Foodies, rejoice! Fall is in the air, which means fair season goes into full swing, community events and festivals are on the agenda, and benefits for nonprofit organizations are being held. 

Photos: Facebook pages and LCM files

Fair

The Denver Fair

September 15-19 

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 on Saturday). Music will be provided by The Uptown Band (Wed.), Jess Zimmerman Band (Fri.) and Vinyl Rush (Sat.). Fireworks will close out the fair on Saturday. Times vary. 801 Main Street, Denver. Information: Thedenverfair.com

Southern Lancaster County Fair  

September 16-18  

Solanco Fairgrounds  

The 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, and a celebrity milking contest. Plus, there’s a parade. Hours vary. Park Avenue, Quarryville. Information: Solancofair.org

Ephrata Fair

September 22-26  

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, Bad Sneakers and Easily Amused) and, of course, delicious food. Hours vary. Main Street and Thomas Grater Park. Information: Ephratafair.org

West Lampeter Community Fair

September 23-25  

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

Festivals/Community Events

Long’s Park Labor Day Art Festival

September 4-6  

Long’s Park  

Long’s Park transforms into a beautiful outdoor gallery that has continued to garner national recognition since making its debut in 1979. The juried show features 200 whose work spans 25 unique categories. Food and drink vendors onsite. Proceeds benefit the park’s Summer Music Series. Fri. & Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1441 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster. Information:Longspark.org 

Heart of Lancaster Arts & Craft Show  

September 5 & 6  

Roots Country Market  

Now in its 38th year, the show features talented artists and craftspeople from Pennsylvania and neighboring states, all offering a unique selection of quality art and crafts. A variety of food and treats will also be available. Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free admission/parking. 705 Graystone Rd., Manheim. Information: Hlcshow.com

Reamstown Days  

September 11 & 12  

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, musical entertainment. Fri., 4-9 p.m. Sat., 8 a.m.-10 p.m. 23 E. Church St., Reamstown. Information: Facebook.com 

Christiana Heritage Days

September 11-13  

Christiana  

This is a significant year in Christiana … it was 175 years ago that the event known as the Christiana Riot occurred, setting the stage for 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. Marshal 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 (Barley Red and Days of Old bands), 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  

Whoopie Pie Festival

September 12  

Hershey Farms  

Festival will feature more than 400 flavors of whoopie pies, live music, food and craft vendors, family-friendly activities and more. A VIP pass allows for 9 a.m. entry and other perks. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 240 Hartman Bridge Rd., Strasburg. Information: Whoopiepiefestival.com 

Wild and Uncommon Weekend/York Pawpaw Festival

September 17-20  

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 22nd anniversary, will officially be held Saturday, September 19 (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 more.  Hours vary. 4945 Horn Rd., York. Information: Hornfarmcenter.org

Tailgate Festival

September 18 & 19  

Kitchen Kettle Village  

The village ushers in the fall season with scarecrows, pumpkins, cornshocks and lots of homemade tailgate foods including salsas, pickles, burgers, dips, salads and delectable drinks. Speaking of scarecrows, Kitchen Kettle is hosting a contest that will benefit nonprofit organizations. Scarecrows designed by the nonprofits will be positioned throughout the village. Vote for your favorite. Live music and a Tailgate Games Area will also be offered. Get in the spirit of football season by wearing your favorite jersey or sports attire. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse. Information: Kitchenkettle.com

Hometown Heroes Festival

September 19  

Cherry Crest Adventure Farm  

Cherry Crest will once again host a day that will pay tribute to the courageous individuals who serve our hometowns. From firefighters and police officers to healthcare workers, the festival is a heartfelt salute to those who keep our communities safe and thriving. A portion of ticket sales for this day will be donated to local volunteer fire departments. Festivities will include a Candy Drop, Touch-a-Truck & Meet & Greet with Local EMS, fire departments and police, a Heroes Parade and Patriotic Fireworks Show. Farm is open 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Festival hours are 12-6:30 p.m. 150 Cherry Hill Rd., Ronks. Information: Cherrycrestfarm.com

L’Italia Festival

September 19 

Downtown Lititz  

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, dance, sense of community and, of course, the cuisine and wine of the country’s various regions. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Downtown Lititz.  Information: Lititz.it 

MAC & Cheese Festival

September 19  

Columbia Market House  

The Annual MAC + Cheese Festival returns to the Columbia Market House, bringing together cheesy bites, community fun and a delicious reason to spend the evening downtown. Who will win this year’s Big Cheese contest? Note: This is a ticketed event ($5). 5-7 p.m. 15 S. Third St., Columbia. Information: Discovercolumbia.com

Lancaster Airshow

September 19 & 20

Lancaster Airport  

The aviation-filled weekend will include daily aerobatic performances, static aircraft displays, aircraft/helicopter/balloon rides and more. A variety of food trucks will also be onsite. Note: This is a ticketed event. 500 Airport Rd., Lititz. Information: Lancasterairport.com

Amos Herr Community Festival

September 20 

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

Bird-in-Hand Hot Air Balloon Festival

September 25 & 26  

Bird-in-Hand  

The Bird-in-Hand Corporation is partnering with Balloon Shows USA to bring an all-new balloon festival to Lancaster. Enjoy a weekend of spectacular hot air balloon glows and laser light shows, music, family activities, food trucks, craft vendors and more. At 8:30 each evening, massive tethered hot air balloons will illuminate the night, while state-of-the-art laser displays will paint the sky with brilliant colors. Note: This is a ticketed event. 3-10 p.m. each day. 320 N. Ronks Rd., Bird-in-Hand. Information: Bird-in-hand.com

Lancaster Capital Day

September 26  

Penn Square  

On September 27, 1777, Lancaster served as the nation’s capital. In recognition of the role the city played in the quest for independence, a festive event will take over Downtown Lancaster that will include food/drink vendors, local artisans, music, dance, historical reenactments, architectural and history tours, family-friendly activities and more. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Penn Square area. Information:Lancastercapitalday.org

Lititz Craft Beer Fest

September 26  

TAIT 

Now in its 12th year, the festival is presented by the Lititz AMBUCS. Since its inception, the festival has raised more than $800,000, 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: It’s recommended that tickets be purchased online; if the event is sold out prior to September 26, sales at the door will not be available.) 21+ only. Information: Lititizcraftbeerfest.com

Benefits

Chicken BBQ 

September 5  

Bird-in-Hand  

Cooked slowly and deliciously seasoned, Hand-in-Hand Fire Company’s famous BBQ chicken is moist and tender with a taste all its own! The menu includes half a BBQ chicken w/ Meadowcreek seasoning, applesauce, chips, pickles, roll/butter, a drink and homemade whoopie pie. (Chicken only is also an option.) All proceeds benefit the fire company. Note: This is a take-out only event.) 10:30 a.m.–6 p.m. (or till sellout). 313 Enterprise Drive, Bird-in-Hand. Information: Bihfire.com

Hospice Labor Day Auction

September 5 & 7  

Quarryville  

Now in its 42nd year, this annual event has raised more than $40 million for Hospice & Community Care since 1984. Thanks to generous donors, the auction offers just about anything you could name. Specialty auctions feature art, vacations, sports memorabilia, quilts, jewelry, plants, tools and more. A Day of Caring enables the public to contribute toward a hospice patient’s day of care. There’s also a raffle for a Chevy Trax. The Amish-made food has also become a big drawing card. 7:30 a.m.-approx. 5 p.m. each day. Solanco Fairgrounds, 101 Park Avenue, Quarryville. Information:Labordayauction.org

Music and Ice Cream Social

September 6  

Lititz Historical Foundation  

The last concert of the season will feature The Eighties Club (TEC) a band that was born out of a deep desire for a fresh and exciting musical direction that reflected their passion for the vibrant, energetic sounds of the 1980s. Come dressed as your favorite character from the 1980’s! This is a pay-what-you-will event, with proceeds benefiting the foundation’s efforts to preserve the historic gardens and buildings. Refreshments available by donation. 6:30 p.m. Mary Oehme Gardens, 145 E. Main St. (rear), Lititz. Information: Facebook.com

Beer Gardens

September 10-12 & 17-19 

Lancaster City  

Musser Park will host the beer gardens this month. Visitors can partake of beer (draft, canned and bottled), as well as cocktails, wine and liquor. Proceeds benefit Lancaster Recreation Commission programs. Food trucks on hand, as well. Hours are 4-10 p.m. Information: Lancasterrec.org.

Lancaster MusicFest

September 12 

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 7th annual event brings together live music (the Young Musician Academy, Jon Smith’s Voyages, Wise Giants and Street Beans), local food, craft beer, wine and spirits, street performers and local artisans. Proceeds benefitChildren’s Miracle Network and Schreiber Pediatric. 12-8 p.m. 901 Buchanan Ave., Lancaster. Information: Lancastermusicfest.com

Lancaster County Field of Hope Benefit Dinner

September 12  

Heth Farm  

Celebrating its 11th 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

Surf & Turf

September 12  

Quarryville  

The Southern End Community Association (SECA) is hosting its first-ever benefit dinner and auction. The menu will include surf & turf dinner buffet – sliced beef tenderloin, crab cakes, shrimp, roasted vegetables, assorted salads, corn bread bar and spreads, fruit and assorted desserts – prepared by 2 P’s Curated Co. The evening will also include live music and an auction (restaurant and attraction gift certificates, themed baskets, getaways, one-of-a-kind experiences, etc.). Proceeds will benefit SECA’s programs, services and recreational spaces, helping the organization continue to provide accessible opportunities for families throughout Southern Lancaster County.  5 p.m. 299 Park Ave., Quarryville. Information: Secarec.com

Schreiber Rubber Duckie Dash & Festival

September 13 

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 festivalfeaturing pony rides, food trucks, games, prizes and more will follow. 2-5 p.m. 625 Community Way, Lancaster. Information: Schreiberpediatric.org

CASA Heroes Gala & Benefit Auction

September 19  

Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square  

Hosted by CASA for Children of Lancaster and Lebanon Counties, this year’s benefit –Tailgate & Touchdowns – will be filled with inspiring stories, exciting auctions, delicious food, and championship-worthy fun, all in support of children who deserve safety, stability and a voice. Whether you come dressed in elevated tailgate chic, your favorite team’s jersey, your team’s colors, or classic game-day glam, prepare for an evening of connection, celebration, and purpose. The evening will feature hors d’oeuvres, beer, wine, a complimentary cocktail, dinner, silent/live auctions, dancing and more. 5:30 p.m. Penn Square, Lancaster. Information: Casalancleb.org

Wags on Wright

September 20 

John Wright Restaurant  

Back for its 13th year, the event will feature pet-friendly vendors, a pizza special on the Pizza Patio, dog-friendly burgers and more. Proceeds benefit the Columbia Animal Shelter and Pitties Love Peace. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 234 N. Front St., Wrightsville. Information: Jwrpa.com

Food & Drink

Lancaster Polo Club

September 6, 13, 20, 27 

Rothsville  

It’s the Year of the Horse and the Lancaster Polo Club is celebrating 70 years of playing on Forney Field, which its namesake, Ben Forney, built on his farm in 1956. Spend Sunday afternoons tailgating, cheering on the home team and taking part in such traditions as divot stomping. Food and beverage vendors are onsite. September 20’s event features a chili cook-off, sponsored by Jack Daniels. Gates open at 1 p.m., match starts at 2:30 p.m. $10 admission (cash only). 70 Church Rd., Rothsville. Information: Facebook.com 

Date Night in the Garden

September 10  

Conestoga House & Gardens  

Looking for a unique Date Night experience? If so, Conestoga House & Gardens has an evening to remember planned for you. Enjoy live, strolling music in a romantic atmosphere with the option to pre-order food and wine (via Proof of Lancaster) or BYO snacks and beverages. Picnic blankets will be available onsite for an evening rental. 5-8 p.m. 1608 Marietta Ave., Lancaster. Information:Ecklinevents.com

Taste the World

September 11  

Lancaster City  

Flavorful walking and sampling tours await guests in Downtown Lancaster. (Note: This is a ticketed event.) 5-8 p.m. Information: Neighborslancaster.org

Whiskey & History Tours

September 12 & 26  

Lititz  

Sponsored by the Lititz Historical Foundation, the guided tour takes in historic Main Street and then moves to Stoll & Wolfe Distillery, where guests will enjoy a guided tasting of three local whiskeys and learn about the area’s distilling legacy. 4 p.m. Information: Lititzhistoricalfoundation.com

Saved by the 90s

September 12  

Nissley Vineyards  

Get ready to party like it’s the ’90s, courtesy of Saved by the 90s, the ultimate ’90s tribute band. From iconic hits and nostalgic sing-alongs to outrageous costumes and nonstop dancing, this all-out ’90s music celebration will transport you back to the decade you know and love. Be sure to dress in your favorite ’90s gear! A variety of food trucks will be onsite, along with a full wine bar, refreshing wine slushies, local craft beer and non-alcoholic beverages.  5:30-10 p.m. 140 Vintage Dr., Bainbridge. Information: Nissleywine.com

Taps & Tunes

September 13 & 27  

Kissel Valley Farm 

Spend a Sunday afternoon enjoying live music, yard games, food truck fare, beer and wine. The Jess Zimmerman Band will perform on the 13th, while Cody Tyler will be there on the 27th. 12:30-5:30 p.m. 645 E. Oregon Rd., Lititz. $10 admission. information: Facebook.com

Lancaster City Restaurant Week

September 14-20

Dozens of restaurants, cafés, bakeries, bars and pubs will be participating in the fall 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.

John Wright Themed Dinner

September 24  

John Wright Restaurant  

Tonight’s menu will feature dishes made with Lehman’s corn and wagyu from Star Rock Farms, plus each course will feature a paired cocktail. 6:30 p.m. 234 N. Front St., Wrightsville. Information:Jwrpa.com 

Farm-to-Table Dinner

September 26 

Inn at Twin Linden 

Chefs John and Don will craft a menu highlighting the season’s best local produce and other items. 6 p.m. 2092 Main St., Narvon. Information: InnattwinLinden.com