As the temperatures rise and the days grow longer, Lancaster County comes alive with a vibrant array of summer events. From music festivals to art shows, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Here are nine must-attend events to add to your summer calendar:
1. Full Moon Fundraiser
Support the wolves of Wolf Sanctuary of PA at one of the Full Moon Fundraisers! These events feature a roaring bonfire (weather permitting), live entertainment, and educational wolf tours. Along the tour route, guides provide information on the wolves at the sanctuary as well as facts and information about wolf conservation and biology. Bring a blanket, a flashlight, a chair, and a sense of adventure!
When: June 22, July 20, and August 17, 2024
Where: Wolf Sanctuary of PA, 465 Speedwell Forge Rd. Lititz, Pa 17543
2. 4th Wednesday in Ephrata
It just keeps getting better, Ephrata. Join in the fun for the happiest two hours every fourth Wednesday in June, July, and August from 5-7 p.m. Celebrate the community with delicious food, live music, and refreshing beverages to wet your whistle. These events are for ALL AGES! However, you must be 21+ to enjoy alcoholic beverages, and IDs will be checked. Get all of the details here.
When: June 26, July 24, and August 28, 2024
Where: Mainspring of Ephrata
3. Long’s Park Summer Music Series
Savor the sounds of summer at Long’s Park Summer Music Series, where you can enjoy live music outdoors every Sunday. This concert series offers something for every musical taste, from soulful tunes to toe-tapping beats.
When: Every Sunday, June 2nd to August 18th
Where: 1441 Harrisburg Pike Lancaster, PA 17601
4. Strasburg Railroad
Experience the magic of a bygone era with a visit to Strasburg Railroad. From date night concerts to murder mystery trains, there’s no shortage of excitement on the rails. Don’t miss the Bonnie & Clyde experience, complete with thrilling stunts and pyrotechnics.
5. Ren Faire’s Blues and Brews at Mount Hope
Guests can savor the taste of a summertime Maryland feast without the drive: Hard Shell Crabs, Steamed Shrimp, BBQ Pork, Potato Salad, Coleslaw, Garden Pasta Salad, Hush Puppies, Fresh Fruit, and Dessert. Beer from the Swashbuckler Brewing Company will round out this summertime feast. Blues & Brews features all the amazing food you can eat, unlimited drinks, and live music with one admission ticket from the PARenFaire.
When: July 13, 2024
Where: Mount Hope Estate, 2775 Lebanon Road, Manheim, PA 17545
6. Lititz Outdoor Fine Art Show
Immerse yourself in creativity at the Lititz Outdoor Fine Art Show, where you can browse original artwork from over 130 artists. From paintings to sculptures, this annual event has no shortage of inspiration.
When: July 27th, 2024
Where: Lititz Spring Park
7. Music & Makers, Bricker Village
Discover the charm of Bricker Village, an open-air plaza with locally owned and operated shops. During the Music & Makers events, enjoy live music on one side of the courtyard while browsing through artisan crafts on the other. These free events feature live music and artisan makers every third Friday through September.
This event series, hosted by the small businesses of Bricker Village, was inspired by the success of previous live music events and the desire from our community for an adult version of the Young Makers Market. Be sure to check out other summertime events at Bricker Village as well!
When: Every Third Friday through September 2024, 6 – 8:30 p.m.
Where: Bricker Village
8. Mt. Gretna Art Show
Mount Gretna’s iconic summer offering, the outdoor Art Show brings award-winning fine art and craft from nationwide artists. We offer gourmet food, music, and entertainment “Under the trees of Old Chautauqua.”
The Mt. Gretna Art Show features 200 exhibitors and an “Emerging Artists” section.
When: August 17, 2024, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Where: Soldiers Field, Mt. Gretna
9. Lititz Rotary Craft Show
The Lititz Rotary Craft Show is one of the largest craft shows on the East Coast! Explore a variety of products lining Main and Broad Streets in beautiful downtown Lititz! Organized by Rotary Club of Lititz.
When: August 10, 2024, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: Broad & Main Streets, Lititz