10th year of helping individuals and families ease the burden of dealing with unexpected medical issues and the costs associated with them, this year’s benefit dinner will feature a reception (hors d’ouvres, wine and beer), live entertainment, introductions to this year’s recipients, and a multi-course farm-to-table style dinner. 4-9 p.m. 4338 Fairview Rd., West Hempfield. Information: Lancofieldofhope.com
Uncork the 80s
September 13
Nissley Vineyards
A music legend will be making a special appearance at Nissley Vineyards! Pop sensation, Tiffany, who earned two number 1 hit singles with I Think We’re Alone Now and Could’ve Been, also set a record as the youngest female artist to top the Billboard charts with her debut album. In 2000, Billboard ranked Tiffany’s album, The Color of Silence, among the “Top Ten Best Albums of the Year.” In 2011, she released her country-pop LP, Rose Tattoo, embracing the music she grew up on. Her critically acclaimed A Million Miles(2016) marked the first time Tiffany had been a co-producer on her own record. As a writer and co-producer on her 10th studio album, Pieces of Me, Tiffany fused elements of rock and pop, while still showcasing her trademark tendency for big radio-friendly choruses. Her 11th studio album, Shadows, debuted in 2022. Food trucks will be onsite, Wine, craft beer will be available. 21+ only. 5:30 p.m. 140 Vintage Dr., Bainbridge. Information: Eventbrite.com
CASA Heroes Gala & Benefit Auction
September 13
Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square
Hosted by CASA for Children of Lancaster and Lebanon Counties, this year’s benefit – Crystal & Cowboys – will reflect on 15 years of advocacy and instilling hope in the lives of the children it serves. In keeping with the theme, the evening will include a mechanical bull, a casino, hors d’oeuvres, beer, wine, a complimentary cocktail, dinner, silent/live auctions, dancing and more. Dress in the spirit of the occasion! 5:30 p.m. Penn Square, Lancaster. Information: E.givessmart.com
Southern Lancaster County Fair
September 17-19
Solanco Fairgrounds
These fair honors the tradition in which it was founded in 1950: fellowship, food and friendly competition. There’s also an expo through which businesses, churches and 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 Avenue, Quarryville. Information: Solancofair.org.
Wild and Uncommon Weekend/York Pawpaw Festival
September 18-21
Horn Farm Center for Agricultural Education
The Horn Farm Center has expanded its popular Pawpaw Festival in order to celebrate the region’s food, art, natural beauty and, of course, pawpaws, which are regarded as the largest fruit that is native to the eastern U.S. The Pawpaw Festival, which is celebrating its 21st anniversary, will officially be held Saturday, September 20 (9 a.m.-5 p.m.). It will feature tree vendors, orchard tours, pawpaw-themed merchandise, educational exhibitors and food made with pawpaws. (Note: tickets for the festival must be pre-purchased.) Events on Thursday, Friday and Sunday include cooking classes, hikes, farm tours, live music and even a tasting of “pawpaw beer.” Hours vary. 4945 Horn Rd., York. Information: Hornfarmcenter.org
Oktoberfest
September 19-21
Lancaster Liederkranz
Helping to preserve German culture since 1880, and hosting Lancaster’s oldest Oktoberfest celebration, the Liederkranz continues the tradition with food, beer, music, song and dance that pay homage to the motherland. Event is open to the public. Fri., 5:30-11 p.m. Sat., 12:30-11 p.m. Sun., 12-6 p.m. (rain/shine). Buy tickets online or pay cash at the door. 722 S. Chiques Rd., Manheim. Information:Lancasterliederkranz.com
Fall Fest
September 20
St. John’s Herr Estate
This annual indoor yard and bake sale will offer household goods, hand-made items, gently used books, jewelry and much more. Food menu includes baked good, soup, sandwiches and beverages. Proceeds benefit local nonprofit organizations. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. 200 Luther Lane, Columbia. Information: Luthercare.org
Cider Donut Festival
September 20
Cherry Crest Adventure Farm
The Cider Donut Fall Festival promises a day packed with mouthwatering delights. Embrace the crisp autumn air as you enjoy a variety of treats that will range from our classic cider donuts to innovative donut creations that will tempt your taste buds. Event will feature a cider donut-eating contest, donut-focused games and activities, live music, a guest craft brewery and winery and fireworks. Farm is open 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Festival hours are 12-8 p.m. 150 Cherry Hill Rd., Ronks. Information: Cherrycrestfarm.com
Amos Herr Community Festival
September 21
Amos Herr Park
Sponsored by East Hempfield Township, the East Petersburg Lions Club and the Amos Herr House/Historical Society, the annual festival entails a car show, craft vendors, food, tours of the Herr homestead, music and a program presented by the Lancaster Kennel Club. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 1700 Nissley Rd., Landisville. Information: Easthempfield.org.
Ephrata Fair
September 23-27
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, The Nomads and Easily Amused) and, of course, delicious food. Hours vary. Main Street and Thomas Grater Park. Information: Ephratafair.org.
Moravian Manor Communities Speaker Series
September 24
Ware Center
Moravian Manor’s annual speaker series welcomes actress, author and activist, Holly Robinson Peete, who will share her perspective on “Matters of Life: Supporting Family from Parenting to Caregiving.” Peete, who is the wife of former NFL QB (including the Eagles) Rodney Peete, will speak from experience, as she is the mother of an autistic son and a caregiver to her father who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. The evening will also feature a cocktail hour and buffet dinner prepared by Food for Thought Catering. 5:30 p.m. 42 N. Prince St., Lancaster. Information: Moravianmanorcommunities.org
West Lampeter Community Fair
September 24-26
West Lampeter Fairgrounds
During the fair, which emphasizes friendly competition and educational events, visitors can take in the All Western Horse Show and parades that feature the Fair Queen candidates, babies and tractors. Food is also a star of the fair. Hours vary. 851 Village Rd., Lampeter. Information: Westlampeterfair.com.
Lititz Craft Beer Fest
September 27
TAIT
Now in its 11th 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 Avenue, Lititz. (Note: Tickets must be purchased online, no sales at the door.) Information: Lititizcraftbeerfest.com.
Oktoberfest
September 27 & 28
PA Renaissance Faire
Raise a stein, tie on your dirndl, and buckle your lederhosen as the Shire of Mount Hope celebrates Oktoberfest! Swashbuckler Beers are the star of this weekend, as are traditional Oktoberfest games, dancing and music for all to enjoy. Contests will include Legs in Lederhosen (prizes will be awarded) and Bar Olympics that will test contestants’ tavern skills. Gates open at 11 a.m. each day. 2775 Lebanon Rd., Manheim. Information: Parenfaire.com
One World Festival
September 28
Franklin & Marshall College
Organizations affiliated with Greek, Indian, Islamic, Jewish, Irish, Italian, African, Hispanic and other cultures are once again 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.
Dine on Harvest Moon
October 3
Lancaster County Convention Center
Celebrating its 16th year, this Lancaster Conservancy-sponsored dinner will benefit the organization’s mission to conserve, protect and care for the area’s natural areas. The theme of the event centers on the important roles bees, butterflies, lightning bugs and other insects play in the ecosystem. Event features a reception, dinner and program and live auction. RSVP by September 24. 5:30 p.m. 25 S. Queen St., Lancaster. Information: Lancasterconservancy.org/harvestmoon/.
