May is in Bloom
It’s that glorious time of the year! The weather is perfect, gardens are in progress, rhubarb and strawberries are in season and restaurants are opening their patios and decks for outdoor dining.
Photos: LCM and Social Media
Manheim Central Ag Plant Sale
May 1-2 and 8-9
Manheim
Students participating in Manheim Central High School’s greenhouse-management and life-skills classes will be selling heirloom tomatoes, peppers, herbs and flowers they started from seed earlier in the year. Fridays, 1-6 p.m., Saturdays, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Look for the greenhouse across from the Manheim Farm Show complex, 400 E. Adele Ave., Manheim. Information: Facebook.com
Master Gardeners Plant & Shrub Sale
May 2
Farm & Home Center
The annual sale will feature native plants and shrubs, a native plant plug bar, perennials, herbs and vegetables. 8 a.m.-12 p.m. 1383 Arcadia Rd., Lancaster. Information: Facebook.com
Chestnut Hill Home & Garden Festival
May 3
Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia
Nearly 300 vendors will be on hand for this annual family-friendly event that features home and garden decor, outdoor craft demonstrations, live music and children’s activities Plus, over 200 retailers, restaurants and businesses will be open.
Vendors will be offering lawn sculptures, garden art, heirloom plants, beekeeping supplies, flower baskets, terrariums, landscaping and lawn care needs, jewelry, vintage goods, collectibles, indoor decor and more! A Maker’s Village will be the site of craft and bulb-layering demos and an interactive observation beehive. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 8000-8600 blocks of Germantown Avenue. (Note: Rain Date is May 17.) Information: Chestnuthillpa.com
Herb & Garden Faire
May 8 & 9
Landis Valley Village & Museum
The Herb & Garden Faire, now in its 38th year, will feature plants from the museum’s Heirloom Seed Project, as well as heirloom, native, perennial vegetable and other hard-to-find varieties from 80+ vendors. Vendors will also be selling herbal skin care products, garden art, jewelry and more. The event will also feature demonstrations and workshops. Food and drink will be available onsite. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (rain/shine). 2451 Kissel Hill Rd., Lancaster. Information: Landisvalleymuseum.org
Mother’s Day Brunch & Bloom
May 9
Flourish
Treat mom to a special day out that combines a seasonal brunch, conversation and creating an arrangement using spring flowers. 10 a.m. 1518 Main St., East Earl. Information: Flourish. Flowers
Vegetable Gardening on a Budget
May 9
Manheim
The Manheim Historical Society welcomes Susan Atkins, a master gardener who will share ideas for growing a vegetable garden on a budget. In addition, free tours of the historical society’s colonial-era log homes and artifacts will be available (1-4 p.m.). A free walking tour begins at 1:30. The lecture begins at 3 p.m. Fasig House, 30 E. High St., Manheim. Information: Manheimhistoricalsociety.org
Centerpiece Class & Dinner
May 29
Flourish
The evening begins with a walking tour of the gardens, where you can cut flowers for the centerpiece design you will create. After the class, a four-course dinner will be served (prepared by a local caterer. 5 p.m. (rain/shine).1518 Main St., East Earl. Information: Flourish. Flowers
Wine & Cheese Train
May 1-31
Strasburg Rail Road
Climb aboard a first-class lounge car and enjoy wines from Waltz Vineyards that are paired accordingly with cheeses. (Beer and select non-alcoholic beverages are also available for purchase upon request.) 21+ only. Friday and Saturday, 4 & 6 p.m. Sunday, 4 p.m. 301 Gap Rd., Ronks. Information: Strasburgrailroad.com
Lititz Pretzel Fest
May 2
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. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. (rain/shine). Note: This is a ticketed event. Downtown Lititz. Information: Lititzkiwanis.org
Ephrata Rhythm & Brews
May 2
Thomas P. Grater Community Park
Ephrata’s newest festival is back for a second year and will feature select beverage makers (breweries, wineries, distillers), live music and a diverse selection of food. Sponsored by Mainspring of Ephrata and the Ephrata Rec Center. 12-5 p.m. Cocalico St., Ephrata. Note: This is a ticketed event. Information: Mainspringofephrata.org
Bud Break Festival
May 9
Nissley Vineyards
Live music, local vendors, food trucks, wine, craft beer and zero-proof beverages will be part of this event that celebrates the season of renewal, growth and the magic that occurs in the vineyard at this time of the year. All ages welcome. 12-6 p.m. 140 Vintage Dr., Bainbridge. Information: Nissleywine.com
Supper Club
May 14
Whisk Café
While Whisk is known for its breakfast and lunch fare, they turn the tables on the second Thursday of each month and host a dinner. The prix-fixe, reservation-only, three-course dinner sees Whisk partner with local purveyors to source fresh seasonal ingredients, which allows the staff’s culinary talents to shine. Along with dinner, guests will enjoy a hand-crafted cocktail. Adding a wine pairing designed to complement every course of the meal is also available, with wine provided by Grandview. (Note: menus are posted online early in the month.) 5 p.m. 98 Masonic Dr., Suite 102, Elizabethtown. Information: Thewhiskcafe.com
Rhubarb Festival
May 15 & 16
Kitchen Kettle Village
Rhubarb represents the arrival of spring and with it, the start of the growing season. Kitchen Kettle Village pays homage to this spring crop with a festival devoted to all-things rhubarb. The highlight of the festival is the Rhubarb Dessert Baking Contest that is held Saturday morning and invites participants to submit their favorite rhubarb-based desserts for judging and prizes. Proceeds from the contest and sale of desserts benefit The Lancaster Farmland Trust. Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse. Information: Kitchenkettle.com
Baron Brew Fest
May 16
Manheim
Back for its fourth year, this event offers something for every palate – beer, wine, mead, cider, spirits and more. Dozens of breweries, wineries and distilleries will be represented. Products can be purchased to go. Food trucks will be participating, as well. Live music will be provided. Must be 21+ to attend, ID required. 3-6 p.m. (rain/shine). Market Square. Note: This is a ticketed event. Information: lovemanheim.com/brewfest
Chicken BBQ
May 23
Bird-in-Hand
Cooked slowly and deliciously seasoned, this moist and tender chicken has a taste of its own! This is a take-out only event. Menu includes half a BBQ chicken with Meadowcreek seasoning, applesauce, chips, pickles, roll/butter, drink and homemade whoopie pie. Chicken-only is also an option. All proceeds benefit the Hand-in-Hand Fire Company, an all-volunteer fire company that serves East Lampeter Township. 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. (or sold out). 313 Enterprise Dr., Bird-in-Hand. Note: Take-out only. Information: Bihfire.com
Whiskey on the Rails
May 30
Strasburg Rail Road
Lititz-based Stoll & Wolfe is known for its award-winning small-batch bourbon and rye whiskeys, vodka and gin (local distilling traditions date back to 1753). They proudly serve craft cocktails featuring those spirits, along with PA craft beer and wine. After boarding the train, guests can sit back, relax and enjoy the journey to Paradise, while sampling delicious whiskeys paired with food prepared by Café 1832. 21+ only, ID required. 5:45 p.m. 301 Gap Rd., Ronks. Information: Strasburgrailroad.com
Farm-To-Table Dinner Series
May 30
Inn at Twin Linden
Experience an evening of seasonal cuisine, local ingredients (all are sourced onsite or within a few miles of Churchtown) and the beauty of Lancaster County. The six-course menu is crafted in partnership with nearby farmers and growers, highlighting the freshest flavors of each season. Dinner begins with a complimentary signature cocktail and time to explore the gardens, the party barn and the meadow as the sun sets. Dinner is served outdoors under the stars, with unhurried pacing and a relaxed, communal feel. Other dinners will be offered in June, July, September and October. 6 p.m. 2092 Main St., Narvon. (Note: the dinner is open to the public; seating is limited.) Information: Innattwinlinden.com
Lancaster’s Best Food Truck Competition
May 30 & 31
Vahalla Farms
Back for its fourth year, the event will feature 40+ food trucks competing for the title, “Lancaster’s Best” in a wide range of categories. There will also be a maker’s mart, beer garden, inflatables for the kids, a live DJ, food voting and much more. Bring a chair/blanket. Proceeds benefit Joyful Doberman Rescue of PA. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 1466 Brubaker Rd., Columbia. Information: Joyfuldoberman.org
All Shook U
May 22-June 20
Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre
Loosely based on Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, with Elvis Presley’s music, this show is about repressed residents of a small 1950’s American town experiencing an awakening within themselves when a roustabout with a guitar comes to town. Enjoy classics such as Heartbreak Hotel, Jailhouse Rock and Don’t Be Cruel. Note: this show is rated PG13. Lunch and dinner buffets precede the show. Times vary. 510 Centerville Rd., Lancaster. Information: Dutchapple.com
Jazz on the Patio
May 28
The Barn at Paradise Station
The Barn at Paradise Station kicks off a third season of summer jazz, food and drink. The Barn Bistro opens at 6 p.m. for meal service and seating. A special menu that changes weekly, as well as wine, beer and specialty drinks are also available for purchase. (No BYOB or outside food.) Tonight’s music will be provided by Andy Roberts & Friends, 6:30-8:30 p.m. 312 Paradise Lane, Ronks. The series continues every Thursday (except July 3) through August. Information:Barnatparadisestation.com
The Eras of Taylor: A Taylor Swift Tribute
May 30
Mickey’s Black Box
South Central Pennsylvania Swifties, get ready for an unforgettable night with Christina Shaw’s electrifying Taylor Swift tribute! With her roots in Philadelphia and her professional home in Las Vegas, Christina shines bright with her tribute show that embodies the spirit of creativity and passion. With 25 songs and 11 iconic costumes, the show provides a memorable experience that emulates the quality and energy of Taylors tour, leaving a lasting impact on all who experience it! This is an all-agesshow. Canteen will be open. 7 p.m. 101 Rock Lititz Blvd., Lititz. Information: Mickeysblackbox.com
Feast of the Senses
May 7
Excelsior
This interactive event, which is being presented by the Touchstone Foundation, takes guests on a tour of the five senses – see, feel, hear, smell and taste – through delectable food and beverage pairings. Guests will also learn about Touchstone’s mission and programs that relate to mental health and well-being for the children and youth in Lancaster County. An auction will feature items that relate to self-care, family experiences, wellness and local favorites. 5:30 p.m. 125 E. King St., Lancaster. Information: Touchstonefound.org
Make-A-Wish Mother’s Day Truck Convoy
May 9
Manheim Pennsylvania Auto Auction
Celebrating its 37th anniversary this year, the beloved event, which grew out of a single wish, draws hundreds of big-rig trucks and thousands of spectators, both at the family carnival and along the convoy route, which this year will travel mainly on Route 283 between Manheim and Middletown area. The event kicks off with a silent auction and /basket raffle (8 a.m.-12 p.m.), and a free family carnival (9 a.m.-2 p.m.) that features games, entertainment and local food trucks. The official start of the convoy begins at 1:30 p.m. The event celebrates current and former wish kids, while raising money to grant more wishes to children with critical illnesses. 1190 Lancaster Rd., Manheim. Information: wishconvoy.org
The Duke’s Ball
May 9
Historic Rock Ford
An evening of intrigue, romance and refinement will be a part of “The Duke’s Ball,” an immersive Regency-era experience designed to transport guests into the heart of 18th-century high society, complete with visiting nobility, Sebastian, the Duke of Broadleigh. The evening will feature refined amusements, opportunities to learn period dances and a display of Regency-era fashion. The festivities will culminate in a formal ball. Regency-inspired costumes or formal attire are highly encouraged. In addition to regular admission tickets, VIP Experience tickets are available. Cocktails and heavy hors d’ oeuvres will be on the menu. 5:30-9 p.m. 881 Rock Ford Rd., Lancaster. Information: Historicrockford.org
Memorial Day Flea Market
May 25
Amos Herr Park
On Memorial Day, Landisville is the place to be if you love flea markets and thrifting. Featuring over 100 vendors, the flea market offers everything from antiques and collectibles to handmade crafts, vintage clothing and more. Food trucks will also be onsite. Proceeds from this event are used to fund Hempfield RecCenter’s “Everyone Belongs” financial-assistance program, as well as other community endeavors. 7 a.m.-2 p.m. 1700 Nissley Rd., Landisville. Information: hempfieldrec.com
South Central PA Go Red for Women Luncheon
May 21
The Hotel Hershey
The event empowers women to know their numbers, recognize warning signs and put their health first, while supporting lifesaving research, education and community programs. It features a silent auction, lunch, a program in which real women share their inspiring stories and a lounge where attendees can take part in screenings and other heart-related activities and connect with health partners. 12-3 p.m. 100 Hotel Rd., Hershey. Information: ahaharrisburg.joinme.org
The spring benefits for local volunteer fire companies continue this month as follows:
Fivepointville Benefit Auction
May 1-2
The action gets underway Friday at 6 p.m. and continues Saturday, starting at 8 a.m. 1087 Dry Tavern Road, Denver. Information: Fivepointvillefire.net
Honey Brook Consignment Auction
May 8-9
Friday’s sale gets underway at 5 p.m. and will include flowers, garden items and toys. Saturday starts at 8 a.m. with lots of lawn and gardening equipment as well as an array of other items. 679 Firehouse Lane, Honey Brook. Information: Facebook.com
Weaverland Mud Sale
May 22-23
Friday’s sale starts at 6 p.m. and will offer flowers and miscellaneous items. Saturday gets underway at 8:30 with tools, shrubs, furniture, quilts, garden supplies and lawn equipment. Weaverland Produce Auction, 1030 Precast Rd, New Holland. Information: Facebook.com
