(StatePoint) Gorgeous Lancaster County is an ideal destination any time of year. But during fall and the holiday season, festivities and cheer abound. Fall Agritourism As the air grows cooler and the leaves more colorful, it feels like Lancaster was made for this time of year.
Because it’s one of the region’s prime harvest times, the area is bursting with local produce and seasonal baked goods at Amish roadside stands and farmers markets . Be sure to check out the homemade crafts and wares while you’re at it. The brisk autumn weather is perfect for wandering through orchards or taking a trip to Cherry Crest Adventure Farm .
With its number one-rated corn maze and Pumpkin Madness Festival on Nov. 2, it’s where family fun and farming come together. Go pumpkin picking at numerous sites county-wide, such as Country Barn Farm Market , or have a distinct fall experience at one of the area’s vineyards, breweries or distilleries.
As you explore the region’s agricultural offerings, use the Farm Adventure Trail , a free mobile passport, to check in at area attractions and businesses to redeem special offers and earn points toward branded prizes. Outdoor Adventures Beautiful foliage from late September through early November makes the season a particularly spectacular time of year for a hot air balloon ride or zipline adventure . But if you want to enjoy the foliage from a lower altitude, go on the Lancaster Electric Bicycle Tour , a three-hour tour exploring Lancaster City’s rich culture, history, food, art and parks.
You can also rent bikes via the Lititz Bikeworks’ bike share program and hit up the 7-mile Warwick-Ephrata Rail Trail. Pass through picturesque farmland and check out charming towns at either end. Enjoy hiking secluded paths through a deciduous forest along the Susquehanna River on the Turkey Hill Trail and be rewarded with breathtaking views and potential bald eagle, vulture and osprey sightings.
Animal lovers should be sure to visit Eastland Alpacas , a breeding farm with open houses the first two weekends in November, or the Wolf Sanctuary of PA for guided educational tours to view the wolves and learn about their conservation and biology. Fall Food Fun Wander through iconic foodie stop Kitchen Kettle Village to enjoy great shopping, homemade baked goods, hot spiced cider and other fall fare. Celebrating its 70th anniversary, special events take place all autumn.
Participate in a long-lasting autumn tradition, enjoying a beverage in the outdoor Biergarten at Bube’s Brewery in Mount Joy – the only U.S. brewery from the 1800s that’s survived intact.
For a chef-driven gastronomic experience, visit the newly-reopened Olde Mill Restaurant in Intercourse, or Bistro Barberet , which recently became the first eatery nationwide to earn a “World’s French Restaurant” designation from the French Association of Master Restaurateurs. Halloween and More Your haunting won’t go wanting at Field of Screams or Jason’s Woods . For a little less maniacal fright, walk along with the Ghost Tours of Lancaster or Strasburg , or ride along with a Spooky Scoot Tour from Strasburg Scooters.
Other classic fall events include Lancaster Roots & Blues (Sept. 27-29) and Harvest Days at Landis Valley Village (Oct. 12-13).
And of course, enjoy the mirth and merriment of the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire (August 17 to Oct. 27). Featuring jousting knights and royal delights amidst a 35-acre authentic recreation of a 16th century English village, hundreds of colorfully-costumed characters breathe life into musical performances, magic acts, fire-breathing stunts, puppet shows and Shakespearean plays.
Try out period foods and micro-brewed ales, or shop from scores of Renaissance merchants. Discover Holiday Traditions Looking ahead, the holiday season in Lancaster County is always a joyous time, home to such American yuletide traditions as the mischievous Belsnickle, festive history events and cut-your-own Christmas tree farms. Ride with childlike wonder on the Christmas Trains at Strasburg Rail Road, the oldest short-line in America, or enjoy the rides, entertainment, scavenger hunt and more at Dutch Winter Wonderland .
Experience the magic of Lancaster City for the Holidays . From menorah lightings and the annual Christmas Tree lighting to visits with Santa, live music, an arts market and distinctive city retailers, it’s the place to be this time of year. Sing along with seasonal favorites during American Music Theatre’s “ 2024 Christmas Show – Joy to the World ” or renew your spirit with “ White Christmas ” at Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre, a stage play of the beloved film classic.
Make merry with creative shopping finds in the county’s charming towns and villages , and discover great deals at the outlet stores at Tanger and Rockvale . For tasty seasonal bites, take part in the Amish Christmas Cookie Tour , leaving from the Amish Farm & House. Finally, revel in live music and holiday grandeur during Historic Rock Ford’s Yuletide celebration (Dec 27-29).
It’s a surefire cure for the post-Christmas blues. Photo 1 Credit: DiscoverLancaster.com Photo 2 Credit: DiscoverLancaster.
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